VB Soul Magazine—Vol. 2, No 2_Summer 2015

Volume 2, Number 2•Summer 2015

PIOTR MARCINIAK: 2014’s “Best Offensive Player” Ready to Dominate!

FEATURED INSIDE: The Top Ten College Beach Programs The Young Rizing Starz of Volleyball 2015 Players to Watch

GET FIT

NOW Fit ‘N Fierce Eat To Win Your Core Counts

2015 Tour Reports: Panama City, Madeira Beach & Ocean City

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Volume 2, Number 2 • Summer 2015

TheNVL.com

16

Table of Contents Publisher’s Letter

4

The Professor

6

A message from the NVL Co-Founder.

Did you know that the “Duke” of surfing was a volleyball player? Expert, Tom Feuer delves into the long history of our sport.

In The Sand

Learn about the NVL’s webcast partner and Club Med Volleyball Academies new stellar coaches.

8

College Corner

10

Fit ‘N’ Fierce

14

Check out the top 10 colleges for beach volleyball: meet the coaches and their seniors that are making an impact.

Learn how training differs between adult and junior players from trainer Idrissa Diallo.

Rizing Starz

NVL interviews up-and-coming juniors about the sport they love.

16

RIZE Up

20

Eat To Win

23

Profile: Piotr Marciniak

24

Learn periodization training from one of the NVL’s top pros, Priscilla “Pri” Piantadosi-Lima.

NVL pro Jenn Snyder explains the benefits of adding organic, raw apple cider vinegar to your life.

Meet this 28-year-old, Polish-born sensation poised to rack up the wins this season.

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30

Day In The Life

27

Tour Stop Map

28

Tour Reports

30

Stay In The Game

34

2015 Players to Watch

36

Off-Court & Online

38

A typical day for Chelsea Hayes, NVL’s 2014 Rookie of the Year, and her go-to veggie pasta recipe.

Check out the eight pro tour stops from coast-to-coast.

Panama City Beach NVL kicked off the 2015 season with thousands of Spring Breakers.

Madeira Beach White sandy beaches, alligators and more at this new location for the league.

Ocean City Against the backdrop of the historic boardwalk, who walked away with a title at the 3rd tour stop?

NVL’s sports chiropractor, Dr. Dominique “Dr. Dom” Scott, explains why your sacrum is sacred.

Skylar DelSol and partner Jeff Samuels lead a group of young talented players taking the league by storm.

Online chatter and musings from NVL’s players, fans and sponsors.

36

On The Cover Fourth-year pro, Piotr Marciniak, is poised to make a substantial impact on the tour this year.

Photo: Tim Britt- techanphoto images VB Soul Magazine

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PUBLISHER’S DESK

Junior Beach Volleyball Continues to RIZE in 2015

2015

has already been one of the most rewarding years since establishing the NVL, both professionally and personally, as I see the opportunities for beach players continue to grow at every level.

I attended the fourth annual AVCA Collegiate Sand Volleyball National Championship this spring in Gulf Shores, Alabama and watched top universities around the country compete.

The level of play was incredible and it’s exciting to know many of these young women will be taking their talents to play professionally in the U.S. We’ve already had the privilege of University of Hawaii (go Rainbow Warriors!) AllAmerican Brittany Tiegs join us for the Ocean City Championships, taking third place with partner Chara Harris.

Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies has been busier than ever with junior and collegiate athletes from across the country, as well as several international teams, coming in to train at our facility in Port St. Lucie, FL. We’re currently ramping up for our “College Ready” junior camp at the end of July and following the camp, we will host our 2nd annual Junior Championship “Global Challenge” Invitational. The list of beach programs joining us to coach and watch the competition is growing daily and will include top schools such as Florida State University, Florida International University, LSU, Tulane, Georgia St., Stetson, and University 4 I VB Soul Magazine

of South Carolina. This is an amazing opportunity for junior athletes to meet and train with some of the most elite coaches in the nation.

I’m also particularly proud of our NVL Academy volleyball teams – the first-ever indoor and sand club teams that train at the Academy on both surfaces year round. The teams won four indoor tournaments rounding out a successful season. And to NVL pro Brooke Niles, one of our former Club Med Academy coaches, I’d like to extend a congratulations on her recent hire as the Florida State beach volleyball head coach. Brooke is taking over a program that has played in the AVCA National Championships in each of its four seasons since the program’s inception.

The NVL RIZE amateur beach series has exploded this year with junior and adult tournaments across the country.

Ten events are being hosted at the Club Med facility in Florida this summer and more tournaments and camps will continue throughout the off-season. The NVL will also be assisting in growing high school beach volleyball leagues by hosting competitions and tournaments in both the fall and spring. The future has never looked better for our sport.

We couldn’t grow the game without the support and efforts from the pros, and one way they’re giving back is by contributing their knowledge to VB Soul. Check out the RIZE UP column by Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima to learn more about periodization training for juniors, a “Day in the Life” with Chelsea Hayes, nutrition tips from Jenn Snyder and more.

Enjoy this issue and thank you for supporting the NVL. See you on the sand soon!

Albert “AL-B” Hannemann NVL Co-founder & CEO

The Official Publication of the National Volleyball League

Volume Two, Number 2 • Summer 2015

PUBLISHER Albert “AL-B” Hannemann

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beth Miller / PRO Sports Communications bmiller@prosportscomm.com

ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Mark Hancock / SDA Creative, Inc. mhancock@sdacreative.com

SALES & MARKETING Christine Maleske christine@thenvl.com

ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTIONS Mazen Alloush mazen@thenvl.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Marc Serota/marcserota.com Robert Duyos/robertduyosphoto.com Tim Britt/techandphoto images Steve Martine/Steve Martine Photography, Inc.

DESIGN SERVICES SDA Creative, Inc. www.sdacreative.com

VB Soul Magazine is published by the National Volleyball League. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Address all correspondence to the National Volleyball League, 2688 SE Willoughby Blvd Suite #101, Stuart, Florida 34994.

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XTRA POINT Focus and determination – two words that sum up our pros. Here, the dynamic duo of Austin Clubb (foreground) and Nate Davis demonstrate they’ve got their eye on the prize. Check out this team and other top contenders in our Tour Report on page 30, covering the first three stops on the 2015 NVL tour.

THE PROFESSOR

Sand Century B

each volleyball in many quarters is still considered an “emerging” sport, a new entry on the menu of global athletics. Nothing could be further from the truth. While the beginning of the indoor version of the game can be specifically traced to Holyoke, Massachusetts in 1895, pinning down the birthdate of the beach version is a little trickier. In all likelihood, the humble origins of the game date back exactly 100 years ago to Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. The famous Outrigger Canoe Club was the venue for the first manifestations of the sand game.

Duke Kahanamoku, a seminal figure in surfing and for winning five Olympic medals in swimming, also played a little beach volleyball as well.

In the Continental USA, the first games of beach volleyball took place in 1924 with six or more on a side at the various beach clubs which lined the Southern California coast in Santa Monica. The catalyst for all of this activity was the physical construction of breakwater jetties which expanded

Duke Kahanamoku (far right) pictured with an early Outrigger Canoe Club “Beach Volleyball” 6-Man team.

and stabilized the beaches which were up to that point, narrow and susceptible to erosion. In 1930, Paul Johnson organized the first two-man games at the Santa Monica Athletic Club. It took 17 years for the inaugural two-man tournament to take place. Al Harris and Bernie Holtzman were the winners of the Southern California Doubles Championship. Holtzman, 5-11, was the first of the “legends of the sport,” winning 17 tournaments and continuing to play until he was 82! His greatest success came with Gene Selznick, who was at one time the world’s best player indoors before he was acknowledged as the first real “King of the Beach.” In other words, Wilt was Karch Kiraly before Karch Kiraly.

A big milestone for volleyball as a whole was its entry as an Olympic indoor sport in the 1964 Games in Tokyo. The Soviet Union was dominant. In the first three editions of the Olympics, the Soviet men and women combined for four golds, one silver and one bronze medal.

The USA would not get on the podium until 1984. Meanwhile, the beach was quickly starting to catch up to the indoor game in popularity. A big catalyst for

mainstream acceptance was the publicity which was accorded to Lakers’ center Wilt Chamberlain who chose beach volleyball for his rehabilitation from a torn patellar tendon knee injury in 1969.

Wilt, at that time, the most dominant basketball player in the world, became an evangelist for the sport.

1975 marked the first year that there was a prize money tournament. Winston cigarettes, of all companies, plunked down $1500. The prize money increased to $5000 the following year, when the first-ever World Championships took place at State Beach in Santa Monica.

Two former UCLA Bruins, Jim Menges and Greg Lee took home the top prize.

The 1970’s and 1980’s marked extraordinary growth, not only in the U.S. but in many countries abroad. The biggest milestone in the historical evolution of the sport was its inclusion into the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. Due to the U.S.’s extraordinary success, beach volleyball has become a prime time staple during NBC’s broadcast of the Games. The massive television exposure of the sport is such that only a few staple summer sports have a higher profile.

Tom Feuer has been passionately involved with the sport of beach volleyball since 1976. He currently works as the Director of Arizona State’s Cronkite Sports Bureau in Santa Monica, CA, and is a Professor of Practice. Prior to that, he was the Executive Producer for Fox Sports West and Prime Ticket in Los Angeles and has won three National Emmy Awards for his work in television. Feuer has worked on ten separate Olympic Games broadcasts since 1984.

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NVL RIZE National Amateur Series

NVL RIZE is a grassroots tournaments series and affiliate membership program which supports existing volleyball club directors, tournament directors, and facility owners across the country. The series provides a national ranking system for teams competing in NVL RIZE sanctioned tournaments, establishing a unifying platform to develop junior and adult athletes, and creating a pipeline into the existing NVL professional Tour. Nearly 5,000 members joined the NVL amateur series in 2014.

