Hillcrest Union is a busy place this week on the campus of Hillcrest Academy as the Ravens turn the page to fall sports. Hillcrest is hosting their annual volleyball camps. The event is split into two age groups with those entering fourth through eighth grade meeting from 1-4p.m. through Thursday of this week, and those that are freshman through seniors competing through Thursday from 8:30-11:30a.m. Focus at camp is on the fundamentals of volleyball through individual and group drills, station work and games. Specific fundamentals emphasised include serving form, hitting approach, down balls, attacking, setting, serve-receive, passing, blocking and team defensive positioning. The goal is that each player develop their skills and work together in a way that results in an enjoyable experience and greater understanding of the game.

Camp director is Brandon Statler, the new Hillcrest Academy volleyball coach who was hired to run the program in April of 2021. Statler has built an impressive resume in the area, starting youth volleyball programs at Mid-Prairie and Washington while also serving as head coach of a number of club teams and on the staff with the Iowa Rockets and USA Volleyball.