Our goal at tryouts is to place as many players as possible on teams. Much of the process is dependent on the number of qualified coaches we have and the number of adequate facilities at our disposal. Generally speaking, we have been able to support 8 or 9 teams and the practice squad. Simply put, we hate to cut players. We are here to develop anyone who wants to learn but we have chosen to protect the integrity of the learning process by making sure our coaches are properly trained and equipped. In most cases, there are more players than we can take leading to some players not being selected for teams.

a. Some of the criteria for selection for a team is based on (in no particular order); position, skill level, attitude, enthusiasm, knowledge of the game and athleticism.

b. Each team has an average of 9 players. Often times, younger teams (14’s, 12’s, etc.) have more (between 10 and 12). Rarely, if ever, will we take more than 12 on a team.

c. The practice squad can support 12 – 16 players of roughly the same age group.

Anyone playing for Great Bay, or any club in New England, MUST REGISTER ONLINE with NERVA using the Webpoint system. Please note: Pre-Registration for Great Bay and NERVA online registration are two separate registrations.

On our pre-registration page you can pre-register for Great Bay Tryouts. This is not a commitment to Great Bay nor does it guarantee a spot on a team, it simply allows us to plan properly for tryouts. Please pre-register even if you are trying out for multiple clubs. If you played for Great Bay (or any club) last year, you are in the Webpoint system and all you should have to do is login to the Webpoint website and renew your membership.

If you are trying out for more than one club, you should choose “undecided” in the club selection area. In this case, you should print out and sign the “Waiver and Liability” and bring it with you to each tryout. If you are only trying out for Great Bay, choose Great Bay as your club and come to tryouts.

Please use this link for NERVA’S FULL REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS

Age chart and eligibility information: (2013 Age Definitions)

We generally have a loose idea of who is coaching at each age group going into tryouts. Due to NHIAA rules and regulations (the governing body for NH High School Sports), we cannot fully determine coaching assignments until, at least, the second day of tryouts.

• Specifically; high school coaches are prohibited from coaching out of season teams if more than 25% of the players are from his or her school district (above grade 6).
• Once we determine the players for each team, we can then finalize coaches for each team.

The most likely reason for not making a team is described in #1 above. This can happen at any age group. The Practice Squad is open to all Great Bay Players (up to the manageable number of players that can be accommodated on one court). Please read the information below about the Practice Squad for more detailed information.

We do everything we can to make fair decisions quickly. We know (and encourage) that players may be trying out for other clubs. We promise to let you know as soon as possible so that you may keep your options open. We hope that you will do the same for us if you accept a position with another club so that we can give everyone the best opportunity.

It’s not only OK, we encourage players to keep their options open. We want intelligent players who have made smart decisions about their playing opportunities. While this subject is usually cause for drawn out discussion, Let us simply say that If you make a decision to play for a club, coach or team because you think you will have the best possible experience and opportunity; we support your decision. You need not be shy about talking with us about your decisions. We will try to help the best we can in the process and would prefer open, honest dialogue about your choices.

We will post the teams on our website following the last tryout date. We will do everything we can to be fair, accurate and expedient. If you have any questions about this process, please contact Mike McDonnell directly.

Congratulations. Make sure your coach has your correct contact info and that you have a way to contact your coach. Read the Policies and Procedures Manual (parents too!). Get ready to have a fun and exciting season with Great Bay Volleyball!