If your child is looking to learn a new sport or is eager to take their skills to the next level, The Academy Volleyball Club is ready to serve you.
Founded in 2014 by a group of parents and coaches passionate about volleyball and possessing a desire to share the sport with others, The Academy Volleyball Club is a place where athletes of all ages learn to play, train and love volleyball. Headquartered in a 70,000 square-foot facility on the near eastside of Indianapolis, The Academy has additional locations at Grand Park in Westfield and Legacy Courts in Lafayette.
“We offer opportunities to every player regardless of their experience or skill level,” says Executive Director Emily Hawthorne. “We know that every athlete is coming to us with a different story and background with the sport, so we provide several different ways for them to get involved, whether that be through one of our club teams, summer camps, beach program, little spikers or even private lessons.”
A quality experience is at the heart of every program at The Academy. Players ages 4 through 9 can take part in a Little Spikers clinic to learn the fundamentals of the game, while boys and girls ages 6-18 can take part in a variety of training opportunities offered year-round that will continue to build on their skills. The fall youth league is one of the club’s top youth programs, with more than 500 young athletes training each week in the fall, between the three locations.
While building youth players is a focus at The Academy, their success in advancing their top players into the collegiate ranks is also a priority. Club teams allow athletes with several months of focused training, strong competition and ongoing development. Each year, more than a dozen upperclassmen commit to continue their playing careers at the college level, a dream come true for many of them. This past season, Freshman Raven Colvin committed to Purdue University, marking the first Big Ten commitment for the young club.
“We are not a one-size-fits-all organization,” Hawthorne adds. “We pride ourselves on our personalized service, welcoming atmosphere, caring staff and knowledgeable coaches who care about player development both on and off the court.”
Although they are one of the largest volleyball clubs in the state, they maintain the feel of a smaller, intimate club. The Academy cares about keeping costs affordable for families. while providing an exceptional experience. With its extensive fundraising programs, non-travel teams and extended payment plans, The Academy is one of the most budget-friendly clubs in Indiana and committed to making every dollar go as far as possible.
“The Academy has been a home away from home for my daughter and family these past few years,” says Robin Snyder, mother of Jill, a club player. Not only have her skills improved, but her confidence, knowledge and love of the game have increased as well. We can really tell that the coaches care about their athletes and the gyms have such a welcoming atmosphere. Being a part of The Academy family has been such a positive thing for us.”
For those wanting to become a part of a club team at The Academy, your opportunity is quickly approaching. Club tryouts for 2nd to 8th graders begin in mid-October at all locations. Tryouts for 9th– 12th graders begin in early November. All locations also provide free pre-tryout open gyms this fall, to encourage athletes and their families to visit the facilities, meet coaches and train with some of their top youth and club coaches.
The Academy Volleyball Club is located at 6635 E 30th St. Suite B, Indianapolis. Information on all three locations can be found online at theacademyvolleyball.com or by giving them a call at 317-545-3880.
