Bump, Set, Mic...The Junior Club Volleyball Podcast by TNT

Chuck Dougherty
  • 5.0 (13)
  • Volleyball
  • Updated Weekly

The Bump, Set, Mic podcast guides you through the world of junior club volleyball through the perspective of the TNT Volleyball Club located in the Philadelphia area. Join Club Director Chuck Dougherty and his cohost Brian Mooney as they interview coaches, parents and players to get behind the scenes insight into all things important in the world of club volleyball.

  1. Jul 15

    Ep 45: From Player to Coach: Emily Poole's Volleyball Journey

    Hard work can be fun! In this episode of Bump, Set, Mic, Chuck and Brian are joined by Coach Emily Poole, head women's volleyball coach at Arcadia University and member of the TNT Volleyball coaching staff, as she shares her volleyball journey and blueprint for how very competitive teams can also have an enjoyable time as well at both the club and collegiate levels. Chuck, Brian, and Emily cover her path from York, PA to Division I volleyball, navigating academics at Lehigh, and the moment she realized coaching—not the corporate world—was her future. Emily shares how she was thrown into college coaching during COVID, what it was like to take over the Arcadia program at 24, and how she builds competitive, academically driven teams that still have fun. Specific to the club side, Emily reflects on last year's TNT 17 Platinum run to USAV Nationals, the culture that kept them locked in through a long season, and what she's looking for as she takes over 16 Platinum this coming season. The epiosde closes with practical perspective on TNT tryouts, recruiting realities, and how families can keep their sanity during one of the most stressful times of the year. Segment 1 – Emily's Volleyball Journey and Development as a Player (0:00 - 17:58) Returning from nationals with club in full summer mode and a brief recap of the time in Florida Introducing Coach Emily Poole – Arcadia head coach, TNT coach, a Colts fan in Eagles country Emily's start in volleyball: late to the sport, middle school-only at first, invited as a guest player for nationals Her high school experience at Central York, the impact of strong coaches, and discovering grass volleyball Reaching D1 at Lehigh: the extra work put in and how Emily built full-skill IQ as a middle Reframing the middle position: not just "the tall kid," but a complete athlete who must learn all skills Balancing high academics with D1 volleyball, a sophomore slump, and how a new coach's academic standards reset Emily's approach Sharing that academic emphasis with her own college and club teams (team GPAs, study halls, support systems) Favorite memories at Lehigh When volleyball became more than "just playing" for Emily   Segment 2 – Building a College Program and Coaching Philosophy (17:58  - 44:14) Emily's graduate assistant experience at Lehigh Coaching through COVID, promotion by necessity, and how the COVID-era experience helpd shape Emily's readiness The Arcadia opportunity and Emily's coaching style Chuck's perspecitve based on feedback about the 17 Platinum experience from Emily's players last season Balancing "fun" and high standards; dismantling the myth that fun and competitiveness can't coexist Building a culture at Arcadia  The roads that led Emily to TNT More on the 17 Platinum experience and the dedication of the team's players "We want Puerto Rico" -  players pushing for a bigger national schedule for the coming season, aiming high, and a quick discussion about playing up instead of sandbagging Key differences for Emily between college and club coaching: recruiting vs. life mentoring, opponent scouting vs. unknown brackets, systems vs. heavy skills work   Segment 3 – The Coming Season, Player Traits, and Tryouts (44:24 - 59:47) Emily's new role for the coming season with 16 Platinum along with her goals for the team and its players What Emily feels that 16s players need the most: sharpening core skills, starting to layer in more complex systems, and learning to communicate productively on the court More on communication and leadership, the need to separate feedback from personal feelings, and how players must find their voice The traits Emily looks for in players: attitue, effort, coachability, and competitiveness Emily's "middle bias" - comfortable with all positions, but especially passionate (and demanding) with middles and blocking systems Contributions Emily makes to the club besides coaching a team The benefits of having college coaches at TNT to help players understand what will be expected if they want to move up and play in college The upcoming tryout season: the resulting anxiety for players and parents, rumor mills, and Chuck's firm stance on no early offers before tryouts and the club's ethical tryout philosophy Why tryout session times are assigned just before tryouts at TNT Additional perspectives on tryouts for families available in previous episodes 7 and 29 More tryout advice for families Club website and social media contacts, how to reach Emily and Leon Kasperski for recruiting help, and encouragement for everyone heading into upcoming tryouts and high school seasons

