BUILT TO LAST
STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR TRIANGLE VOLLEYBALL CLUB’S SUCCESS
This best practice article spotlights the strategic leadership of Sherry Fadool, Executive Director of Triangle Volleyball Club in Morrisville, North Carolina. As one of the earliest clubs to professionalize operations in youth volleyball, Triangle has become a model for operational discipline, athlete-centered culture, and sustainable growth. With a 48,000-square-foot custom facility, over 90 coaches, and a nine-person full-time staff, the club continues to elevate standards across the sport. This article explores the principles behind Triangle Volleyball Club’s success.
Featured Leader
Sherry Fadool, Executive Director
Featured Club
Triangle Volleyball Club, North Carolina
KEY INSIGHTS
CULTURE OF CARE AS A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Triangle’s reputation is rooted in a commitment to treating athletes with care. The club’s mission is built on the belief in the potential of youth sports to develop young people of character. “Our coaching staff is top notch and embraces our mission; creating a culture that emphasizes care and concern for our athletes and their development. Sherry explains. Parents often tell us, ‘My kid feels cared for and heard’. This athlete-first mindset has become an important differentiator.
PROFESSIONALIZATION AND STAFF INVESTMENT
While many clubs rely on volunteers or part-time staff, Triangle made an early commitment to professionalize. All coaches are W-2 employees, and full-time staff receive fully paid individual health insurance, 401(k) matching, and leadership development support. We wanted to be known as one of the best-run youth sports clubs in the country, Sherry says. This structure supports a consistent, high value experience for athletes and families.
SYSTEMS THAT SUPPORT COACHES
Triangle’s nine-person team manages compliance, programming, training, travel logistics, technology, and tournament operations. Administrative clarity enables coaches to focus on development instead of logistics. Coaches also benefit from position-specific training leaders who join with the admin team to ensure alignment on technical development.
STRATEGIC PLANNING AND SUCCESSION READINESS
Triangle’s governance model stands out in youth volleyball. The board id made up of professionals in business, human resources, law, mental health, communication, and philanthropy emphasize long-term organizational and succession plans. Sustainability is rooted in the foundation we build, Sherry says. The organizational structure and agility allows the club to navigate leadership transitions while preserving its culture.
FACILITY PARTNERSHIPS THAT ELEVATE STANDARDS
Operating within a premier 48,000 sq. ft. dedicated volleyball space, Triangle is part of a larger multisport complex shared with NCFC Soccer Club and the Carolina Hurricanes. The facility includes eight indoor courts, beach courts, classrooms, and performance spaces, reinforcing the club’s identity as a professional, athlete-focused environment.
INTENTIONAL GROWTH AND REVENUE DIVERSITY
Despite over 800 athletes vying for 330 roster spots, Triangle caps participation at 32 teams supporting a positive, high quality youth sports experience. Additional programs like summer camps generate nearly $500,000 annually, diversifying revenue and reducing reliance on team fees.
Three Key Conclusions for Club Executives:
- Professionalize operations with clear roles, benefits, and accountability.
- Invest in culture—care and empathy are as important as technical skills.
- Cap growth if needed to protect quality, culture, and sustainability.
About Sherry Fadool
Sherry Fadool has led Triangle as Executive Director since 2011, driving its growth, governance, and national reputation. She spearheaded the club’s move to a state-of-the-art facility in 2019 and launched major events like City of Oaks Challenge. A champion of athlete safety, she led initiatives that earned Triangle the 2018 NCYS S.T.R.I.V.E. Award. Fadool’s leadership has been recognized with awards from USA Volleyball and the Greater Raleigh CVB. She served six years on the Junior Volleyball Association (JVA) Board and has contributed to numerous presentations on youth sports leadership. With 25+ years in nonprofit leadership, Fadool remains a driving force in youth sports.
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