How we build teams.
How athletes are placed, why roster spots are limited, and what each program and position asks of you. Choose a program and your athlete's gender below — the position guide at the bottom applies to every team.
This program is for athletes who have an interest and aspiration in training for and competing at the highest level, including potentially playing for a college program some day.
Athletes are required to travel nationally (or internationally) to compete in USAV Qualifiers as well as Multi-Day JVA and AAU events.
Athletes are trained by our experienced highest-level National and Elite coaches. They receive training through positional work, team training and common training. A dedicated trainer will work with the athletes on speed, conditioning, strength and agility.
Athletes are required to compete in all of their events. Teams will be registered and compete in the following divisions.
- EliteAAU/JVA (Open, Premier) · USAV (Open, USA)
- ThetaAAU/JVA (Premier, Club) · USAV (Liberty)
- SigmaAAU/JVA (Spirit, Classic) · USAV (Liberty, American)
- OmegaAAU/JVA (Classic) · USAV (American)
Maximum of 12 athletes per National team roster.
- 2x to 3x Outside (Leftside) Hitter
- 1x to 2x Opposite (Rightside) Hitter
- 2x to 3x Middle Blocker
- 1x to 2x Setter
- 1x to 2x Libero & Defensive Specialist
Top Flight's Regional program is for athletes who are looking to train and compete at the Jr High and High School level. Another popular group choosing regional are multi-sport athletes who do not want a conflict during either season.
These athletes do not travel out of the state and will play events within a one-hour radius of our facility in Elgin, Illinois.
Athletes are trained by our Regional coaches, many of whom are also our National and Elite coaches. They receive training through positional work, team training and common training.
Regional teams have a shorter season with all tournaments within the Chicagoland area. Regional teams compete in the Chicago Volleyball League, Top Flight Classic events and other local events.
Maximum of 12 athletes per Regional team roster
- Up to 3x Outside (Leftside) Hitter
- Up to 2x Opposite (Rightside) Hitter
- Up to 3x Middle Blocker
- Up to 2x Setter
- Up to 2x Libero & Defensive Specialist
Position guide
Roster spots are filled by position, and some positions have far more competition than others. Here is what each role asks of an athlete and who tends to fit it best.
Libero & Defensive Specialist
These positions are BY FAR the largest and most competitive group of players, with limited roster spots available. Athletes will need to excel at serve receive and defense. In addition they should be extremely mobile and quick while on the court. We recommend younger athletes (5th–9th grade) be open to learning new positions if and when possible.
Middle Blocker
This position is BY FAR the smallest group of players. It is one of the most physically demanding positions on the court, so these players must be athletic, mobile and quick. Athletes who are taller and longer tend to fill these spots. Players must be efficient at blocking and transitioning quickly on and off the net.
Outside Hitter
This is another popular position and the second-largest group of players. If an athlete intends to play it, it is highly recommended they be proficient at serve receive and defense. They will also need explosive power and the ability to play high above the net. If you are on the smaller side with a lower vertical, we recommend looking at the Libero, Defensive Specialist or Setter positions.
Opposite Hitter
This is sometimes a combination position — many setters with height, length and athleticism also hit Opposite when they reach the front row. It is a natural position for lefty hitters. At this level you will need to be an effective blocker in addition to being a go-to power hitter.
Setter
This position is always in high demand. If you have good hands and enjoy being involved in every play, this position is for you. It is challenging and takes a great deal of on-court knowledge and awareness. We recommend any younger Libero or DS think about this position early in their volleyball career.
Team options
National & EliteListed highest to lowest — most competitive teams at the top.
Each team will have a roster size of 10–12 players.
Each team will have a roster size of 10–12 players.
Team options
RegionalListed highest to lowest — most competitive teams at the top.
Max team roster size of 10–12 players. (some 17U will combine with 18U.)
Max team roster size of 10–12 players. (some 17U will combine with 18U.)