Want your kids to learn independence, responsibility and self reliance? Then it’s time to sign them up for beach volleyball. Not to mention the added benefit that it’s somewhat Covid safe; outdoors and zero contact.

Unlike any other, this sport puts the kids in the drivers seat instead of the coaches and parents. That’s right, kids are in control of their successes and failures. There is no concern about being subbed out or having a parent or coach yell at them for a mistake. That’s because no coaches or coaching is allowed during matches. Parents are only allowed to cheer their kids on. And instead of running to Jamba Juice in-between games, players stay and referee the next game. They also are expected to figure out when and where they play. Parents have NO ROLE, let me repeat that, NO ROLE in this sporting event – except maybe driving them there and paying for it. Kids gain a ton of valuable skills: self-reliance, grit, leadership, conflict management, self-regulation, discipline, work ethic, organization and being part of a community. All youth sports could learn something from beach volleyball!

10 reasons To Sign Your Child Up For Beach Volleyball:

1. It’s (usually) outdoors – fresh air, vitamin D, usually at the beach or in a park (Better for Covid)
2. It’s HARD to run in the sand and it gives you an incredible workout. Plus it’s low impact since the sand ‘gives,’ unlike a court or even grass.
3. Players learn self-reliance. No coaches or coaching allowed during the games!
4. It develops your all-around game. Unlike indoor volleyball, where players tend to be more specialized in their skill sets, in beach volleyball, with only two athletes on the court, you will need to develop and use a wider range of skills.
5. Parents aren’t allowed to yell or coach from the sidelines. Unlike other sports, typically this is enforced.
6. Kids take an active role in the logistics of the matches. They check themselves in, as well as figure court location and times.
7. Kids referee the other matches. This not only ensures they will truly understand the rules and the game, but doing some of the ‘heavy lifting’ of the day allows them to take an active role in their sport.
8. They often get free stuff like sun block and even bathing suits.
9. There’s a lot of flexibility when you play and how often, which is very nice for parents balancing a lot of different schedules and demands. They can also easily switch partners up, decide to play in most tournaments last minute, and don’t HAVE to play in all the tournaments or any.
10. 42 Division 1 colleges are now offering Beach Volleyball scholarships and it’s a growing sport.