6th grader wants to play on the 7th/8th grade team

Question
I have an 11 year girl whos going to enter 6th grade, her school has 7th and 8th grade volleyball team, can she tryout for the team? she's been playing NYC CLUB FOR THE PAST 3 YEARS IN THE 13's age group.

Answer
Good evening, and welcome to www.allexperts.com!  It's great to hear from you.

You may have answered your own question.  She's entering the 6th, but the team is for 7th and 8th graders. So, I think the answer is no, she cannot be a member.

But, don't trust me.  I'm just telling you what the deal is here in Virginia.  Make a phone call to the school, and ask them.  If you don't get an answer that you want, call or visit the school board office.   Don't get brushed off.  Don't accept the, "I'm not sure. I'll call you back later."  Get an answer.  

WARNING: Make sure that if she is allowed to play in the 6th, that doesn't mean she loses a year of eligibility later in her career!  I can imagine a horrible screw-up with something like this.  I can imagine your daughter being told in the 10th grade, "OH NO, you played in the 6th grade????  Well, no one can play more than 6 seasons in this state!  So, you can't play in the 12th grade."

Thank you again for visiting!  Have a great week and please find a moment to visit www.coachhouser.com.  I think you and your daughter will love the smiling faces!!