Blog Post #2 - Documentary Inspiration

           My inspiration to use Volleyball from this project comes straight from my own personal experiences. I have participated in this sport and many others for a very long time and it has always been difficult to follow along with everyone else and find the perfect team to be a part of. Being on Elevate Volleyball Clubs 16 and under team has altogether changed my life and my love for this sport. 

       When I first started this sport, even though still young, I was already years behind everyone else. Many individuals begin very young, typically 8-10, gaining prior years worth of valuable experience. I did not before have the same opportunities as everyone else so getting to make this documentary on the different paths to being a youth athlete and their hopes is very close to my heart. My goal with this is to communicate that through this documentary and showcase all that this sport is and means to everyone involved. 

          By interviewing athletes, I can give a small window into their lives and how the sport plays into it. For all players, Volleyball remains like a full-time job to us as we play year round with a lack of an off-season. To be a part of this, it takes a lot of determination and commitment that makes it difficult to have a life outside of Volleyball. From high school season, to club season, to nationals season and straight back into to high school training in the summer, there is no break in sight, the love for the game has to be there or it simply does not work.

                                       

         I have become involved with Volleyball in so many ways. Playing, coaching, reffing, I've done it all and I can see the struggles from every side. By also interviewing coaches, I can show what it is like to have a lifelong attachment to the sport, even many years after ending their career. Lastly, I can also show what it is like as a parent to a Volleyball athlete, the endless rides, the high cost, and everything they have to give up to ensure their children's happiness and success. I feel that this documentary could make a large impact on those in my community and those who have similar experiences.