Did you ever wonder why some volleyball matches feel like electric rock concerts while others seem like a quiet library? Join us as we kick off this episode with a sweet anecdote about York Peppermint Patties and how they became an unlikely hero at tournament desks. Chad shares his firsthand experience from Arlington's Volleyball Nations League (VNL), where even top-tier matches like Serbia vs. Turkey struggled to draw crowds. We draw comparisons to the vibrant volleyball culture in Poland and discuss the uphill battle of scheduling weekday games in the U.S., all while underscoring the impressive efforts of true volleyball enthusiasts.

The Norco Cup was nothing short of a spectacle, and we're excited to give you a behind-the-scenes look at its execution. From welcome gift bags to the thrilling all-star game and even a drum line, we pulled out all the stops to ensure a memorable experience. Despite a few hiccups, like a spike ball mishap, the event was a massive success and set a new benchmark for Northern California. Our journey from concept to reality was filled with stress and satisfaction, but seeing the packed stands and engaged crowd made it all worthwhile.

Lastly, we dive into how social media is transforming team dynamics and personal branding for our athletes. By encouraging our team to use social media as a living resume, we've seen remarkable boosts in their confidence and self-expression. Balancing the excitement of upcoming events like the Beer Olympics and Grassman, we also stress the importance of proper training and rest. Looking ahead to the SoCal Cup, we remain committed to staying prepared and engaged. Tune in for a packed episode brimming with reflections, insights, and a dash of humor.

Prepare to up your volleyball IQ as we serve up a jam-packed episode from courtside chaos to strategic playbooks of the past two weeks. We're volleying across the board, from the thrills of the SoCal Cup right to the heart of the AVCA convention, and then setting up for the intensity of the Austin First Point Collegiate Challenge. Witness as top-ranked teams establish their authority in the men's collegiate volleyball scene, and join the conversation about NCAA rankings that's sure to get your competitive spirit fired up.

This round, we're digging deep into the rising tide of boys volleyball, celebrating the sport's soaring participation rates and the community's passionate support in Texas. Hear how the Lietzkes' professional event execution and the backing from the Texas women's team are elevating the game to new heights. Plus, we'll share insider anecdotes from the January volleyball escapades and Emmy side trips that prove life outside the court is just as lively.

As we wrap our play-by-play rundown, catch the nitty-gritty of tournament life – the triumphs, trials, and tactical shifts that mold a formidable team. From our own tournament tribulations to Marcello's meteoric rise to MVP status, we've got game-changing insights for everyone from the newbie to the seasoned pro. And because no volleyball discussion is complete without a bit of friendly debate, we'll dig into high school volleyball rankings and the nuanced dance between players and coaches. So, throw your headphones on and join us for an episode that's all about the highs, lows, and incredible dynamics of volleyball.

Here is what ChatGPT spit out when we asked it to summarize todays episode:

Get ready to spike your knowledge of college volleyball as we serve up a hearty post-season analysis! Our special guest, Bobby, joins the crew to dissect our preseason forecasts, celebrating the aces and learning from the faults. We're not just talking about who soared and who stumbled in the Big West, MIVA, and EIVA—we're giving you an insider's play-by-play on how injuries and home crowds have turned the game upside down. And yes, we're taking a victory lap for our unanimous Ohio State for MIVA prediction!

But it's not all about the big hitters—our Coaches Group Chat Awards are here to shine the spotlight on the entire squad. Ever wondered who the unsung heroes of the volleyball court are? Discover our picks for the Seventh Man of the Year, the player who's ready to jump off the bench and into the fray. We're not just crunching numbers; we're unraveling the stories behind the stats, the quiet contributors, and the players who bring the heat even when they're not making headlines.

The net isn't the only thing that's tense as we volley over the top players of the season. Join us as we argue who deserves to be our hypothetical club's setter and who truly stands out as the Opposite of the Year. It's a battle of the volleyball titans, where stats, impact, and leadership all come into play. We don't just analyze the performance; we get into the very spirit of the game, projecting the bright future of these athletes as they leap toward their volleyball destinies. Spike your curiosity and tune in for a set of discussions that are as passionate as a match-point rally!

This is what ChatGPT says is todays episode description:

Ever found yourself laughing at the mishaps that come with tweeting idioms? Imagine my surprise when my own Twitter fiasco turned into a source of shared giggles. In this lively episode, we tackle everything from the quirky allure of holiday candies—team Easter or Halloween, pick your sugary fighter—to navigating the choppy waters of selling a used car. Stick around as we share our latest life updates; whether it's braving a new haircut, enduring car dealership haggling, or embracing the chill of an impromptu cold plunge, you're in for a mix of laughs and earnest life lessons, including the financial juggling act that comes with career transitions.

