In-House vs Club Volleyball Travel Team

What’s the Difference Between CAL Sports In-House Volleyball Leagues and Club Travel Teams?

At CAL Sports Academy, we offer volleyball experiences that match your athlete’s passion, skill level, and commitment — from players just starting out to those ready to compete at the highest level. Two of our most popular programs are our In-House Volleyball Leagues and our Volleyball Club Travel Teams. While both are rooted in player development, they’re built for different stages of the journey.

 

Here’s what makes each unique and which one might be the best fit for your child.

In-House Volleyball Leagues

Recreational • Local • Skill-Building

For Girls Only

Age Range: Girls ages 11 to 15

Our In-House Volleyball Leagues are fun, recreational, and developmental designed for athletes who are newer to the sport or not yet ready for the commitment of travel volleyball. All practices and games are held locally, making it easy for families with busy schedules.

1 day per week includes both practice and game play in a supportive environment.

 

We offer two league levels:

Intermediate League

This level is ideal for beginner to intermediate players who want to learn the game, improve their fundamentals, and enjoy playing with friends in a team setting. The focus is on:

  • Serving, passing, setting, hitting
  • Understanding basic rotations and court positions
  • Developing teamwork and confidence
  • Playing in a fun-first, low-pressure environment

No tryouts are required — just a love for the game and a willingness to learn.

 

Advanced League (Invite-Only)

Age Range: 13 to 17

Athletes who excel in the Intermediate League and demonstrate strong game awareness may be invited to join our Advanced League. This level introduces high school-style rules and competition, including:

  • Full positional rotations
  • Serving consistently from behind the end line
  • Faster game speed and decision-making
  • Higher expectations for communication and execution

 

This league is a great bridge to Club Volleyball, offering a more competitive experience without the travel.

Volleyball Club Travel Teams

Competitive • Committed • Next-Level Play

Age Range: Girls ages 13 to 18

Our Club Travel Teams are designed for intermediate to advanced athletes who are serious about volleyball and want to train and compete at a higher level. If your athlete plans to play in high school — or even explore college opportunities — Club is the path to take.

 

Structure:

  • 2–3 practices per week
  • Weekend tournaments (local, regional, and national)
  • Season runs from November through April/May
  • Competitive tryouts required for team placement

 

Focus Areas:

  • Advanced positional training
  • Team systems and high-level strategy
  • Speed, strength, and conditioning
  • Mental toughness and game leadership
  • Recruiting guidance for older athletes

Club volleyball is a significant commitment, but it’s the best training ground for players who want to compete seriously.

 

Which Program is Right for Your Athlete?

Feature

In-House League (Intermediate & Advanced)

Club Travel Team

Age Range

11–15 (Intermediate), 13–17 (Advanced)

13–18

Gender

Girls only

Girls only

Skill Level

Beginner–Advanced (Invite only for Advanced)

Intermediate–Advanced

Commitment

1 day/week (practice + game)

3+ days/week (practices + travel)

Tryouts

No tryouts (evaluations for placement)

Yes (tryout-based team selection)

Season Length

6–8 weeks

November – April/May

Travel

None (all local)

Travel required for tournaments

Focus

Fun, fundamentals, gradual progression

Competition, development, exposure

Best For

Casual and developing players

Athletes serious about High School and College play

 

Still Unsure?

Many athletes begin in our In-House Leagues to build foundational skills and confidence — and later progress into Club Volleyball when they’re ready for more competitive play. Our team is happy to guide you toward the best fit based on your athlete’s age, goals, and experience.