The 2nd Annual Junior Championship “Global Challenge” Invitational will take place July 31-August 2, 2015 at the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies in Port St. Lucie, FL. Below is the 2015 Florida Tour schedule. See you on the sand and thanks for helping “Grow the Game!”

2015 NVL RIZE FLORIDA TOUR SCHEDULE Panama City

March

22

CMA

April 26 Juniors

CMA

May

CMA

May 23 Juniors May 24 Adults

Delray Beach

June 13 Juniors June 14 Adults

CMA

June 27 Juniors June 28 Adults

CMA

July July

2

4 5

Juniors

Juniors

Juniors Adults Co-Ed

CMA July/Aug 31-2

Junior Championships “Global Challenge”

CMA Aug

Juniors Adults

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*CMA- Club Med NVL Academy Beach Volleyball Facility

Contact Us: RIZE@theNVL.com • (844) NVL-RIZE • nvlrize.com

IN THE SAND

®

NVL Teams with Helios LLC to Live Stream 2015 Pro Season Tournaments Platform to provide beach volleyball fans with easy access to real-time competition The NVL named Helios LLC, a division of New Sunshine and leader in software solutions for more than 20 years, its 2015 partner to produce and live stream all eight of its professional beach volleyball tournaments this season. Helios’ industry leading technology will enable the NVL to reach beach volleyball fans on a multitude of platforms ranging from the NVL webcast to connected TV platforms.

The NVL will host eight tournaments in 2015 with stops in Panama City Beach, Fla.; Madeira Beach, Fla.; Ocean City, Md.; Milwaukee; Cincinnati; Hermosa Beach, Calif.; Seattle; and Port St. Lucie, Fla. The events will feature world-class competition in a festive beach party atmosphere that highlights the lifestyle elements of the sport.

After each tournament, matches will be available free on-demand at http://thenvl.com/webcast

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Piotr and Kaya with the Club Med Academy junior girls indoor/beach team during an afternoon practice.

Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies Hires Karolina Sowala & Piotr Marciniak as Coaches Voted the NVL’s 2014 MVP and Offensive Player of the Year, Karolina “Kaya” Sowala will continue to pursue her career on the NVL professional tour while coaching. Sowala was born in Poland and began playing volleyball when she was 17. She went on to represent Poland, playing in FIVB SWATCH Tournaments since 2008.

Her top international finishes include: Bronze Medal World Championship U21, England; Bronze Medal European Championship U23, Netherlands; Gold Medal Polish Championship and Grand Prix; 9th Place, SWATCH FIVB World Tour, Finland. Domestically, Sowala has six first place finishes on the NVL tour including a 2013 Best of the Beach title in Las Vegas in addition to the 2014 Texas Championships, Atlanta Championships, Milwaukee Championships, Hermosa Beach Championships, and Players Championships.

Sowala is sponsored by Nutrition

By Theresa Buede & Breathe Bikinis.

Piotr Marciniak, NVL’s 2014 Offensive Player of the Year, brings more than a decade of experience in professional volleyball and sports management to the Academy, and will continue to play on the NVL professional tour.

As an international and domestic player, Marciniak has nine career top three finishes including 3rd place at the U21 Beach Volleyball Swatch World Championship, and two first place finishes on the NVL pro tour – 2013 “King of the Beach” in Las Vegas and 2014 Midwest Championships in Ohio.

Marciniak was named the NVL “Best Offensive Player” in 2014 and along with partner, Matt Henderson, recognized for the 2014 “Best Upset of the Year” at the NVL Midwest Championships.

Prior to joining NVL’s Club Med Academy, Marciniak was a beach volleyball coach at BeVolley Academy in Florida where he trained both juniors and top female professional players, in addition to developing tournament schedules and overseeing administrative and budgetary functions.

Concurrently, he acted as a consultant to Webber International University and worked with partner BeVolley Academy to analyze and recommend business solutions to help increase revenue.

Marciniak obtained an MBA in Sports Business Management from Webber International University in the U.S. and a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from University of Technology in Poland. He also holds a certificate in Therapeutic Massage from ZAK Massage Therapy School.

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NVL 2014 Player Award Winners At the 2014 Players Championships, NVL pros were asked to nominate their fellow players in the following categories for the 2014 season: MVP, Best Offensive Player, Best Defensive Player, Breakthrough Athlete, Most Improved Player, Rookie of the Year, Best Upset of the Year, NVL Appreciation, and Best Role Model. NVL would like to congratulate the following pros:

KAROLINA SOWALA WOMEN’S 2014 MVP & BEST OFFENSIVE PLAYER

JOSH BINSTOCK MEN’S 2014 MVP

DAVE PALM MEN’S 2014 BREAKTHROUGH ATHLETE

PIOTR MARCINIAK MEN’S 2014 BEST OFFENSIVE PLAYER

BROOKE NILES WOMEN’S 2014 BEST DEFENSIVE PLAYER

SAM SCHACHTER MEN’S 2014 BEST DEFENSIVE PLAYER

JESSICA STUBINSKI WOMEN’S 2014 BREAKTHROUGH ATHLETE

LINDSEY FULLER WOMEN’S 2014 MOST IMPROVED

DREW MALLIN MEN’S 2014 MOST IMPROVED

CHELSEA HAYES WOMEN’S 2014 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

ERIC ZAUN MEN’S 2014 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

MEN’S 2014 BEST UPSET OF THE YEAR

TARIN KEITH WOMEN’S 2014 APPRECIATION AWARD

MIKE PLACEK MEN’S 2014 APPRECIATION AWARD

CHARA HARRIS WOMEN’S 2014 BEST ROLE MODEL

AUSTIN RESTER MEN’S 2014 BEST ROLE MODEL

BROOKE NILES & JESSICA STUBINSKI WOMEN’S 2014 BEST UPSET OF THE YEAR (vs. Pri Piantadosi-Lima & Kaya Sowala —Midwest Championships)

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PIOTR MARCINIAK & MATT HENDERSON (vs. Drew Mallin/ Dave Palm­—Midwest Championships)

VB Soul Magazine

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COLLEGE CORNER

TEN SEASONNGS RAN KITE D! U PDA

The

TOP

Get To Know The Top Ten NCAA Beach Programs And What Makes Them Successful

W

ith Beach Volleyball approved as the 90th NCAA championship this past year, it is the fastest-growing NCAA sport with 50 schools sponsoring it as of January 2015 and a projected 200+ colleges will offer scholarships in 2016. The future of the sport has never looked better!

We asked the 2015 pre-season top ten beach coaches in America a few questions to hear their thoughts on the growth of the sport and what they’re looking for when recruiting players.

In addition, each coach nominated a top senior to talk with us about their sport and the NVL is proud to present the 2015 Senior All-American team. These athletes will be moving on after this college season, and the NVL is excited to showcase their talents on the tour and see if they can hang with the pros. *Publisher’s Note: Stetson was not ranked in the pre-season top ten but finished the season 6th overall.

PRE-SEASON #1: PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY Head Coach: NINA MATTHEIS Matthies coached the Pepperdine women’s volleyball program into a perennial top 25 entity and a mainstay in the NCAA Tournament for more than 25 years and continues to guide the Waves’ sand team. The team won the national championship for the second time in three seasons in 2014 with four Pepperdine players earning All-American status.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

I look for student athletes who are smart-athletic- know how to win- who are highly self-motivated-can take care of themselves-(self-correct), understand a team concept, and what it takes to be on and work with a team and coaches.

Any advice for aspiring junior athletes who want to play beach volleyball at the collegiate level?

My advice to young players is –play-play -play!! with anyone, play anywhere-enjoy and learn the game! Then work on individual skills-fitness, strength- how you can make yourself and your teammates better-then go play some more!

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N F I N A L RA

K: #3

PLAYER — KELLEY LARSEN When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

I started playing indoor in middle school but I didn’t start playing sand volleyball competitively until I got to Pepperdine.

I grew up in San Diego, so I would play down at the beaches with friends, but Pepperdine is when I first began training and competing.

Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

I played both indoor and sand for Pepperdine for the past 4 years, but I have one year left of eligibility to play sand, and that is what I am doing currently. I love being able to concentrate and put all my focus into just sand this year!

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PRE-SEASON #2: USC Head Coach: ANNA COLLIER

K: #1 N A R L A FIN

In 2014, won a second consecutive third-place finish in the team portion of the AVCA Collegiate Sand Volleyball National Championship and Trojans’ Burnham/Hughes won the AVCA pairs national title.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

Initially, the specific attributes I was looking for were a little different than they are now. With three seasons completed at USC, we’re now really beginning to recruit specific skills, qualities, and attributes. For instance, from one year to the next, our team may have a need for someone who is a blocker. With that in mind, I’d look for a player who has good natural blocking skills and can pass well. That kind of player would be approximately 6-1 to 6-3 and of course, we’re always looking for someone who is very mobile in the sand. On paper, we’d generally want someone who has experience in the sand; someone who has played in the neighborhood of 18 tournaments a season for at least two years and with good results. We’re always looking for someone who can be a good teammate and who can provide leadership skills.

PRE-SEASON #3: FLORIDA STATE Head Coach: DANALEE CORSO Corso has been the architect of an FSU sand volleyball program that has produced seven All-America honorees, advanced to three consecutive AVCA National Championship Final Fours and collected a 46-3 mark in regular season dual match competition.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

PLAYER — EVE ETTINGER When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

My middle school teacher, John, introduced me to the sport when I was 12 years old. I had never played before and he told me to try because I was so tall and I would probably really enjoy the sport.; turns out he was right, I love the sport!

Your advice for young athletes looking to get into the sport?