Now, let’s whisk your palate away to the hearty flavors of Polish cuisine, as we contrast the local dining gems with our stateside culinary experiences. During this gastronomic adventure, we’ll also spill the beans on a whirlwind trip to Los Angeles that almost wasn't, until spontaneity struck. Then we pivot to a more contemplative note, unraveling the intriguing circumstances surrounding Jamie Davis's departure from USA Volleyball. We toast to the organization's victories and ponder the power of transparency, considering a Freedom of Information Act request to unearth the intricacies of their NBC contract.

Wrapping up, we volley through discussions on the vibrant volleyball community, probing into the passionate, sometimes overly intense, world of local leagues and the need for a nurturing fan base to keep the sport alive in the public eye. From there, we salute the iconic team spirits of the Navy SEALs, New Zealand's All Blacks, and the memorable Chicago Bulls under Phil Jackson's wing. Finally, we plunge into a pool of nostalgia, reminiscing about summer swim meets that shaped our childhoods, inspired by legends like Katie Ledecky and Michael Phelps. Join us as we share these stories, connecting the dots of our diverse interests and experiences, leaving you with a splash of inspiration and a hearty dose of amusement.

Strap on your knee pads and join us for a rollicking journey through the world of youth volleyball coaching, with peals of laughter and sage advice served in equal measure. In our latest episode, Bob, Ariel, Chad, and I, Matt, trade stories from the court with the same energy and spirit as our U-14 athletes bringing their all to the game. From the rush of a tournament weekend to the invaluable lessons imparted to young, eager players, we're sharing the playbook on how to foster a sense of community and cultivate the next wave of volleyball stars.

As we set up the conversation, we delve into the coaching strategies that hit the mark with the 12-and-under crowd. It's not just about the skills—it's about communication, motivation, and the kind of 'compound interest' effect that can set a young athlete on a trajectory to greatness. Chuckle along with us as we recount creative coaching incentives, the smoothie bet that won't be forgotten, and the profound satisfaction that comes with mentoring young players. Our anecdotes are a testament to the joy and challenges of coaching, sure to resonate with seasoned coaches or those contemplating picking up a whistle.

For the final spike, we tackle the broader world of volleyball, discussing the potential expansion of the NCAA Men's Volleyball Tournament and advocating for more inclusive competition. We also highlight the importance of leveraging resources like YouTube and Volleyball World to enrich club experiences. As a bonus, we take a timeout to reminisce about our own childhood hobbies, from video games to sports, bringing a personal touch to our shared volleyball narrative. Whether you're here for the volleyball insights or the nostalgic trip down memory lane, this episode promises to entertain and enlighten.

Ever found yourself chuckling over a case of mistaken fruit identity or debating the merits of volleyball tournaments with friends? That's exactly where we landed in our latest episode, kicking things off with a humorous mix-up involving nectarines—yes, those juicy summer gems—and a timely correction from our ever-reliable virtual sidekick. The laughs didn't end there, as we spun yarns about Costco adventures and a memorable sweatshirt design gone awry, setting the stage for a deeper volley into the world of volleyball events. As I staunchly defended the Olympic Games as the zenith of volleyball dreams, Jan presented a compelling argument for the V&L and World Championships, sparking a lively debate on the essence of the sport and what truly crowns a competition as the best.

Nostalgia hit us hard as we sauntered through the gallery of volleyball greats who've left their mark on the game and our hearts. From Dana Burkholder's exceptional setting skills to Misty May-Treanor's unmatched prowess on the sand, these legends shaped our love for volleyball. Jan brought the energy with tales of Brazilian sensation Giba, painting a vivid picture of his influence on a whole generation of players. We didn't forget to shine a spotlight on today's trailblazers like TJ DeFalco and Uroš Kovačević, wondering aloud who the youth on the courts today idolize as they dream of their own athletic futures.

Wrapping up our gameplay, we turned the heat on the NCAA, baking up predictions and seasoning our conversation with a dash of insider sports analysis humor. We volleyed opinions on teams with potential, like Grand Canyon and UCLA, while jesting about biases and the thrill of flying solo as a podcast host. It's a full-court press of laughter, insights, and a shared passion for the spikes, digs, and serves of volleyball. So, pull up a chair and join us for an episode that sets up the perfect spike of entertainment and reflection on the game we all adore.