  2. Jun 11

    Ep 44: Why Middles Matter With LJ Brothers

    What's volleyball life really like for the players in the middle? In this episode, the second in Bump, Set, Mic's planned series of episodes on each on-court position, Chuck and Brian sit down with college, TNT, and high school coach LJ Brothers to talk about his volleyball journey, unpack what makes middle blockers great,  and share tips on how families can navigate the recruiting process.  They cover the realities of playing middle at a high level, what college staffs truly look for, how to build effective highlight reels, and smart strategies for showcases, Nationals, and overall long‑term development.  Segment 1 – The Modern Middle Blocker: Role, Mindset, and Development Chuck and Brian open with LJ's journey into volleyball and quickly pivot into what makes the middle blocker position unique today. LJ explains why middle is both exciting and demanding, pushing past the stereotype of "just be tall and hit hard" and into reading hitters, moving efficiently, and influencing the game on every rally. The conversation gives players and coaches a framework for how to think about the physical and mental skills involved in middle play. Segment 2 – The Recruiting Lens: What Coaches Want from Middles The second portion of the episode focuses on recruiting from a coach's perspective. LJ walks through what college staffs are truly evaluating in middles—athleticism, consistency, and court presence on both offense and defense—while Chuck and Brian probe on timelines, family expectations, and how undersized athletes can still make themselves valuable. They touch on when to start emailing coaches, how to use both high school and club footage, and why realistic self‑assessment and long‑term development matter the most. Segment 3 – Showing Your Game: Highlights, Events, and Pathways In the final stretch, the discussion turns tactical: how to build highlight reels that actually help, which camps and showcases are worth the time, and how to approach Nationals so coaches already know your name. LJ offers position‑specific ideas for what to include on film along with some some solid advice for those just staring their volleyball journey and those a bit further along the way. The episode ends with a look ahead to upcoming TNT programs as the summer season ensues.

  3. May 28

    Ep 43: Should I Stay or Should I go: Quitting Mid-Season & Choosing Your Next Club

    More athletes than ever seem to be quitting their volleyball teams mid-season — but why is it happening, and what can families learn from it? In this episode of Bump Set Mic, we take a deep dive into one of the biggest issues facing club volleyball today: quitting during the season, navigating adversity, and deciding whether it's time to stay with your current club or move on. We discuss the real reasons players leave teams, including burnout, playing time frustrations, confidence struggles, coach conflicts, academic pressure, financial stress, and the growing impact of social media comparison culture. We also explore the difficult question many families face: are athletes learning resilience through challenges, or are they being protected from discomfort too quickly? The conversation also covers: • The emotional reality of playing time and development • How parents influence quitting decisions • Balancing volleyball with other sports and commitments • The impact one player leaving has on an entire team • When leaving a team is absolutely the right decision • How to leave respectfully and professionally In the second half of the episode (37m 14s), we shift to one of the biggest offseason questions in club volleyball: "Should we stay at our current club… or move on?" We break down: • Healthy reasons families change clubs • Why the "grass is greener" mentality can be dangerous • What truly defines a strong club culture • How coaches view constant club switching • The difference between being on a #1 team versus thriving on a #2 team • The questions every family should ask before making a move This episode is designed to help players and parents make thoughtful, long-term decisions about development, adversity, expectations, and fit — both on and off the court. One of the strongest reminders from this conversation: "Sometimes the greatest growth season for an athlete is the year they struggle." Download Episode 43 of Bump Set Mic wherever you get your podcasts.

