Top 10 Things a Volleyball Player NeedsFrom Scott Hammon Volleyball is an interesting sport. In reality, a player could just show up to the court and start playing without any specialized equipment. However, to make the most out of a practice, pick-up game, or match, there are some things that are nice to have if you are an indoor volleyball player. The most important item in any volleyball players bag is shoes. Not just any shoes, but real volleyball shoes that support the special stresses that volleyball feet go through. The difference is in the mid-support and traction. Without good shoes, you risk ankle/knee injuries. Don't go cheap when it comes to shoes. The money you spend on shoes may save you expensive medical bills later. You have good shoes, why not good socks? Socks are probably the most overlooked gear in an athletes bag. They have cheap socks, with no support and use them way too long before getting new ones. Good socks have some kind of cushion and most important are made of a material that will wick away sweat and keep the foot dry. Cotton gets wet and stays wet. Take a look at some of the blends that are available and remember, get quality. A dry foot means less blisters, hot spots and soreness. Volleyball is a mental sport. Regardless of skills, teams and individual players must have the right attitude and self-confidence to win. That's why I recommend that every serious volleyball player and coach have a copy of this book on their night stand and read it every night. Successful people in every career field have said that positive reading and re-programing their minds have contributed greatly to their ultimate success. Not much is worst than being covered in sweat and having nothing to wipe off on. Every player can feel refreshed by having a towel wipe off some of the sweat during and after games. With a couple towels in the bag, you can't go wrong. No reason to spend a lot of money here. Cheap is good, after all, use and than toss it. Some look sharp. Some carry a message. Whatever they are for, they do let the world know that this player is a serious volleyball player. What's important in a game shirt? Make sure the shirt is light and breathable. Cotton shirts work well for some, others want synthetics with advanced wicking materials and mesh. Up to the individual on this one. Some are short, some are long. Some have messages on the back, some don't. Shorts should be made of light-weight materials. Other than that, it's up to individual style and preference. Well, you have to have something to carry around all your gear in. However, you don't have to go high-price on this bag. What is important is that it has a couple different compartments. Some come with a place for shoes, which I highly recommend. Another important feature is to have a compartment that is water-resistant to keep you sweaty clothes away from your dry clothes. A ball is nice to have. Even though the club or high school may have plenty of balls, a player does not feel complete unless he or she owns their own volleyball. However, it doesn't have to be the most expensive ball out there. In fact, a medium price ball is best. If you are used to playing with the best, softest ball, how will it feel when you play with an inferior ball. Besides, the medium priced balls usually last longer. Every player with a ball needs a way to put more air in the ball. Make sure they have a ball pump and needle on hand. Get the small one that will easily fit in the bag. How much air goes in the ball? It says right on the ball's needle valve. How much is in there already? That's where a small air gauge works wonders.
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