Volleyball England has launched its Community Development Coach (CDC) programme at the newly opened National Volleyball Centre in Kettering.

Fourteen individuals have been selected to the first phase of the initiative, which aims to drive an increase in participation across various regional locations in England. Volleyball England has set a target of attracting 5,000 more young people to take actively part in the sport.

The CDC programme forms part of Volleyball England's wider Can You Dig It campaign aimed at raising awareness of volleyball, encouraging more people to get involved by strengthening links between schools and clubs.

The Can You Dig It campaign launch was timed to coincide with the induction of the CDC.

The new coaches’ role will include training players, encouraging potential event organisers and volunteers, ensuring talented young players receive quality coaching and opportunities to maximise their potential, and putting in place clear, structured pathways.

The coaches will work in a variety of settings including schools, clubs and community venues to develop sustainable programmes within each region. Volleyball England hopes to have 20 coaches in post by April 2010.

The programme has received investment from Volleyball England and partners including School Sport Partnerships, Premier League Football Clubs, Primary Care Trusts, Local Authorities, County Sports partnerships, individual schools and commercial leisure providers.