What Is Volleyball Clipping? The Clothespin Trend in 2025

If you’ve gone to a volleyball tournament recently, chances are you’ve seen players trading decorated clothespins or proudly wearing them on their bags and jerseys. This fun and uplifting ritual is known as volleyball clipping, and it has become one of the most positive trends in youth volleyball.

Clipping has nothing to do with volleyball rules or fouls. Instead, it’s a creative way for players to support one another, show kindness, and build community across teams. Here’s everything you need to know about this fast-growing 2025 volleyball tradition.

What Is Volleyball Clipping?

Volleyball clipping is the act of secretly attaching a decorated clothespin to another player’s bag, clothes, or gear as a gesture of encouragement and positivity.

These clothespins often include:

• Inspirational messages
• Team colors or mascots
• Stickers, glitter, or artwork
• Short compliments like “Great hustle!” or “You’re awesome!”

The moment when the player discovers the clip later is part of the charm — a small surprise that instantly brightens their day.

✨ Why Players Participate in Volleyball Clipping

The reason this trend has spread so quickly is simple — it promotes kindness, connection, and sportsmanship. Players use clipping to:

• Encourage one another at tournaments
• Make new friends across clubs
• Recognize good attitudes and effort
• Add creativity and fun to tournament days

As highlighted in an article by Del Val Regional High School, clipping has helped “foster genuine connection between athletes.”
Read the article here:
Clothespins Foster Connection in Club Volleyball

How Volleyball Clipping Works

Many teams create their own clothespins for tournaments, but in our family, this tradition has become extra meaningful. The three clips below were made by my daughter, who now loves creating designs and positive messages to share with players she meets. Watching her excitement as she gives (and receives) clips has made this tradition even more special for us.

Kids especially love this trend because it allows them to express their creativity while spreading positivity. Some players make a few clips per tournament, while others — like my daughter — enjoy making dozens and giving them to teams from all over the region.

1. Players decorate clothespins

Teams often prepare dozens ahead of time using paint, markers, washi tape, glitter, and stickers.

2. They secretly clip another player

This usually happens between matches, during warm-ups, or after walking past a team’s bench.

3. The recipient finds the clip later

The surprise element is what makes clipping memorable. Many players proudly add clips to their backpacks.

4. A positive connection is made

Clipping often leads to smiles, conversations, and even new friendships.

Why Volleyball Clipping Is Growing

This tradition is becoming a staple at volleyball events because it:

• Promotes sportsmanship
• Supports confidence and positivity
• Creates memories during long tournament days
• Helps players feel connected to the volleyball community as a whole

Should Your Team Join the Trend?

Yes! Clipping is easy to start, fun for all ages, and spreads positivity throughout tournaments. All you need are clothespins, creativity, and a willingness to share encouragement.

⭐ Final Thoughts

Volleyball clipping is a small gesture with a big impact. It reminds players that volleyball is about connection, kindness, and community — not just competition. This 2025 trend is here to stay, and it’s one of the most heartwarming traditions in the sport.

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