Spikers play, coach at camp

The heat in the Intramural Building was smoldering, but it wasn't enough to stifle the enthusiasm of the 120 high school students who came to University Park for the Penn State Men's Volleyball Camp last week.

While the days were long and grueling, the players seemed to love every minute of it. No longer were they goofing around in a dingy high school gym with weak hitters and sloppy setters.

Instead, they were given an opportunity to be under the tutelage of players and coaches from one of the most successful men's volleyball programs in the nation. The highlight of the day was often the hour after lunch when Penn State players took the floor for impromptu games.

"They really know the game, backwards and forwards," said Matt Linebargon, a camp member from Florida. "They play so much faster and hit so much harder -- it's beyond another level."

Linebargon was not the only player in awe of the Nittany Lions. All those who attended left the camp with a newfound respect for Penn State volleyball.

"It was incredible watching them play," said Dave Navara, a camper from New Jersey. "It motivates you a lot, because you want to be able to play like them."

Most of the Penn State players who worked as coaches at the camp are the younger members on the Lion roster. Many of them attended the camp just a few years ago while they were still in high school, making the position of role model a new experience.

"I remember working with (former Lion) Ed Josefoski when I came to this camp and I thought he was pretty amazing," Penn State sophomore opposite hitter Dan Hoescht said. "I think we are just normal guys, but I guess I understand why some of the kids look up to us."

Lion junior opposite hitter Damian Mortorana also attended the camp before he came to Penn State. His experience as a camper helped him understand what it is like to be on the other side.

"I've experienced this, so I know what they are going through," Mortorana said. "I remember being a little nervous around the coaches at first, but once you realize they are OK, you start having fun."

While learning about volleyball was the top priority on the agenda, having fun was a close second.

"The guys have to work hard, but they usually have a good time," Penn State coach Mark Pavlik said. "They are here because they want to play volleyball -- which is something that is very refreshing for a coach."

Pavlik noted the high school students are not the only ones who will leave the camp as better volleyball players. Often the Penn State players learn almost as much as the campers they coach.

"Now they are forced to take a step back and think about what to say and do," Pavlik said. "It gives them another perspective. It allows them to be the coach."

As the Lions worked with camp members, they realized that they themselves sometimes need a refresher course in the fundamentals.

"It helps you become a better player," Mortorana said. "You tell the kids to do something, then you realize that you don't even do it."

However, Mortorana downplayed his personal growth, putting the improvement of the campers as the top priority.

"It feels good to work with the younger guys," Mortorana said. "You get a lot personal satisfaction out of helping the kids.

"As long as you help someone out, that's all that matters."