17: Stop Calling D2 “Second-Best” — These Coaches Will Change Your Mind (Part 1)

If you think Division II volleyball is “second-best,” this episode will completely shift your perspective.In Part 1 of this special two-part series, Susan sits down with national champion coaches Kim Cherniss and Danny Scott from Cal State San Bernardino to break down the real gap between D1 and D2 — and why it’s much smaller than most families think.Kim and Danny share what truly matters in the college experience, why longevity and culture outweigh “shiny logos,” and the characteristics athletes need to thrive at the Division II level. Their insights from decades of coaching are eye-opening for parents and athletes navigating recruiting with assumptions or misinformation.If your athlete is exploring different divisions — or if you’ve ever questioned what “fit” really means — this conversation is a must-listen.Chapters00:00 – Meet Kim Cherniss & Danny Scott: national champions with decades of experience03:00 – What makes their coaching partnership work06:30 – Why consistency and longevity matter more than prestige09:00 – The gap between D1 and D2: what families misunderstand12:00 – What type of athlete thrives at the D2 level15:00 – Real examples of athletes who found their perfect fit18:30 – Why recruiting is about culture, not logos20:30 – Athletes who chose D2 over D1 — and why it worked24:00 – What coaches actually look for in recruits28:00 – How physicality and skill differ across divisions32:00 – Final thoughts: why D2 is far more competitive than people thinkConnect with Susan:Check out the website: www.nxtvb.comFollow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile. Click the link below to claim your free profile.CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HEREIf you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership. Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort! 😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER...