Youth World Championships in Thailand

USA Youth Team - Silver Medalists

I just returned from coaching at the FIVB Youth World Championships that brought together the top 20 teams in the world.  I am pleased to say that after recovering from a 1st match loss to Slovenia, the USA team recovered to finish with a Silver Medal.  We beat Brazil in 5 sets in the semi-finals, then suffered a 3 set loss to a very, very good China team. This is the first time that any USA team, at any age level, has received a medal at a World Championship.  I must say the level of play was very high and I was most pleased with the efforts given by the USA ladies.

Ray Gooden-NIU

Most recent and Upcoming Travels for VTS Video Library

If I was paid by the mile, I'd be a rich guy.  Upon returning from Thailand, I was off to visit some great coaches in the midwest.  I am in the process of posting video from recent visits to Louisville, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ball State and Northern Illinois.  Great coaching going on and I'm very appreciative of those coaches allowing me to share what they do in their training sessions.  If the opportunity allows, please go out of your way to contact these coaches and let them know you're appreciative of their willingness to help share their expertise.  Beginning next week, I am scheduled to visit Michigan, Ohio University, Marshall, South Carolina and still lining up other successful programs.

Dartfish Express and Video Lockers on VTS

I highly recommend the app Dartfish Express for use on your I-Pad or I-Phone.  This is a wonderful piece of analysis software that allows coaches to video, take pictures of your athletes, make verbal and written comments on the video, then, either show the athlete immediately, or, from your device, upload directly to Dartfish TV.  We have many clubs and collegiate squads opening their own private video lockers on VTS.  They take team practice or individual footage, make comments, then directly place on the VTS folder so players can view at their convenience.

Keep Your Players Healthy

Dr. Robin Hunter

One of the keys to a successful season is keeping players healthy. In general, coaches spend most of their efforts in this area in the weight room or track working on developing the physical aspect of the athlete.  More attention needs to be devoted to injury prevention. I would encourage VTS members to access the Four Part Series by Dr. Robin Hunter on the VTS site.  Dr. Hunter does a wonder job of presenting keys to identify potential areas of concern and rehab methods that will keep your athletes on the court instead of sitting beside you on the bench.  For a sample, view one of the video at:

Dr. Robin Hunter

Good luck with those coaching this fall.