My advice for young athletes trying out sand volleyball would be to commit yourself and to practice, practice, practice. Sand volleyball not only takes a lot of effort, but it is a metal game, and the only way to improve is to play as much as you can.

K: #7 N A R L A FIN PLAYER — JACE PARDON When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

I started playing indoor when I was 14, and then started sand at 16.

Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

Versatility to play all positions, a strong work ethic, great athletic potential, and a likable personality.

I only play sand. I love being outdoors and being so involved in the game since there’s only 2 people.

What do you think about what The NVL has done to grow the game at the grassroots level, particularly with the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies?

Your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

It’s awesome to see opportunities for kids to get great training and to play in organized events that are held all over the country now. The infrastructure is great for players to improve.

PRE-SEASON #4: UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII Head Coach: JEFF HALL Considered one of the best players in Pacific volleyball history and a top professional player, Hall has spent the past four years with the University of Hawai‘i men’s volleyball program in charge of team scouting and offensive game planning.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

We are looking for well skilled volleyball players. Looking at quickness and movement is a priority. Lastly, but not least important, is competitive nature. We are looking for players who are playing each point as if it was championship point.

What do you think about what The NVL has done to grow the game at the grassroots level, particularly with the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies?

It’s great that the NVL recognizes the importance of investing in the youth and their future. It’s a proven sustainability practice and we (College Coaches) benefit from the work NVL has done.

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Winning a gold medal this summer at the World University Games representingTeam USA in Porto, Portugal.

K: #5 N A R L A N FI PLAYER — BRITTANY ‘BRIT’ TIEGS Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

I used to play indoors, 8th grade till freshman year of college. Since I started playing beach for FSU my sophomore year until now, I don’t really play much indoor except when I’m back home and get to play some men’s rec indoor.

Your advice for young athletes looking to get into the sport?

Play play play. Play mens, womens, co-ed, at the beach, at a park, anywhere. When I first started, that’s all I did because I just fell in love with the sport. Take all the advice and knowledge you can get from coaches and other players. And just have FUN. Beach volleyball is a fun sport, so don’t get burnt out.

VB Soul Magazine

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COLLEGE CORNER

F I N A L RA N

PRE-SEASON #5: CAL STATE LONG BEACH Head Coach: MIKE CAMPBELL

K: #2

PLAYER — TYLER JACKSON

Joined the Long Beach State coaching staff in 2014. Campbell made his way to The Beach after several years of success as a head coach and assistant coach in the club ranks.

When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

The first time I touched a volleyball was around the age of six. A close family friend introduced me to the sport.

What do you think about what The NVL has done to grow the game at the grassroots level, particularly with the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies?

I think the NVL has made great strides at the grassroots level and has done a fantastic job of creating avenues for these athletes to fine-tune their skills and pursue opportunities as sand players that were not available to athletes of my generation. It is nice to see this sport grow at such an exponential rate.

Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

I do play both sand and indoor. What I like about indoor is that it is a team sport. Everyone’s position matters and is important to the success of the team.

One person being off will affect the outcome of the game. You must all work together in order to be successful. What I like about sand is that there is more individual responsibility. Due to the fact that you are paired up with a partner, you have a lot more control of the outcome of the game.

K: #16 N A R L A N FI

PRE-SEASON #6: LMU Head Coach: TOM BLACK

PLAYER — BETSI METTER-FLINT

Guided LMU to the 2014 NCAA Tournament, marking the second trip in the last three years for the Lions, and the 12th overall in program history.

When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

I started playing volleyball in 6th grade when I joined a YMCA team with my friends, I got into club volleyball the following year. I was introduced to beach volleyball in 8th grade by playing in weekly tournaments in the Arizona Region.

Any advice for aspiring junior athletes who want to play beach volleyball at the collegiate level?

Play, play, play. Play as much as you can against people who are better than you.

Despite what we like to think as coaches, no drill is better than competing in as similar an environment to a tournament as possible. Just, make sure you’re more aware and excited about your improvement than you are the results of the game. The results will take care of themselves over time.

PRE-SEASON #7: UCLA Head Coach: STEIN METZGER

We are looking for athletes that are passionate about the sport and have a tremendous work ethic. It’s a bonus if all they talk about is beach volleyball as that shows their true passion for the sport. Karch Kiraly was a talented player but had a work ethic that separated him from anyone else. He always worked harder than anyone else and that’s why he played at the highest level for so many years. No matter how talented you are you can’t beat work ethic and that’s the main ingredient that builds champions.

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The most memorable volleyball experience was going to the National Championships in Alabama with Tara Keil. We learned a lot about each other and came together and played some of our best volleyball at the end of the tournament. We ended up in the Final Four!

F I N A L RA N

The Bruins have been ranked in the Top 10 under Metzger throughout each of their first two sand seasons. Metzger guided Kelly Reeves to the program’s first sand All-America award in 2013, while two pairs (Reeves and Meg Norton and Zoë Nightingale and Becca Strehlow) each made the AVCA National Championships.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

Your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

K: #10 PLAYER — MADIE SMITH Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

Yes, I played both indoor and sand. I was on the UCLA indoor team for three years and transferred over to play sand only for two years. I like the defensive side of indoor such as digging hard driven balls and pancakes. In sand, you get to play every position and you and your partner are the only ones who have control of how the game is going to go.

Your advice for young athletes looking to get into the sport?

You never know how tall you are going to be so try to develop different characteristics that increase your ability to be set apart from other players.

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K: N F I N A L RA N

PRE-SEASON #8: ST. MARY’S COLLEGE OF CA Head Coach: ROB BROWNING

* NOT RANKED. OUT OF TOP 25

PLAYER — SAM TINSLEY

In addition to four NCAA tournament appearances (2012, ‘09, ‘08, ‘05), Browning led the 2009 Gaels to the program’s first-ever WCC Championship. Saint Mary’s dominated the WCC, leading the conference in every statistical category.

When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

I began playing indoor volleyball in the 5th grade after we played during a PE class. I enjoyed it and decided to try out for the school team and continued to play club volleyball in 7th grade. I entered into CBVA tournaments when I was 13 during summer.

What are your thoughts about how sand volleyball has become so popular among junior athletes?

Fantastic! Volleyball is such a great game, indoor and out, and the more boys and girls we have playing at the younger ages, the better for them and for the game.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

Besides their current volleyball skills and physical characteristics, we want to know as much as possible if the recruit is a learner. There are many players who are good in their current age group, but how good are they going to get over the next 5-6 years? It is hard to determine, but critical to their development.

Your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

My most memorable moment to date would have to be competing in Alabama for the AVCA Championship this past year. It was an intense environment with the country’s best teams and pairs competing against each other.

F I N A L RA N

PRE-SEASON #9: FLORIDA-INT’L UNIVERSITY Head Coach: RITA BUCK-CROCKETT Led the Panther sand squad to its first AVCA National Championships appearance in only the program’s second year. In her first year at the helm of the indoor program, the Panthers made an appearance in the Conference Championships.

What are your thoughts about how sand volleyball has become so popular among junior athletes?

I think the popularity starts with the cost to have a junior playing Sand is less expensive than indoor club vb. Secondly, I think the juniors really find that their game improves because they get to touch the ball more, there is less coach involvement, and less parent involvement during the actual play time.

What qualities and attributes do you look for when recruiting an athlete?

We look for their athleticism first, and then the VB IQ along with ball control, etc. I also look at their demeanor on and off the court.

In her first season as head coach, Van Fleet led the Pounce to a 14-5 dual match record. Each of the five teams that defeated GSU were represented in the 2014 AVCA National Championship.

What are your thoughts about how sand volleyball has become so popular among junior athletes?

Sand volleyball continues to gain popularity for many reasons— the environment, the culture, the role models, and the accessibility. Who doesn’t love playing in the sun and diving in the sand? The game is intense, but the players are generally laid back and approachable. Our Olympians are regular people who consistently reach out to the younger generation in effort to help grow the game. Finally, any fan can show up at a tournament and instantly feel like she is part of the action.

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K: #4

PLAYER — MARYNA SAMODAY When did you start playing volleyball and how were you introduced to the sport?

I started to play volleyball when I was 9.

My dad was a coach for the men’s team and I was always there watching practices, and loved it. Then, my dad decided to train girls too, that’s when I started to play.

Your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

The most memorable moment in indoor: When we won our conference at junior college (Seminole State College, Oklahoma). Beach volleyball: My first memorable moment for me was when I got 1st place in the finals national women championship in Ukraine. Then the 4th place Europe Championship under 21 years old.

And Collegiate Nationals with Jessica Mendoza when we got 3rd place.

PRE-SEASON #10: GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY Head Coach: BETH VAN FLEET

R*

F I N A L RA N

K: #8

PLAYER — MOLLY SMESTAD Do you play both indoor and sand? What do you like about each?

I only play beach volleyball now. I lost the fire I had for Indoor the more I played beach volleyball. Honestly, indoor just kept me busy until beach season came back around. People are so passionate about the sport as a whole. It’s kind of like basketball—people always want to play. Specifically, I really like how much control you have.

Your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

My most memorable beach volleyball experience would be my first collegiate sand volleyball match for Georgia State. That experience is surreal to me still. Also, getting to play in the NVL and hanging out with the pros. I really felt so much cooler than I actually am.

VB Soul Magazine

I 13

FIT ‘N’ FIERCE

What’s The Difference? (part 2) Idrissa is frequently asked by parents, athletes and fans: How does training a professional volleyball player differ from training a junior player?

Idrissa Diallo directs the Performance Program at Club Med Academies.

As the Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Idrissa oversees the physical training and movement training of every player that takes part in the academy program. He has developed and conducted physical training programs for numerous professional, Olympic and junior athletes. Idrissa holds a Master’s of Science in Education, and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA), Licensed Sport Massage Therapist, Certified Traditional Thai-Massage Therapist and Certified Reflexologist.

