Better Together

In this episode of Better Together, we sit down with United 16 Blue head coach Jeff Norman to talk about what it truly means to coach with purpose.Jeff shares his unique path into volleyball and how starting without prior volleyball experience shaped the way he approaches teaching, learning, and player development. We dive into servant leadership, fear-based versus love-based coaching, and how competitiveness can show up in healthy, team-first ways.In this conversation, we cover:Jeff’s journey into volleyball and how starting without prior volleyball experience shaped his coaching approachWhy being a lifelong learner is essential for effective player developmentThe difference between fear-based coaching and love-based coachingHow servant leadership shows up in everyday moments on the courtWhat true competitiveness looks like in a team sportHelping athletes navigate mistakes, bad days, and tough performancesWhy focusing on the next point matters more than dwelling on the last oneCoaching athletes through the pivotal developmental stage of the 16s age groupBalancing joy, accountability, and high expectationsTeaching athletes to support teammates - and themselves - through adversityThis episode is packed with insight for coaches, athletes, and parents who believe that meaningful development goes far beyond the scoreboard. Join us back next week for Part 2!

In part two of our conversation with registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith, we zoom out and tackle what fueling looks like across an entire volleyball season - especially from a parent’s perspective.Through real tournament scenarios, age-specific examples, and audience-submitted questions, Alyssum breaks down how families can plan ahead, build healthy habits, and support athletes without creating restriction or pressure. This episode goes beyond food lists and focuses on preparation, consistency, and setting athletes up for success both on and off the court.Whether you’re navigating early-morning matches, multi-day qualifiers, or the influence of social media nutrition advice, this episode offers practical guidance you can actually use.What you’ll hear in Part 2:How to fuel a 12U athlete during early-morning, multi-day tournamentsAdjusting nutrition needs for older athletes competing at qualifiersWhy planning ahead matters more than “perfect” mealsHow parents can support fueling without creating restriction or food shameSigns an athlete may be under-fueling - physically and hormonallyWhy hydration needs to be proactive, not reactiveHow different volleyball positions may influence fueling needsA realistic “stair-step” approach to improving nutrition habitsHow to navigate nutrition misinformation on social mediaMyth vs. fact: common beliefs about nerves, fruit, and protein barsAlyssum’s advice for parents supporting long-term athlete health and confidenceWhat it truly means to be better together when it comes to fueling athletesIf you missed Part 1, go back and listen as we explore how nutrition impacts nerves, focus, hydration, and mental performance during competition.

What if some of the nerves, brain fog, and missed decisions on the court aren’t about skill - but about fueling?In part one of our conversation with registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith, we dig into how nutrition directly impacts the nervous system, focus, confidence, and in-game decision making for volleyball athletes. From energy drinks and hydration to carbs as brain fuel, this episode connects the dots between what athletes eat and how they perform - mentally and physically.This conversation is especially timely as club season kicks off and athletes prepare for long competition days, early mornings, and high-pressure moments.What you’ll hear in Part 1:How under-fueling can increase anxiety, shakiness, and in-game mistakesThe connection between nutrition, the nervous system, and mental toughnessWhy carbs are the brain’s primary fuel - and how that affects focus and reaction timeHow energy drinks can worsen nerves when they replace real foodSmart snack strategies for between matches and setsWhy “not eating at all” before competition can backfireHow hydration impacts decision making, not just physical performanceCommon fueling misunderstandings parents have - especially for anxious athletesThe importance of timing food to support both calm and sustained energyThis is just part one - be sure to come back next week as we continue the conversation!

In Part 3, the final episode of our Ask the Directors series, Coach Korohen and Coach Scott bring the conversation full circle with practical advice, reflection, and a little fun.They start by sharing simple but impactful ways parents can make tournament weekends easier and less stressful for their athletes. From there, they reflect on favorite memories from coaching at United and the moments that remind them why relationships matter just as much as results.The episode wraps with some lighthearted questions - from choosing a “United Volleyball theme song” to building a dream team from our coaching staff - offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people, personalities, and values that shape our club.Thanks to all of the families and athletes who submitted questions throughout this series. Your curiosity and honesty helped shape these conversations, and we’re grateful to be part of the journey with you!📝 SHOW NOTES - PART 3Tips from Coach Korohen and Coach Scott for reducing stress on tournament weekendsWhy preparation, consistency, and parent energy matterCreating a supportive environment before athletes ever step on the courtMoments that go beyond wins and lossesChoosing a “United Volleyball” theme songBuilding a volleyball team from United coaches

