I met most of the coaches and directors for the volleyball club, and overall I have a very positive impression. Like many other clubs, it was started by parents who wanted to create opportunities for their kids to play, and those three kids are nearing their end run. They only insist they make a team, not that they play, which is good (though I don't think any of them will be in my age group).
The coaches are mostly young, and it was pretty weird being one of the older coaches with more experience. What a difference from 2000 when I showed up for tryouts with nothing but two freshman seasons under my belt. Not that it matters, I suppose, but it's kind of a boost for me because I realize that this is my tenth season coaching. While I know every season is a learning experience, I'm starting to realize how much experience I have to draw on.
I can't wait to get started. I hope that the talent pool is rich enough to justify a national team, because I love the travel. I also like competing against the best, even if I can't beat them. Some of the greatest learning opportunities come from those situations.
I'll have a team, hopefully, in about two and a half weeks!