Register now for Glen Ellyn Park District's Cyclones Volleyball League

Volleyball is a terrific sport that offers many benefits to those who play. After developing fundamental skills such as setting, passing, and serving, the sport can be played indoors, on grass, and even on the beach. Those who play regularly get valuable exercise, and develop improved hand-eye coordination, agility, speed, and balance. Muscles are strengthened and toned, and flexibility improves due to quick changes of pace and direction.

The social benefits are also very positive, as the game can be played with one partner or a whole team. Interpersonal and communication skills are improved, and the exercise boosts mood and reduces stress.

Volleyball is an exciting Olympic sport for both men and women, and top high school players can get valuable scholarships to play volleyball in college.

The Glen Ellyn Park District offers a volleyball program for beginning and developing players in fourth to eighth grade, presented by the area's top club volleyball team.

The Cyclones Volleyball League is fun and recreational, and offers professional instruction and training to kids hoping to master the sport.

"Each week, players will meet for a Monday evening practice with their team," said Christine Hartnett, recreation supervisor for the Glen Ellyn Park District. "Practices are led by professional coaches from the Cyclones Volleyball Club, along with assistance from volunteer parent coaches. After a few weeks of practices, we'll run games on Tuesday evenings, so the players are able to get game play experience and put the skills they've learned into practice."

The fourth- to fifth-grade program is co-ed, but the sixth- to eighth-grade league is currently only offered for girls.

"Teams are formed by the park district and are based on player evaluations," added Hartnett. "Once teams are formed, practice times and game schedules will be released."

Practices and games will be held at Churchill School and Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center, respectively. A post-season tournament will cap off the season in mid-May.

The registration deadline for Cyclones Volleyball is Friday, Feb. 15.

Player evaluations will take place Tuesday, Feb. 26, and practices begin March 4 and run through May 6.

Games begin April 9 and wind up on May 14.

For more information about the Cyclones Volleyball League, contact Christine Hartnett at chartnett@gepark.org, or visit gepark.org.