Choosing a junior club is a big decision. Here's how to compare programs in the Lawrence area — on coaching, team size, cost, and travel — and find the right fit for your athlete.
If your athlete is ready to move beyond rec or school ball, club volleyball is the next step — more coaching, more reps, and more competition. Lawrence families have a few good options, and the "best" club is the one that fits your athlete's goals, your budget, and how far you're able to travel. Below is what to look for, the programs in the area, and how to try out.
Six things worth asking every program before you commit.
Is the environment positive and development-focused, or win-at-all-costs? Ask how coaches handle mistakes and playing time.
Smaller rosters usually mean more reps and more court time. Ask how many athletes are on each team.
Ask what the season fee includes — coaching, gym time, tournament entries, uniforms — and what's extra.
How many tournaments, and how far? Travel load is one of the biggest differences between programs.
Make sure the club fields your athlete's age group. Use the HOA/USAV age calculator if you're unsure.
Where and how often are practices? A local gym in Lawrence saves a lot of weeknight driving.
Families comparing junior volleyball in and around Lawrence often look at a few programs. We'd encourage you to contact each one directly for current age groups, fees, and schedules — every club has its own strengths, and the right choice depends on your athlete.
We're not the biggest club in the area — and that's the point. Elevate was founded on a simple idea: athletes grow fastest when they feel empowered, supported, and challenged. Here's what sets us apart.
Evidence-based, encouragement-first coaching that builds confident athletes and better teammates.
More reps, more court time, more individual attention — every athlete matters.
No prior club experience required. We evaluate effort and attitude, not just existing skill.
Practices right here in Lawrence, KS — less weeknight driving for your family.
Meet the people who'll be coaching your athlete on our coaches & philosophy page.
Families in the Lawrence area typically compare a few junior programs, including the Lawrence Landsharks, Starlings, and Elevate Lawrence Volleyball Club. Each has its own age groups, fees, and tournament schedule, so it's worth contacting each club directly to find the best fit for your athlete.
Fees vary widely by program, number of tournaments, and how much travel is involved. When comparing programs, ask what the season fee includes — coaching, gym time, tournament entries, uniforms — and whether there are additional travel or equipment costs.
Junior club tryouts in the Lawrence area are generally held in the summer for the following season. Elevate holds 12U and 15U tryouts at Holcom Park Recreation Center — see our tryouts page for current dates and registration.
Elevate currently fields 12U and 15U teams, practicing locally in Lawrence. Not sure which age group your athlete falls in? Use the HOA/USAV age calculator to check the correct division.
See if Elevate is the right fit — tryouts are open for 12U and 15U, and open gyms run all summer.