Parent & Athlete Handbook

The Venom Standard

Everything athletes and families commit to when they join Venom Volleyball Club. Participation is a privilege, not a guarantee.

Mission & Vision

Mission

Venom Volleyball Club exists to develop disciplined, confident, and mentally strong athletes through elite volleyball training grounded in sportsmanship, accountability, and character. We are committed to teaching the game both physically and intellectually, while fostering maturity, teamwork, and respect on and off the court.

Vision

Our vision is to build a competitive volleyball program recognized for excellence, integrity, and athlete development. Venom athletes graduate not only as skilled players, but as composed leaders, effective teammates, and positive representatives of the sport in their schools, communities, and future teams.

Our Philosophy

Venom = Controlled Power. Intentional Impact. We compete with intensity, precision, and purpose. Our athletes are taught to play fast and aggressive while maintaining composure, respect, and discipline. Venom is not reckless. Venom is earned.

Program Values (V.E.N.O.M.)

• V - Values First: Character matters more than wins.
• E - Effort Every Rep: Maximum effort in practice and competition.
• N - Next Play Mentality: We respond, we do not react.
• O - Ownership: We take responsibility for our actions and growth.
• M - Mastery: Discipline leads to confidence and consistency.

Expectations for Athletes

Athletes are expected to:

• Show respect to coaches, teammates, officials, opponents, and facilities
• Arrive on time, prepared, and focused
• Demonstrate positive body language and communication
• Accept coaching with maturity and effort
• Represent Venom with integrity in public, online, and in school

Disrespectful behavior, unsportsmanlike conduct, or repeated negative attitudes may result in reduced playing time or further disciplinary action.

Expectations for Parents

• Support all athletes, not just their own child
• Allow coaches to coach (no sideline coaching)
• Communicate concerns respectfully and privately
• Model sportsmanship toward officials, opponents, and staff
• Trust the process of long-term development

Concerns regarding playing time, strategy, or roles should follow the 24-hour rule and be addressed respectfully with the coaching staff.

Playing Time Philosophy

Playing time is earned, not guaranteed. Factors include practice attendance and effort, coachability and attitude, skill execution and game readiness, and team needs. At younger ages (10-13), development is emphasized. At older ages (14-17), competition and role accountability increase.

Communication Guidelines

Appropriate topics

• Athlete well-being or safety
• Clarification of expectations
• Scheduling or logistical issues

Inappropriate topics

• Playing time during or immediately after competition
• Criticism of other athletes
• Emotional or confrontational communication

Code of Conduct & Discipline

Violations of team values may result in a verbal warning, reduced playing time, suspension from practice or competition, or removal from the program in severe cases. Our goal is correction and growth, not punishment.

Team Commitment

Participation in Venom Volleyball Club is a serious commitment. As a competitive program, athletes and families prioritize team obligations and uphold all program standards. Athletes are expected to attend all scheduled practices, competitions, and team events. Travel volleyball requires sacrifices; conflicts should be minimal and communicated in advance.

Fees & Financial Responsibility

All program fees are due according to the agreed payment schedule. Fees cover coaching, gym rental, training, administrative costs, and competition-related expenses. Failure to remain current may result in suspension from practices or competitions, and continued non-payment may result in dismissal with no refunds issued.

Social Media & Digital Conduct

Athletes represent Venom at all times, including online.

• No negative posts, comments, or messages toward teammates, opponents, officials, coaches, or other programs
• No sharing of internal team matters on social media
• Demonstrate maturity, positivity, and respect online

Violations may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or dismissal.

Season Timeline

• Tryouts & Evaluations: Late summer / early fall
• Team Selection: Within one week of tryouts
• Pre-Season Training: Fall skill development and conditioning
• Competitive Season: Winter through early spring
• Post-Season: End-of-season meetings and feedback
• Off-Season: Skills training, YMCA service, leadership development

Once an athlete accepts a roster position, they commit for the entire season.

Leadership Pathway

Leadership is developed, not assigned. Athletes (primarily 14-17) earn leadership through consistent effort, positive communication, respect, and willingness to mentor younger athletes. Roles may include team captain or co-captain, practice leader, mentor, or community-service representative.

Community Development & YMCA Partnership

Venom is committed to giving back to the game and community. In the off-season, seasoned athletes may assist as youth coaches, skills trainers, or referees in local YMCA recreational leagues, developing leadership and a deeper understanding of the game from multiple perspectives.

Coach Standards

Venom holds its coaching staff to the same standards expected of athletes: teaching fundamentals, systems, and volleyball IQ; providing consistent, constructive feedback; modeling sportsmanship and professionalism; and prioritizing long-term development over short-term results.