Part 2: Mental Differences: Are pros and juniors; attitudes towards fitness different? If so, how?

At the pro level, their focus is playing well to make money to in turn, make a living; so their attitude toward training is high performance. They will go to the end of the world to find the best volleyball coach or strength coach. The pros have played long enough to understand what it will take to reach that next level.

Pros are warriors; they are machines.

They will put themselves through anything on the court or strength-wise to get to the end goal.

Juniors are still in the phase where they have to be taught and they’re going to have a lot of ups and downs mentally.

They need to be nurtured and you have to show them the big picture before they see it. Juniors base success on how many points they get or how many tournaments they win. Their attitude 14 I VB Soul Magazine

and goals are very short-sighted but it’s generally because of their lack of playing time on the court.

Pros see the long-term: In this tournament, I was able to execute certain goals and objectives and can carry that into the next competition. It’s the same outlook on fitness: I came to the Academy for 6 weeks and loss X amount of weight, movement has improved by X%, and I have a wide skill set. Juniors don’t see it the same way and coaching needs to be very explicit with them.

How does mental maturity differences impact a pro’s vs. a junior’s training?

This is a huge factor in training. Juniors are still learning and not seeing the big picture, as previously mentioned. This is not to say that pros don’t have a relapse in mental toughness from time to time.

It happens more frequently at the junior level because they haven’t truly had that experience on the court and gone full circle. They will encounter highs and lows and pros can manage it better because they’ve lived it. Pros know where to tap into before they collapse.

Juniors allow external factors to affect them mentally on and off the court. Pros may have also had experience with psychologists and have some tricks up their sleeve for mentally pushing through.

For example, a pro player that’s having a really tough day on the court because of long hours, it’s a hot day, had it with their coach, can push and get through a workout whereas a junior may just say forget it and go hang out with friends.

How important is the family support system?

This takes home the big trophy. I have traveled on tours and seen when family or friends show up to support the athlete and it seems to be one of the pieces that allows the junior or pro to go really far. On the other hand, it can work the opposite way. The dynamic is so import-

ant. Family needs to be there to be the family, not to be the coach or critic. When a player steps off the court, this needs to be their safe haven.

Make players laugh! This has The first-ever indoor/outdoor Club a huge impact on Med NVL Volleyball Academies team juniors. If a player practicing in Port St. Lucie, FL. comes to me with a negative attitude, I remind him or her that it’s about you. I’m here to help you achieve what’s best for you. If you’re demanding and negative, neither of us will want to be there. When you seek me out as a coach or trainer, it needs to be enjoyable and creative. This is the only way to succeed.

What are steps juniors must take to make it to the next level?

They have to make a commitment. They have to be willing to work hard. And have no fear. Or better yet, understand that fear is real but they have to overcome it.

Are there juniors who are more professional than professionals and vice versa?

I get asked this quite often. You can find juniors that are very professional and what I mean by professional is that they work hard, stay committed and challenge their fear. You have some pros that are just the opposite. They may be committed to getting out on the court or in the gym but aren’t truly putting forth the required effort once they’re there. All of this involves time and you can’t take short cuts.

Part 1 of this article appeared in VB Soul Volume 2, No. 1 and focused on the physical differences between juniors & pros.

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The PlayFIT Foundation’s mission is to enhance the lives of young people across the United States by teaching the importance of proper nutrition and physical fitness. PlayFIT’s team of professional athletes and health and nutrition experts will deliver this message through the use of sports and recreational activities like volleyball, as well as their personal experiences. PlayFIT will offer this program in underserved communities giving kids the ability to increase their self-esteem and skill sets needed to create a better quality of life.

See how you can help grow the game!

Check us out at: Facebook.com/PlayFITFoundation Find out more on www.thenvl.com/playfit-foundation PlayFit Foundation, Inc. (“PlayFIT”) is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation that has retained council to obtain tax exemption status as a public charity under section 501(c)3 of the federal tax code. Although approval cannot be guaranteed, contributions made to PlayFIT during the interim period while its application is pending but prior to receipt of an IRS Letter of Determination would qualify as tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law.

RIZING STARZ

On The RIZE!

Meet some of the female Rizing Starz in beach volleyball from across the country and get an insider’s look at what they love about the sport Excerpts of the interviews follow below; full Rizing Starz profiles will be available at NVLRIZE.com.

Izzy Gonzalez (Age: 15)

Emery Pillsbury (Age: 14)

Club: 692, Aledo, TX

Club: NVL Academy, Jacksonville, FL

2. Do you play both indoor and beach? What do you like about each?

1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

I play mainly beach now, except for high school.

I have decided to make that my main focus. I like beach because you are held accountable for everything that happens on your side of the court. Also you get to go to a lot of fun places!

My most memorable volleyball experience was playing in my first women’s open in the NVL Delray Beach tournament. I learned so much from playing women and pros that are much more experienced.

Sydni Small (Age: 15)

Skylar Caputo (Age: 18)

Club: TJVBC (Tallahassee Juniors) and PCBSVC (Panama City Beach), Tallahassee, FL

Club: Elite Beach Volleyball Club, Manhattan Beach, CA

1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

This year my partner (Casey Justice) and I played in an NVL qualifier in Panama City Beach. We were nervous and just hoped to win a game. The competition was awesome and we learned so much.

Ivana Urquhart (Age: 14)

1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

Competing in the Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China in August of 2014 and placing 5th was my most memorable volleyball experience. Being able to represent my country in a high level tournament for the inaugural year of beach volleyball will never be forgotten.

Katie Smith (Age: 17)

Club: Wolfpack and Team NB, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Club: Ohio Valley Beach Volleyball Academy, West Chester, OH

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

2. Do you play both indoor and beach? What do you like about each?

I would love to go play at a division 1 school in the United states. Preferably somewhere warm! I haven’t really thought about going to certain colleges. I do know that I would like to become a physiotherapist. So anywhere that has a good science program and a good volleyball program.

16 I VB Soul Magazine

I just stopped playing indoor this year and am now focusing on beach. I enjoy having a team to rely on in indoor, they are always there to pick you up. In beach, I enjoy having more responsibility and control over the game and its outcome.

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Abby Carroll (Age: 15)

Shayn Neary (Age: 12)

Club: Beach 10K, Southlake, TX

Club: Riptide Beach Volleyball Club, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

I knew I wanted to play a sport in college the year that I watched Texas win the NCAA championship.

I hope to play beach at South Carolina or LSU! My mom went to South Carolina so it would be fun to follow in her footsteps! Going to school in the SEC is something I have always wanted to do.

Ashley Allmer (Age: 17)

2. Do you play both indoor and beach? What do you like about each?

I have played both indoor and beach and I very much prefer beach. While I liked that I could jump high in indoor, I loved that in beach, there were only 2 people on the court which resulted in more touches, no distracting whistles, and being able to be by the ocean which is one of my favorite places.

Club: Coastline Volleyball, Sarasota, FL

Brayden Gruenewald (Age: 17)

1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

Club: 692 Beach-Dallas and Tejas Volleyball Club Southlake, TX

I have two very memorable volleyball experiences: the first is when my indoor team and I won an open bid to nationals; my second, is the day that I committed to play beach volleyball at LSU because it was what I have worked so hard for my whole career. It was the validation of all the hard work I had put in my whole life!

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

My short term goal this summer is to medal at USAV Nationals and at the NVL Global Challenge.

My next big goal is to find the best college fit where I can earn an Education degree and continue playing beach. And my long term goal is to play for the NVL one day!

Carly Schnieder (Age: 17)

Bailey Reardon (Age: 16)

Club: Ohio Valley Beach Volleyball Academy, Cincinnati, OH

Club: A5 Beach, Atlanta, GA 2. Do you play both indoor and beach? What do you like about each?

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

I am looking at several colleges to play beach volleyball. I want to go to a college that has the major I want and excellent academics, a good beach volleyball program, and a nice campus feel.

Brooke Bailey (Age: 17) Club: Bevolley Academy, Tampa, FL

It was a very challenging decision, but I decided to focus on beach year-round. Although I love the indoor game, I found my passion is beach! I love beach volleyball because you get to develop a complete game and compete against the finest all around athletes in the country 2-on-2. Also, I enjoy developing a strategy, executing it on the beach, and making changes based on the team across the net.

Cassandra May Anderson (Age: 14)

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

FIU-The great coaching staff (Coach Rita was awarded with coach of the year) and one of the top ranked business programs. UNF-The strong support system for athletes. FSU-The academics and a lot of my family are alumni. FAU-The location and I have friends and family that go there or are close to there. Stetson-I’m interested in their law/ business program.

Tarin Ashton Mergener (Age: 17)

Club: A-MAY-ZING Beach Club, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

Northwestern where my mom played, UCLA, Pepperdine, Duke, Stanford, FSU and Stetson are all​great schools with both indoor or beach programs, but I am not sure which I want to play yet.

Ideally I would like to play both in college.

Ashlyn Rasnick-Pope (Age: 15)

Club: Beach 10K, Midlothian, TX

Club: Beach 10K and TAV 15 Black, Frisco TX

1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

The most memorable game I have ever played was when I was playing with my partner, Avery Arellano, last year during the NVL Global Challenge and it was the game to get to the semi-finals. This was only our third tournament playing together and during that game we really clicked and played the best we had ever played. Ever since then she has become my best friend and best partner I have ever had.

2. Do you play both indoor and beach? What do you like about each?

Yes, I play both indoor and beach. I play indoor for Texas Advantage Volleyball (TAV) and I play outdoor for Beach 10K. I have been playing indoor since I was 7 years old and I instantly fell in love with the game! I enjoy working together with others on the court and making new friends who share the same passion I do!

