The Gauntlet Youth Volleyball Drill / Game is usually the last game / drill of the day and it usually goes for 15-25 minutes. Our goal is to create:
– Game like situation
– That is competitive
– Allows for lots of touches on the ball (Usually 2 on 2)
– Co-Ed
– Encourages play with different people both as teammates and opponents
– Rewards hard work but at this level still has an element of luck
 
Games are normally for a timed period at which time losers go up and winners go down.
 
I am also learning it is important to keep things competitive, however what tends to happen are the weaker teams go down and stronger teams go up. So what I do is flip it and have the weakest, youngest players start at the top. Its very exciting to watch how this changes things in surprising ways and also teaches new lessons! (I encourage all of you to read “Top Dog” by Ashley Merryman.)
 
What is always incredible for me is firstly, when you add competition, how much better the players get. Secondly kids are always counting the score, so let them count in a game situation and reward them for effort. Finally, it is amazing how good and how fast young players can get with good coaching and encouragement for effort.