What does it take to get into the best college volleyball teams?

Hey guys, I'm pretty serious about volleyball and I have been wondering what does it take to get into some of the top colleges with the best volleyball teams? Can someone shed some light on this, like what sort of stats or skills I need to have, how the recruitment process works, what they're looking for in terms of academics, etc?

To make it onto a top college's volleyball team, there's a combination of factors: athletic ability, strong academics, and a proactive approach to the recruitment process.

From an athletic standpoint, it varies by division and by school. In general, Division I colleges, which often house the best volleyball programs, look for more experienced and high-performing athletes. For example, outside hitters should ideally touch around 10 feet, and athletic performance includes stats such as hitting efficiency, aces or blocks per set, and serve receive passing quality. You'll need a strong high school or club career, preferably with some championships or recognitions.

College coaches also keep an eye out for game intelligence, leadership, teamwork, and a clear love for the sport. They will want to see a highlight reel or game tape, so it is advisable to prepare one of those and keep it updated.

Academically, you should strive to achieve a solid high school GPA and strong test scores (if the school you're interested in isn't test-optional). Demonstrating good academic standing is important as it proves to coaches that you can manage a challenging course load along with a demanding athletic schedule.

As for the recruitment process, be proactive. Start by making a list of schools with good volleyball programs that also line up with your academic and personal interests. You can then reach out to coaches via email, expressing your interest, and sharing your sports and academic resume. Another efficient way to get on their radar is to attend sports camps or showcases.

Remember that coaches follow NCAA rules for when and how they can recruit, so understand these guidelines to know when to reach out and expect responses. Also, balancing academics and sports in college is a big commitment, so you'll want to be certain about your decision.

When it comes to showcasing your skills, you can also use tools like video footage of your matches or games, and your stats over the seasons. Make sure these are easily accessible and kept up-to-date.

In a nutshell, displaying exceptional athletic ability, maintaining solid academics, being proactive in communication, showcasing your leadership and team skills, and choosing a school that fits your interests are key factors to get into the best college volleyball teams.