  4. May 4

    Ep 42: The Libero: What It Is, Why It Matters, and What Coaches Actually Want

    If you've ever wondered why one player on the volleyball court wears a different colored jersey, what rules actually apply to them, or how coaches decide who gets that jersey, episode 42 of "Bump, Set, Mic" covers it all regarding the libero position. Hosts Chuck Dougherty and Brian Mooney welcome Coach Jea Lee back to the show to unpack the libero, one of the most visible—and most misunderstood—positions in volleyball. Segment one covers the history and purpose of the position, key rule differences compared to a defensive specialist, and how the libero role fits into the modern game. From passing and reading hitters to leadership and mentality, the discussion in segment two focuses on what coaches are really looking for in a libero and how players can train toward that standard. The final segment covers current and future happenings at the club, including a new health and safety policy, fundraisers that highlight TNT's "family first" culture, summer training opportunities, and what families need to know heading into open gyms and tryouts. While this episode certainly dives deep into the libero position, it also connects back to the bigger picture of development, culture, and community at TNT. Show Opening (0:00 - 4:30) Welcome Launching a positional‑series of episodes TNT club season status and mid‑season point in the calendar Atlantic City tournament recap (number of teams, environment)   Mid‑season surveys for parents and coaches   Coaches' summit and planning for next‑year improvements Segment 1: Libero 101 – Rules, History, and the Different Jersey (4:30 - 27:30) How to pronounce "libero" Brief history: when and why the libero was introduced   Purpose of the role (extending rallies, boosting defense, showcasing smaller defenders)   Why the libero wears a contrasting jersey color   Libero vs. Defensive Specialist (DS) Breakdown Impact of the libero on substitution strategy and lineup flexibility   Typical libero usage   Positioning philosophy in serve receive and defensive coverage  Introduction of the two‑libero rule and how coaches can use them Libero as "captain of the defense" / defensive quarterback  Segment 2 – Choosing & Developing a Libero (27:30 - 55:30) Debunking the "shortest player = libero" assumption   Taller liberos and advantages in court coverage and reach   Roster construction by age/level: typical numbers of liberos and DS   The math and competition for back‑row spots at tryouts   How the role of libero/DS changes as teams get older   Core on‑court skills for liberos that coaches prioritize Off‑court and other intangibles that coaches look for Helpful training ideas and practice environments Role of coaches in mental‑skills training and consistency between practice and matches Upcoming sports‑psychology / mental‑skills seminar for TNT athletes and coaches Checking in with Volleyball Moms - a current online libero discussion Segment 3 – TNT Updates & Club Culture  (55:30 - 64:00) New TNT policy restricting energy drinks at practices and tournaments "Shine for Shannon" glow‑party fundraiser recap A look ahead to the "Play 4 Abbey" annual outdoor charity event "Summer in the Armory" program overview  Tryouts and open‑gym calendar The upcoming JVA Align summit TNT Socials A look ahead to future episodes with a focus on other positions as well as recruitng

