As a coach or player, volleyball practices can be difficult. Anytime you continuously do the same thing over and over and over, boredom can set in. When that happens, techniques get sloppy and then the benefit of practicing is lost.

So, how do you avoid this while still focusing on the fundamentals of volleyball? Let me share with you some ideas I have learned over the years.

1. Change it up - There are literally hundreds of different volleyball drills. Each of the drills focus on a specific skill or a combination of different skills. Coaches, keep adding different drills to your practice plans in order to keep people alert, and focused.

2. Have some fun with practice - Volleyball drills and training do not always need to be boring. In fact, some of the funnest times I have ever had during practices is by turning the drills into a competition. Friendly competition among teammates is one sure way to keep things fresh.

Another way to have some fun with it is to get involved with your team. When you are having one of these competitions, jump in and play with the team if you are able. There will be an added level of fun and competitiveness if they can "beat the coach."

3. Frequently remind them of "their why" - It is easy to lose sight of the overall goal when training. Let's face it, training isn't always fun and enjoyable. But, there are ways to overcome this.

When the team can say "why" they want to be the best or "why" it is important to them to improve, it is good to remind them about their "why." This will keep them focused on their goals.

If the why can be focused on emotions, you will have better results. For example, "wanting to win" is not a strong enough why. Everyone wants to win. But if you add emotion to it, it becomes something like "I want feel the satisfaction of being a champion." Now, that means something!

These tips and ideas should help your volleyball drills and practices be more effective and fun! Enjoy!