Book Private Volleyball Lessons with Coach Shelby

As a Division 1 starting outside hitter, I gained invaluable experience competing at the highest collegiate level. Throughout my career, I’ve played nearly every position on the court, giving me a well-rounded understanding of the game while increasing my versatility and determination, which has shaped my coaching philosophy and provided me with a unique perspective to help athletes excel in any role. My experiences, which include three knee surgery recoveries during my college career, have also taught me the value of discipline, adaptability, and mental resilience. Competing at an elite level, I learned firsthand the importance of mental performance in achieving consistent success, lessons I now teach to the athletes I work with both on and off the court.

I help players enhance their technical skills like serving, passing, hitting, digging, blocking, and setting. Beyond that, I teach athletes to think tactically and make smarter decisions on the court by understanding the game from multiple positional perspectives. I also assist athletes in identifying mental barriers holding them back—such as lack of focus or self-doubt—and equip them with tools to overcome these challenges. Through goal-setting, self-awareness training, and strategies like productive self-talk and visualization, I empower athletes to perform with confidence and consistency.

A typical volleyball coaching session includes targeted skill work tailored to the athlete’s specific experience and positional needs, supplemented by physical drills like strength, agility, or plyometric exercises. Based on the level of the athlete, I aim to structure lessons in a way that provides game-like experience as well as skill instruction and correction. This way, players will understand and be able to apply the technical skill into their practices and game play.

As a Mental Performance Coach, sessions will be tailored to the specific goals and challenges of the athlete or team. For example, a session might start with self-awareness exercises to pinpoint areas for growth, followed by practical mental skills training, such as focus drills, confidence-building exercises, and techniques for handling high-pressure moments. Each session is tailored to the athlete’s unique needs, with a focus on equipping them with lasting tools for success in sport and life.

My first club coach, Robert McNutt at NCVC, laid the foundation for my love of the game by instilling a deep understanding of volleyball and an unwavering belief in my ability to succeed. Additionally, my high school strength and conditioning coach, Michael Gimenez, introduced me to a new level of physical and mental discipline, sparking my passion for helping others achieve their own goals. Both coaches shaped my passion for mentoring athletes holistically.

I’m fully committed to each athlete’s growth as both a player and a person. I take a personalized approach to each athlete, focusing on both their mental and physical growth. My coaching approach emphasizes skill development, mental toughness, and positive character building. Parents can trust that I will create a supportive yet challenging environment where their athletes can thrive as I prioritize their overall well-being, teaching skills that not only enhance athletic performance but also promote personal growth, resilience, and confidence.