In Part 2 of our Ask the Directors series, we shift the focus from the court to the bigger picture - how to support young athletes in a healthy, sustainable way.This episode dives into multi-sport participation, how parents can encourage skill development without burnout, and what meaningful support really looks like for athletes who are new to volleyball or new to United. We also touch on future opportunities, including beach volleyball, boys’ recruiting pathways, and options for athletes who want to play in college without being on a national team.Rather than focusing on quick results, this conversation centers on guidance, balance, and long-term development - the pieces that help athletes stay healthy, confident, and connected to the sport.📝 SHOW NOTES - PART 2Specialization vs. multi-sport participation: when to lean in and when to pull backFueling for practices and competition: nutrition guidance we trust and whyEncouraging skill work at home without pressure or burnoutHow parents can best support growth - and what to avoidWhat to expect from United’s spring beach volleyball programRecruiting pathways for boys in volleyballPlaying in college without a national team background

In this episode, we kick off our second Ask the Directors series - shaped entirely by questions from our United families and athletes.You asked thoughtful, honest questions and today, our directors are sitting down to talk through them. This conversation offers transparency, context, and insight into the decisions that drive our club environment and athlete experience.Thank you for sending in your questions - we’re excited to keep the conversation going across this series!

This week, we’re gathering the voices that have shaped Better Together from the beginning.In honor of Thanksgiving, we pulled answers to one question we ask every guest - “What does it mean to be better together?” - from across both seasons.It’s a celebration of the people, stories, and shared values that make our community what it is… and a reminder of how thankful we are for each of you.From all of us at United, thank you for being part of our community - for showing up, growing with us, and reminding us that we’re all better together. Happy Thanksgiving!

Coach Scott Ingwersen brings a calm, encouraging, and joy-centered approach to coaching - and it shows in how his athletes respond to him. In this episode, Scott shares how he got started, how coaching his daughters shaped his “why,” and why building confident, fearless, joy-filled players matters far more than wins or losses.From embracing mistakes to celebrating growth to helping young athletes find their voice, this conversation is full of wisdom for parents, players, and coaches alike.📌 What We CoverWhy encouragement and positivity are foundational in his coachingBalancing fundamentals with giving athletes freedom to explore instinctsWhy mistakes are essential - and how he teaches athletes to embrace themThe importance of proactive communication with players and parentsHelping 14s develop confidence, emotional agility, and joy in the processHow to build a team culture of forgiveness, support, and no-fear volleyballThe generation shift: why players today want the why behind the game planScott’s favorite coaching moments, his goals for this season, and the motto he wants his team to live byRapid-fire insights: toughest position to coach, favorite drills, and more

In this episode, we’re joined by Scott Jones and Alex Owen to share the story behind United in Service - our new initiative connecting athletes and families through giving back. Together, we explore how the program came to life, why community involvement matters, and how serving others builds stronger teams, deeper connections, and lasting impact beyond volleyball.

As many of our former United athletes near the end of their first college volleyball seasons, we’re taking a look back at where their journeys began - the recruitment process. This episode revisits their original conversations from last season, where they shared how they found their fit, made their decisions, and prepared for life at the next level.Recruitment is more than just choosing a program - it’s about understanding who you are as a player and a person. These stories highlight the lessons, mindset, and trust it takes to step confidently into the next chapter.We can’t wait to catch up with these athletes later this winter to hear how the transition to college life has shaped them - how they’ve grown, adapted, and continued building on the foundation they’ve worked hard to create.

