So you want to play volleyball with the comfort of staying in the states? Well you're in luck! USA volleyball has formed a league for those who play volleyball professionally in other countries, to come together in our own country and compete. Don't worry, even if you're not a pro abroad, there are several divisons in this tournament for all to compete. Full Disclosure: If you have the opportunity to play in the PVL tournament, do it! You won't regret it.
(Yes, that's me, the only on not focused)
For those who don't know, American volleyball players, after college, find themselves leaving the country for work because the States haven't yet implemented their own pro volleyball league. But not for long! USA PVL(premier/professional volleyball league) is slowly on the rise to becoming a certified professional league. It may take a few years until things really become bigger in terms of play and pay but it's a start!
At least once a year, several men's and women's team come together for a giant tournament where the top three in the highest division(PVL division) win a lottery. However, for those wanting to play for just a good time or at a level you're comfortable with, there are several divisions for all ages and all skill levels to compete, even a sit volleyball league. Now whether you're there for the money and a gold medal or there to reunite with old friends, there are a few things everyone would be better off with in their luggage for the trip.
1. WATER! - Maybe not in your luggage, but stock up! I can't stress enough how important water is for this trip. It is incredibly easy to get dehydrated playing several sets of volleyball for four days straight. Not to mention the constant alcohol that will be consumed during your week long visit to PVL nationals. Please hydrate pre, intra, and post, daily volleyball activity.
2. Foam Roller/Tennis Ball - I learned this one the hard way. During my last PVL I played around 30 sets of volleyball over four consecutive days. The things that will do to your body are immeasurable. You'll feel pain in every joint and muscle. Roll those bad boys out! It's quite possibly the only way your muscles will survive. They'll thank you later.
Check out Trigger Point Performance Therapy foam rollers!
3. Protein bars - These gorgeous things are what will get you through some of those long sets, or when you have no time for breakfast or a meal in-between matches. Load up on them in your luggage. These bars could be the decision maker on how you play! These Cliff Builder's Bars, full of protein, definitely saved my PVL life haha
4. Pre-workout - This was the first PVL nationals where I brought my pre workout along for the ride. This stuff seriously got me through some difficult matches that coffee wouldn't have even come close to helping me with. You'll play so many games where mentally you can be dead. Which could also be a side effect due to lack of sleep, for whatever absurd reason...
Check out BodyBuilding.com for several brands, cant go wrong! 5. Naps - Bring tons of naps on this trip! As I just mentioned, there WILL be lack of sleep. Your body will need these naps. Sometimes you go out for a long night and then you have to play early the next morning. You've hopefully learned your mistake, now go and nap. Your body was kind to you and got you through that rough match, now go be kind to it. 5. A Good Attitude - It's almost impossible to have a bad time at PVL. You're in a huge convention center surrounded by people who are all there for the same reasons. It's good to have competition on the court, but win or lose, everyone goes out at the end of the night to celebrate for several reasons and have a good time. I've actually met some of my closest friends during USA's PVL! The fun and memories you have are worth every long and drawn out day! We all just want to play volleyball and have fun.
Hope to see you there next year!