Grassroots Volleyball Programming for Ages 6-12:
Elementary Program, Community (Atomic) Program & Smashball
WHY Grassroots Programming?
- Introduce FUNdamental movement and physical literacy skills to youth in grades 1-6 in your area
- Introduce volleyball skills in a fun, game-like environment
- Activities are adapted to a smaller court, lower net, fewer players per side, and softer volleyballs
- Increase the profile of volleyball as a youth option, increase the number of youth interested in club programming (14U-18U)
- Community clubs/groups can use this program as a feeder-system into their sport programming, as a fundraiser, and as an opportunity to develop coaches by offering older athletes a coaching experience
WHO can start and run a youth program?
- Volleyball clubs
- Community groups/Recreation Departments
- Schools (lunch or after school programming)
For more information on programming and clinic options, please contact VNS Technical Director Megan Conroy at vnsmegan@sportnovascotia.ca.
Join a Program?
View all programs available under the Youth Clubs page. Look for clubs in your area offering ‘Smashball’ or ‘Grassroots’.
See below for possible resources for grassroots programming:
- Volleyball New Brunswick: Mini-Volley Practice Booklet
- Volleyball Canada E-store: for Atomic/Mini Instructor’s Manuals
- Ontario Volleyball Association Smashball video
- Saskatchewan Volleyball Association: Smashball Progressions
- Smashbal Netherlands: creators of Smashball in 2012 (english translation button at top right of screen)

