Memphis News: Memphis Magic Volleyball Institute , Free Clinics for Youth

A Memphis couple has launched the Memphis Magic Volleyball Institute, a nonprofit offering free volleyball clinics this summer to make the sport accessible for local youth, specifically targeting girls in 1st through 8th grade.

Through the Memphis Magic Volleyball Institute, Anthony and Julia Sain are bridging the financial gap that often prevents talented young athletes from competing. By offering eight free clinics this summer followed by a championship tournament, they are providing quality coaching, character development, and a safe space for Memphis youth to grow without the burden of high participation costs.

By Dr. Layne McDonald, Founder of Memphis News with a Purpose

The Heart of the Game: Bridging the Opportunity Gap

In the world of competitive youth sports, the "pay-to-play" model has become a towering wall for many families. For a child to participate in high-level club volleyball, the annual price tag often ranges between $3,000 and $10,000. In a city like Memphis, where talent is abundant but resources can be tight, these figures represent more than just a bill, they represent a closed door.

Anthony and Julia Sain saw this door and decided to unlock it. Anthony, known to many as a digital host for the Memphis Grizzlies, along with his wife Julia, founded the Memphis Magic Volleyball Institute in 2024. Their mission is simple yet radical: give every child a chance to spike, regardless of their zip code or bank account balance.

This summer, the Institute is hosting eight free clinics at their Jackson Avenue location, bringing together hundreds of young ladies to learn the fundamentals of the game. But as any coach will tell you, the lessons learned on the court are rarely just about the ball.

A Bible Study on Stewardship and Youth

When we look at the work being done through Memphis Magic, we see a living example of Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

Training a child is about more than academic instruction; it’s about holistic development. Sports provide a unique "classroom" where children learn discipline, resilience, and the value of a teammate. When the community comes together to provide these opportunities for free, we are practicing a form of biblical stewardship, investing our time, talent, and treasure into the next generation.

Lesson 1: The Value of Every Child

In the Gospels, we see Jesus making time for children even when his disciples thought he was too busy. He recognized that the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. By removing the $10,000 barrier, the Sains are echoing this sentiment: every child is valuable, and every child deserves an investment of our best resources.

Lesson 2: Breaking Walls of Partition

The financial divide in sports often creates a "partition" between communities. Those who can afford to play get the scouts, the scholarships, and the spotlight. Those who can't are often left on the sidelines. As Christian peacemakers, our role is to tear down these walls of partition, much like the work described in finding peace in a chaotic world. When we level the playing field, we foster true community peace.

Building Confidence and Community

The clinics aren't just about athletic drills. The Institute has introduced a "Champ of the Week" recognition to highlight players who show exceptional effort, sportsmanship, and growth. This focus on character over just "winning" is essential for long-term success.

Many of the girls attending these clinics have never had access to professional-grade coaching. By the end of the eight sessions, many will have found a new passion, built new friendships, and discovered a confidence that will carry over into their classrooms and homes.

The Peacemaker's Perspective

In a city often highlighted for its struggles, the Memphis Magic Volleyball Institute serves as a "Green Light" story. It is an example of the Christian Peacemaker strategy in action: identifying a point of friction (the cost of youth sports) and applying a solution that brings harmony and opportunity.

Peacemaking isn't just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice and wholeness. By ensuring that a girl's athletic future isn't determined by her parents' income, we are creating a more just and whole Memphis. This aligns with our mission to understand why emotional safety and culture matter in every organization, including youth sports.

Christian Takeaway

The "Magic" in Memphis Magic isn't a mystery, it's the power of community love in action. As Christians, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. When we see a need, we shouldn't just pray about it; we should be the answer to that prayer. The Sains saw a need for accessible sports and became the answer.

Key Verse:"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." , Galatians 6:9

How to Pray/Engage

• Pray for the Founders: Ask for wisdom and sustained energy for Anthony and Julia Sain as they lead this nonprofit.

• Pray for the Athletes: Pray that the young girls participating feel seen, loved, and empowered.

• Engage: If you have a background in sports, consider volunteering your time. If you have the means, consider a donation to keep these clinics free for the next season.

• Spread the Word: Share the registration link with families in your church or neighborhood who might benefit.

❓ FAQ

Who is eligible for the Memphis Magic Volleyball clinics? The clinics are primarily designed for Memphis-area youth, with a focus on girls in grades 1 through 8. Both beginners and those with some experience are welcome.

Where are the clinics located? Currently, the summer clinics are held at 111 Jackson Ave in Memphis.

Is it really free? Yes. Thanks to the nonprofit status and the generosity of donors and volunteers, there is no cost for families to participate in the clinics or the end-of-month tournament.

How can I support the mission? You can donate directly or view their "wish list" for equipment and supplies at memphismagicvbi.org.

What should my child bring to the clinic? Participants should wear comfortable athletic clothing and sneakers. Water is usually provided, but bringing a personal water bottle is encouraged.

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CTA: Visit memphismagicvbi.org today to register your child for the final summer sessions or to sign up as a volunteer coach. Let’s work together to ensure no child in Memphis is left on the sidelines.