  5. Mar 18

    Ep 41: The Truth About Sandbagging: Medals vs. Development

    Some teams chase trophies, while others prioritize growth. What about pursuing both? Even if it appears that a tournament team is sandbagging, is that reality of what's really going on? In episode 41 of "Bump, Set, Mic, the TNT Volleyball Club Podcast,"Chuck and Brian are joined by Leon Kasperski, TNT's Director of Operations and scheduler extraordinaire, to go behind the scenes regarding the controversial topic of sandbagging in club volleyball. What may appear to be sandbagging on the surface might actually not be that at all. If a team is sandbagging, why does it happen? And the tough question every program wrestles with: are we prioritizing trying to win, or helping our players to get better?  All of that and more, including some of the online discussions about this topic, is covered in this episode. Segment 1 – Chasing Medals vs. Chasing Improvement (0:00 -23:22) Catching up with Chuck and Leon Defining "Playing down" (aka sandbagging)  Legitimate reasons for clubs choosing what are perceived as "lower" divisions Common frustrations and perceptions within the volleyball community on the subject The downsides of playing easier competition TNT's core message: long-term improvement matters more than chasing medals Segment 2 – The Value of Playing Tougher Competition (24:10 - 47:40) How consistently playing stronger opponents accelerates both player and team development Additional risks of playing weaker competition Building mental toughness and resilience, along with better habits, through tougher matches and adversity The importance of a growth mindset across players, coaches, and parents Reinforcing the need for realistic expectations based on level of competition Balancing development vs. winning: long-term improvement vs. short-term medals TNT's evolving approach to scheduling Parent expectations and the importance of trust in club leadership Alternative ways to measure success besides match wins The myth that only top divisions at tournaments attract college coaches Finding the right competitive balance to support long-term player growth Segment 3 – The Online Community Sandbagging Debate (48:15 - 75:04) Reactions to real comments from the Volleyball Moms community and broader online discussions about sandbagging that highlight strong frustrations Exhibiting sportsmanship during lopsided matches Responsibility for avoiding sandbagging at multiple levels  Potential solutions to reduce sandbagging, including more intentional division-naming structure An opposing perspective focusing on player experience, growth, and enjoyment Reinforcing TNT's philosophy of long-term development and what's best for players Club updates and announcements of upcoming programs

  6. Feb 10

    Ep 40: The Mental Side of the Game With Stephanie Hutchman and Annemarie Tester

    "Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside of them: a desire, a dream, a vision" - Muhammad Ali. These wise words from the greatest boxer of all time directly connect to the focus of episode 40 of "Bump, Set, Mic, the TNT Volleyball Podcast." In this episode, Chuck and Brian welcome TNT parents and mental health professionals Stephanie Hutchman (Instagram @superpsychnini and www.splatpsych.org) and Annemarie Tester to share their insights into the world of mental health. Our experts break down the pressures young athletes face, from performance anxiety and identity issues to the increasing demands being placed on athletes as part of today's world of youth sports. Together, the panel shares practical tools for players, coaches, and parents ---- including topics such as visualization, mindfulness, communication strategies, and how to support injured players—all while trying to build a supportive team culture with the understanding that mental well-being and player performance go hand in hand. Everyone has a role in helping youth athletes to achieve success, and this episode discusses various ways to support our youth athletes in all of their endeavors. Segment 1: From the Experts - Understanding Mental Health in Youth Sports (0:00 - 17:44) Recap of TNT at Charm City Tourney in Baltimore Why Mental Health Matters at TNT and Abbey's Story Introduction of Experts The Mental Health Problems / Challenges in Youth Sports in the Lives of Youth Athletes Today Discussion of Specific, Stressful Situations That Arise  The Importance of Open Communication and Modeling Calm Responses Segment 2: Mental Performance Training - The Science Behind Success (18:00 - 30:32) The Importance of Mental Training vs. Physical Training Visualization as a Key Strategy Skills and Tools Required for Players to Mentally Self-Regulate Ways to Implement Strategies at the Club Level Mindfulness as Another Key Strategy Handling Adversity During the Season and From Year-to-Year Segment 3: How Parents Can Best Support Players (30:50 - 45:50) How Conversations with Players Shape Our Athletes The Impact of Youth Sports Becoming More Specialized Listening to the Athletes and Normalizing the Concerns They Voice Need for Parents to Be Mindful of Body Language on the Sidelines Responding Appropriately in Different Ways for Different Players Segment 4: Coaching Culture - Incorporating Mental Wellness Strategies (46:02 - 65:09) Creating a Culture That Supports Mental Wellness Ensuring that Coaching Practice Helps, Not Harms Balancing Seriousness and Fun at TNT Supporting and Including Players Dealing with Injuries Concrete Suggestions for Players to Embrace The Physical and Mental Connection and Importance of Proper Rest Final Takeaways Episode Wrap-Up