(CONTINUED)

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VB Soul Magazine

I 17

RIZING STARZ

Morgan Kuchar (Age: 15)

Ali Denney (Age: 17) Club: NVL Academy, Jupiter, FL

Club: A5 Beach, Atlanta, GA

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

As a volleyball player, a goal I have is to be an All American in college and improve as much as I can to keep loving the game and get more people involved.

Academics are very important to me, so my focus will be on strong academic schools with great beach volleyball programs. I expect to narrow my focus during the next few months.

Colene Hamilton (Age: 16)

Madelyne May Anderson (Age: 13) Club: A-MAY-ZING Beach Club, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Club: H2 St. Louis Club and MO Xtreme, Columbia, IL

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

I am aiming for the 2024 beach Olympics!​

My goals as a volleyball player is to excel greatly, go to a highly ranked college and become a professional. I would also like to become a very good coach and help people become a better volleyball player mentally and physically.

Margo Schnapf (Age: 15) Club: Coastline Volleyball, Sarasota, FL

Madison Fitzpatrick (Age: 16)

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

Club: Prostyle Tallahassee 17 Black, Tallahassee, FL

As a player, I hope to one day play at an elite college level while receiving an education from a school that I love. I aim to become a versatile, dependable, and intelligent player, a fierce competitor, and someone that lifts up and encourages the people around me.

4. What colleges would you like to go to and why?

I would like to go to a college that is ranked in the top 6 nationally, and I am very motivated to be a broadcast journalist so the schools with good journalism programs catch my eye as well!

Jess Maxson (Age: 14)

Hannah Prince (Age: 14)

Club: NVL Academy, Jensen Beach, FL

Club: Boomers, West Palm Beach, Fl

3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

My goal is to become a top ranked beach volleyball player in the US at the pro level. I really enjoy working towards that goal.

Lilly Kruse (Age: 16) Club: Pro Beach Juniors, Auburn, IN 3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

I want to keep striving to improve in every opportunity I am given to become the best athlete I can be. I want to play at the highest level I can and compete for a National Championship in college. I would like to use the gift of volleyball to glorify God, and I wish to reach the hearts of others by continuing in the game through coaching someday.

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1. What is your most memorable volleyball experience to-date?

Winning first place at the NVL RIZE tournament in Delray Beach this summer and winning it on center court!!

Cassidy Ellymer (Age: 12) Club: Sandstorm Beach Volleyball Club Delray Beach, FL 3. What are your goals as a volleyball player?

Compete on the University of Hawaii Beach Volleyball Team and then the Olympics.

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RIZE UP

Periodization Training

Priscilla “Pri” Piantadosi-Lima took home five of the six NVL women’s titles with partner Karolina Sowala in the 2014 season, and coaches both indoor and outdoor teams in the off-season. It’s safe to say Pri knows a little something about practicing and training to maintain strength and health throughout the year. She gives some year-round training tips below.

I

recommend dividing the season into four parts: pre-season, in-season, post-season, off-season, and implementing periodization into training. If you’re not already familiar with periodization; it’s the practice of breaking up a yearround of any training you do into phases, focusing on particular goals within each period. Whether you’re playing club level, high school, college or professional, periodization is something all players should incorporate into their training. You don’t want to burn out early, and you want to ensure that you peak at the right time during the season without any injuries.

If possible, I recommend that you find a professional who can help you in this process to ensure you’re implementing everything correctly.

20 I VB Soul Magazine

Pri dives for the save at the 2014 Players Championships which she went on to win with partner Karolina Sowala.

PRE-SEASON

In the pre-season, focus on your physical (conditioning and tons of high intensity repetitions) and mental skills (staying mentally focused and strong while you struggle physically). A stable core is critical in volleyball and it’s something I focus on with all of my players. I like to concentrate on high intensity reps and I get into unlimited amount of passing and setting before we even get to train in jumping. I also teach the proper squatting and landing techniques which will ensure that your knees will be healthy for the rest of your career. My coaches always emphasized this and I’ve never had knee problems.

Next we start practicing side out situations, still with focus on ball control rather than killing the ball.

Then we move into defense/transition reps, always focusing on ball control as part of the drill. After spending all this time on ball control, we start focusing on the hitting part of the game. By this

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@prilima13

@PriLimaBeachPro

time, players’ legs are stronger and ready to take on the demands of jumping on the sand.

Learning the correct method for running and turning are key as well. You can’t just “go.” I break down the basics of running and turning for my juniors, and teach how it syncs and how it can improve their passing, hitting, and blocking. Footwork is just as important as the ability to play the ball.

IN-SEASON

During the season, I lower the amount of time or days we do the high intensity reps and incorporate more team-related drills juniors need to learn to apply in a competitive environment.

This is the best part of training – the mental struggle; accepting that not always everything goes like we planned.

The majority of the drills I use have an end goal. Juniors need to be able to apply the drill to something on the court.

I like to run a Bjerring tournament THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Club Med NVL Academies athletes train carefully with trainers off and on the sand based on their competition schedule.

of play. You can come up with a variety of pairings and rules that can mix up the matches and make it fun, while the players improve their game.

END/POST-SEASON

At the end of a hard, intense season, players need a lot more time to recover. We continue to do drills but at a lower pace. Depending on how my juniors feel, we can push harder on certain days and stay light on days prior to a tournament that they may have. The idea is to not burn out and have nothing left when you step on the court.

Minds are naturally more tired towards the end of a season so we go back to the basic skills of volleyball. This has always helped me if something feels off in my game.

A junior player demonstrates explosive skills in the sand as she goes high to tip the ball over the net.

in practice (sometimes on half court, with 2 games going on at the same time) which means each player gets a lot of touches on the ball and helps to develop all-around skills with continuous, competitive play. As they’re paired with new partners, players must learn to communicate and adjust to different styles THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

OFF-SEASON

I plan my off-beach season very carefully because I coach a lot of kids who play both indoor and outdoor throughout the year; some of my club juniors play both at the same time.

They’re able to play both because they follow a training program that mixes up the intensity of practices, and allows their body to stay healthy and strong throughout the year. The kids feel like

they’re playing two sports but at the end of the day, it’s just one that they love.

INDOOR VS. OUTDOOR

Some think outdoor is totally different from indoor, but it’s still the same sport. There are some obvious differences though. In outdoor, for example, you need to cover more court and indoor you need to have faster reflexes because the game moves faster. Indoor requires a more broad spike approach and outdoor is more of a, get to the ball and jump straight up and down from your approach. If you can learn some of the key differences, you’ll be fine in both games, just focus on making some adjustments when playing either.

I feel that any athlete can play both well. Playing indoor at a high level never hurt my outdoor skills or injured my body. Both games complement each other so well, especially when you are learning both at the same time. Once you are older and know which you prefer, then you can tailor your training more. I know some top beach volleyball players who go overseas to play indoors during their off-season and they still make a good living on the beach. I see playing both as an opportunity – it’s not hard work, it’s hard fun!

VB Soul Magazine

I 21

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EAT TO WIN

The Wonders of Organic, Raw, Unfiltered, Apple Cider Vinegar!

A

• At home pedicure: Soak your feet in equal parts warm water and ACV. Its anti-fungal properties will keep your feet healthy, soft, and clean.

• Target age spots: Mix 1 tablespoon orange juice with 2 tablespoons ACV to fade age spots.

Apply with cotton ball.

• Whiter Teeth: Gargle and swish with ACV in the morning. The vinegar helps remove stains, whiten teeth, and kill bacteria in your mouth and gums. Brush as usual after you gargle.

s an athlete, I’m always looking for natural health products to help improve my training and overall wellbeing if possible. What I’ve found in Raw Organic Unfiltered ACV is nothing short of awesome. I personally use Bragg’s® because it contains “mother” which are strands of proteins, enzymes and friendly bacteria that give the product a murky, cobweb-like appearance and house all of its inner greatness! Any ACV that’s been filtered and over processed won’t be able to produce the benefits discussed below. Be sure to dilute ACV before applying it to your skin or drinking. It is very acidic and can damage the tooth enamel and the tissues of your throat, mouth, or skin if not used properly.

Here is a quick list of some benefits I’ve encountered. Enjoy!

1. A NATURAL SPORTS DRINK

Taken internally, it replaces the minerals lost through sweat and used up for metabolic functions.

Muscular contraction and relaxation cycle requires four basic minerals, (Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, and Calcium), all of which are found in ACV. ACV also helps in elimination of lactic acid, thus speeding up recovery.

2. BEAUTY TIPS As an outdoor athlete my skin gets punished daily and I don’t like to use a ton of chemically enhanced products if I don’t need to. ACV to the rescue!

• Soothe a sunburn: Try adding 1-2 cupfuls to your bath to neutralize the burn. After soaking for 10 minutes, the ACV will have helped restore your skin’s pH levels and your skin will feel cool and soothed.

• Clear skin problems and stop acne: The acidity in the vinegar will dry out the blemish allowing new, healthy skin to take its place.

• Regulate the pH of your face: mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts water and use as THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Jennifer Snyder has played professional beach volleyball since 2006 and played indoor professionally in Sicily & Istanbul ‘98, and Switzerland ‘99. In college, Jennifer played for Arizona State where she was 1st Team All Pac-10 in ‘95, and for Long Beach State where she took her team to the Final Four in ‘97 and was 1st Team All Big West ‘96,’97. She also competed in the U.S. Olympic Festival in ‘95. Jennifer is NESTA child nutrition certified.

a toner using a cotton ball and lightly blotting around the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

• Give your hair body and shine: After you shampoo, apply ½ tablespoon ACV mixed with 1 cup of water, then rinse.

• Encourage hair growth: ACV will stimulate hair follicles, and can also treat dandruff and an itchy scalp.

