Submitted by Jen Barber | AZ Region Social Media Coordinator | #AZVolleyballMom

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how digital communication can bring a team together — but also how quickly it can put kids at risk. While clubs are required to follow the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAPP), I believe it’s critical to go above and beyond the minimum. These are the practices I recommend to protect minors and model the right habits on social media.

• Keep accounts secure. Limit access to only trusted staff, update passwords regularly, and remove former administrators right away.
• Never communicate with minors alone. Always include an adult in digital conversations.
• Model respect. Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want someone else posting of you. Avoid inappropriate photos, alcohol, drugs, or content that has nothing to do with volleyball.
• Safeguard privacy. Develop clear rules for how and when minors appear in photos or videos, and always err on the side of caution.

Finally, remember that every post sets the tone for your community. I encourage clubs to highlight the positives: thank the parents, coaches, referees, and volunteers who make the sport possible, and share stories that show why kids love being part of volleyball.

Following MAAPP is a baseline — but these extra steps can help ensure athletes are safe, respected, and proud of the culture we build together online.