When I step onto the volleyball court, I can't help but remember the time I twisted my ankle during a crucial match. I wasn't wearing an ankle brace because I thought they were only necessary for professional players. Boy, was I wrong. Ankle injuries account for nearly 50% of all injuries in volleyball, according to a study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. I wish someone had told me earlier how much protective equipment can make a difference.
I remember talking to my friend Sarah, who plays as a libero for her university team. She insisted on wearing knee pads ever since she had a gruesome fall that put her out of the game for a month. Knee pads are almost synonymous with volleyball now, and for a good reason. The constant dive to save balls can take a toll on your knees, leading to an increased risk of bursitis and other chronic injuries. Sarah mentioned that after starting to use a good pair of knee pads, she noticed a significant drop in the aches and pains she used to have after games.
Then there's the matter of elbow pads. That might sound excessive to some, but once you hit the floor hard enough, you realize their importance. I started using elbow pads after slamming my elbow during a practice drill. It was a wake-up call. The protective gear saved me from potential fractures and more severe injuries. It doesn't cost much - a decent pair of elbow pads is probably around $20 to $30. That's less than the cost of a single doctor's appointment for injury treatment.
Now, let’s not forget mouthguards. Emily, a middle-blocker on our team, had a horrific incident where she lost a tooth after going for a block. Ever since then, she's been an advocate for mouthguards. You might think that these are only for contact sports, but volleyball is full of unexpected collisions and falls. A custom-fitted mouthguard can range from $50 to $200, but it’s an investment compared to thousands of dollars in dental repair costs.
Some might disregard the importance of volleyball protective equipment, thinking it's only for beginners or overly cautious players. But top-tier athletes also use them. Take Kerri Walsh Jennings, for example. The three-time Olympic gold medalist never steps onto the sand without her ankle braces and knee pads. The professional circuit is grueling, and these protective measures ensure their career longevity and sustainability in the sport.
For setters, finger supports can be a game-changer. The repetitive motion of setting the ball can lead to tendonitis and other overuse injuries. I found this out the hard way after ignoring the mild pain in my fingers for weeks, which ultimately sidelined me for a significant portion of the season. Finger supports are a small, often overlooked piece of equipment, but they can drastically reduce the wear and tear on your joints.
Another item you wouldn’t expect to be crucial is a good pair of shoes. Volleyball shoes are designed to provide excellent grip, especially when you need to make quick lateral movements. When I switched from regular trainers to specialized volleyball shoes, I noticed my movements became quicker and more precise, reducing the number of slips and falls. The cost can range anywhere from $60 to $120, depending on the brand and features, but it’s worth every penny for the added grip and support.
Wrist supports also can’t be ignored, particularly if you have wrist issues like me. The repetitive impact of spiking the ball can cause chronic pain. I turned to wrist supports after a particularly intense tournament left my wrist throbbing for days. They not only provide immediate relief but also long-term benefits by preventing further damage.
Now, let me share something about shoulder support. My teammate James, an outside hitter, had to undergo surgery because he ignored signs of shoulder stress. After his recovery, he started using a shoulder brace, which allowed him to return to the game with more confidence. It also helped improve his performance because he wasn't worried about re-injury. Shoulder braces can range between $30 to $100, but the peace of mind and additional support they provide are priceless.
Thinking about protective eyewear, it might sound over-the-top, but for players with vision impairments, they are essential. I wear contact lenses, and the thought of losing a lens during play petrified me. So, I got myself a pair of sports goggles. While they took some getting used to, they have saved me countless times. The price for a quality pair can be around $50 to $150, but it's an excellent investment for anyone who needs vision correction on the court.
Don’t underestimate the value of proper protective gear. It not only keeps you safe but also boosts your confidence, allowing you to play at your best. I learned it the hard way, but trust me, volleyball protective equipment is something every player should consider seriously. Investing in these items now can save a lot of pain and money later.