  7. Jan 23

    Ep 39: Serious. Fun. From The Armory to MLK Weekend

    It's a party at The Armory! TNT Volleyball is thrilled to mark one year since opening the doors to our wonderful facility, The Armory in Horsham, PA. This episode of "Bump, Set, Mic: the TNT Volleyball Podcast" begins with a celebration of all that The Armory has added to life here at the club. In addition, during this episode Chuck and Brian brought some of TNT's 15U and 17U Platinum players into the studio to share some insights as they talk about the dynamics of their current teams, recent tournament experiences, and their volleyball journeys to this point. While visiting, the players also answered some fun, light-hearted questions, thus allowing listeners an inside look at the many personalities that help their teams to click.  There's no better way to celebrate one year at The Armory than by hearing from some of our athletes, the ones who make everything that club volleyball is about it all worth every minute.  Segment 1: One Year at the Armory (0:00 - 18:59) Intro and a Look Back at the Armory Opening The Growth and Impact of Facility on TNT Offerings The Learning Curve When Opening a New Facility A Look at What's to Come Thank Yous from Chuck Segment 2: Visits from 15U and 17U Platinum Players (19:09 - 62:46) Catching Up With 15 Platinum (19:09 - 40:22) 17 Platinum Joins the Fun (40:25 - 62:46) Segment 3: Reflecting on the Player Conversations (62:56 - 68:45) Discussing the Perspectives Shared by Players of Different Ages The Value of Advice from Older Players to Younger Players TNT's Balance of High-Level Play and Fun Upcoming Programs and Wrap-Up

  8. Jan 14

    Ep 38: Lets Talk HUDL: How Video Helps TNT Players Improve - With Sam Moyerman

    Film doesn't lie - and in club volleyball, it can help coaches to improve their practice, players to devleop faster, and parents to stay aligned with the process they invest so much in for the benefit of their children. In this episode of "Bump, Set, Mic, the TNT Volleyball Podcast," hosts Brian Mooney and club director Chuck Dougherty welcome returning guest and resident analytics guru, Coach Sam Moyerman, for a deep dive into how TNT uses the platform HUDL and its video and stat capabilities to elevate players, inform coaches, and engage parents.  The group discusses why film review matters, explains how AI-powered stats accelerate learning, and shares simple routines that can help turn review of game video into real, measurable ways to improve. Whether you're a parent, player, or coach, this episode provides a clear picture of the benefits of HUDL - and how to get more out of it. Segment 1: Helping Parents Watch With Purpose (0:00 - 39:00) Opening/Intro, Episode setup Atlantic City Tourney Recap Why TNT Uses HUDL + and the Balltime AI History / Integration Clearing Up HUDL Misconceptions Parents 101 Healthy Parent Use Productive Parent–Player Convo Starters Segment 2: Assisting Players in Taking Ownership of Development (39:11 - 60:35) How Watching Film Accelerates Player Learning How and What Film Watchers Do Differently Viewing Different Positions Through the Lenses of HUDL Using HUDL to Assist in Recruiting Segment 3: Helping Coaches Use Data as Part of Decision-Making (60:46 - 95:13) Usage Overview for Coaches Presenting More Advanced Uses by Coaches Using Data to Impact Strategic Decisions Properly Conducting Team Video Sessions Balancing Film Use and Stat Data With Coaching Instincts Highlighting Current TNT Events Sharing Club Social Media Contact Info and Wrap-Up

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

The Bump, Set, Mic podcast guides you through the world of junior club volleyball through the perspective of the TNT Volleyball Club located in the Philadelphia area. Join Club Director Chuck Dougherty and his cohost Brian Mooney as they interview coaches, parents and players to get behind the scenes insight into all things important in the world of club volleyball.

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