More than 35 fifth and sixth graders from Miramonte Elementary participated in a clinic at the Save Mart Center Wednesday afternoon.
Oct. 4, 2007
FRESNO, Calif. - It wasn't just a typical practice the day before a match at the Save Mart Center Wednesday (Oct. 3) for the Fresno State volleyball team. Head Coach Ruben Nieves and the 18 Fresno State players invited more than 35 fifth and sixth graders from Miramonte Elementary School to watch practice and participate in a clinic.
For a half and hour, the Bulldog volleyball team took two students a piece to instruct them on proper hitting, setting, passing and serving.
"A clinic like this is a win-win for the elementary students and for our Fresno State players," said Nieves. "The students get the opportunity to get some individual instruction and our Fresno State players get experience in teaching and coaching. It is always good for the players to experience the game from that perspective. I also think that part of the experience of being a Division I athlete in this country is being a mentor and a role model and even in some cases an idol for some young people. This was great for us."
Many of the students were able to watch high-level competition for the first time and get some one-on-one instruction for the first time as well.
"We have never been able to sit-in on a higher level team's practice, so this is very exciting," said Miramonte's varsity coach Tammy Jones.
The Miramonte Mustang's varsity team had their first league game last Friday in which they won, and have 45 games throughout the year. The fifth and sixth graders play to the best out of three.
"Hopefully it gives them a better example of how they should play and what is expected of them if they do go on in their educational careers," said the junior varsity coach Becky Williams. "I am hoping it will get them excited about the game of volleyball."
Several of the students were even more excited to see Allanah Munson, a face that was familiar to them in the classroom last year.
"Last year we implemented a Success Club for children to get help in extracurricular activities after school from 3 pm to 6 pm, and Allanah was one of the helpers at our school and the girls are so excited to see her," added Jones.
"Join the State - Fresno State!" - The Fresno State Volleyball team's next match is Thursday, October 4th against Boise State at 7 p.m. in the Save Mart Center. Tickets can be purchased through the Save Mart Center Box Office, by phone at (559)485-TIXS, or online at Ticketmaster.com.
