Air Force Academy

April 27, 2010

The Air Force volleyball team had a busy week to wrap up the 2010 spring season. In addition to playing their final scrimmage in Fort Collins, the Falcons took publicity photos for the fall and held a clinic for members of a local youth league.

Following a workout on Thursday, April 22, the Falcons headed to The Athletic Club and Spa at the Flying Horse community of Colorado Springs to host a clinic for members of the Flying Horse Youth Volleyball League. Under the direction of Elayne Prechtel, the league featured approximately 30 girls from grades three through eight.

Photo Gallery

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Air Force opened the clinic with introductions that included the Falcons giving their name, position, class year and hometown. Following some brief instructions from Air Force assistant coach Marc Swindle, both teams gathered together for the Falcons' traditional pre-practice huddle.

The Athletic Club's gym was divided into two courts; one for the younger players and one for the older, more experienced athletes. During the two-hour clinic, the Falcons worked with the Flying Horse players on serving, passing, attacking and defense.

The Falcons worked one-on-one with the girls, teaching them the proper techniques and motions of the game. Air Force's players encouraged the girls with hugs and high-fives and, at times, it was hard to tell who was having more fun, the Flying Horse team or the Air Force squad.

"I love seeing when they get something for the first time," freshman Maiya Perich said. "It feels good to know that I helped them grow in a skill."

Following the clinic, the Falcons talked with the girls about non-volleyball related activities, like their plans for the summer. The session ended in another all-team huddle.

"My favorite part of the clinic was simply being around the young girls and knowing that my smile and attitude could have an impact on them," freshman Preslee Maki said. "As a cadet, I'm not around small children every day, so experiences like these are treasured."