In the competitive world of volleyball, mental resilience is just as important as physical prowess. Coach April Chapple, a former U.S. National volleyball team player and a Hall of Fame inductee at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, understands this balance better than most. Known as the “volleyball player whisperer,” she has devoted her career to teaching the game’s technical aspects and instilling mental strength in her athletes. Now, she is extending that philosophy beyond the court with her line of long-sleeved “Peace Love Volleyball” shirts, designed to motivate and inspire players at every level.
The Vision Behind “Peace Love Volleyball” Shirts
For April Chapple, volleyball has always been more than just a sport—it’s a vehicle for personal growth. Her coaching methods emphasize the importance of positivity, perseverance, and learning from mistakes, which are woven into the fabric of her “Peace Love Volleyball” shirt line. Each shirt features motivational quotes printed on the sleeves and back, carefully selected to remind players to stay focused, push through tough moments, and maintain a positive outlook during practice and everyday life.
“These shirts are more than just apparel; they’re a reminder that no matter how tough this practice is, you can get through it,” says Chapple. This message is not just a slogan; it’s the foundation of her coaching philosophy. Through her volleyball programs, she has seen firsthand how mental attitude can make or break a player’s performance. With her shirts, she hopes to provide athletes with a constant, wearable reminder of their inner strength and resilience.
Photo Courtesy: April Chapple
A Design Rooted in Symbolism
One of the key elements of Chapple’s shirt design is the butterfly, a symbol of transformation and strength. For many athletes, the journey through sports is one of continuous transformation—both physically and mentally. Much like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, players often go through phases of struggle before reaching their full potential. The butterfly serves as a powerful visual reminder of this process, encouraging players to embrace their challenges as stepping stones to growth.
The shirts are designed for practice and are also meant to be versatile enough for streetwear. This means that players can carry the message of perseverance with them wherever they go, reminding themselves—and others—of the importance of mental toughness in all aspects of life. The subtlety of the motivational messages makes the shirts wearable in casual settings without overtly appearing like typical sports apparel.
Building Confidence Through Fashion
Chapple’s “Peace Love Volleyball” shirts also contribute to the players’ physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that what athletes wear can influence their confidence levels. By donning apparel that serves as a visual reminder of their mental resilience, players are more likely to carry themselves with confidence both on and off the court. This psychological phenomenon, known as “enclothed cognition,” suggests that people’s clothing can affect their behavior, emotions, and performance.
For Chapple, this was an important consideration in the design process. By creating shirts that offer motivational reinforcement, she ensures that athletes receive both a physical and mental boost when they wear them. The shirt’s long sleeves make it practical for volleyball players who are practicing in cooler environments, while the breathable fabric ensures comfort during intense workouts.
Photo Courtesy: April Chapple
From the Court to the Streets
Although these shirts were designed with volleyball players in mind, their appeal extends far beyond the volleyball court. With its stylish design and motivational messaging, the “Peace Love Volleyball” line has quickly become a favorite for athletes and non-athletes alike. Whether worn during practice, at the gym, or simply as part of a casual outfit, the shirts offer a constant reminder of the importance of staying mentally strong and motivated.
The shirts’ versatility is part of what makes them so popular. Players appreciate the opportunity to wear something that reflects their love for the sport while also helping them project a positive mindset to the world around them.
April Chapple: The Volleyball Player Whisperer
Photo Courtesy: April Chapple
Coach April Chapple’s reputation as a volleyball coach extends beyond her technical expertise. Over the years, she has earned the nickname “volleyball player whisperer” for her unique ability to connect with athletes on a deeper level, encouraging them to overcome their fears, learn from their mistakes, and grow into stronger players. Her coaching is characterized by constant positive feedback, expert analysis, and a deep understanding of athletes’ mental hurdles and external demands and pressure.
This same commitment to player development is evident in her clothing line. Just as she pushes her players to reach new heights on the court, her motivational shirts encourage them to take those lessons into the real world. The combination of expert coaching and wearable motivation makes Chapple’s contributions to volleyball culture truly unique.
A Legacy of Empowerment
April Chapple’s career has been marked by dedication to helping athletes become their best, most confident versions of themselves. Through her line of motivational “Peace Love Volleyball” shirts, she continues that legacy, offering players more than just a piece of apparel—they receive constant encouragement and a reminder of their resilience.
As Chapple continues to expand her brand, the message of her motivational shirts remains clear: grow stronger with every small accomplishment, stay positive no matter what’s happening around you, give yourself grace when needed and embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth and belief in one’s abilities. With these values at the core of her design, Chapple is helping athletes at all levels push through their toughest moments, both on the volleyball court and in life.
For more information about the “Peace Love Volleyball” line and to shop the collection, visit April Chapple’s Etsy shop or her official website.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
