Jakub Krebok | Polish youth volleyball coach

In Poland, youth volleyball has become more than just a sport for children; it’s a structured way for young athletes to develop essential skills and a passion for the game.

Designed for kids aged 7-13, the simplified version of the sport uses smaller courts and lower nets, making it accessible and enjoyable. Competitive play for these young athletes is 1v1, 2v2 or 3v3 or 4v4, allowing for many touches. Whether through mastering ball control, learning to work as a team, or experiencing friendly competition, this version of volleyball lays a solid foundation for future success.

A key event promoting youth volleyball in Poland is the Kinder Joy of Moving tournament, one of the largest youth competitions in the country. In the 2023-24 season, nearly 47,000 children participated, highlighting its widespread appeal across Poland. This competition not only enhances athletic skills but also emphasizes the importance of staying active and leading healthy lifestyles.


5 advantages of small-sided youth volleyball:

1. Physical growth
   The sport offers numerous physical benefits to young players. It engages multiple muscle groups, improves cardiovascular fitness, and builds strength, agility, and coordination.
Children are encouraged to frequently touch the ball, improving their motor skills and hand-eye coordination – key aspects in a fast-paced game environment. These skills help players react quickly and accurately during matches, boosting their confidence and overall performance.

2. Skill mastery
   Youth volleyball focuses heavily on players getting more ball touches. With smaller teams and simplified gameplay, every child has the chance to be more involved, accelerating their learning of essential skills like passing, setting, serving and spiking. Regular interaction with the ball helps players build muscle memory and instinctive reactions, which are crucial for advancing to higher levels of competition.
3. Social and emotional benefits
   This team sport teaches valuable life skills like communication, collaboration and responsibility. By working together toward shared goals, players develop strong bonds and trust with their teammates – lessons that transcend the court. Moreover, learning to manage both winning and losing helps build emotional resilience, discipline, and sportsmanship, qualities that are beneficial in all aspects of life.
4. Technical development
   One reason why this version of volleyball is so effective in developing young athletes is its focus on getting kids to touch the ball as much as possible. Frequent opportunities to handle the ball foster quicker technical development and a better understanding of the game. More ball contacts improve coordination, ball control, and decision-making, which are crucial for success in later stages of the sport.
5. Early exposure to competition
   Equally important is introducing children to competitive play at a young age. Experiencing rivalry in a supportive environment, such as the Kinder Joy of Moving tournament, helps young players learn how to handle pressure, bounce back from losses, and celebrate victories graciously. These early competitive experiences teach kids that challenges are opportunities to grow, shaping their mindset both on and off the court.

A Polish success story
Poland’s dedication to youth volleyball has significantly contributed to its success at the professional level. The country’s focus on nurturing young talent through initiatives like the Kinder tournament ensures a steady pipeline of skilled athletes ready for higher levels of play. Emphasizing frequent ball touches, teamwork, and healthy competition prepares young players for long-term success, both physically and mentally.

Building for the future
Youth volleyball is more than just an introductory sport; it’s a comprehensive way to develop future athletes and well-rounded individuals. From honing technical skills to experiencing the highs and lows of competition, this early exposure sets the stage for excellence. The success of Poland’s youth volleyball system, as seen in the thriving Kinder Joy of Moving competition, highlights the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the game.

Jakub Krebok is a Polish volleyball coach with more than 15 years of experience. He has expertise in statistics, video analysis and practice planning. As head coach of GKS “Wiezyca 2011,” he guided his team to the Polish U17 championship in the 2023-24 season.