"MORE THAN JUST VOLLEYBALL"
951 Elite's 18-1 Phiten Team is the team that all the young players at 951 Elite aspire to someday play on. Being on that team comes a huge responsibility to be an example of how an elite athlete should conduct themselves, even in the heat of competition. Once you get to this level, you are expected to compete at the highest level, always pressing on to win matches. This year at the Southern California Junior National Qualifier, the 18-1 team had a tough first match to play against Club Red 18-Brian. The match was very close and competitive. In the middle of the first game, the Libero for Club Red sustained a tournament ending injury. The match continued on and 951 Elite came out on top. Later that day, players on 951's team found out that the Libero, Lindy had gone to hospital where she was diagnosed with a concussion and that she would not be able to play the rest of the tournament. Our players felt so bad for Lindy so they decided to do something for Lindy. With some help from our team mom, Leah Wiltgen, the team went out and got Lindy a little gift and get well card to make her feel better. The next day, Lexi Dempsey, Tyler Davis and few more of our players located Lindy and gave her her gift and get well card. Lindy was very surprised and it brought tears to her's and our players eyes. Our goal at 951 Elite is to develop our players to become not only great volleyball players, but to become incredible young ladies. The act of kindness that our players showed Lindy makes all of us at 951 Elite so proud them. All the up and coming young players at 951 Elite should look up to these players and aspire to be like them. At the end of the day, volleyball is still just a game! Love playing the game, but don't loose focus of the big picture!! We are so proud of our girls!!! Below is a picture of our 18-1 Team and their new friends at Club Red. Also attached is a letter written to 951 Elite from Mark Dyer (Lindy's Father):
Dennis, I must introduce myself to you and your wonderful team. My daughter Lindy hurt herself and sustained a concussion in the first match of the tournament (Friday). She was quickly taken to the hospital and later released being told that she would not be playing the rest of the tournament and maybe quite a bit longer depending on how long her symptoms would last. As you can imagine this was very tough on Lindy and many of her good friends on the team. Although she wasn't able to make it back that day to watch, she was able to come the next morning. Prior to their first match, a few of your girls and others from your team showed one of the classiest moves I have ever witnessed. Handing Lindy a nice gift and a card signed by the whole team was amazing. It brought tears to Lindy's eyes and impressed every parent and team member at our club. The fact that your team was reffing that match and showed this type of kindness was beyond any expectations. Lindy has played club now for 7 years and during that time, I have heard many good things about 951 Elite. I have to admit though now that we are more impressed with 951 Elite than ever. The leadership you have shown as the owner/director has clearly trickled down to the fantastic young ladies on your team. Some of the comments on the card were so appreciated by Lindy; including the prayers and well wishes. I only hope that the clubs in Arizona show the same kind of respect to other teams as you have shown. We did take Lindy back to Phoenix tonight so she could rest her head as she gets too excited when she is watching her team as we saw today. I did notice that we may be playing each other tomorrow and wish I was there to thank you in person. In the meantime, I told the CEO of Court One, where Club Red and a few other clubs practice of what your team did for Lindy. His name is Mitch Brown. He told me that if 951 Elite ever comes to Phoenix and needs a place to practice, play or anything, that Court One would be your home. Thanks much from the Dyer family!
951 ELITE VOLLEYBALL PHILOSOPHY
MISSION STATEMENT
951 Elite Volleyball is committed to providing the finest volleyball experience possible for all parties: parents, players, and coaches. We strongly believe that the success of this organization is measured by its excellence both on and off the court and that, by working together, we can all enjoy a successful and productive season. We believe that our players' pursuit of excellence on the court is made easier by a similar dedication from all members of 951 Elite Volleyball. To this end, each member of 951 Elite Volleyball has the following expectations:
951 ELITE PLAYERS
HAVE FUN. Treat teammates, coaches, opponents, and referees with respect; recognize skillful play and do not ridicule opponents. Attempt to win with your skill, effort, tactics and fair play. Set an example for other club players with a positive work ethic and attitude. Remember that you are part of a team and a club and that your actions reflect not only upon yourself, but also on the rest of this organization and community.
951 ELITE PARENTS/GUARDIANS
Be involved and be positive. Encourage your child in her athletic and academic endeavors. Set a good example by your conduct and sportsmanship. Allow the coach to direct the play of the team. Direct constructive criticism at the proper time and place. Realize that, in 5 years, no one will remember the score!
951 ELITE COACHES
Act professionally at all 951 Elite Volleyball events; be a teacher, a leader and a role model. Set high standards for your own conduct and the conduct of your team members. Treat all players honestly and fairly. Commit to helping all players reach their highest potential as teammates and individuals.
951 ELITE STAFF
Conduct 951 Elite Volleyball business with honesty and integrity; be fiscally responsible. Treat parents and players with respect. Ensure that 951 Elite Volleyball conforms to its own Mission Statement as well as USVA/SCVA Policies. Remember that we exist for the benefit of youth and not the egos of adults.