Have you ever bumped into a celebrity doppelganger or felt the pang of missing camaraderie from a break? No, it's not a new reality TV theme; it's just us, weaving personal tales with the fabric of sports commentary. This episode takes you from laugh-out-loud branding brainstorms featuring Marcus Mariota, all the way to the solo ventures of everyday life. Our storytelling doesn't end with humor; it also casts light on Grand Canyon University's climb in college volleyball rankings and an engaged discussion about the future of officiating in the sport. Matt August, assistant coach of Grand Canyon University, even gets a nod for his sideline enthusiasm and shared love for our podcast.

Who said sports discussions couldn't be as critical as they are entertaining? We tackle the pressing issues facing USA Volleyball and the structure of boys' volleyball in the States, debating the shortcomings of the system and fostering a competitive environment. Our insights suggest a dire need for technological advancements in officiating and the potential transformations within the sport. The discourse continues as we critique the impact of volleyball rule changes on player dynamics, revealing how new regulations might tip the scales between traditional skills and the quest for viewer-friendly action.

Ending on a note that tugs at the heartstrings, we recount an emotional video making experience that transcended the digital space, reminding us of the profound effects of capturing life's moments. Unexpected twists turn into cherished memories as we share a travel story involving none other than Nancy Pelosi. Together, we navigate the meaningful intersections of life, sports, and the personal connections that carry us through each episode. Join us for a session that promises as much depth and reflection as it does laughter and innovative thinking.

We were without producer Bob this episode and it shows as Matt forgot to turn the camera on 🤦‍♂️ 

But show must go on as we discuss:

• Chad's airborne birthday
• Hawaii trip recap
• Updated NCAA rankings
• VolleyDork gets acquired
• Revamping stats in volleyball: Expected Value
• Upsets around the country
• Volleyball Super Bowl ad spot
• Volleyball: Not for Everyone

• AVCA Rankings
• Arielle's viral videos
• Women coaching in a boys game
• Favorite NCAA Assistant Coaches
• Nominee for Bench Player of the Year

Welcome to the Coaches Group Chat! On this episode we make our predictions for the 2024 NCAA Men's College Volleyball season:

1. National Champion
2. League winners of the Big West, MPSF, MIVA and EIVA
3. Player of the Year
4. Freshman of the Year
5. Most Improved Team
6. 'Biggest Loser' of the 2024 season
7. Newest Trend in MVB

Our latest episode is packed with predictions about the upcoming college volleyball season, covering everything from champion favorites to potential up-and-coming teams. With discussions on coaching changes, player developments, and the overall shifting landscape of the sport, we eagerly lay out our thoughts and invite listeners to join in on the excitement.

• Discussion on Erik Sullivan's new role as head coach of the women's national team
• Predictions for the MPSF Championship focusing on UCLA
• Analyzing the competitive nature of the Big West Conference
• Delving into MIVA Championship predictions with emphasis on Ball State 
• Insights on the most improved teams and players to watch 
• Conversations about the impact of coaches switching from men's to women's volleyball 
• Light-hearted discussion on teams embodying grit and spirit this season

S2E2 provides an in-depth analysis of recent men’s volleyball matches, focusing on team dynamics and standout players. We then move into the emerging rivalry between the PVF and LOVB leagues. We then finish off with AVCA ranking evaluations, performance observations, and predictions for future matchups. 
• Analyzing the matchup between Ball State and Stanford
• Evaluating team performances and player statistics
• Highlighting significant league matchups, including Ohio State vs. BYU
• Discussing the branding rivalry between PVF and LOVB
• Evaluating early season rankings and future implications
• Anticipating upcoming matches and viewer engagement

In this episode, we explore:
• SoCal Cup roundup
• Game results and reflections on tournament performances 
• Insights into coaching strategies and player growth 
• Discussion on AVCA rankings and predictions for upcoming matches 
• Anecdotes from tournament chaos and life in volleyball 
• National Champion predictions

This episode dives into the complexities of NCAA volleyball rankings, exploring their quirks, controversies, and significant impacts on team dynamics. We discuss player transfers, upcoming matches, and potential rule changes:

• Insights on coaches' polling and its biases 
• Discussion on the world of NIL in college sports
• Preview of key upcoming matches between top teams 
• Proposed rule changes (foreigner limit, remove open hand tips, service error foul out)
• The future of NCAA volleyball amid rising financial stakes

A transformative week in volleyball sees the introduction of the Baby on Benches Rule, allowing coaches to bring their babies onto benches during matches. We discuss the impact of this change, alongside John Cook's retirement, spring tryouts excitement, finishing with a discussion on volleyball superstars: Moni Nikolov vs. Harper Murray.

