All players please look at this site on USA Women's Volleyball. 
There is info and web-links to every Division 1 School here for you to learn more about some schools...
Playing volleyball in America can give you many opportunities that might not be available to you in Europe. Unlike Europe, where playing volleyball is associated with a club, playing volleyball in America is associated with playing against top competition and getting a good education from a university. One of the great things about playing volleyball in America is that you can get a good education while playing the sport you love. Also, it will give you the chance to see America and experience a different culture. Many of the top teams travel throughout the whole country (including Hawaii) which will allow you to see and experience one of the most interesting countries in the world. Finally, it will help you with your English language skills and allow you to meet new friends that will last a lifetime. All of these opportunities are there for you while playing very competitive volleyball in America.
There are over 1000 schools (universities and colleges) that have a women's volleyball team in America. The level of play ranges from teams that could play in the top European leagues to the types of teams that play in lower level Division II leagues. There is a big difference in the talent level of the players from the best team to the worst team. This means that there is a level of play for almost any player that wants to play volleyball in the USA.Volleyball in America is divided into five different divisions.
The level of play and the financial commitment of the university (money that the teams can spend) separate the different divisions.
- is the top level with over 300 schools sponsoring volleyball teams. At this level most teams offer 12 full scholarships.
- schools offer eight scholarships. These schools are generally smaller in size and the level of volleyball is a little lower than Division I.
- schools do not offer any athletic scholarships, but
90% of all DIII athletes receive Financial Assistance by way of Academic Scholarships and Financial Aid. These schools are generally some of the top academic universities in America.
- is the league for smaller schools that focus on academics. They do offer scholarships but the financial assistance is different from school to school.
- schools offer up to 12 scholarships. These schools (colleges) are for only two years and then players generally go on to play in one of the above divisions.
The season normally includes:
- Arrive in early August for pre-season training and to choose classes for school.
- During September, October, November and December a player's schedule consists of playing matches against other teams and attending classes at school. The average number of matches per season is between 32 and 40 depending on the school and division. During the first two weeks in December teams compete in the playoffs to determine League and National Champions.
- From mid December to mid January players have a break from school and volleyball. Many European players return home during this time.
- From mid January to mid April most teams have trainings for individual skills and strength and conditioning while competing in up to four tournaments. All student athletes are taking classes during this time.
- From May to August is summer vacation time. Many players return home and are responsible for staying in good shape for the next season.
Financial support differs in each division, however a full scholarship in Division I includes:
Full tuition waiver (a free education), books, and a monthly allowance to cover meals and rent. This means that the school will pay for your rent and the cost of food, but they can not pay you a salary. The school pays all costs for team travel including airfare, hotels, ground
transportation and meals during travel for competition. Also, the school pays all thenecessary equipment associated with playing volleyball.
Please note that the school cannot pay for your flights to and from Europe and that the money you receive from the school is for rent and food only.
Student athletes are expected to take classes and get an education just like any other student. The Athletic Department has team academic advisors and tutors available specifically for each athlete's need. It is expected that each athlete try to graduate with high academic achievement.
For a European player to play volleyball in America they must meet the requirements for that division and the school that they choose. All divisions have specific requirements according to each school's academic regulations. For example, Division I universities have the most challenging requirements. An athlete must have the following; a high school diploma, a satisfactory score on the ACT/SAT exams (tests), and a minimum score on the TOEFL test (this determines a student-athlete's English speaking and reading skills). If a player is already enrolled in a University they do not need to take the ACT/SAT. Once you decide in which division you would like to play, Bring It will help you determine if you meet the requirements to play in that division.
The amount and type of equipment an athlete receives depends on the school and team. In a normal top level Division I program an athlete can expect to receive two pairs of volleyball shoes, one pair of running shoes, practice shorts and jerseys, uniforms, sweat suits, knee pads, ankle supports, travel clothing and travel bags. Normally an athlete from Europe will not need to bring any equipment with them.
Medical support is different for each school, however most teams will provide you with medical help and insurance for volleyball related injuries or sickness. It is recommended that each European athlete carry his or her own insurance also. Note that each school has qualified athletic trainers on staff to aid and assist athletes if injuries or complications should arise. There is also a training room staff for the athletes. They will consult and recommend doctors when needed.
We at Bring It Promotions are in contact with most colleges and universities and can help you decide which school is best for you depending on your academic past, your academic goals, and your volleyball skills. Many schools ask us to help them find good international players and as you've read above, there is a school for almost every level of player.
If you have any questions or would like to be involved in our "International Players" video, please contact Tim Kelly at .
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