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Post by jade58 on Sept 2, 2024 13:35:41 GMT -5
By further answer - there is more to volleyball than hitting. Tamas has always preferred six rotation players. As would I. From what I have seen, Taylor is not ready to play six rotations. Averie is a better back row player than the DSs we have on the bench and appears to be a very good passer. Playing Taylor would mean bringing a DS in to play back row, and suddenly we have many of the same passing issues we have had the last two years. I know hitting is what gets all the attention, but without passing and defense one has a pretty mediocre volleyball team. I am all for getting Taylor playing time - I’ve posted twice I would like to see her play. And part of developing depth is playing your depth from time to time. We are only two matches into the season, and it was important for team confidence to decisively win those two matches. Let’s relax a little bit before we suggest the program is going to self-destruct. Your points about the importance of passing and defense in building a strong team are well taken. I completely agree that hitting is just one part of the equation, and without solid passing and defense, even the best hitters can't excel. What hasn’t been fully addressed is the potential displacement of a dedicated DS/L like Barry when we lean on a six-rotation player like Hernandez. While Tamas’s preference for six-rotation players makes sense in terms of overall consistency, it’s crucial to ensure we’re not sacrificing depth or long-term development by not rotating in other players early in the season. Tamas’s recent pivot to heavily utilizing the transfer portal stands in stark contrast to his previously stated philosophy of building teams through traditional recruiting and player development. He has often publically emphasized the importance of continuity and fostering a strong team culture—principles that are now jeopardized by this strategic shift. This change not only increases the risk of current players feeling sidelined and potentially transferring out, but it also makes it difficult to trust a coach for the long term. I'm not suggesting the program is at risk, but we should be mindful of how we manage our roster to ensure all our players, particularly those with potential like Barry, Philpot, Smith, Dean, and DeBoer, are given the opportunity to grow and contribute. For instance, DeBoer may still be recovering from illness, but my concerns obviously go beyond individual circumstances. Regarding Hernandez, I’ve followed her development closely at Northwestern, where she has proven to be a versatile player, particularly in the back row. Her passing and defense are strong (enough), sometimes surpassing those of traditional defensive specialists—though, in my view, Barry remains superior in this role, and we've invested significantly in her development. Hernandez’s offensive consistency is still a concern, especially in high-pressure Big Ten environments where she has historically struggled with errors and efficiency- facts not opinion. If we’re committing to a six-rotation player, they need to outperform others both offensively and defensively, and that’s an area where Hernandez still has room to grow. Terry is an example of a true six-rotation athlete, contributing significantly both offensively and defensively. Offensively, she is a consistent and versatile hitter, able to score from various positions on the court. Defensively, her solid passing and blocking skills stabilize the team, especially in serve-receive situations. While playing six rotations is demanding, Terry’s ability to maintain high performance in every position has been crucial to illinois success, making her an indispensable. Hernandez is not the same. As a coach with 20 years of experience, I have significant concerns about guaranteeing playing time as a recruiting incentive. This practice can undermine the competitive integrity of the program, which was the MAIN point of my earlier post. I want to emphasize that my comments are not intended to provoke but rather to contribute to a constructive discussion about the team’s future. Each of us brings a unique perspective, and that diversity of thought is what makes forums like this valuable. It’s through these respectful, informed discussions that we can collectively support the program’s success. If you attack a post/poster so quickly might it not limit others from becoming part of the conversation. Illinois is not my first team (Go Badgers!) but a team I follow closely because I live in Illinois and like to come to games. I have heard the Illinois fans are a little savage but I enjoy being part of the conversation. Let’s continue to engage with mutual respect and a shared commitment to Illinois success even if we disagree. In other words give an old guy a break! I also want to clarify that this is not my first post; my previous account couldn’t be recovered. My username is in memory of my nephew who recently passed away, not a reflection of being jaded- that comment was disappointing. |
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Post by jade58 on Sept 2, 2024 14:00:44 GMT -5