3. HELP SOOTHE A SORE THROAT: • Combine ¼ cup ACV with ¼ cup warm water and gargle with it every hour or so. The acidic environment helps prevent germ growth and kill bacteria.

I hope you’ve found this informative and somewhat helpful! See you on the beach!—Eat right and dominate!!!

Follow Jennifer on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, search: JennSnyder7

Sports Drink Recipe In the blender combine: • 32oz water • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice • 1 Tablespoon Organic Unfiltered ACV • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • 1/8 teaspoon high quality sea salt • 1-2 cups fresh fruit • Sweetener of your choice: (optional) honey, agave, maple syrup Disclaimer: Due to the lack of supporting research, apple cider vinegar cannot be recommended for treatment or prevention of any health problems. Also, please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements. I’m just sharing my experience and what works for one person doesn’t always work for another.

VB Soul Magazine

I 23

PLAYER PROFILE

Piotr Marciniak W

ith nine career top three finishes and winner of the NVL’s “Best of the Beach” tournament in 2013 and “Offensive Player of the Year” award in 2014, it would seem like 28-year-old Piotr Marciniak had played volleyball in the sand his entire life. In fact, last season was only his third year playing beach volleyball full-time.

Marciniak was born and raised in Poland where he says, “99% of the kids grow up playing soccer. I started playing at the age of 4 and it was the love of my life. You’re taught to start kicking a soccer ball when you’re able to walk.”

A talented athlete from day one, Marciniak added swimming to his repertoire at age 11, swimming for a club for three years. He began playing volleyball at age 13. “Swimming was a huge commitment,” he said. “The training was intense and exhausting, and it was tough to keep up with both sports and my school work. Overall, I just didn’t enjoy swimming like I enjoyed volleyball.”

With his focus on volleyball, Marciniak played indoors for a few years, mainly because the weather in Poland prevented most outdoor activities. Around the age of 16, he had an opportunity to test his skills in the sand and was immediately drawn to the lifestyle. “There is just a different feel 24 I VB Soul Magazine

Piotr has become a crowd favorite and inspires fans of all ages.

about playing outdoor volleyball versus indoor,” Marciniak says. “Sand volleyball is extremely competitive but still very laid back. I love everything about it – the sun, the beach, the people.”

With the nearest beach more than 320 miles away from his hometown of Kedzierzyn Kozle, Marciniak continued competing in professional indoor volleyball from 2004 – 2011. During that time, he played for several Polish clubs as well as the PetroJet Sporting Club Cairo. He did manage to work in a year as a National beach volleyball player for Poland from 2006 – 2007, and took 3rd place at the U21 Beach Volleyball Swatch World Championship. “I was

strictly playing in 21U tournaments so I was always going up against the top five or ten players in the world,” Marciniak said. “It was an amazing experience.” When he wasn’t serving and spiking on the court, Marciniak obtained a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of Technology in Poland and a certificate in Therapeutic Massage from ZAK Massage Therapy School.

So we ask, why did a mid-20’s successful Polish professional indoor volleyball player decide to come to the U.S.? Marciniak explains the main reason was to go to school.

“I came to the States to get my THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

PROFILE: PIOTR MARCINIAK

“I feel lucky to have the opportunity to play on the NVL tour… The league is definitely on the right track and you feel like you’re part of a big family.” master’s degree and found a school I liked with a beach volleyball program and started playing full-time. But it was always my dream to play on the AVP tour because it’s what you grew up watching with all of the top pros going head to head. I received approval from the AVP to play in 2012 and started preparing for the upcoming season with my partner, Matt Henderson. We trained for about seven months with our Brazilian coach we brought over. Then, three days prior to the start of the AVP season, I was notified that I couldn’t play because I’m

(Clockwise from above) Piotr and partner Matt Henderson focus between points. Piotr goes high to get the big block. Piotr and Matt show off their new hardware post-win.

not an American citizen. I was pretty discouraged at the time.”

Marciniak was introduced to AL-B Hannemann and the NVL and the timing was perfect. “I feel lucky to have the opportunity to play on the NVL tour, Marciniak states. “The league is definitely on the right track and you feel like you’re part of a big family. NVL also emphasizes the junior program which is critical to the future of the sport.

I see the NVL being around for the long-term.”

On his current tour partner, Matt Henderson, Marciniak says, “When I first got to the U.S., I played with about ten different players before Matt. Matt 26 I VB Soul Magazine

is unique and we’ve established a great chemistry and relationship. We are 100% on the same page. You see teams that struggle with their partner but our game is so easy and smooth.” The duo was certainly in sync at the NVL 2014 Midwest Championships where they took home the title. That win also got them “Best Upset of the Year” honors at the 2014 Players’ Awards ceremony.

With an MBA in Sports Business Management from Webber

International University under his belt, what’s next for Piotr Marciniak? He is now a full time coach at the NVL’s Club Med Academy in Port St. Lucie, FL. “I previously coached at other volleyball academies but this is the first one in the U.S. to offer volleyball training and schooling. It’s exciting and extremely rewarding to be able to contribute to the development of these young athletes. I wish there had been something like this when I was growing up.”

As for his play on the 2015 NVL pro tour, Marciniak says he’s been training harder than ever with Henderson and is focused on taking home first place trophies at all eight tournaments. “It’s important that I continue to elevate my game each season from a competitive standpoint as well as positioning myself for sponsorship offerings. I’m not currently sponsored and I know this is critical in continuing to build my brand. Companies are more than welcome to reach out to me!” he comments with a smile.

Considering Marciniak’s success both on and off the court, there’s little doubt that he will be among the top pros on the NVL tour for years to come and a great ambassador for the sport.

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DAY IN THE LIFE

NVL Pro

Chelsea Hayes Let’s look at a typical day for Chelsea and the habits that earned her the NVL’s 2014 Rookie of the Year and 2nd Place at the 2014 Hermosa Beach Championships

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fter graduating from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in Kinesiology, I knew I wanted to make a run at a professional beach volleyball career. This decision meant two things, I needed to move to Southern California in order to train with the best women in the U.S.A., and I also needed a job with flexibility to allow for the practice and travel schedule of playing on the tour.

I chose Hermosa Beach and personal training, and five years later here I am…

6:00am: I’m not a fan of an early wake-up call, but I like to give myself enough time to make a healthy breakfast and drink a warm cup of green tea, and most of my clients at the gym like to train in the morning before they begin their workday. On an average day, I train around 4 clients, usually for about 45 minutes each at Easton Gym Co. in Manhattan Beach.

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10:30am: On Wednesdays (and Fridays) I teach an adult beach volleyball class after my morning clients. The class started out with only women, but since then, their husbands have started joining, and now it’s a fairly competitive class. I have been coaching the same core group of people twice a week for three years now, and it’s still one of the highlights of my week.

12:00pm: Now it’s time for my practice. I drive down to Hermosa Beach to meet my partner Jenn Snyder and our coach Scott Davenport. When we’re training in pre-season, we work on getting our touch back and focusing on fundamentals. Jenn and I play a lot of co-ed 4’s volleyball during the off-season, so it’s always a challenge to go back to playing doubles again. Depending on how Jenn and I are feeling after practice and what our week has been like already, Chelsea Hayes - Pro Beach Volleyball

we will either head over to Easton gym to get a weight lifting session in, or we’ll do a workout on the beach.

3:00pm: After a long and productive first half of the day, it’s time for lunch.

I like to prepare and eat most of my meals at home because I have numerous food allergies—including grains, dairy, eggs, and almonds. I spend a lot of time cooking and preparing food, but then I can be sure what I’m eating and where everything came from. My diet consists mainly of vegetables, meats, and lots of coconut. My new favorite kitchen tool is the spiralizer—it can turn most vegetables into noodles that I then use to make myself a hearty ‘pasta’ dish.

5:00pm: Now it’s time to shower, run errands, respond to emails, and plan workouts for my clients the following day.

7:00pm: Dinner time—my favorite meal of the day! My boyfriend usually helps me in the kitchen and we catch up on our days. Right now we’re working with Rosetta Stone to teach ourselves Spanish so we take our turn at that after dinner and then usually watch a movie or whatever show we’re into at the time.

10:00pm: Sleep is precious to me so I usually put myself to bed fairly early. I love the life that I lead and I love that I can fit so much into it in addition to being a professional beach volleyball player.

Go-To Veggie Pasta Dish (serves 2) 2 Large Carrots 2 Large Zucchini 1 Large Cooked Chicken Breast 2 T Olive Oil ½ Lime ¼ cup Cilantro (packed) ½ cup Artichoke Hearts Salt and Pepper Put carrots and zucchini through the Spiralizer or use a julienne peeler to make noodles. Dice chicken into cubes. Place carrots, zucchini and chicken in a pan with the olive oil. Sautee on medium high heat until noodles are al dente— not mushy. While noodles are cooking dice artichoke hearts and finely chop cilantro then add into pan. Salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

chelsea.jennifer_probeachvb

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TOUR PREVIEW TOUR STOP 7 SEATTLE, WA

AUG 28-30, 2015

Bringing pro beach volleyball back to the Pacific Northwest is an important step for us. Alki Beach is considered the heart of beach volleyball in this region and we’re eager to continue promoting and growing the game in this spectacular setting.

TOUR STOP 5 CINCINNATI, OH

JUL 16-18, 2015

Building on our successful events here the past two years, we return to one of the most popular tournament locations where fans can watch high-level beach volleyball competition and enjoy waterslides, zip lining and more at The Beach Waterpark.