• Discussion of the Baby Bench Rule and its implications 
• Insights on John Cook's retirement and coaching changes 
• Recap of the experiences from recent spring tryouts 
• Preview of key volleyball matches on the horizon

Our latest episode dives into the fluctuating AVCA rankings, addressing issues surrounding team standings and the perceived favoritism affecting teams like Hawaii and UCLA. The discussion includes insights on weekend matches, reflections on coaching changes, and the evolving dynamics of college volleyball. 

• Critique of current AVCA rankings and their formulation 
• Arguments on Hawaii's ranking despite a recent loss 
• Recap of Long Beach vs. UCLA: a disappointing outcome 
• Stanford's bounce-back performance against Hawaii 
• Examination of Mary Wise's retirement and potential candidates for her position 
• Reflection on how players influence coaching hires and college athletics

We are putting the AMERICA into our All-American team while discussing the scarcity of top-tier American rosters in college volleyball today. We highlighted key American players, examined high school volleyball rule changes, and ultimately celebrated the importance of recognizing homegrown talent in the sport. 

• Crafting an all-American team of volleyball players 
• The significance of celebrating American players in international-dominated NCAA 
• Recent high school volleyball rule adjustments 
• Excitement surrounding local competitions and events 
• Plans for an upcoming All-Star game to honor local talent

Our latest episode dives into the humorous and competitive world of Fantasy MVB Beer Olympics! We discuss team selection, strategies, and what it means to build a cohesive unit ready to take on the challenge. 

• Introduction of our Beer Olympics draft 
• Boycotting the AVCA rankings
• Matt's NSFW social media
• Capitol Hill Classic recap
• Women's volleyball roundup

We make our triumphant return for Season 3 (it's actually season 2 episode 9 but it's been forever since our last episode), putting to rest any rumors about internal fighting while offering sincere apologies for the technical difficulties that prevented the release of our previous recordings.

• Debating the latest Traitor's Poll rankings with special focus on CSUN vs Loyola placement
• Criticizing current replay systems in college volleyball and proposing either professional-grade systems or faster decision processes
• Analyzing CSUN's challenging Chicago road trip against Lewis and Loyola
• Discussing the remarkable service runs that led Grand Canyon to dominate BYU
• Examining attendance figures across men's volleyball with Hawaii leading at 6,400 fans per game
• Highlighting Hawaii's impressive volleyball program where men's volleyball ranks second only to football in donations

We dive into men's collegiate volleyball rankings and break down the implications of Long Beach State's split with UC Irvine in what was a high-level volleyball showcase with sold-out crowds.

• Clear separation exists between the "top five" teams and everyone else in men's volleyball
• Long Beach maintains #1 ranking despite their loss to UC Irvine in a sold-out match
• Debate over Loyola Chicago's #6 ranking after being "called out of rotation"
• Discussion of whether Long Beach's loss will ultimately benefit them by relieving pressure
• High school volleyball rankings from cousin Greg
• Netflix's "Adolescence" recommended as essential viewing for anyone working with young men
• Each episode of "Adolescence" filmed in a continuous 50-minute single shot
• Comprehensive taste test of nine different Peep varieties
• Classic yellow Peep crowned champion over specialty flavors like Dr. Pepper and Blue Raspberry
• Cotton Candy Peeps universally condemned and "should be banned by the FDA"

The NCAA's back-to-back scheduling format deflates the impact of big upsets by forcing immediate rematches, preventing storylines from developing and limiting media coverage opportunities.

• The weekend featured multiple top-5 upsets including CSUN over Hawaii, UC San Diego over UC Irvine, and GCU over UCLA
• Back-to-back scheduling forces teams to play the same opponent twice in consecutive days, eliminating the buildup between matchups
• The upcoming 18-man roster cap will significantly impact recruitment strategies and player movement between programs
• International players dominate many starting lineups in NCAA men's volleyball, raising questions about American player development
• American volleyball development lags behind European counterparts that use academy systems with more frequent, specialized training
• Hawaii vs. Long Beach State this weekend is the most anticipated matchup of the regular season with major NCAA tournament implications
• The coaches predict Long Beach will likely win at least one match, with Nikolov expected to excel in the high-pressure environment

Join us for a potential live stream "Manning Cast" style commentary during the Hawaii vs. Long Beach matches this weekend!