Many people are JADED in the world today. It’s a fairly common emotion that can often be very self-defeating and unhelpful. Knowing what being JADED means can help people understand their situations better and get into a better place in life. Oh, "notpriddy," I see what you did there—clever! I guess we’re both rolling with names that don’t exactly describe us, right? Mine’s not about being jaded, and I’m sure yours isn’t a reflection of your mirror, either. But thanks for the TED Talk on being jaded—truly groundbreaking! Who knew a username could reveal so much? Maybe instead of armchair psychology, we could, I don’t know, talk about volleyball? But hey, if we're starting a support group for misunderstood usernames, count me in after the game! |
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Post by jade58 on Sept 2, 2024 14:07:30 GMT -5
There’s growing concern about the roster management at Illinois, particularly with Hernandez. Confirmed through a contact with NW that she was promised a starting 6 rotation position as part of her commitment. In B1G volleyball, starting positions should be earned through performance, not given as part of a recruitment deal. I attended the teams Intersquad match at Huff and Deboer’s impressive performance highlight the depth of talent on the bench, yet Deboer has seen no court time, raising questions about the decision-making process. Hernandez’s low hitting percentage in BG at a PCT .167 and low overall performance, especially against weaker teams, make this even more puzzling until you understand the promises made at signing Hernandez. Maintaining a competitive environment in the gym has always been the cornerstone and pride in Illinois Volleyball under Hambly and is crucial for any successful winning program. If our players feel opportunities are granted unfairly and without merit, it can create a toxic atmosphere not to mention be totally demotivating for our young players. Tamas and his staff are walking a fine line. While bringing in transfers can bolster a roster, it should never come at the expense of competitive integrity. Ensuring that playing time is earned, not promised, is how top teams compete for championships. If this situation isn’t handled correctly, it could result in the loss of some of the program’s most driven, high character players, which would be a setback not just for this season, but for years to come. I have no idea what Deboer can or cannot beyond what I saw at the Intersquad and it is unlikely we are going to find out. Not because of Deboer’s talent but because of Tamas’s desperation in signing an OH from the portal. Beyond the obvious, lets hope for Hernandez to suddenly turn into a stud like Terry and save the season. Based on projections with Illinois State whoever is on the court for UIUC should be able to get the job done. Shorter version: somebody's mad because somebody's friend isn't starting or hasn't gotten playing time yet. (After 2 matches.) Chill. The season just started. As for roster management, most of us are happy that for the first time in years the coaching staff actually has multiple players at each position who can do the job. Ah, you got me—I’m clearly spiraling into utter madness after two whole matches! But hey, if caring about overall player development is a crime, I guess I’m guilty. Don’t worry, I’ll “chill” while eagerly awaiting the thrilling saga of roster management to unfold. I’m happy to see we’ve finally got a bench that isn’t just there to keep the seats warm. Here’s hoping the depth doesn’t just mean more players to pass out water bottles |
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Post by inpaign on Sept 2, 2024 15:14:03 GMT -5
There’s growing concern about the roster management at Illinois, particularly with Hernandez. Confirmed through a contact with NW that she was promised a starting 6 rotation position as part of her commitment. In B1G volleyball, starting positions should be earned through performance, not given as part of a recruitment deal. I attended the teams Intersquad match at Huff and Deboer’s impressive performance highlight the depth of talent on the bench, yet Deboer has seen no court time, raising questions about the decision-making process. Hernandez’s low hitting percentage in BG at a PCT .167 and low overall performance, especially against weaker teams, make this even more puzzling until you understand the promises made at signing Hernandez. Maintaining a competitive environment in the gym has always been the cornerstone and pride in Illinois Volleyball under Hambly and is crucial for any successful winning program. If our players feel opportunities are granted unfairly and without merit, it can create a toxic atmosphere not to mention be totally demotivating for our young players. Tamas and his staff are walking a fine line. While bringing in transfers can bolster a roster, it should never come at the expense of competitive integrity. Ensuring that playing time is earned, not promised, is how top teams compete for championships. If this situation isn’t handled correctly, it could result in the loss of some of the program’s most driven, high character players, which would be a setback not just for this season, but for years to come. I have no idea what Deboer can or cannot beyond what I saw at the Intersquad and it is unlikely we are going to find out. Not because of Deboer’s talent but because of Tamas’s desperation in signing an OH from the portal. Beyond the obvious, lets hope for Hernandez to suddenly turn into a stud like Terry and save the season. Based on projections with Illinois State whoever is on the court for UIUC