In a world where children are more connected, inquisitive, and, dare we say, a tad more challenging, the realm of youth sports coaching is undergoing a quiet revolution. Traditional “drill sergeant” methods are slowly, but surely, giving way to approaches that prioritize engagement, understanding, and, most importantly, fun. Leading this charge in the volleyball world is the “Action Volley” initiative, soon to make a significant impact in Latvia.
The Shifting Sands of Youth Sports Engagement
It`s no secret that the digital age has profoundly reshaped childhood. Today`s youth are not merely passive recipients of instruction; they demand interaction, relevance, and a clear “why.” This dynamic shift presents a formidable challenge to sports, especially those considered technically demanding, like volleyball. For years, the emphasis on rote technique, often divorced from the joy of play, inadvertently pushed many children, particularly boys, away from the sport.
Remko Kenter, the visionary Dutch coach behind “Action Volley” and Secretary of the European Coaches Commission (ECoC), has observed this evolution firsthand. “Children have changed a lot in recent years,” Kenter notes, stating the rather obvious with the wisdom of experience. “We live in a different world than before. Kids have become more outspoken and ask more questions.” His point is simple yet profound: if the children change, shouldn`t the coaching adapt?
“Action Volley” and “Smashball”: Reintroducing Fun to Fundamentals
Enter “Action Volley,” founded by Kenter in 2019, and its dynamic sibling, “Smashball.” These programs aren`t just new sets of drills; they represent a fundamental paradigm shift in how volleyball is taught to youngsters. The core philosophy, succinctly captured in the slogan “Volleyball through the eyes of children,” speaks volumes. It`s about empathy, connection, and presenting the game in a language children understand, both literally and experientially.
The upcoming coaching courses in Riga, Latvia, scheduled for mid-October at the Riga Volleyball School, offer a unique opportunity for local and regional coaches to immerse themselves in these groundbreaking methodologies. Participants will spend two intensive days, with mornings dedicated to theoretical frameworks and afternoons to their practical application on the court. It`s a pragmatic blend, ensuring that the “clear vision” Kenter champions truly supports all “practical activities.”
“Coaches should be able to connect and empathise with the world of children. It is important that kids feel safe and comfortable in the group. Coaches also need to be able to explain things in a way that fits the language and understanding of children,” states Kenter, underscoring the shift from mere instruction to genuine mentorship.
The Impact: More Than Just a Game
Since its inception, “Action Volley” has already touched approximately 2,500 coaches and, through them, an astounding 30,000 children across more than 100 workshops in the Netherlands and 28 international sessions. These aren`t just statistics; they represent thousands of children who are rediscovering the joy of volleyball, perhaps for the first time, or in a way that truly resonates with them.
The emphasis on “autonomy and connection” is particularly salient. In an era where children often feel overwhelmed by external pressures, giving them a sense of ownership over their learning and fostering genuine relationships within the team can be transformative. It’s a subtle yet powerful rebellion against the outdated notion that stern instruction alone builds character.
The courses in Latvia, organized in cooperation with CEV under the expansive umbrella of the CEV School Project ‘Play Volleyball – Grow with it’, symbolize a broader commitment to nurturing the sport from its grassroots. Coaches who complete the program will receive a CEV certificate, a tangible recognition of their commitment to modern, child-centric development.
Looking Ahead: Investing in the Future of Volleyball
For a modest fee of €70, covering both theory and practical sessions, along with the essential fuel of lunch and coffee breaks, these two days promise to be an invaluable investment in the future of youth volleyball. The message is clear: the game needs to adapt, and those who coach it must lead the way. Latvia, through hosting these pivotal courses, is positioning itself at the forefront of this crucial evolution.
In a world saturated with fleeting digital entertainment, the challenge for sports is to remain captivating, enriching, and deeply human. Initiatives like “Action Volley” offer a compelling blueprint, demonstrating that with a bit of empathy, innovation, and a whole lot of fun, the future of volleyball looks bright indeed.
Gideon Holt 
Torin Vale