In Part 2 of our partnership announcement series with SportsMED Orthopedic Surgery & Spine Center and Triple Threat Performance, we’re diving deeper into how this collaboration will elevate the health, safety, and performance of our United athletes.Our conversation covers what parents, coaches, and players really need to know about recognizing warning signs, building healthy recovery habits, and optimizing training the right way - not just harder.Discover what sets Triple Threat apart, how communication between coaches and care teams impacts return-to-play success, and why proper sleep might just be the ultimate performance enhancer.📝 Show NotesRecognizing red flags: How to tell when fatigue signals something bigger than normal tirednessThe truth about recovery: Why sleep is the most powerful performance tool availableWarm-up & cool-down essentials: Preventing injuries before they happenSoreness vs. injury: How athletes can tell the difference and respond safelyTriple Threat’s edge: What makes their certified staff and methods stand outThe power of communication: How trainers, coaches, and parents can align for athlete successTrust in the process: Why belief in your recovery team matters just as much as the work itselfInnovations in sports medicine: How technology like force plates and data-driven testing are shaping the future of youth athleticsWe explore what holistic athlete care really looks like - and how collaboration between coaches, parents, and medical professionals builds a more supportive environment for every player.This partnership is about more than performance - it’s about people. Together with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance, we’re building a system where athletes can grow stronger, recover smarter, and thrive both on and off the court. 

United Volleyball has partnered with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance to bring next-level care and training to our athletes. From injury prevention and same-day appointments to performance strength training and return-to-sport recovery, this partnership is built to keep players healthy, confident, and ready to compete.Join Korohen as she sits down with the SportsMED and Triple Threat team to talk about what this collaboration means for our athletes, parents, and coaches - and how holistic care can transform the athlete experience.Show Notes:What inspired the partnership and how it benefits United athletes year-roundWhy quick access to care matters for player availability and confidenceHow prevention, treatment, and training now work hand in handWhat “return-to-sport” really looks like done the right wayHow United is building a stronger, healthier athlete communityThis partnership is about more than performance - it’s about empowering athletes to move better, play longer, and reach their full potential. Be sure to join us next week as we continue the conversation!

In part two of our conversation with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, we dive into the moments, lessons, and people that have shaped her as both a coach and a person. Audrey shares one of her most memorable coaching experiences with United, reflects on the influence that’s guided her coaching journey, and opens up about how the United community continues to impact her growth.We also explore what “Better Together” means to her - and how celebration, joy, and connection show up in her coaching philosophy and team culture.📌 In this episode:Audrey’s most memorable coaching moment with UnitedThe biggest influence on her coaching journey - and the lessons that stuckHow the United community has helped her grow on and off the courtWhat “Better Together” means to her in coaching and lifeWhy celebration, joy, and gratitude are vital parts of team cultureA heartfelt close to this two-part series that reminds us why we coach, how we grow, and what it truly means to lead with heart.

This week, we sit down with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, for an authentic conversation about adaptability, leadership, and finding purpose in the game.From growing up with a new coach every season to playing every position in college, Audrey’s volleyball journey taught her how to read people, reflect deeply, and stay grounded in her “why.” She opens up about her recruiting story, what keeps her coaching year after year, and the lessons that continue shaping her approach to developing players - both on and off the court.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Audrey’s experience as a multi-position athlete and how it shaped her perspective as a coachLessons learned from having a new coach nearly every season growing upHer recruiting story and the decision-making process behind choosing a collegeWhat keeps her motivated and fulfilled as a coach season after seasonHow reflection and observation guide her coaching styleKey principles she instills in players for growth on and off the courtThe importance of adaptability, confidence, and creativity for 14U athletesWhether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is full of thoughtful takeaways on growth, competition, and connection.

Volleyball has been in Emma Jarrett’s life since she could walk - literally. In this episode, she shares stories of growing up in the gym, balancing multiple sports, and making the leap from college player to UAH assistant coach. She talks recruiting, resilience, and why focusing on the process beats obsessing over the scoreboard. In this episode, we sit down with Emma to talk about:Guiding players through the challenges of balancing school, sports, and the emotional ups and downs of being a student-athlete.How growing up with her mom as a coach shaped not only her love for volleyball, but the way she shows up for her players today.The lessons she hopes to leave with athletes that go far beyond the skills on the court.What qualities she and the UAH staff look for when evaluating high school athletesLiving with a servant mindset: how to show up for teammates, coaches, athletes, and the program as a whole.Full of heart, insight, and practical wisdom, this episode speaks to anyone striving to grow in sport or life. Emma’s reflections on mindset, teamwork, and leadership are thoughtful, grounded, and easy to carry into the game.