should be able to get the job done. Thank you for sharing. I would first like to say that my sources have never mentioned this to be the case. That doesn't mean your contact is wrong, just that mine haven't indicated that to me. & mine have a history of being pretty truthful and spot on. Also - a NW contact is something to be wary of considering she left that program for us. Again, not trying to dismiss your information, just point out some potential concerns. I've been told that in practice Averie and TdB have both looked just about even. They were both competing for the final pin spot up until the last week before our first game. Obviously, Averie won the spot. If their attacking was even, I have a feeling that spot was won in the backrow. I know for a fact there has been a big emphasis in practice on the backrow attack - something they are trying to master with Averie, who has looked very good at it. Additionally, Averie's passing has been pretty good so far. I'd like to see Taylor out there soon just as much as any other person, and I believe this match against ISU could be the opportunity. But I think we should be cautious about making claims regarding guaranteed starting spots to transfers. |
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Post by notpriddy (COIF) on Sept 2, 2024 15:14:59 GMT -5
I forgot to mention that all of the player names in the first post are linked to their roster entries on the official team websites. It’s another pathway to learn more about the prospective starters. Thanks 'exit237a' for all your hard work! You're truly a gem! |
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Post by ilalum92 on Sept 2, 2024 15:47:03 GMT -5
There’s growing concern about the roster management at Illinois, particularly with Hernandez. Confirmed through a contact with NW that she was promised a starting 6 rotation position as part of her commitment. In B1G volleyball, starting positions should be earned through performance, not given as part of a recruitment deal. I attended the teams Intersquad match at Huff and Deboer’s impressive performance highlight the depth of talent on the bench, yet Deboer has seen no court time, raising questions about the decision-making process. Hernandez’s low hitting percentage in BG at a PCT .167 and low overall performance, especially against weaker teams, make this even more puzzling until you understand the promises made at signing Hernandez. Maintaining a competitive environment in the gym has always been the cornerstone and pride in Illinois Volleyball under Hambly and is crucial for any successful winning program. If our players feel opportunities are granted unfairly and without merit, it can create a toxic atmosphere not to mention be totally demotivating for our young players. Tamas and his staff are walking a fine line. While bringing in transfers can bolster a roster, it should never come at the expense of competitive integrity. Ensuring that playing time is earned, not promised, is how top teams compete for championships. If this situation isn’t handled correctly, it could result in the loss of some of the program’s most driven, high character players, which would be a setback not just for this season, but for years to come. I have no idea what Deboer can or cannot beyond what I saw at the Intersquad and it is unlikely we are going to find out. Not because of Deboer’s talent but because of Tamas’s desperation in signing an OH from the portal. Beyond the obvious, lets hope for Hernandez to suddenly turn into a stud like Terry and save the season. Based on projections with Illinois State whoever is on the court for UIUC should be able to get the job done. Thank you for sharing. I would first like to say that my sources have never mentioned this to be the case. That doesn't mean your contact is wrong, just that mine haven't indicated that to me. & mine have a history of being pretty truthful and spot on. Also - a NW contact is something to be wary of considering she left that program for us. Again, not trying to dismiss your information, just point out some potential concerns. I've been told that in practice Averie and TdB have both looked just about even. They were both competing for the final pin spot up until the last week before our first game. Obviously, Averie won the spot. If their attacking was even, I have a feeling that spot was won in the backrow. I know for a fact there has been a big emphasis in practice on the backrow attack - something they are trying to master with Averie, who has looked very good at it. Additionally, Averie's passing has been pretty good so far. I'd like to see Taylor out there soon just as much as any other person, and I believe this match against ISU could be the opportunity. But I think we should be cautious about making claims regarding guaranteed starting spots to transfers. #TeamInpaign. When it comes to intel on the team, I’m going with you. Not with a poster with little to no history. How can you claim “concerns with roster management” around a transfer two games in? Any ILL fan knows our roster management problems come from lack of depth, not promises to transfers. |
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Post by gurnee50 on Sept 2, 2024 17:33:32 GMT -5
Tamas' job is to win - not to please avid Wisconsin Badger fans. I find it amazing that across the college sports spectrum, Wisconsin fans are obsessed with Illini athletics.
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Post by exit237a on Sept 2, 2024 17:36:42 GMT -5
Tamas' job is to win - not to please avid Wisconsin Badger fans. I find it amazing that across the college sports spectrum, Wisconsin fans are obsessed with Illini athletics.
Truly rich to have a Badger volleyball fan casting judgment on another team for utilizing the transfer portal to fill a roster need.
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Post by exit237a on Sept 2, 2024 17:39:18 GMT -5
I forgot to mention that all of the player names in the first post are linked to their roster entries on the official team websites. It’s another pathway to learn more about the prospective starters. Thanks 'exit237a' for all your hard work! You're truly a gem!
You're very welcome and too kind, my friend!
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Post by oldmanvb on Sept 2, 2024 18:21:49 GMT -5
As usual, I'm a little late to the conversation, but even though it may be redundant you're going to get my two cents.
First, I've never heard this board characterized as a "little savage." There are occasional interlopers who post harsh comments but they are generally ignored or chastised for their tone. In my experience this is a pretty civil group, slow to call out individual players for perceived shortcomings.
Second, I would be shocked if Tamas guaranteed a starting position to anyone. It is not inconceivable by the third re-telling someone who was not part of the conversation thinks something different was said.
The world of volleyball recruiting - heck, the world of college athletics recruiting - has changed with the result a B1G coach recruits transfers to fill holes or that coach perishes. Tamas' approach to recruiting was not working, coupled with an unbelievable run of bad injuries, and he had holes to fill. I'm encouraged by his shift in recruiting and he did an excellent job in recruiting players who meet needs.
My last word on the fast offense issue - please don't slow Raina's sets. Set her higher, but just as fast. Make her reach for the ball. Hitting a fast tempo set at the height of her reach will only increase her effectiveness.
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Post by exit237a on Sept 2, 2024 19:46:09 GMT -5
There’s growing concern about the roster management at Illinois, particularly with Hernandez. Confirmed through a contact with NW that she was promised a starting 6 rotation position as part of her commitment. In B1G volleyball, starting positions should be earned through performance, not given as part of a recruitment deal. I attended the teams Intersquad match at Huff and Deboer’s impressive performance highlight the depth of talent on the bench, yet Deboer has seen no court time, raising questions about the decision-making process. Hernandez’s low hitting percentage in BG at a PCT .167 and low overall performance, especially against weaker teams, make this even more puzzling until you understand the promises made at signing Hernandez. Maintaining a competitive environment in the gym has always been the cornerstone and pride in Illinois Volleyball under Hambly and is crucial for any successful winning program. If our players feel opportunities are granted unfairly and without merit, it can create a toxic atmosphere not to mention be totally demotivating for our young players. Tamas and his staff are walking a fine line. While bringing in transfers can bolster a roster, it should never come at the expense of competitive integrity. Ensuring that playing time is earned, not promised, is how top teams compete for championships. If this situation isn’t handled correctly, it could result in the loss of some of the program’s most driven, high character players, which would be a setback not just for this season, but for years to come. I have no idea what Deboer can or cannot beyond what I saw at the Intersquad and it is unlikely we are going to find out. Not because of Deboer’s talent but because of Tamas’s desperation in signing an OH from the portal. Beyond the obvious, lets hope for Hernandez to suddenly turn into a stud like Terry and save the season. Based on projections with Illinois State whoever is on the court for UIUC should be able to get the job done. I believe it when Hernandez family or friends say she said she was promised. I don't think there's any area of coaching more dangerous than talking with players or family about playing time. No matter how many qualifiers you use, many players and family want to hear they are in solid. While it may cost you some recruits, I liked it when Tori Dilfer reported that when recruiting her, DBK stated clearly: "You may start. You may play some. Or, you may sit on the bench." One thing I think the top teams are good at is avoiding what Coach Rose called selfish players or helicopter parents. I trust the poster is correct the player said she was promised. That's far from saying Coach promised. One she may have been elaborating. Or, two more likely she and her parents chose to misinterpret. IMO disliking a team's performance doesn't mean we have to be so quick to demonize the coach.
