College beach volleyball is no longer just a fun activity for a sunny day at the beach; it has grown into one of the fastest-growing sports within the NCAA. In this article, we take a closer look at this sport—how it has evolved, what it means for the students who play it, and why it’s so enjoyable to follow.
Since 2011, beach volleyball has been an official NCAA sport. What once started as a casual game on the beach is now a serious competition, with over 90 universities participating. Think of beaches like those in California, such as Huntington Beach, where the heat of the sand is just as intense as the matches themselves. Here, teams compete for the championship, aiming to become the best in the nation.
How does it work?
The beach volleyball season runs from February to May, making it a spring sport. Teams are composed of five pairs, and the team that wins three out of five matches takes the victory for the day. Picture this: a warm afternoon, the ocean in the background, and two teams giving it their all to win. That’s what college beach volleyball is all about.
In college beach volleyball, teams consist of two players, with both athletes constantly switching between roles like server, blocker, passer, and defender. Unlike indoor volleyball, where positions are fixed, beach volleyball demands versatility and teamwork, as each player must both attack and defend. Players switch positions after every point and use strategic signals to coordinate their play and outsmart the opponent. This makes beach volleyball a dynamic and challenging sport where communication and adaptability are essential.
Many players start beach volleyball after gaining experience in indoor volleyball. Playing on sand is different: it’s physically more demanding, and you need excellent balance. Players like Sara Hughes and Kelly Claes, who began at USC, have honed their skills on the sand so well that they are now recognized in the international volleyball world.
More than just a sport
The atmosphere at college beach volleyball is always fun and relaxed. It’s not just about the sport; it’s also a day out. Fans bring their chairs and coolers to the beach, ready to cheer on their favorite teams. It’s a mix of sun, music, and thrilling matches.
Beach volleyball also enhances the visibility of female athletes. Teams like the Pepperdine Waves demonstrate the strength and talent of women in the sport, inspiring many young girls to get involved in sports themselves. Within the NCAA, beach volleyball is currently a women-only sport, as the association does not offer an official competition for men at this time.
College beach volleyball has grown significantly in recent years and is expected to continue expanding in the coming years. More universities are starting their own programs, and the matches are becoming increasingly exciting and competitive. We can likely look forward to many more outstanding players and teams, and perhaps some of them will even become Olympic champions. This summer, the first Slamstox athlete will also head to America to focus entirely on beach volleyball.
College beach volleyball is a fun mix of sport, beach, and social atmosphere. It’s a sport that not only players enjoy but also fans. So the next time you head to the beach, imagine watching a college beach volleyball match—you might just discover your new favorite sport! Want to learn more about college beach volleyball or explore your options? Feel free to contact us using this form, and we’ll look into the opportunities available for you.
