In this exciting episode of That Volleyball Guy, host Luke Wiltshire welcomes the show’s first international guest from the USA, Will Macdonald. Originally from England, Will now works full-time as part of the University of Baylor volleyball coaching program in Texas. During this episode, we dive into Will’s journey—how he first got into volleyball, the challenges he faced, and the hard work and determination that led him to where he is today.

We also explore the differences between USA and English volleyball cultures, touching on what England could learn from the U.S. in terms of player development and coaching strategies. A key focus of our conversation was on Will's role in performance analysis and the use of stats to inform coaching decisions, providing fascinating insights into the way data shapes modern volleyball training. We also discuss the dynamics within the Baylor coaching team, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration.

To round out the episode, we had some fun with a game of 'This or That'—always a light-hearted way to end our chats. It’s a must-listen for anyone passionate about volleyball and eager to learn from one of the game’s rising stars!

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In this special 30-minute "Timeout" session, host Luke Wiltshire takes a trip down memory lane, reflecting on his personal volleyball journey. Following last episode’s conversation with Harry Jones, Luke opens up about how his playing career gradually transitioned into coaching, and his unique experiences as a referee. After receiving questions from his social media followers about his volleyball story, Luke shares more insights into his path, answering the community's curiosities. He also takes a moment to shout out and honor the key individuals who have been influential in shaping his volleyball career.

Perfect for both seasoned players and fans just discovering the sport, this episode offers an authentic glimpse into Luke's personal journey and the people who've helped him along the way.

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In this feature episode, Luke Wiltshire, That Volleyball Guy, sits down with the incredibly open and reflective Harry Jones, a 3x Grand Slam winner who has navigated his journey from early junior volleyball to elite performance levels. Harry shares how his mindset has evolved over the years, offering invaluable advice for athletes and anyone experiencing transitions in life.

We delve into Harry's transition from being a full-time athlete to entering the workforce and moving to London, all while maintaining his deep passion for the sport. He discusses how his relationship with volleyball has evolved to a healthier balance and reflects on the influences that have shaped his journey. Harry also talks about his new role as a coach, where he imparts his experience and mindset to help others grow.

We highlight Harry's recent triumph at the prestigious Weymouth Classic beach event, where he proudly followed in his father’s footsteps by claiming this esteemed title, a victory that holds special meaning for him.

And, of course, we finish with a fun "This or That" game you won’t want to miss!

Tune in for an inspiring and candid conversation about an athlete's journey, the development of a winning mindset, and the ongoing love for volleyball.

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Preparing for the 2024-2025 season and want to make your volleyball trials a success? Curious about the best strategies for managing and coaching large trial sessions? Looking for practical tips to streamline the entire trial process? In this episode of "Timeout," we're joined by Luke Wiltshire, the mastermind behind That Volleyball Guy, who shares his comprehensive insights on running effective NVL team trials.

Whether you're a coach, player, club administrator, or simply passionate about volleyball, Luke's expert advice covers all angles—from crafting an impactful social media campaign to organising seamless admin and management processes. He also delves into coaching techniques that help identify and select the right talent, even when faced with large numbers of trialists.

Tune in to discover valuable hints and tips that will not only enhance your trial sessions but also set your team up for a successful season ahead. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a wealth of knowledge and elevate your approach to volleyball trials!

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In this episode of "That Volleyball Guy," I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with England’s top beach volleyball duo, the Bello Brothers. After clinching a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, they’ve solidified themselves as one of the most formidable teams on the international stage.

What struck me most during our conversation was their unshakeable mindset and relentless dedication to their sport. The Bello's shared the mental strategies and work ethic that have propelled them to the top—insights that any aspiring athlete can learn from. Their approach to the game goes beyond talent; it’s about a deep commitment to continuous improvement, overcoming challenges, and staying focused on their goals.

We also delved into the unique dynamic that comes with being twins and having their entire family involved in their journey. With their dad as coach, mum as team manager, and brother as a playing partner, their story is a testament to the power of family support in reaching the pinnacle of success.

I want to personally thank the Bello's for being so open and generous in sharing their tips and experiences. As they prepared to leave for the European Championships, our conversation offered a rare glimpse into the mindset of champions. This episode is not to be missed—two remarkable athletes, an inspiring story, and invaluable advice for anyone passionate about the game.

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Ever wondered what it takes to break out of NVL Division Three? Curious about the challenges teams face at this level? Want to know the secrets behind a promotion-winning season? In this debut episode of Time Out with Luke Wiltshire, aka "That Volleyball Guy," Luke introduces the podcast's unique format—quick 30-minute sessions designed to deliver valuable insights and actionable advice. Drawing from his experience coaching a team to promotion last season—winning the league while dropping only one match—Luke dives into the obstacles teams encounter and shares the strategies that led to their success. Perfect for players, coaches, and volleyball enthusiasts looking to take their game to the next level.

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In this episode of That Volleyball Guy, Luke sits down with Carol Gordon, a Hall of Fame legend who has been a transformative force in Volleyball England for over 30 years. From her early days in Leeds to her influential roles in London, Carol's journey is one of dedication, passion, and leadership.

I explore Carol's inspiring transition from player to coach and her impactful tenure as the national team manager. Carol shares her invaluable experiences working alongside notable figures like Jefferson Williams and Ian Legrand, providing insights into the dynamic world of volleyball coaching.

For 20 years, Carol led the England Cadet Programme, shaping the future of countless young athletes and leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Our conversation delves deep into Carol's personal reflections on her strengths and expertise. We discuss where she excels, particularly highlighting her exceptional pastoral skills, honed from her background in education. Carol opens up about her holistic approach to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive environment for her players.

Additionally, Carol offers thoughtful advice for new coaches entering the sport, emphasising the importance of empathy, communication, and continuous learning.

This is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us for an enlightening and heartfelt discussion with Carol Gordon, as we uncover the secrets behind her legendary status and her unwavering commitment to volleyball.

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Welcome to the first episode of "That Volleyball Guy" podcast! Join your host, Luke Wiltshire, as he introduces himself and shares his deep passion for volleyball. With years of experience as a National Volleyball League coach, player, official, and commentator, Luke is truly a volleyball addict. In this episode, you'll learn about his journey in the sport and why he believes it's time to bring the volleyball community in the UK closer together.

Discover the mission behind the podcast: to connect, share knowledge, and celebrate the sport we all love. Expect exciting guest appearances from players, coaches, officials, legends, club managers, and marketing experts as we dive into the stories and experiences that make volleyball so special.

Tune in, subscribe, and join the journey to help develop and grow volleyball in the UK.

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