Which division is the best fit for me?

Below are descriptions of the divisions of play in our league. If you are a first-time player in our league and are planning to be rated, we encourage you to choose a division conservatively, and during the rating process we will suggest you try for a higher division if your level of play demonstrates that ability.

  • Recreational play is for beginners and lower-skill players, and you do not need to be rated to play in this division.
  • Intermediate-level play is for people who have developed the basic skills of volleyball (pass, set, hit, etc. in a comfortable-pace game) but are still working on learning complex skills and knowledge to run a faster game. Players begin to specialize in positions such as hitter or setter. Teams typically use a 4-2 rotation with setting in the center or on the right.
  • Competitive play uses a 5-1 or 6-2 rotation, and players here understand both. Players at this level have a reliable technical foundation in passing, hitting, blocking, knowledge, and ability. Higher-level Competitive players are developing more complex skills and the ability to carry out faster/more complex plays. Positions are specialized, with setters, hitters (outside, right-side, middle), and libero, and players are comfortable with a variety of offenses/defenses. A player in this division could be expected to play reasonably well in a USAV/NAGVA B-level tournament. Playing at this level without proper knowledge and execution would add chaos to the court and possibly lead to injury of you or others.
  • Power features a faster-paced game with consistent skills in dedicated positions. A Power game features strong hits, defense, and reliably well-executed skills. Players at this level are very consistent with skill execution and can maintain the faster pace of play. Knowledge and pace are consistent with at least a high-level juniors club volleyball player. A player in this division could be expected to compete strongly at a USAV/NAGVA B-level tournament, and could hold their own in a USAV/NAGVA BB-level tournament.  If you have not played fast-paced, competitive volleyball before in a tournament setting, this is not your level of play. You could get hurt or hurt others if you try to play at this level without appropriate skills.
  • Power Plus is our most advanced level of play. Many of these players have played in the highest levels of high school and/or college team settings, and a few people may have played at a D1 school, etc. These players have maintained their skills and continue to hone them and could compete strongly in a USAV/NAGVA BB-level or A-level tournament. This is a very fast-paced game with complex plays and quick reactions. It could be dangerous for you or others to play at this level if you don’t know what you’re doing. If that alarms you, this is not your level of play.

The mission of the Steel City Volleyball League (SCVL) is to provide LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersexual, Asexual, other sexualities) people along with LGBTQIA+ allies an opportunity to learn, play, and grow in the organized sport of recreational and competitive volleyball. Our volleyball league is open to adults regardless of sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, livelihood, culture, race, religion, or ethnicity; and without regard for volleyball ability, skill, or experience. We are an inclusive league valuing the respect and dignity of others and, expect the same from anyone who would like to join our league.