TOUR STOP 6 HERMOSA BEACH, CA

AUG 6-8, 2015

2015 Tour Stops The NVL’s pro tour schedule has expanded to include eight action-packed events in 2015 with pros competing for a $525,000 total prize purse from March to September. Following a six-event professional tour schedule last year, the NVL will host eight tournaments nationally with stops in Panama City Beach, Fla.; Madeira Beach, Fla.; Ocean City, Md.; Milwaukee; Cincinnati; Hermosa Beach, Calif.; Seattle; and Port St. Lucie, Fla. The events will feature world-class competition in a festive beach party atmosphere that highlights the lifestyle elements of the sport. The NVL is expanding its reach in the southeastern market by adding two more tournaments in Florida. With a focus on the development of junior and collegiate athletes, the NVL is kicking off the season in Panama City Beach, Fla. in an effort to capitalize on the more than 400,000 students who typically visit the area in the month of March. The tour will return to Milwaukee, The Beach Waterpark in Ohio, and Club Med Sandpiper Bay, home to NVL’s Beach Volleyball Academies. Seattle and Madeira Beach, Fla. are new markets for the league with tremendous potential to draw in fans from the large tourist populations and local volleyball communities.

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These beaches are where the NVL originated and where every player dreams to compete at the professional level. We love returning to our “hometown” where last year SportsCenter featured the NVL to millions of viewers nationwide.

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TOUR STOP 4 MILWAUKEE, WI

JUL 10-12, 2015 NVL returns to Milwaukee for a second consecutive year, this time at a new location, Bradford Beach.

Milwaukee has always been a strong volleyball community, so we expect huge fan support for the pros and juniors!

TOUR STOP 3 OCEAN CITY, MD

MAY 29-31, 2015

A new location for the league, Ocean City has gorgeous beaches and boasts a large beach volleyball community. We are ready to share our festive lifestyle with the local fans!

TOUR STOP 1 PANAMA CITY, FL

MAR 18-20, 2015

TOUR STOP 2 MADEIRA BEACH, FL

APR 24-26, 2015

The NVL is focused on the development of amateur and collegiate athletes, and we will kick off the season with more than 400K students visiting this area in the month of March.

TOUR STOP 8 PORT ST. LUCIE, FL

SEP 24-26, 2015

Known by locals as “Mad Beach,” this is a fun but laid-back area surrounded by great outdoor shopping and dining. This is one of three 2015 pro tour stops in Florida, taking advantage of the state’s fantastic weather and access to white-sand beaches.

Our Players Championships are held at the amazing Club Med Sandpiper Bay facility, the only all-inclusive resort in North America and home to the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies.

We’re excited to return and celebrate our season with the players, sponsors and fans in this incredible tropical paradise.

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2015 NVL TOUR REPORT A Recap of the First Three Ultra-Competitive Stops of the National Tour

tam m ficta e

(Clockwise from above) The NVL truck travels across the country to every Pro event. Brooke Niles played stellar defense on her way to winning the Panama City Beach title. Big block in Ocean City. Chelsea Hayes is a digging machine. A paddle boarder in PCB enjoys the peaceful ocean. Men’s competition heated up in Ocean City.

TOUR STOP 1 PANAMA CITY, FL

MAR 18-20, 2015

A

s classes wrapped to kick off Spring Break, NVL set up shop on the Panama City beaches to host the 2015 season opener in front of an estimated 400,000 college students, continuing the mission of growing the game and capitalizing on the sport’s popularity among junior and amateur athletes in the Florida region.

Top seeds dominated the Panama City Beach Championships with men’s team Dave Palm and Mike Placek, and women’s team Brooke Niles and Karolina Sowala, taking home the $50,000 prize purse. The tournament wasn’t all about the top ranked teams though. The eleventh seeded Puerto Rican team of Erik Haddock and Roberto RodriguezBertran put up a fight in the finals but in the end, Palm/Placek won in two, 21-17, 21-14. In his third season on the NVL tour, this was Palm’s first finals victory but likely not his last.

Number one seed, Brooke Niles and Karolina Sowala beat seventh seed Vivian Cunha and Raquel Goncalves Ferreira, 21-11, 25-23. This was the first time Niles and Sowala paired up for a pro tournament but the two looked like they had been playing together forever. Expect big things from this team throughout the 2015 season.

Before the women’s finals, the NVL held a college coed tournament and awarded the winners a free condo at the Boardwalk Beach Resort during Spring Break 2016. NVL pros Jennifer Snyder and Chelsea Hayes led each college team with Snyder’s team ultimately getting the win.

NVL RIZE also hosted a clinic with the Pros and tournament during the weekend at Panama City’s Russell-Fields Pier where NVL players Piotr Marciniac, Karolina Sowala, Ryan Vandenburg, and NVL CEO AL-B Hannemann coached the kids then cheered them on during their tournament.

(Clockwise from above) College students enjoy the college challenge before the finals. Brooke and Kaya win it all in their first tournament together.

Dave Palm tastes victory for the first time. The Pros coaching at another NVL RIZE clinic and tournament.

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2015 NVL TOUR REPORT TOUR STOP 2 MADEIRA BEACH, FL

APR 24-26, 2015

T

he NVL remained in Florida for the second pro stop, heading to Madeira Beach to take advantage of the white, sprawling beaches and local attractions at John’s Pass Village.

In front of a huge crowd, two-seed Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima and Kristen Batt-Rohr upset one-seed and defending Panama City Beach champions Brooke Niles and Karolina Sowala to move into the Madeira Beach Championships women’s finals. Piantadosi-Lima/BattRohr defeated three-seed Chara Harris and Jessica Stubinski, 21-18, 21-12 to celebrate their first finals win together as a new team.

In men’s action, two-seed Matt Henderson and Piotr Marciniak defeated nine-seed Skylar DelSol and Jeff Samuels, 21-19, 18-21, 15-12. This was one of the best NVL men’s finals matches to-date and one that cemented DelSol/ Samuels as a team to watch in 2015.

Madeira Beach fans went wild for the gator petting provided by Alligator Attraction, Mikasa and Australian Gold giveaways, “Are You Smarter Than the Pros” trivia, serve to win competition and much more. At night, NVL continued the celebrations at Gators Café and Saloon and Mad Beach Brewing Company, which hosted the player parties and NVL fashion show featuring the new NVL clothing line.

NVL RIZE put on a free Clinic with the Pros for local juniors before the women’s final on Sunday. Fans had the chance to meet their favorite pros and get autographs.

(Clockwise from above) The most exciting final to date for the NVL was capped with an alligator getting a rare photo opportunity with the NVL warriors. NVL Pro John Michael Plummer gets the crowd fired up. Pri and Kristen win their first tourney as a team.

Casey Ritt helps coach the kids at the NVL RIZE junior clinic.

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TOUR STOP 3 OCEAN CITY, MD

MAY 29-31, 2015

T

he third stop on the pro tour and a new location for the NVL - Ocean City, Maryland! Women’s champions Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima and Kristen Batt-Rohr took home their second consecutive win, proving partnering for the 2015 season was a smart move. The pair defeated one-seed and Panama City Beach champions, Karolina Sowala and Brooke Niles, 22-20, 21-18. With both teams featuring elite-level players that know how to win a tournament, expect to see this rivalry heat up all summer.

On the men’s side, the 16th seeded Puerto Rican team Erik Haddock and Roberto Rodriguez-Bertran faced seven-seed and first-time finalists Skyler McCoy and Eric Zaun, winning 21-16, 21-18. Haddock and Rodriguez-Bertran weren’t strangers to the NVL finals, making an appearance at the Panama City Beach Championships opener.

With three new men’s teams winning each of the tournaments to-date, there’s a lot of parity this season and titles are up for grabs.

Notably, college standout Brittany Tiegs, featured in VB Soul’s 2015 Senior All-American, paired up with Chara Harris for Ocean City and picked up a 3rd place finish in their first tournament together.

The Ocean City Championships were held at the historic Ocean City Boardwalk from May 29-31. The NVL partnered with the Baltimore Ravens to host a “Clinic with the Pros” at the Ravens 4th Annual Beach Bash, presented by Miller Lite. Pros Brooke Niles and Karolina Sowala joined Raven’s wide receiver, Steve Smith, Sr. and cheerleaders to host a beach volleyball clinic, hand out prizes and sign autographs for fans.

NVL RIZE also hosted a tournament and clinic for juniors in Ocean City throughout the weekend. Finals of the juniors divisions were played on the NVL center court and live streamed to thousands of fans.

(Clockwise from above) Pri and Kristen proved to be the team to beat so far and won their second title in a row. Number one seeded team Kaya and Brooke took the time to help the Baltimore Ravens charity clinic. The surprise of the tournament was Skyler McCoy and Eric Zaun making the final but the 16th seeded Puerto Ricans proved to have too much experience. College All-American and rookie Brittany Tiegs finished a respectable third place with veteran Chara Harris.

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STAY IN THE GAME

Concepts And Action Steps for Higher Performance, Injury Prevention and Longevity in Your Sport and Life Pursuits The NVL tour provides a high quality Performance and Prevention Team of sports doctors and therapists for their professional athletes. Spearheaded in 2014 by Dr. Dominique “Dr. Dom” Scott, sports chiropractor practicing in Manhattan Beach, CA, the inaugural year of this care program for the NVL athletes was a definite success. Another branch of the NVL player performance care department will be additional provision of performance and prevention insights from Dr. Dom and other experts in the field. This article kicks off the first Stay In The GameTM column from Dr. Dom’s NVL Performance Department.

34 I VB Soul Magazine

(or are supposed to) to unite your upper and lower body. I consider the core to include all muscles from the lower ribcage area to the upper legs; front back and sides. (I will be covering more on core-performance in upcoming articles.) Since the sacrum is a connecting and uniting bone of upper and lower core, the proper position and mobility of the S-I joints determines a lot about the demand put into the core muscles.

To better describe this relationship, I have come to refer to the sacrum as, The Keystone of the Core.