Join us for the final chapter of our conversation with Tristan Johnson, head coach of University of North Alabama volleyball, as he shares the story of his journey from small-town Texas to leading a Division I program.Growing up with volleyball in his family, Tristan’s path started unexpectedly. Through chance encounters, bold moves, and taking on responsibility at a young age, he climbed the coaching ranks - from Blinn Junior College to powerhouse programs like Alabama, Arkansas State, and Southern Illinois -before landing at UNA. Along the way, he gained national team experience, learned from elite mentors, and built a network that helped shape his philosophy.In this episode, Tristan shares:How early experiences and family influenced his love for the gameSeizing opportunities and taking responsibility as a young coachLessons learned from elite programs and national team involvementThe mindset and habits that helped him grow as both a coach and a personTune in to hear Tristan’s candid insights, powerful advice, and the story behind his rise to UNA volleyball - a conversation packed with lessons for athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating their path to success.

In part two of our conversation with Alyssum Reno-Smith, The Non-Diet Sports RD, we dive into the biggest myths and mistakes athletes make with nutrition - and how volleyball players can simplify fueling to play their best.From caffeine to common misconceptions, this episode covers what every athlete, parent, and coach needs to know to help athletes feel confident, focused, and fueled on and off the court.What you’ll hear in Part 2:How to encourage young athletes to fuel properly despite peer pressure around body imageCommon nutrition myths athletes believe (and the truth behind them)Caffeine: does it help or hurt performance?How under-fueling impacts focus, reaction time, and decision-making on the courtA common mistake athletes make with their nutrition during tournamentsAlyssum’s best advice for athletes to improve their nutrition without overcomplicating itSocial media Q&A: her answers to the most common questions athletes wanted to hear from a dietitianIf you missed part one, be sure to go back and listen to hear Alyssum’s journey from athlete to dietitian, her fueling tips for tournaments, and why hydration is the hidden key to performance.

What you eat and drink can make or break your performance on the court. And today’s guest knows exactly how to help volleyball players fuel and hydrate smarter.In this episode, we sit down with Alyssum Reno-Smith, a former athlete turned registered dietitian, to talk about how nutrition and hydration directly impact energy, recovery, and performance. From what to eat before tournaments to how to stay fueled and hydrated between matches, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can start using right away.What you’ll hear in Part 1:Alyssum’s journey from athlete to becoming a registered dietitianThe difference between an RD and a nutrition counselor (and why it matters)Why preparation is key during long tournament daysThe importance of timing meals before and after practices & matchesHow your performance can change depending on what foods you eatThe all-important topic of hydration and drinking enough waterGo-to recommendations for quick and easy pre-practice and pre-game snacksAnd this is only part one! Be sure to come back next week as we dive deeper into nutrition strategies every athlete needs to know - from recovery and travel fueling to busting the biggest myths around food and performance.

Not every athlete’s path is linear. United alum Audrey Krichev didn’t plan to play at Amherst, but when the opportunity came, she embraced it - and it’s shaped her college experience in ways she never expected.📌 Show NotesHow Audrey’s recruiting journey unfolded - and the surprises along the wayWhy she didn’t originally plan to play at Amherst, and how the opportunity openedHer mindset shift when stepping onto the teamHow volleyball has shaped her college experienceThe reality of balancing academics with athletics at a high-level institutionFrom balancing rigorous coursework with athletics to the personal growth volleyball continues to bring, Audrey opens up about her journey on and off the court.

In part two of our conversation with UNA Head Coach Tristan Johnson, we dig into the real details of recruiting that athletes often wonder about but rarely get clear answers on. From first impressions in an email to what he’s really looking for in a highlight film, Tristan shares how athletes can separate themselves in the recruiting process - and what growth looks like once they step on campus.📌 What to Expect:What makes an athlete’s initial outreach stand out - and what coaches notice first in an email.The right timing to initiate and build communication with a college coach.Why highlight films matter and how athletes should prioritize their strengths when creating one.How Tristan helps players handle the jump from club to college volleyball.The one piece of advice he wishes every recruit could hear before starting their recruiting journey.In the coming weeks, stay tuned for the third and final part of our conversation - where Tristan opens up about his own journey into volleyball, what brought him to UNA, and the lessons that continue to shape his coaching today.