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Better TogetherAuthor: United Volleyball
A United podcast centered around athlete development, coaching philosophies, the college recruitment process, and more! Hosted by Korohen Jones, Director of Player and Coach Development. Each week we showcase different athletes, alumni, and coaches that all help us become #bettertogether. Language: en-us Genres: Education, Self-Improvement, Sports, Volleyball Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Playing the Long Game: Building Better Athletes with Ryan Freeburg PART 2
Episode 46
Friday, 12 June, 2026
Continuing our conversation with United Birmingham Director Ryan Freeburg, we dive into recruiting, player development, exposure, and the future of volleyball in Alabama.Ryan shares his perspective as both a club director and Division I coach, discussing what helps athletes get recruited, why exposure matters, the importance of skill development at younger ages, and the challenges that can come from prioritizing short-term results over long-term growth.We also discuss confidence, attacking mechanics, communication, coaching philosophy, and Ryan's vision for year two of United Birmingham.In Part 2 of our conversation with Ryan, we discuss:the current state of volleyball in Alabamarecruiting and player exposurewhat college coaches are actually looking forthe importance of high-level competitionyouth skill developmentconfidence and long-term athlete growthwinning now versus developing future playersattacking mechanics and injury preventioncommunication between setters and hitterstechnical skills versus tactical strategiescoaching philosophy and player developmentRyan's vision for year two of United BirminghamWhether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what it takes to build better volleyball players over the long term.