The correct movement, positioning and alignment of the sacrum is something studied and addressed in great detail in the chiropractic profession for the last 100 + years. When properly assessed and adjusted for any altered function, the person, athlete or not, takes a leap toward the best conditions for core function, as well as improved balance toward the downward load into the hips, knees, ankles and leg muscles.

Add to that another huge relationship; that the mechanics of the sacrum also impact the lumbar, sacral, and sciatic nerve roots which are charged with control, regulation, and recovery of the low back, the legs, and the lower abdominal organs and systems…major importance, but too often overlooked.

How do we get altered function of the sacrum?

In a word, stress. Considering only

Dr. Dom – Director of NVL Performance Team.

© CAN STOCK PHOTO INC. / PATRICK

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y practice and other life experiences have shown me that teaching concepts in addition to techniques can create a greater change for the person, and a lasting one. In these articles I want to help our readers reach lasting results whether athletes from junior to pro, coaches or trainers, or anyone interested in actively working on their best body performance and longevity. This issue’s performance and prevention topic is going to be a key component of our structure and overall human function…The Sacrum.

The sacrum is at the base of your spine and wedged between the Ilium portions of the pelvis, thereby making up the “sacral-iliac joints”(S-I). The sacrum and SI joint function has a major influence on the ability of your core muscles to perform correctly; in fact this region significantly influences whole body performance.

In order to see the sacrum (Figure A), you are seeing through 5 or more layers of muscles which anchor to the sacrum. It is involved with numerous muscles of the (upper) legs and the core, thereby the functionality of the sacrum and sacral-iliac joints will significantly impact the function of the core and legs, and your ability to JUMP HIGHER and HIT HARDER. Important to clarify here, the core is not just the new-age name for the abs, rather, “the core” is descriptive of a large region of different muscles which work together

(Figure A) Sacrum and core muscles.

the physical types of stressors, there are: the abrupt impact type stresses, like those that occur frequently in volleyball and other sports, and we have the repetitive position stresses, like in work and travel. Many of these stresses the body is attempting to right and recover on a day to day basis with some success, but in many other scenarios the stresses exceed the body’s ability or conditions for repair and altered function results. This altered function in turn becomes the new standard for the load on the core and the whole body mechanics. Over time, injury susceptibility increases from over-use due to the altered mechanics traced back to sacrum dysfunction. Specific and scientific chiropractic assessment THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

© CAN STOCK PHOTO INC. / ERAXION

Proper sacrum function is the linkage between powerful legs and an effective strong core.

Thanks Dr. Dom and Team!

I used your services at the NVL Hermosa event last week and I wanted to say thank you! I was feeling pain IN MY KNEES when I was in volleyball passing position or in a squat and I had no idea that I needed an adjustment in my lower back to fix that problem!

That just blew my mind :) In my match after working with your team my body felt lighter and more agile, thanks again! —Tori , NVL Pro

and adjustment techniques can identify this and help the body to adjust back toward it’s ideal performance of these many interacting parts of sacrum, The Keystone of the core.

In this season alone we had several cases where the athlete’s primary complaint was back, the hip or knee, yet the biomechanical (chiropractic) findings indicated sacrum function as the key issue. When this was adjusted, the change resulted in immediate improvement to the athlete’s complaint area and they were able to return to compete at a high level, free of the limit they had been experiencing previously.

What can you do to support the function and performance of your sacrum and its best influence on your core and leg performance?

The best results will begin with getting proper chiropractic assessment and any necessary adjustment, but before and after you cover that step, here is what you can do. Pay attention to this: the sacral-iliac joints, and the low spine, have a greater load upon them when sitting than when standing. This is because some of the core muscles are disengaged when seated, and the body/torso load falls more to low back THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

setting yourself up for injury. Key Point: use substantial low back arch support whenever sitting, and sit tall, and firmly against the support which needs to be just above the buttocks to be effective.

The other major strategy we advise is to provide for some daily recovery for the low back and sacrum. Go to DrDomQ.com for simple yet very effective step that can be done in 2 minutes here and there to distress those areas.

Yes, training the core muscles strategically is beneficial, and increasing

“When (the Sacrum) was adjusted, the change resulted in immediate improvement to the athlete’s complaint area and they were able to return to compete at a high level, free of the limit they had been experiencing previously.” and sacrum. So, minimize sitting when possible, and when you do sit there are better and worse ways to do it. There is something called the lumbar arch, or low-back curve which is lost or reversed unless we are making an effort to place substantial support behind our low back when we sit. (think airplane seat… that is reversed curve, unless you are kickin’ it in first class lazy-boy style seats, and even then those need a good cushion behind the lower back to do it right). So if you sit for X-many hours per week, with minimal or poor support, you are programming your sacrum for dysfunction. Then when you train or compete you are unknowingly bringing faulty mechanics to the court or gym,

muscle and joint recovery from training with dynamic stretching and soft tissue work, like with “the stick” or foam rollers, are components of a well-rounded performance plan. However, the portion I have taught in this article is one of the most over-looked conditions I have seen in over 20+ years of study and practice. Learn how to provide for optimal sacrum function in your training and healthy lifestyle approaches and it will surely give you returns in performance and prevention. Simple effective steps shown at: DrDomQ.com/performance-tips/

Look for the next concepts and action steps to help you Stay In the Game!—Dr. Dom VB Soul Magazine

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2015

Piotr Marciniak Skylar DelSol Could be the most athletic player on tour and has proven to be a feared defender and explosive side-out machine. Finishing in the finals in Madeira makes him hungrier to get that elusive victory.

Drew Mallin Needing a more experienced partner to show him how to win the big one, Drew has a huge ceiling but seems to be up to him on how high he will go.

Jeff Samuels Moved to Colorado to be able to train every day with partner Skylar DelSol. Jeff has shown the dedication and maturity to win a title, especially after barely losing in the finals in Madeira.

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Andrew Hinchey This smooth yet explosive jumper is ready to get back in the winners circle after surprisingly not making a final in 2014.

Skyler McCoy Surprising everyone but himself, this defensive wizard has proven to be one of the best defenders on tour. As the youngest player in the NVL, it looks like a long career for this crowd pleaser.

Jon Mesko

Dave Palm

Having what could be the best all around game on tour, Jon has the experience to win a final in 2015 with ambidextrous veteran partner Mike Dipierro.

Was known for his “beast mode” in the off season. There is no doubt that Dave is looking for more 1st place finishes this season.

Travis Schoonover One of the smartest players on tour and best defenders, Travis will continue to give teams fits as he always finds a way to win the close matches.

Ryan Vandenburg “Snake” is the tallest player on tour and his wicked left arm is sure to get this tour champion another victory if he stays consistent late in the draw and blocks more balls.

The 2014 “Best Offensive Player” and possibly most talented player on the tour is hungry to win more tournaments and has had a strong off season training at the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academies, and has never looked stronger.

Andrew Russell Tasted his first final in Atlanta last season. This big blocker is looking forward to another 2015 final and winning it all.

Eric Zaun After making the finals in Ocean City and picking a new partner, Dave Palm, to play with in Milwaukee, “Cookie” wants to prove he can also play defense. He has a great blocker in front of him and has the tools to get his first finals win.

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Players To Watch

Karolina Sowala Laurie Bachler Has quickly become one of the best blockers on the tour and has learned a lot from veteran partner, Tarin Keith.

After a strong 5th place finish in Madeira, Laurie knows that a win is within reach.

Kristen Batt-Rohr Found her love for the game again and is playing what could be the best volleyball of her career. Kristen one of the nicest players on the tour until you meet her in the finals.

Chelsea Hayes 2014 “Rookie of the Year” impressed everyone with her quickness on defense and making the finals in Hermosa Beach.

Chara Harris Picked up All-American college phenom Brittany Tiegs and finished 3rd in their first tournament together in Ocean City.

Always a smooth, fluid defender, Chara has all the weapons to win another title.

Molly Menard Molly has proven herself as a top player by finishing 5th place in 5 of 6 events in 2014. With an intense off-season workout routine and back with steady partner, Williams, is she ready to win her first event?

Brooke Niles The 2014 Defensive Player of the Year, Brooke picked up Kaya and this team is going to be tough to beat. Nearly missing the Olympics in 2012 and tasting victory last year in Ohio, she is positioned to have a record year.

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Raquel Ferreira This past rookie of the year is ready to win some tournaments and is an aggressive machine that fights for every point. She knows how to win and has a solid partner that makes them a scary team.

Tarin Keith This cagey veteran is fun to watch and has all the tools to play for many more years. As the head announcer for the NVL, she has shown that the sport comes first for her. Known as half of “Tandy,” she can do it all and if she gets on fire during a tourney she might need someone to interview her.

Jennifer Snyder This veteran big blocker has been able to continue to improve year after year. Jenn is always a specimen and with her flawless workout routines and diet she is always ready to battle. Is 2015 her time to win the big one?

2014 MVP and arguably one of the best players in the world, “Kaya” has made a name for herself on and off the court as the NVL’s top player and a great coach at the Club Med NVL Volleyball Academy. Can anyone take Kaya’s crown?

Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima Picked up Kristen Batt and has trained harder than ever and it shows after winning 2 of 3 events to start the season. This veteran is still a force to be reckoned with.

Michelle Williams After coming out of retirement last year and finally getting her legs back mid-season, she became the blocking force nobody wanted to face.

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t r u o C Off-

E N I L N &O

The NVL highlights some of the best Twitter and Instagram posts from the year! Please keep posting your photos and videos to be considered and remember to tag us on: Twitter: @TheNVL Instagram: @NationalVolleyballLeague For junior and amateur posts: Twitter and Instagram: @NVLRIZE

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O F F I C I A L

V O L L E Y B A L L

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