Nike Volleyball Camp at Cosby High School

Coach Vance has been pacing the sidelines for 31 years on volleyball courts across the country. Coach Vance started playing volleyball in his hometown of Frederick, Maryland, learning coaching from his time at Frederick Community College and interning in summers with legendary American University Coach Barry Goldberg. Vance fulfilled his dream of playing in college, joining the SUNY New Paltz under iconic coach Tony Bonilla. Vance continued his coaching pursuits at a variety of stops in Virginia and coached all 5 levels of college in his career. He's known as a very knowledgeable teacher, and extremely positive and fun coach. He's worked with players from elementary beginners to Olympians and professional players. His passion for expanding diversity and growing the game at all levels. He hopes to continue spreading the game by coaching players to become coaches as well as developing the skills and expertise of current coaches.

Coach Juan Alcivar's life is a remarkable journey of resilience, transformation, and a deep love for volleyball. Born in the Dominican Republic, he relocated to New York, where his passion for the sport ignited during his high school years. He honed his skills in club volleyball, learning the intricacies of the game and instilling a strong work ethic.

In 2005, driven by a sense of duty and a commitment to something greater, Juan joined the U.S. Army. His path led him to Iraq in 2007, where he faced a life-altering moment, sustaining a gunshot wound to his leg during a mission. This injury necessitated immediate medical attention, and he was transported to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for extensive treatment and rehabilitation.

Juan's recovery journey was marked by unwavering determination. Over eight years, he underwent rigorous medical treatment and rehabilitation at Walter Reed, supported by his medical team and fellow soldiers. His indomitable spirit drove him to regain mobility and strength.

Unable to return to active duty due to his injury, Juan found a new calling in coaching. His profound understanding of volleyball and his passion for mentorship led him to embark on a coaching career. He began at Bohar Park in Maryland, shaping young athletes and sharing his love for the sport.

At Northwestern High School in Maryland, Juan's coaching prowess was put to the test. Despite significant challenges, he transformed the team from a 1-14 record to an impressive 9-7, with a semi-final appearance, marking the best run the high school had ever seen.

His coaching journey continued at St. Andrews in Potomac, Maryland, from 2020 to 2022. Here, he tirelessly worked to elevate the program, focusing on player development, strategic thinking, and fostering a culture of excellence.

Juan's commitment to diversity and inclusion in volleyball earned him the prestigious 2019 AVCA Diversity Award for the Chesapeake Region. His efforts to create an inclusive environment within the sport were celebrated regionally.

Today, Coach Juan Alcivar continues to impact the volleyball community as he coaches at Covent Life. His journey, spanning from the Dominican Republic to New York, military service, and his coaching career, exemplifies resilience, transformation, and an unwavering passion for the sport. His story stands as an inspiration to all, a testament to the power of determination, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

During his coaching tenure at MVSA from 2016 to 2023, Coach Juan Alcivar showcased remarkable dedication and expertise that left an indelible mark on the program. He undertook the challenging task of coaching both the 16-3 and 13-3 teams, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as a coach. His leadership propelled both teams to impressive success, earning them recognition as top-tier third teams in the highly competitive Chesapeake Region.

Coach Juan's coaching philosophy prioritized player development beyond mere wins and losses. He instilled values like character-building, teamwork, and a strong work ethic in his players, resonating not only with the athletes but also with their parents. His commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, rooted in discipline and continuous improvement, became a defining aspect of his coaching style.

Under his guidance, his teams consistently ranked among the top third teams in the region, a testament to his coaching acumen and effective mentorship. Coach Juan's legacy extended beyond the volleyball court, as many of his players continued to excel in the sport at various levels.

His unwavering dedication to coaching and player development remains unchanged, and his journey, from a love for volleyball to a successful coaching career, exemplifies his passion and commitment to shaping the next generation of athletes. Coach Juan Alcivar's story continues to inspire and remind aspiring athletes of the transformative power of dedication and mentorship in sports.

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Bear is an adorable Pomeranian with a personality as bright and fluffy as his fur. Born with a heart full of love and a wagging tail, Bear has been stealing hearts since day one. This pint-sized pup may be small in stature, but he makes up for it with a big and lovable spirit.

Bear is known for his boundless energy and zest for life. He approaches every day with enthusiasm and an infectious joy that can turn any frown upside down. Whether it's chasing after toys, going for long walks, or simply snuggling on the couch, Bear is always ready for an adventure.

His expressive eyes and perky ears make it impossible to resist giving him treats and belly rubs. Bear's friendly nature extends to everyone he meets, making him a favorite among friends and strangers alike. He has a knack for brightening even the gloomiest of days with his presence.

Bear is more than just a furry companion; he's a loyal friend who brings happiness and warmth to the lives of those lucky enough to know him. Whether he's curling up by the fire on a chilly evening or prancing through the park on a sunny day, Bear's antics and affectionate nature make him a cherished member of the family.

In his free time, Bear enjoys basking in the sun, playing with his favorite toys, and, of course, posing for adorable photos that showcase his undeniable charm. His love for life and his human companions knows no bounds, making him a cherished and cherished part of the family.

Bear is proof that the best things come in small packages, and his presence is a constant reminder of the joy that can be found in the simplest moments of life.

Meet Coach Loren Anderson: Volleyball Virtuoso and Pioneer of Positivity

Loren’s volleyball saga began in 1993 on the sunbaked courts of Arizona, coaching high school aces. His journey spanned seven states, shaping the games of eager 5-year-olds to collegiate hotshots and even national team legends. As the founder and former director of a groundbreaking club in Boise, Loren has not just coached volleyball—he’s lived it.

A Coach Uncoached
Loren’s own entry into volleyball was a twist of fate, a leap from the basketball court to the volleyball court at 17, self-taught and self-motivated. He’s been setting up players for success ever since, with a coaching style that’s as innovative as it is intuitive, merging ecological dynamics, motivational interviewing and acceptance & commitment therapy with unwavering optimism. For Loren, performance isn’t about the score; it’s about the behaviors we are committing to.

Passion Over Points
Beyond the thrill of victory, Loren champions a volleyball culture free from fear, shame, or blame and full of joy and love—the love of the game and the love for teammates. He believes in cultivating autonomy and confidence, so much so that his favorite team told him to sit back and watch them clinch victory without his guidance. That’s the kind of fearless autonomy he inspires.