The Life of a Volleyball Player

The life of a volleyball player is hard. Volleyball is more than a more intense version of keeping the ball off the ground; it is painful but rewarding. "If you do not practice you don't deserve to win"- Andre Agassi. Practice comes a long way in the sport of volleyball. It does not only pushes you to strive for success, but help you recognize your important role in the team. As a team you practice hard like there is no tomorrow, and win a game like champions.

Being in a volleyball team requires a lot of pain and commitment. Whether you are in a club or are in a school team, hardcore practice and work-outs are thrown at you. As a committed volleyball player, you are required to balance your own time and to always strive for success and more strength. After practices and games, players can have sprained ankles (or other body parts), bruised knees (or other body parts) and floor burns. 

Practice- In a school team (elementary/high school), practice may vary due to the coach's schedule. In college or university team, there are no day-offs (unless a player has an on the job training) and practice regularly. In a club, practice may also vary, depending on the availability of the gym or the coach's and players' schedule. These players may practice early in the morning or during the day, very hard. Daily practices will improve the team's hitting skills, passing skills, serving skills, setting skills and blocking skills. 

Games- School and College/University teams are usually against other schools of the same level. College/University teams tend to be more intense and have a larger crowd; school teams are more private. Elementary school tournaments are usually during school hours,therefore, watching games may  only be watched by the teams competing as well, or coaches and volunteers. High school tournaments are usually after school and can have other students, teachers and parents to watch the games. In a club, a team can go against other teams in their local area, town, city, or province/state (and country). These games are mostly open to parents and other fans and friends of the team. Games could also start very early (clubs) in the morning or during the day and are very time consuming (school teams). But once a game is won, all the stress is gone, and you are rewarded with so much happiness and joy. 

Healthy Lifestyle- While players practice and work-out for games, it is essential that these players have a healthy lifestyle. During practice or games, a lot of energy is being distributed and the necessary nutrients are needed to help gain back that energy. Players are recommended to eat as much fruits and vegetables, and are discouraged to eat any junk food (daily). They are also recommended to drink lots of water, to keep hydrated. It is important that healthy eating and exercise is equal, so the body stays balanced and healthy.