Eric Hodgson: Volleyball as a Learning Competition, Not Just a Game

As the volleyball world gathers once again for the CEV Coaches Convention (September 26-28) in Zadar, Croatia, one of the returning voices promises to challenge conventional thinking and reframe the role of coaches entirely. 

Eric Hodgson, known for his dynamic approach to youth development and coach education, will speak for the second time at the Convention after his participation in 2023, bringing with him a message grounded in learning, curiosity, and a commitment to athlete-centered training.

A Return to Zadar with Purpose

“I had a very rewarding experience two years ago in Sofia,” Hodgson says, reflecting on his previous participation. “The attendees were very engaged, and even after the presentations, there were so many side conversations that I learned so much from. Coaches from all over brought unique insights, struggles, and successes.”

That rich exchange of ideas is exactly what motivates Hodgson to return—not to simply lecture, but to learn. For him, conventions like these are not just platforms for instruction, but hubs for professional growth and inspiration.

The Coach as Sherpa

Central to Hodgson’s philosophy is the idea that volleyball isn’t merely a competition—it’s a learning competition. The difference is subtle but powerful. 

He urges coaches to shift their perspective: to see themselves as sherpas, carrying the load and laying the groundwork for athletes to reach their own personal Everests. “It’s not about us being in the center. That spot is reserved for the athlete,” he says. 

Small Court Games, Big Learning Moments

Among the tools Hodgson champions are small court games—designed to enhance player engagement, decision-making, and creativity. Unlike rigid drills or heavily coach-directed practices, these formats emphasize learning through doing.

And it's not just about the games. Hodgson stresses the value of coaching frameworks and brain science to improve practice design. “I have been realising that while it's easier to embrace one way to coach, we should be utilising all of the coaching frameworks currently being bantered about in podcasts, articles and blogs. Each framework has an advantage of sorts, and we need to utilise all of them to give our athletes the best practices we can."

Efficient, Engaging, and Evolving Practices

Spending the summer immersed in camps, Hodgson has seen firsthand how athlete behaviour and engagement continue to evolve. Compared to 2023, he’s noticed a clear trend: athletes demand more engaging, efficient training. “Boring drills and too much talking will drive athletes away,” he warns. “We need practices that keep them moving, thinking, and playing. That’s the real currency in coaching today.”

More Than a Convention

Zadar’s event will explore themes that align perfectly with Hodgson’s ethos: The Coach in the Centre, From Local to International, Inspiration in Motion, and Not Just a Convention, a Movement.

For him, these aren’t just talking points—they're guiding principles.

• “Inspiration in Motion,” he explains, “is about the joy that comes from discovery in play.”
  
  

• “From Local to International” reflects the importance of grassroots programs in developing lifelong athletes.
  
  

• And most importantly, “Not Just a Convention, a Movement” speaks to the power of community learning. “It’s not about the newest drills or equipment. It’s about shared ideas and broadening your coaching quiver. And CEV understands that very well,” Hodgson says.
  
  

In Zadar, Hodgson won’t just be presenting. He’ll be provoking thought, challenging norms, and encouraging coaches to step beyond their comfort zones. Because in his world, coaching isn’t about control—it’s about creating space for athletes to grow, to struggle, to learn, and to triumph on their own terms.