Team Levels

Team Selection Procedures

We will attempt to select teams based on training/commitment Level, National 1 Elite, National 1, and Club Regional 1, as well as athletic ability and/or positional skill.  This is important, and prospective athletes will be separated by commitment level during the process – it is important that families communicate the levels that they are comfortable with to sign a contract.​

The Tryout Sessions will incorporate a dynamic warm-up, ball control exercises, individual skill/positional training, out-of-system concepts, and competitive team drills.   A Tryout Committee will evaluate all prospective athletes based on their attitude, coachability, athletic ability, positional skills, and/or potential.​

Team rosters will consist of 10-12 players, and we will place athletes based on similar skills and abilities.  The goal is for each team to have at least 2 setters, 4 outside hitters, 3 middles, and 1 libero.  Coaches may adjust these numbers based on the age level and competitive level of the team. ​

National 1 Elite

These teams are for athletes who want to pursue the highest level of play, those who are pursuing collegiate scholarships, or the opportunity of playing volleyball after high school.  Skill levels range from Intermediate to Advanced.  All players understand rotational sequence, offensive concepts (i.e., 5-1, 6-2), and defensive positions and can apply them in competition. Game and player strategies are well understood (i.e., running offensive plays, identifying opponent weaknesses, reading the opponent during a volley, etc.) but may still be in refinement.   

Teams will practice four to six hours a week and will compete in approximately 5-6 tournaments and two local multi-day tournaments during the season, primarily within the Arizona Region, with at least two National Qualifiers outside of the Arizona Region. The national 1 team season runs from tryouts in October/November to July. These are elite-level teams offering the highest level of competition and requiring the highest level of commitment. National Elite Level teams require the player to put volleyball before any other sport or activity.

National Elite Level teams are highly competitive, and limited roster spots are available. Teams may be formed without open tryouts.  Players who accept a position on a national level / 1’s level team understand that they are restricted from participating in beach volleyball or other sports during their designated season; this also includes high school open gyms.

National 1

Consists of players with a solid knowledge of the game and rules. Skill levels range from Intermediate to Advanced Intermediate, with the desire and ability to progress.  All players understand rotational sequence, offensive concepts (i.e., 5-1, 6-2,) and defensive positions.

Teams will practice four to six hours a week and will compete in approximately 5-6 tournaments and two local multi-day tournaments during the season, primarily within the Arizona Region, with at least one National Qualifier. The National 1 team season runs from tryouts in October/November to late July. These are high-level teams offering strong competition and requiring a serious level of commitment.  

Tryouts are required. Limited roster spots are available.

Regional 1 or R1

Our non-travel program consists of players with general knowledge of the game and rules.  Skill levels range from Beginner to Intermediate. Players understand basic rotational sequences and positions.

Teams will practice two times per week for approximately 2 hours and will compete in 5-6 tournaments and two local multi-day tournaments during the season, primarily within Arizona. The Club team season runs from tryouts in October /November to late June. Regional teams may participate in additional in-state tournaments.

Academy Players 

Our academy is for players old and are unable to commit to a full club season but are looking for club-level development. Academy players will attend all practices and camps within their age group.

The Academy works within our own unique model, based on the Saguaros methodology used in lower categories to the main club teams, with a proactive, collective, and creative style of play, and with an indispensable transmission of values: respect, humility, effort, ambition, and teamwork.

Academy fees are just $25 per training session.

Academy players are considered full-fledged members of the club and must comply with all registration and uniform requirements.