Wisdom Wednesday: Strengthening Core Skills with Coach Derek

This week’s Wisdom Wednesday features Coach Derek, Head Coach of 16 Platinum, who shares his approach to strengthening the core skills that build a complete, confident volleyball player.

Whether you’re just starting out or pushing for the next level, the basics always matter—and Coach Derek is passionate about making sure his players never lose sight of that.

---

The Essential Skills for Every Athlete

When it comes to building a strong foundation, Coach Derek has no hesitation about what players should prioritize first.

“Serving is definitely at the top of the list,” he says. “It’s the one skill that is completely in your control—from the toss to the contact and everything in between.”

Alongside serving, he emphasizes passing, digging, attacking, blocking, and setting—even for non-setters. Comfort with every touch on the ball leads to greater versatility and more opportunities to impact the game.

But it’s not just about physical skills.

“Learning to read the game can take you to the next level,” Derek explains. Recognizing attack options based on the first pass, reading defensive schemes, and understanding what the block is taking away all help athletes play smarter, not just harder.

---

How Core Skills Are Built at Practice

Every practice under Coach Derek’s leadership ties back to core skills—no exceptions.

“We always include some element of fundamentals work,” he shares. “Whether we’re breaking down a skill individually or reinforcing it within a larger drill, those touches matter.”

One major focus:

• Serving and Serve Receive: Every player, every practice. Aggressive servers force passers to improve, and improving passers force servers to level up.

• Out of System Play: Nearly every practice includes drills where players must handle second balls. “Not every play is perfect. Everyone needs to be able to get us back into a good offensive situation.”

It’s about being prepared for the game as it happens—not just when everything goes according to plan.

---

Perfecting the Basics Beyond Practice

Coach Derek is a firm believer that players who want to truly elevate their game have to put in work outside of team practice.

“Everyone attends practice—it’s what you do when no one’s watching that separates you,” he says.

He encourages players to:

• Grab a sibling, parent, or friend and work on simple toss and pass drills.

• Practice passing and setting against a wall.

• Grab a ball and perfect your serve toss at home.

• Watch volleyball matches with purpose—to study positioning, decision making, and ball control.

And most importantly: never stop working on the fundamentals.

“Whether you’re 11 years old or playing in college, breaking down your skills and focusing on the little things will always make you better.”

---

Summer is the Perfect Time to Build Your Core Skills

Looking to sharpen your skills even more? 🏐 Prevail Summer Camp Registration is now open!

Summer camps offer the perfect environment to break down your fundamentals, get extra reps, and grow your volleyball IQ. Plus, we encourage all players to get involved in outdoor doubles this summer—playing outdoors challenges your ball control, footwork, and mental toughness like nothing else.

The work you put in now sets the foundation for next season. Let’s get after it!

---

Join us in celebrating Coach Derek and his commitment to helping every athlete strengthen their foundation—one pass, one serve, one smart decision at a time.