Mystic Volleyball Club Director Maddy Mancini

What drew you to volleyball and ultimately led up to becoming a club director?

Volleyball was the sport I found love for at a young age and was thrilled to be part of a team. I became a volleyball coach at 15 years old at the 422 Sportsplex at Pottstown and became so passionate in teaching and coaching volleyball. At the time, I was only coaching instructional classes, but I started to develop a reputation and the volleyball program began to grow. I wanted to take my skills and passion for coaching to the next level. When I was in high school, I was unable to play on a club volleyball team because there were limited clubs in my area at the time and those around me were very expensive. My goal when creating Mystic Volleyball Club was to make sure there were more affordable clubs in the Pottstown area so those who love to play volleyball could continue playing!

What do you love about volleyball in the Philly area?

There is so much opportunity in this area for volleyball! I love that girls interested in playing volleyball have different club options to choose from, the more options and opportunities, the better!

When it comes to your own development as a leader, what are you most interested in accomplishing next?

I would like to improve how I handle situations when under pressure. I can become easily overwhelmed at times or frustrated when things may not go the right way.

What resources do you recommend to help players and parents boost their volleyball IQ?

Watching volleyball on TV may be the easiest yet most important tool there is for some players. Getting to analyze plays and watching how players react allows you to understand the game and your position on a different level.

Any advice for parents and players when it comes to choosing a new club or deciding whether to stay with their current club?

Evaluate your options! Attend open gyms, clinics, or any opportunities clubs may have to get more of a feel for what it would be like to play for them. Do research and look into feedback and reviews as well. A pros and cons list can help to aid in decision making after experiencing what each club has to offer.

If you could give one piece of advice to parents, what would it be?

Let your child be their own person! Allow them to speak for themselves and have their own thoughts and opinions. Also encourage them to work hard and make small goals for themselves, do not be too hard on them after tournaments. Be the reason they love playing volleyball, not why they decide to stop playing.

Tournament food: açaí bowl, walking taco, or too excited to eat?

Too excited to eat!

Go to the [club profile page](https://phillyball.com/clubs/pennsylvania/montgomery/pottstown/mystic-volleyball-club?state=Pennsylvania)