Effort Is a Choice: What We Ask of Our Athletes (and Why It Matters)

In volleyball—and in life—there are many things athletes can’t control. Playing time. The score. Teammates. Officiating. Even how their body feels on a given day.

But there is one thing that is always within their control:

Effort.

At Nebraska Power Volleyball Club, we believe effort is one of the most important habits an athlete can build—not just for success on the court, but for confidence, resilience, and leadership off of it.

For Our Athletes: Effort Is Yours to Own

Every time you step into the gym, you have a choice.

You can:

• Go through the motions

• Or give your full attention and energy

You won’t always have your best game. That’s normal.

But you can always:

• Hustle for the ball

• Encourage your teammates

• Stay focused between plays

• Reset after mistakes

Effort doesn’t mean being perfect. It means staying engaged and giving your best—no matter what the situation looks like.

For Families: Why We Emphasize Effort So Much

As parents, it’s natural to focus on outcomes:

• Did we win?

• Did my athlete play well?

• Are they improving?

Those things matter—but they aren’t the foundation.

Effort is.

When athletes learn to give consistent effort:

• They become more confident

• They handle challenges better

• They earn trust from coaches and teammates

• They develop habits that carry far beyond sports

Our goal is not just to develop strong volleyball players. It’s to help build strong, capable young people.

Effort Builds Trust

One of the most important things athletes can earn in a team environment is trust.

Coaches trust athletes who:

• Compete in every drill

• Stay engaged even when things aren’t going their way

• Respond positively to feedback

• Keep showing up with the same mindset

Teammates trust athletes who:

• Don’t give up on plays

• Bring energy to the court

• Stay connected and supportive

Over time, that trust leads to opportunity, confidence, and leadership.

Leadership Starts Here

Leadership isn’t just about being the best player.

It’s about how you show up—every day.

Athletes become leaders when they:

• Give consistent effort

• Stay steady in tough moments

• Set a positive example for others

You don’t need a title to lead.

You lead by how you show up.

When Effort Matters Most

Effort is easy when:

• You’re winning

• You’re playing well

• You feel confident

But the moments that shape athletes most are the harder ones:

• After a mistake

• When you’re frustrated

• When the game isn’t going your way

That’s when effort becomes a true choice—and a powerful one.

Our Standard as a Club

At Nebraska Power Volleyball Club, effort is not based on mood or circumstance.

It’s our standard.

We ask every athlete to:

• Compete in every rep

• Stay engaged with their team

• Bring energy and focus to practices and games

Not because we expect perfection—but because we believe in what that consistency builds over time.

Final Thought for Athletes and Families

Effort is something that grows.

The more consistently athletes choose it:

• The more confident they become

• The more resilient they are

• The more they enjoy the game

And most importantly—

They become someone others can count on.

A Simple Reminder

Before each practice or match, we encourage athletes to ask:

“Am I choosing effort today?”

Because in the end:

Effort is a choice. And it’s one that shapes not just athletes—but people.