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Frequently Asked Questions
Tournaments & Events FAQ
Q: How many tournaments do teams go to? Is there a schedule that we can refer to?
A: The number of tournaments attended varies by age group. We typically register teams for at least 8-14 tournament dates. Generally speaking, younger teams attend fewer tournaments, and older teams attend more. Older teams may also participate in out-of-state tournaments more often. Our informational packet includes a list of potential tournaments that our staff will be registering players for. The coaching staff will discuss any adjustments or changes to the schedule with the team before the change. Finalized schedules will be provided to all families at the beginning of the season.
Q: Where are the tournaments? How do I get to these tournaments? Why are the tournaments so far?
A: Regional tournaments are held all over the state of Illinois. Windy City Aces focused on regional competitions at the most convenient locations, with <1.5 hours of travel time for our farthest tournament. While the drives can be early and long at times, we limit participation at these farther tournaments, with our only listed out-of-state tournament in Wisconsin. The club will provide hotel options but will not be covered by the club fees. Transportation is only covered by some clubs in Illinois due to insurance liability. Parents and guardians are responsible for their athletes' transportation to and from tournament events. Many family members typically speak and get in touch with other team members. Our organization recommends developing a carpool system to make getting to tournaments easier!
Q: How long do tournaments typically last?
A: Local club tournaments occur on Saturdays or Sundays and are usually all-day events. Your coach will likely ask you to show up at the tournament site between 7 and 8 a.m. the tournament will end sometime between 4 and 7 p.m., depending on the team's assigned schedule. Tournaments are usually one- to two-day events and will usually occur on more extended weekends
Q: Why are tournaments so long?
A: Club volleyball operates on a more in-depth and complex scale than your typical Park District youth program. The hours committed can be pretty shocking at first; however, families quickly get accustomed to the practice and tournament schedule while seeing immense growth in skills and gameplay for their young athletes. Parents quickly learn to bring a good book or an iPad with a movie downloaded to watch in between all the intense competition!
Club FAQ
Q: What is the difference between recreational leagues and club volleyball?
A: Many youth recreational volleyball programs and park district leagues are designed to be an
introduction to volleyball. These recreational programs may offer only one level of competition. Still, in most cases, they are a great way to stay fresh and build a good skill foundation in a sport. Comparatively, recreational programs tend to be low-cost and low-commitment. You can learn a lot (and have fun) in a quality recreational program. Still, if you have decided you really enjoy volleyball and want to take your skills to the next level, then club volleyball would be the logical next step. Like other "travel" sports, club volleyball is more intensive in its training and competition. It is also a more significant commitment with a higher cost.
Q: How long does the club's season last?
A: The boys season will run from September 24th until February 3rd.
The girls season will run from November 18th until March 16th.
Q: Many club mottos and "coaching approaches" sound similar; how do I decide?
A: Virtually every club has specific ideals and approaches to teaching the sport. Each club's mission
statement is unique. Look at how the club operates and decide whether the club's philosophy is right for you.
Q: Why should I join Windy City Aces when so many more established clubs are available clubs
available?
A: While it is true that youth is no guarantee of change or innovation, our coaches and organization's
commitment to providing the same club experience at other programs at a fraction of the price means we can cater to all ranges of students interested in learning the game. Our club holds the same credentials as competitors, certified by USAV, JVA, and AAU. All of our coaching staff complete annual IMPACT training and Safesport certifications and have accreditations through the USAV and JVA coaching curricula. Our club does not allow factors such as availability and price tags to stop students from participating in this experience.
Q: I also play basketball and softball for my high school and plan to have a part in the spring musical. Will that be a problem?
A: Windy City Aces fully supports its players' involvement in activities other than volleyball. We believe that physical health and wellness require a balanced knowledge of a variety of physical activities. We further believe that athletes who participate in multiple sports develop many skills that are pertinent to our sport as well. While participation in other sports during the off-season is acceptable, club volleyball is a commitment between yourself, your teammates, and your coaching staff. Club seasons overlap with certain sports seasons. Suppose your activities outside of volleyball will cause you to miss several practices and tournaments. In that case, re-evaluating your commitment to the team may be required.
Cost FAQ
Q: What can I expect to pay for club volleyball?
A: We have a breakdown of our advertised club fee and any required external costs, such as JVA and AAU membership fees. These external costs are needed for tournament competition; our organization does not receive any percentage of these fees. Many clubs around the state will require the same fees if participating in JVA or AAU-sanctioned tournaments. Aside from the listed club dues, Windy City Aces will not expect any families to pay further costs. The coaching staff may offer to register teams for additional tournaments during the season. Still, these details will be discussed with the parents and athletes before registration and will not be mandatory. There are no extra expenses or hidden fees. Many club programs offer a "uniform package" as an external fee that will not be included in the advertised price. Our price includes all mandatory equipment, such as jerseys, shorts, bags, and warm-up apparel. We aim to be as transparent as possible with our costs.
Q: Club volleyball costs are high, and the commitment level is too high. What if I can't handle it and have to drop out? Can I not finish paying my dues and get a refund?
A: Please speak to our coaching staff and financial officer. Reach out if anything becomes overwhelming. We aim to work with both the athlete and parents to make the experience as simple and accessible as possible. While we strive to provide this flexibility, we cannot assure any refunds, as registrations and equipment orders may have already been placed.
Q: Clubs cost a lot of money. Am I guaranteed a chance to play?
A: We understand the importance of playing time in matches at Windy City Aces. That's why we limit our team sizes, unlike most clubs that offer team sizes of 12–14 players. Smaller teams provide the best experience and offer adequate playing time. Our goal is for all players on a team to consistently be in the playing rotation to some extent. Our mission statement is that players gain experience on the court, not sitting on the sidelines. However, volleyball is a team sport with six spots on the court. The coaching staff will always use their best discretion in making game-time decisions to put the success of the team over individual players.
Q: Does Windy City Aces provide college volleyball opportunities? Will my money be worth it?
A: We understand that club volleyball programs are a significant investment at Windy City Aces. We want to assure you that your money will be worth it. Our program is a gateway to entering tournaments throughout the state, where many recruiters observe matchplay against the best teams in the nation. These high-level tournaments allow our athletes to showcase their skills and potential. While no club program can guarantee a college scholarship, our coaching staff will provide all opportunities possible to enable recruiters to observe our athletes directly. Our coaching team will actively work with recruiters to ensure every athlete's potential is observed.
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