Like, fine, that's your opinion to take a random poster with one post at their word but repeating it as if you know it to be true is malpractice. You're saying you also heard this from family or what? Where are you getting that? OR is this just your opinion? Also a Nebraska fan to be clear.
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Post by Pasquale on Sept 2, 2024 19:52:29 GMT -5
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Post by volleyaudience on Sept 2, 2024 19:54:29 GMT -5
I believe it when Hernandez family or friends say she said she was promised. I don't think there's any area of coaching more dangerous than talking with players or family about playing time. No matter how many qualifiers you use, many players and family want to hear they are in solid. While it may cost you some recruits, I liked it when Tori Dilfer reported that when recruiting her, DBK stated clearly: "You may start. You may play some. Or, you may sit on the bench." One thing I think the top teams are good at is avoiding what Coach Rose called selfish players or helicopter parents. I trust the poster is correct the player said she was promised. That's far from saying Coach promised. One she may have been elaborating. Or, two more likely she and her parents chose to misinterpret. IMO disliking a team's performance doesn't mean we have to be so quick to demonize the coach.
Like, fine, that's your opinion to take a random poster with one post at their word but repeating it as if you know it to be true is malpractice. You're saying you also heard this from family or what? Where are you getting that? OR is this just your opinion? Also a Nebraska fan to be clear.
I apologize if I was not clear. In no way do I think Coach promised this. My wording was only to say I wouldn't argue as to whether the player lied, misremembered or was bragging. Let me know if a rereading doesn't clear this up. I support Coach, who's ethics are similar to DBKs. I in no way support or intended to suppor relying on one post of "what a player said". Again, I apologize and am deleting. |
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Post by exit237a on Sept 2, 2024 19:57:33 GMT -5
Like, fine, that's your opinion to take a random poster with one post at their word but repeating it as if you know it to be true is malpractice. You're saying you also heard this from family or what? Where are you getting that? OR is this just your opinion? Also a Nebraska fan to be clear.
I apologize if I was not clear. In no way do I think Coach promised this. My wording was only to say I wouldn't argue as to whether the player lied, misremembered or was bragging. Let me know if a rereading doesn't clear this up. I support Coach, who's ethics are similar to DBKs. I in no way support or intended to suppor relying on one post of "what a player said". Again, I apologize.
Sorry for jumping down your throat on this, volleyaudience. I misunderstood what you were saying and should've just sought clarification before flying off the handle. I'm sorry.
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Post by volleyaudience on Sept 2, 2024 19:59:06 GMT -5
I apologize if I was not clear. In no way do I think Coach promised this. My wording was only to say I wouldn't argue as to whether the player lied, misremembered or was bragging. Let me know if a rereading doesn't clear this up. I support Coach, who's ethics are similar to DBKs. I in no way support or intended to suppor relying on one post of "what a player said". Again, I apologize.
Sorry for jumping down your throat on this, volleyaudience. I misunderstood what you were saying and should've just sought clarification before flying off the hanfle. I'm sorry.
No harm. I am enraged as you are and sorry to add to the misinformation |
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