Michelle Brittain-Watts is in her 5th season as the head volleyball coach for the Pike High School Lady Red Devils.
Brittain-Watts has a wealth of experience as a coach and player. She is also the founder and director of the Starlings Volleyball program in Indianapolis.
I recently sat down with arguably the most experienced and active volleyball coaches in the city to discuss the state of volleyball in urban Indianapolis.
Coach E: Describe the state of volleyball in Indianapolis?
Coach Brittain-Watts: I believe the state of volleyball in inner city Indianapolis is stagnant. Efforts are being made to grow the sport here, but many are not taking advantage of the opportunities and programming available.
Why aren’t more girls participating?
Girls are not learning the basic fundamentals of the sport and there are not enough opportunities for them to learn the sport in physical education classes. Also, many volleyball training programs/clubs within the city or county are not located within a reasonable locale for many of these girls. Cost is yet another factor. Most volleyball training programs cost an excessive amount and provide minimal inner city outreach.
Why does it cost so much to play club volleyball?
Volleyball is a money-making sport, when it comes to clubs. Most clubs are locally owned businesses and are generally owned by a few people. However, in my opinion, does it have to cost such large amounts? No. We are a non-profit organization supported by low cost fees, grants and sponsorship dollars and provide quality instruction with the emphasis on skills acquisition and improvement during the off season for improved participation levels at our participants’ home schools during season.
Why did you start the Starlings volleyball club?
In an attempt to address the lack of participation in volleyball by minority girls, I started Starlings Volleyball Club-Indianapolis in 1996. Our program provides volleyball training and competitive playing opportunities for girls with limited resources. Additionally, we hold volleyball academies at various community center locations.
Do you have fundraising opportunities for parents?
Fundraising efforts are ongoing for our club. Most, if not all-participant fees are paid with fundraising efforts.
How can someone assist or donate to your club?
Currently, we are raising money to attend the Starlings National Championship Tournament in San Diego, Calif., which will take place June 16-20. For several of the players, this will be their first time on an airplane and first time out of the city and for others, this is an opportunity to gain exposure for possible participation at the college level.
For more information, call (317) 201-6422 or e-mail starlingsindy@sbcglobal.net.