Arielle, Chad, and Matt dive into a lively discussion of recent collegiate men's volleyball action and debate the future of the game.

• Hawaii splits with Long Beach State
• USC battles significant injuries to key players, creating strategic challenges for upcoming matches
• Conference tournament predictions across MIVA, EIVA, Big West, and MPSF
• Data reveals NCAA men's volleyball is 16% international athletes
• Discussion of whether international roster limits would benefit American player development
• Proposal for rule changes to improve men's volleyball as a television product, including a service "foul out" rule
• Brief recap of LOVB Championship results, with Austin defeating Omaha in a sweep

Support our podcast by following, leaving a review, or showing off your new silver chain just like Chad.

Grand Canyon University has abruptly cut their men's volleyball program, effective immediately, with no advance warning to coaches or players, sending shockwaves through the volleyball community. We explore what this means for the future of men's volleyball and share insights from our personal experiences with program cuts at Stanford and University of Pacific.

• Blueprint for fighting program cuts based on Stanford's successful campaign to save their program
• Importance of building alumni databases and organizing coordinated responses
• Strategies for fundraising through pledges rather than immediate donations
• Critical timing of GCU's announcement during peak men's volleyball season
• Complete NCAA tournament field breakdown and selection committee controversies
• Final Four predictions with analysis of key matchups
• Potential collegiate players likely to join USA Volleyball's training team this summer

If your program doesn't already have a comprehensive alumni database and communication system in place, start building one today. Don't wait for an emergency announcement to begin organizing your support network.

Long Beach State secures another national championship with a commanding sweep over UCLA, showcasing their unparalleled team culture and championship mentality. Their "blue collar" approach and ride-or-die brotherhood has created a volleyball program where bench energy is so intense it earned yellow cards during their championship celebration.

• Long Beach's first set domination, hitting nearly .800 against UCLA
• Moni Nikolov's clutch serving, delivering two consecutive aces when UCLA led 20-18 in the second set
• The stark contrast between UCLA's grim timeout huddle and Long Beach's electrified bench
• Long Beach volleyball culture as elite, gritty, and built on intense loyalty
• Post-match championship F-bomb continuing the Long Beach tradition
• Way-too-early predictions for next season's contenders: Hawaii, Stanford, and USC
• High school volleyball update with Open Division Championship preview

Join us for season three as the podcast may be moving to a new home with some exciting changes ahead!

We return with a pop-up episode to track the surge in women’s volleyball—national TV windows, marquee kickoff events, and a top tier led by Nebraska and Texas—while naming sleepers that no one wants in a Sweet 16 draw. We also break down Milan’s move to UCLA and grade USA men’s first season of a youth-forward reset.

• AVCA First Serve impact, ESPN and Fox spotlight
• Nebraska and Texas separating, context on early undefeateds
• UCLA’s transfer haul and the Penn State win
• Texas practice insights, talent depth, and scheduling
• Top 10 snapshot with ASU, TCU, SMU storylines
• Sleeper teams that create matchup nightmares
• Men’s update: Milan to UCLA and visa questions
• USA men graded A- for youth and identity
• Plans for an AVCA live lobby show

Please let us know if you would like us to keep giving our thoughts on women (volleyball).

We recap a whirlwind women’s volleyball weekend, break down Stanford vs Louisville with real tactical detail, and lay out a case for mandatory mid-major conference tournaments. We also explain how Bay to Bay chartered flights to save families money and why “grow the game” needs to retire.

• Stanford vs Louisville as a gritty benchmark for the 4–10 tier
• Louisville setter as the match’s key differentiator
• Stanford stronger in the middle, Louisville deeper at the pins
• Santa Clara–Pepperdine detour and a St. Mary’s “volleyball rehab” vibe
• Packed gym energy and what real community looks like
• Why mid-major conferences should host a top-six tournament
• Keeping teams alive longer, creating late-season stakes
• A rebuttal to “best representative” fears with best-of-five logic
• Retiring “grow the game” in favor of confident, concrete action
• AVCA convention curation vs salesy sessions, and open debate
• How Matt chartered planes and broke the internet with AI
• AI mockups, virality, and clear messaging around real logistics
• Building The Grape Man event from 10 to 100 teams