FAQ

1. What makes Strandside different from other beach volleyball programs?

Strandside is built around long-term athlete development, not short-term wins. We focus on teaching fundamentals, decision-making, and confidence through consistent, intentional training. Our goal is not just to make better volleyball players, but to help athletes understand the game, enjoy the process, and grow as people.

 

2. Who coaches my child?

All training is led by experienced beach volleyball coaches under the direction of Eric Beranek, a former AVP professional and elite-level coach with experience across youth, high school, college, and professional volleyball. Practices are structured, supervised, and designed so every athlete receives instruction—not just repetitions.

 

3. How do you group athletes?

Athletes are grouped by age, experience, and ability, with flexibility to move as they progress. We prioritize putting athletes in environments where they are challenged but not overwhelmed. Development is not linear, and we account for that.

 

4. What does a typical practice look like?

Practices are structured and purposeful. Each session includes:

• A clear skill focus
   

• Game-like drills that encourage problem-solving
   

• Competitive play with constraints
   

• Coaching feedback throughout
   

We avoid long lines, wasted time, or “just playing” without instruction.

 

5. Will my child improve if they are new to beach volleyball?

Yes. Many athletes start with little or no beach experience. We teach proper movement, ball control, spacing, and court awareness from the ground up. Beach volleyball is one of the best environments for learning fundamentals, even for athletes who also play indoor or other sports.

 

6. How do you measure progress?

Progress is measured through:

• Skill consistency
   

• Game understanding and decision-making
   

• Confidence and communication
   

• Ability to compete under pressure
   

Improvement is not only about wins—it’s about how an athlete plays, thinks, and responds.

 

7. Is Strandside only for elite players?

No. Strandside serves a wide range of athletes, from beginners to advanced players. What matters most is attitude, effort, and a willingness to learn. We believe development should be accessible and challenging at every level.

 

8. How competitive is the environment?

Strandside is competitive, but healthy. Athletes are encouraged to compete hard, support teammates, and learn from mistakes. We emphasize respect, and communication. Never fear-based coaching.

 

9. How does Strandside support confidence and mindset?

We coach athletes through mistakes and teach them how to respond to pressure. Communication, body language, and problem-solving are taught intentionally. Athletes learn how to reset, adapt, and trust their preparation.

 

10. Does beach volleyball help indoor players?

Absolutely. Beach volleyball develops:

• Ball control and touch
   

• Footwork and balance
   

• Court awareness
   

• All-around skills
   

Many indoor athletes use beach volleyball to become more complete and resilient players.

 

11. What is the long-term pathway at Strandside?

Strandside provides a pathway from introductory training through advanced competition, with opportunities to progress into high school, collegiate, and beyond. We also support athletes with mentorship, film analysis, jump training, sports psychology, physical therapy and Nutrition expertise.

12. How often should my child train?

This depends on age, experience, and goals. We help families choose a schedule that supports growth without burnout. Reach out to make a plan. 

 

13. What do we expect from parents?

We ask parents to support the process, encourage effort, and trust development over short-term outcomes. Positive reinforcement and patience go a long way.

 

14. Is Strandside safe?

Yes. Athlete safety is a priority. We manage training volume, emphasize proper movement, and create an environment where athletes feel comfortable speaking up.

 

15. How do we get started?

You can sign up through our website or contact us directly with questions. We’re happy to help you find the right fit and answer any additional concerns.