Former Olympic Coach Joins Volleyball Training Camp at Roberts Wesleyan
A Notable Event
The Roberts Wesleyan men’s volleyball team recently held a landmark training workshop with renowned volleyball expert John Speraw. As the team enters its second year, this event represents a significant milestone in its development and offers young players the valuable opportunity to learn from the very best in the sport.
Mike Dedee’s Journey at RWU
Mike Dedee was appointed as the inaugural head coach for the Roberts Wesleyan men’s volleyball team. Though long associated with volleyball, coaching in a collegiate environment is a new and exciting challenge for him. Dedee is deeply committed to advancing the team and providing maximum support to his players.
Support from John Speraw
John Speraw, one of the most celebrated volleyball coaches in the United States, began his coaching career at UC Irvine. He has earned two Olympic bronze medals and led multiple successful teams. Speraw’s presence at the workshop not only brought invaluable professional knowledge but also provided Dedee an opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s best.
The Volleyball Training Workshop
The two-day workshop attracted top volleyball players from across the nation. Training sessions focused on skill-building, strategy, and team cohesion, giving players a platform to elevate their game. RWU team captain Jonah Grbic emphasized the workshop’s value, saying: “What they take home from this experience is truly invaluable.” This highlights the necessity of such events to nurture young talent in volleyball.
Volleyball: A Growing Sport
Research indicates volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. The number of girls’ youth volleyball clubs has doubled from 1,750 members in 2004-2005 to 3,880 in 2023-2024. Meanwhile, the number of boys participating in high school volleyball has surged from 42,878 in 2005-2006 to 85,255 in 2023-2024.
Impact on the Community
Gretchen Klossner, a senior at Rush-Henrietta High School, noted that high-profile volleyball figures help draw more attention to the sport. “If we bring big names to Rochester, more people will come here to watch volleyball, transforming this into a volleyball community,” she said.
The Future of Volleyball at Roberts Wesleyan
As head coach, Mike Dedee hopes to elevate volleyball at Roberts Wesleyan and within the surrounding community. “We are very excited about this season,” Dedee remarked. His passion and dedication will undoubtedly drive the team forward in the coming years. John Speraw also expressed optimism about volleyball’s future in the U.S. He believes that by collaborating and fostering a better understanding of the game, industry leaders can create unique opportunities for the youth. “There has been incredible organic growth in this sport,” Speraw noted.
A New Season Ahead
The Roberts Wesleyan men’s volleyball team kicks off their new season on January 7, facing St. John Fisher on home turf. This game is a pivotal chance for the team to showcase what they’ve learned during the workshop and through their preparations. Fans eagerly anticipate stellar performances from the team this season. With guidance from experienced coaches like John Speraw and Mike Dedee, the team’s prospects for success are higher than ever.
A Period of Rapid Growth
Roberts Wesleyan is undergoing an exciting growth phase as its men’s volleyball program embarks on its second year. The training workshop, featuring John Speraw, has opened invaluable learning opportunities for the players. As volleyball continues to grow rapidly in the U.S., the dedication of coaches and players ensures the sport’s continued rise. Both Mike Dedee and John Speraw share a vision for volleyball’s bright future, striving to build a strong foundation for generations to come.
With determination and passion driving its team, Roberts Wesleyan is poised to become a leading volleyball hub in the region. Stay tuned for the upcoming season and the milestones the team is sure to achieve!
