Match Point Mentoring Program

“In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn.” – Phil Collins

We're thrilled to announce exciting changes to our mentoring program that will enhance your coaching journey even further! Beginning with the upcoming cycle, we're transitioning from a one-to-one mentoring model to a trio-based structure, designed to maximize collaborative learning and support among coaches. The AVCA Match Point Mentoring Program is designed exclusively for volleyball coaches at all levels of expertise. Our program centers on creating mentoring trios where these coaches serve as both mentors and mentees to create a collaborative learning experience.

Program Description Highlights:

Trio-Based Structure: Coaches will be grouped into trios, comprising individuals at various career stages, to enrich the mentoring experience with diverse perspectives.
Monthly Trio Meetings: Participants commit to attending monthly meetings with their assigned trio, fostering continuous learning and collaboration. We understand conflicts may arise, so proactive communication is encouraged.
Enhanced Collaboration: Coaches are encouraged to provide support and communicate with trio members between meetings, ensuring ongoing development and engagement.

The 2024-2025 program is currently underway. Applications for the 2025-2026 program will open in March 2025.

To learn more about the Match Point Mentoring Program, please contact Becca Just.

Program Description

The AVCA Match Point Mentoring Program emphasizes a dual commitment: one to your personal growth and another to the development of your fellow coaches within your trio. Your dedication to both aspects is essential for reaping the full benefits of the program. Remember, the level of investment you put in directly correlates with the outcomes you'll achieve. Your trio partners rely on your commitment, making it imperative to prioritize program activities throughout the 12-month duration.

Key features of this mentorship model include:

Our program operates on a trio basis, comprising coaches at various stages of their careers. The diversity within trios enriches the mentoring experience by incorporating perspectives from different levels of expertise.
Trios are strategically formed to leverage the collective wisdom and experiences of coaches. While there's no prerequisite for trios to consist solely of coaches at the same level, participants are thoughtfully grouped based on factors such as coaching background, current roles (head, assistant, etc.), level of play (youth, high school, collegiate, professional, etc.), and geographical considerations like time zones and regions.
To facilitate meaningful discussions, trios receive monthly prompts designed to steer conversations during their meetings. These prompts serve as catalysts for exploring various topics relevant to coaching development.
Participants are expected to prioritize attendance at all monthly trio meetings. While we understand that conflicts may arise due to personal commitments, team responsibilities, or travel engagements, proactive communication with trio members regarding conflicts is encouraged to ensure continuity and collaboration within the group.

By embracing these principles and actively engaging in the program, participants can unlock the full potential of mentorship, fostering a culture of continuous learning and support within the volleyball coaching community.

Eligibility and Requirements

To apply for the AVCA Match Point Mentoring Program, participants must:

Be a current member (or become a member) of the AVCA
Agree to a 12-month commitment to the program
Commit to meeting virtually or via phone at a minimum of one time a month with trio group members
Be willing to provide support and communicate with trio group members between meetings in a method/frequency agreed upon between your trio members.

View the Program Guidelines

The AVCA has developed Match Point – a coaches mentoring program – to allow experienced coaches to share their knowledge and talents with fellow coaches in the volleyball community. To provide structure, the AVCA has outlined the following suggested guidelines:

The AVCA encourages Trios to communicate monthly via email or telephone.
For participants attending the AVCA Convention, the AVCA will host a Match Point Mentoring Breakfast so that Trios can meet in person.
The program will begin in June and last for one year. Relationships and knowledge-sharing may continue after the initial year as desired. Mentors who wish to continue participating in the program will be given a new mentee each year.
A mentorship relationship potentially involves the sharing and discussion of personal and/or sensitive information. Participants in the AVCA Match Point program will agree to respect the privacy and confidentiality of such information by not sharing it with other parties.
The AVCA is excited to present coaches with this opportunity to form positive and valuable relationships with peers in their field. In the event of any concerns on the part of a mentor or mentee, that person should notify the AVCA.

Looking for more ways to get involved?

Check out the AVCA's volunteer opportunities.

Learn More

Match Point Mentoring Program

“In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn.” – Phil Collins

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