DIG empowers athletes from underserved communities with financial assistance, mental health support, life skills training, and mentorship to bolster their self-confidence and help them thrive.

15

Total players accepted to DIG since 2020

$41,375

Saved by DIG families through DIG support for club volleyball fees

100%

DIG Players accepted
to a four-year college or university

Why does DIG support club volleyball?

Playing club volleyball substantially increases an athlete’s chance of being recruited:

  • College coaches complete the majority of their recruiting by attending club tournaments instead of high school matches because they can evaluate significantly more athletes in one day

  • College coaches have more time and bandwidth to watch athletes compete during their offseason — which aligns with the club volleyball season

  • Club teams have a more consistent and higher talent level due to their ability to be very selective and limit their team sizes

  • Club teams may have established relationships with college programs

There are mental health, wellness, academic, and leadership benefits to playing club volleyball, regardless of a player’s intention to play in college. Players will:

  • Stay in competition shape and develop their talent throughout the year

  • Form relationships with players and peers from outside their current social circle and geographic area

  • Learn from a variety of coaches and mentors, particularly coaches who are both a mirror and a window for players' own identities.

  • Face a higher level of competition and learn to persevere using a growth mindset

  • “Before the workshop I was very stressed, and I had a lot of worries in my mind. After using the breathing techniques [that] I learned, I was able to clear my head.”

  • “Thank you for this opportunity to be a part of these sessions and I learned a lot of new things I use in my daily life.”

  • “DIG has been such a welcoming community to me and my family. I have learned so much through the years while being apart of this community and I really don’t know the person I would be nowadays without this support. When a workshop would end, I would always reflect on the things I learned and you’d be surprised with the amount of new information you would learn. I am very grateful to be part of this community and I wouldn’t change a thing! ”

  • "My experience with DIG was truly life-changing. Not only did I learn how to take better care of my mind, body, and spirit, but I also have met some amazing people and have brought these lessons along with me everywhere I go, including on the volleyball court and while sitting in the classroom. The group provided a supportive and nurturing environment that allowed me to grow and learn in ways that I never thought possible. You meet plenty of mentors who all want the best for you and who have an open, chill, and fun conversation with you once a week. I highly recommend DIG to anyone who is looking to improve their overall well-being and connect with like-minded individuals."

  • "DIG has been a breath of refresh air for my teen daughters; helping them navigate social, emotional, and academic pressures through sports and mentorships. The weekly sessions have provided immense support and I just love how confident my girls have become."