ONE CLUB. ONE COMMUNITY. ONE SHOWDOWN.
VLA
SHOWDOWN
What is the VLA?
The Volleyball League of America (VLA) provides a competitive platform for high-level and post-collegiate athletes to continue playing the sport they love while competing against talented programs from across the country.
For Upper Left, the VLA represents the highest level of competition within our organization while creating opportunities for athletes from Spokane and the Pacific Northwest to compete on a larger stage.
Celebrating the Talent in Our Community
One of the biggest reasons we are proud to bring VLA volleyball to Spokane is the opportunity to showcase the incredible athletes we already have right here in our local community.
There is so much volleyball talent throughout Spokane and the Pacific Northwest. These are athletes who have played at high levels, coached our youth, contributed to our volleyball community, and continue to have a passion for competing.
We want our community to know their names, watch them compete, cheer for them, and be proud that they represent our region.
For our younger athletes, it also creates something powerful to see: players from their own community competing at a high level right here at home. They can see what is possible and have local athletes to look up to.
Why the VLA Matters to Upper Left
Through our VLA program, we want to:
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Showcase the talented athletes we have in Spokane and throughout the Pacific Northwest
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Celebrate players who represent our local volleyball community
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Provide a competitive home for high-level and post-collegiate athletes
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Inspire the next generation of boys and girls in our youth programs
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Grow the visibility of volleyball in our region
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Give our community a team and athletes to be proud of
We aren't just building teams. We're building something our volleyball community can rally around.
Local Talent. Regional Pride. National Competition.
Team Roster
Meet Our Men's National Team
Outside Hitters , Middle Blockers, Opposites
Tyler Staley 6'2"
Outside Hitter
I’ve been playing volleyball for 6 years, & started in college switching sports from baseball to volleyball. Outside of playing, I enjoy traveling, hanging out with friends, and staying active. I’m stoked to represent Spokane Volleyball, and hopefully pave the way for more opportunity among young athletes looking to start playing!
Caleb Gilbert 6'1"
Outside Hitter
Caleb brings both high-level playing experience and years of coaching success to the court. He played club volleyball as an Outside Hitter at Eastern Washington University, where he developed a strong foundation in the game and a passion for competition. Now entering his eighth year as a coach at Gonzaga Prep, Caleb has helped build a competitive program highlighted by a 4th-place finish in 2025. In addition to coaching at the high school level, he has one year of experience coaching club volleyball, working to develop athletes both technically and competitively. He is excited to get back into a high level of competition in Men’s Volleyball and be apart of this team while representing Spokane.
Tim Kopplin 6'4"
Middle Blocker
I’ve been playing volleyball recreationally as a middle for 11 years. Off the court I love hanging out with family and playing table top games. I’m excited to be a part of this team and have the chance to grow as a player
Jadon Sharp 6'2"
Outside Hitter
I have been playing for 4 years, and my moto is just jump higher next time.
Levi Taylor 6'2"
Outside Hitter
I have been playing volleyball seriously for 25 years, and have been around the sport most of my life as the son of a college coach. I play outside and right side , and did some setting in college. When I’m not playing volleyball, I coach girls club volleyball, and spend time with my family. I’m so happy to be a member of this incredible program.
Evan Connolly 6'3"
Middle Blocker
I’ve been playing volleyball for nearly four years, primarily as a middle, right side, and outside hitter. I’ve played with Absolute Skyballers Men’s Volleyball and have also spent the last 2 years coaching, including two years at the high school level and two years in club volleyball. Outside of volleyball, I enjoy pretty much any outdoor activity and staying active. I’m excited to be part of this team and represent Spokane.
Vadim Borisyuk 6'0"
Outside Hitter
I’m Ukrainian and have been playing volleyball for about 12 years. I started out as a middle before eventually making the move to outside. When I’m not playing volleyball, I’m usually hanging out with friends and family or playing video games. I’m excited to represent Spokane and compete alongside a great group of teammates this season!
Daniel Churkin 6'7"
Opposites
I’ve been playing volleyball for a few years and have really grown to love the competition and the people I’ve met through the sport. Outside of volleyball, I work in sales, play golf, and enjoy staying active and hanging out with friends. I’m excited to be part of the team and represent Spokane this season.
Jackson Condrey 6'7"
Middle Blocker
I’ve been playing ball since sixth grade (14 years). I had the privilege of playing D3 collegiate volleyball for Trine University in Indiana. Nothing brings me more excitement than jamming my opponents thumbs off massive rips and banging the ten foot line. Looking forward to playing for my hometown this season and elevating the game of men’s volleyball.
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Meet Our Men's National Team
Setters
Aaron Avalos 6'3"
I’ve been playing competitive volleyball for over 15 years, mostly as a setter and opposite. The game has also connected me with some of my best friends, which makes getting to compete alongside several of them on this team even better. I’ve coached at both the high school and college level and really enjoy being on that side of the game as well. Outside of volleyball, I work in HR, which has me traveling and working with teams all over the country, and I play tennis whenever I can. I’m excited to represent Spokane and use this opportunity to help grow the visibility of men’s and boys' volleyball throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Nathan Vassell 6'3"
I’ve been playing volleyball for almost 13 years, primarily as a pin hitter and setter. Outside of playing, I referee Division I college volleyball and coach college men’s teams in the area. I’m looking forward to good competition, and seeing what we can accomplish together.
Ben Deming
Player bio coming soon!
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Meet Our Men's National Team
Liberos
Scotty Alexander 5'11
I have been playing volleyball for 20 years. I started as an opposite hitter at Gonzaga for their men’s club team. Since, I have played as a Libero in leagues and tournaments in the Spokane volleyball community. Outside of volleyball, I love my job as a middle school teacher and practicing yoga in my free time. Can’t wait to compete and represent Spokane!
Joey Hallowell 5'10"
I’ve been playing volleyball for about 15 years, played club in high school for Spokane boys volleyball club, played in college in San Diego for a few years and got a scholarship to play at Grandview university in Iowa. Outside of volleyball, I enjoy lifting, hot yoga, traveling and being with my friends! I’m so excited for the start of this VLA team and excited to represent Spokane in this way!
Jake Judge
Player bio coming soon!
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