To provide the equal opportunity for girls—from diverse, lower socioeconomic environments—to train and compete at USA Volleyball's Junior Olympic level; to encourage teamwork, health, positive life skills, and academic achievement; to establish member clubs throughout the nation that are community-based and self-sustaining.
Philosophy
The Starlings believe in supporting the participation of girls in volleyball because:
· Girls who participate in sports are 92% less likely to get involved with drugs.
· Girls who participate in sports are 80% less likely to have an unwanted pregnancy.
· Girls who participate in sports are three times more likely to graduate from high school.
· Girls who participate in sports have a higher level of self esteem.
The sport of volleyball is ideal for the inner cities and rural areas of America—inexpensive, non-contact, and inherently a social game requiring communication and cooperation. Girls playing volleyball in the United States outnumber boys, 12 to 1. It is truly the “girls’ game” of America.
Starlings Volleyball Clubs excludes no girl due to financial hardship. While junior club volleyball dues around the nation are often exclusionary, Starlings club dues are dramatically minimized and some girls are provided work opportunities in exchange for monthly dues. Additionally, all Starlings clubs are required to raise part of their budget through fundraising.
Each individual Starlings club is encouraged to adopt a mentoring program to nurture personal growth and educational achievement.
