Questions & Answers for Prospective Volleyball Student-Athletes

Q & A Session

What is volleyball like at Puget Sound?

We offer you an opportunity to compete in a true "national caliber" training and competitive atmosphere. Puget Sound finished 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th (2x) at Nationals from 1993-2002, and Coach Massey has produced ELEVEN "Top 25" teams in the past 16 years, NINE All-Americans, and 33 All-Conference players. If you have talent and desire, it WILL be developed here! Part of our success comes from strong OVERALL athletic department administration and support. Puget Sound has been consistently ranked as one of the Top 10 most successful athletic departments (considering performance of ALL men's and women's sports) in the nation.

Can I succeed in both school and volleyball?

Puget Sound is one of the most challenging academic institutions in the Northwest. Incoming frosh have an average SAT of 1200+, and a 3.6 GPA. Our practices and travel are designed to minimize conflicts with class. Off-season is limited to 12 practice sessions, with no competition, and a heavy emphasis on year round strength and power development. As a student here, you have a lot of freedom to pursue your varied interests, but also a responsibility to complete the training which will prepare you for peak personal performance. The volleyball program has been nationally recognized for overall ACADEMIC achievement. If you are motivated and budget your time wisely, you CAN do both ... WELL! The success of our student-athletes proves it.

At what "level" do you compete?

We are full NCAA Division III imembers. Our goal is to always be one of the top teams in the nation, and you will find the intensity of our competition satisfying if you want to be part of a national championship quest ... EVERY year!

How is your team selected?

Each year we have open tryouts in late August (during Orientation week) for all players, including those returning from the previous year. No one has a guaranteed spot. We may keep up to 15 athletes. Most players who tryout have previously either been evaluated in person or on videotape, so that we already have an idea that they have the ability to be competitive with other athletes in the mix. Most years we anticipate between 20-25 players competing for the available spots. NCAA rules do not allow us to hold tryouts during other times in the year for players who have not been accepted to the university. If you have an interest in our team, complete our Instant Online Profile, and send a videotape of your play to Coach Massey.

What is a "swing" offense?

It is a concept borrowed from the USA Men's National Team from the days of Karch Kiraly. Left side hitters are "swing" hitters, who carry a major passing load, and can then use audible calls to attack in ANY zone ANYWHERE on the net--often using "inside out" approach patterns, and hitting quicker tempo sets. Our middles and opposite work closely with the swings in combinations to either overload or split the block. In years when the middles are dominant, they are given even more audible options. The setter and coaching staff determine which combinations and zones should be used in general against a particular team/rotation, but there is a lot of "freelancing" on the court to take advantage of scoring opportunities. It is challenging to learn at first, but extremely difficult to stop. The system has allowed Coach Massey's teams to consistently be ranked among the Top 10 nationally in team offensive production. It is also a LOT of fun!

What can I do to improve my chances of making the squad?

Several things--first, have the coaching staff evaluate you (usually by video) to determine if you have the volleyball skill and physical tools necessary to be competitive at our level. Second, get as much high quality playing experience as possible, especially on a club team. Third, get stronger! Most incoming frosh are too weak physically to "terminate" the ball against collegiate defenders. Talk to Coach Massey about specific training routines to adopt during your SENIOR year of HS to help you make this transition more successful.

What financial assistance is available?

Although we do NOT offer athletic-based aid ("athletic scholarships"), there is a LOT of academic and need-based funding available for those who qualify (80% of students DO). Last year, total financial assistance packages averaged over $16,000! So Puget Sound may be more affordable than you think--many students find that with our financial assistance package, they can attend Puget Sound for no more than the cost of a state institution! Make sure you apply early (January) for maximum consideration. If you have concerns about your ability to qualify for sufficient aid, talk directly with Financial Aid at (253) 879-3214 about your particular family situation.

What's the "best" thing about attending Puget Sound?

Excellence without sacrifices! It's beautiful here ... we offer an exceptional education ... and you'll get to pursue a national volleyball title ... a total educational experience that's hard to beat!

Complete our Instant Online Player Profile! Then send us a videotape.