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Dragons Volleyball Academy

High-Level Volleyball Training for Multi-Sport Athletes
QUICK LINKS:    FORMS   |   16U (AGES 15-16)   |   14U (AGES 13-14)   |   FAQs   |   MEET THE COACHES

OUR VOLLEYBALL PHILOSOPHY

At The Volleyball Academy, we believe that great athletes are developed—not just discovered. Our philosophy centers around delivering high-quality volleyball training in a supportive, balanced environment that respects each athlete’s unique goals, interests, and schedules.

Grow Game IQ & Confidence

Our coaching focuses on developing athletes who understand the why behind every play. Athletes learn to read the court, anticipate movement, and build confidence in their decision-making.
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Master Fundamentals & Technique

We emphasize consistent, high-quality skill development across all levels. From footwork to form, players gain a strong foundation they can build on season after season.

Balance Sports & Life

Our program is designed for multi-sport athletes and busy families. With flexible scheduling and a healthy time commitment, athletes can excel in volleyball—without sacrificing other passions.
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Build Character Through Coaching

Our coaches go beyond drills. They foster accountability, teamwork, and leadership while creating an inclusive, encouraging environment where athletes can thrive.
Follow The Volleyball Academy

FORMS

AGES 15-16

16U Teams

  • Practices: 2x/week
  • Tournaments: 5–6 tournaments during the season
  • Season Schedule: January to May
  • Location: Practices held at St. John's Catholic Middle School

REGISTRATION CLOSED

HIGH LEVEL SCHEDULE

July 2025

Team tryouts and roster finalizations

DEC 2025

Couple weeks of Practice
JAN - JUNE

Season length for 15U-17U

AGES 13-14

14U Teams

  • Practices: 2x/week
  • Tournaments: 4–5 tournaments during the season
  • Season Schedule: January to May
  • Location: Practices held at St. John's Catholic Middle School

REGISTRATION CLOSED

HIGH LEVEL SCHEDULE

July 2025

Team tryouts and roster finalizations

DEC 2025

Couple weeks of Practice
JAN - APRIL

Season length for 12U-14U

UPCOMING TRAINING & CLINICS

CLINICS: At our clinics, there's something for everyone — whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your game. We cover all the essentials: passing, setting, hitting, and serving — all in a fun, supportive environment. Each week for 1.5 hour sessions, we build on what we've learned, helping players grow in every skill area while keeping the energy high and the experience exciting!

Sign Up For Clinics >

POSITION TRAINING: All sessions will include ball control and all skills training but main focus will be within the position listed. Positions include Defense, Setter Training, Pins and Middles, and more!

Sign Up For Position Training Lessons >

Note: TVA Athletes receive half-off training

WHILE IN SEASON, ALL TEAM INFORMATION WILL BE UPLOADED TO SPORTSENGINE.
WE ENCOURAGE FAMILIES TO DOWNLOAD THE APP TO STAY IN THE LOOP!

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FAQs

We serve players in 6th grade through Juniors in high school.
St Johns Middle School.
4-8 depending on age group.
We do all in-state tournaments, but we do one overnight tournament in Grand Rapids at the end of the season. Parents must cover the cost of travel and lodging for all events.
When available, a registration will be on this page.
You can contact Kristi directly at kristi@thedragonfoundation.com.
For more information on private lessons or group training, please contact Gustavo directly at gustavo@thedragonfoundation.com.

Meet the Coaches

Our coaching staff is the heart of The Volleyball Academy. Led by experienced athletes who have competed and coached at the collegiate and professional levels, our team is passionate about helping young players grow on and off the court. Each coach brings not only technical expertise, but a shared commitment to building confident, well-rounded athletes in a supportive and inclusive environment.

From fundamentals to advanced play, our coaches are here to guide, inspire, and empower every athlete—every step of the way.

Gustavo Heidrich

Gustavo brings a wealth of experience and passion to The Volleyball Academy. As a former professional libero in Brazil, he has competed at the highest levels of the sport.

Collegiately, Gustavo played three years at Lourdes University before transferring to Lawrence Tech, where he made an immediate impact—earning Libero of the Year and All-American honors.

After completing his playing career, Gustavo pursued a Master’s in Data Analytics at Lawrence Tech while serving as an assistant coach for the women’s volleyball team for three years.

Now, as the head coach of Lawrence Tech Women's Volleyball, he is dedicated to developing a competitive and dynamic program, fostering both athletic excellence and personal growth for every student-athlete. 

Alongside coaching, Gustavo continues to play semi-professionally in the VLA (Volleyball League of America), staying active in the game at a high level.

Kristi Doherty

Originally from Goodrich, Michigan, Kristi Doherty played four years at Lawrence Tech, earning a degree in Biomedical Engineering while excelling as a two-time Setter of the Year, Player of the Year and First-Team All-American.

She later pursued a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence while spending three seasons as an assistant coach for the Lawrence Tech women’s volleyball team.

Kristi continues to stay active in the sport, playing semi-professionally on the top team in the VLA, Midwest Magic, and competing in sand, grass, and indoor tournaments across the U.S. Now, she works as a full-time engineer while staying committed to helping young athletes find their own balance between sports and academics.

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Empowering the youth of our community through Athletics, Arts & Music, Mindfulness, and Skilled Trades. Committed to nurturing potential, fostering well-being, and building a sustainable future for every child.
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