Men’s Volleyball Full Scholarships: What You Need to Know
For male athletes aspiring to play volleyball at the collegiate level, securing a full scholarship can be a game changer. However, opportunities for full scholarships in men’s volleyball are relatively limited due to the smaller number of programs compared to sports like football or basketball. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when pursuing a full scholarship for men’s volleyball.
Scholarship Availability by Division
- NCAA Division I and II:
- Men’s volleyball is an equivalency sport, which means that full scholarships can be offered, but the total scholarship funds can also be divided among several players.
- Division I teams are allowed up to 4.5 scholarships per team. Starting from 2025, this number is set to increase to 18 scholarships, which may provide more full-ride opportunities for top recruits.
- Division II programs also allow up to 4.5 scholarships per team, but the competition for these spots is intense.
- NAIA:
- The NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) also offers volleyball scholarships, with each team allowed up to 8 scholarships. These scholarships can be split among several athletes depending on the program’s needs.
- NCAA Division III:
- Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships, but they do provide academic and need-based aid that can sometimes rival the total value of an athletic scholarship at other divisions.
What Coaches Look For
Coaches typically prioritize scholarships for key positions like hitters and setters due to their impact on the game. Metrics such as vertical jump, hitting power, and blocking ability are critical factors that influence a recruit’s scholarship potential. Athletes also need to showcase strong academics and leadership qualities, as volleyball programs often have limited resources and prefer well-rounded individuals.
Tips to Secure a Full Scholarship
- Highlight Your Skills: Create a compelling recruiting video that showcases your skills and athleticism. This is especially crucial since many programs may not have large recruiting budgets to scout extensively.
- Attend Camps and Tournaments: Participating in national camps and high-level tournaments gives you the chance to perform in front of college coaches and improve your exposure.
- Communicate with Coaches: Start reaching out to college coaches early, and maintain an open line of communication to show your interest in their program.
Final Thoughts
Men’s volleyball scholarships are highly competitive, but with the expansion of scholarship limits in NCAA Division I programs, more opportunities will become available in the coming years. Whether through full or partial scholarships, you can maximize your chances by excelling both on and off the court.
If you’re serious about pursuing a volleyball scholarship, start researching programs, preparing your highlight reel, and reaching out to coaches early in the recruitment process.
