One-day volleyball tournaments can be a game-changer for many boys and girls volleyball clubs and families. Here are some compelling reasons why they should be considered, especially for younger and less experienced teams, along with a variety of sample pool play and bracket play formats:

Cost-Effectiveness
  1. Lower Costs for Teams and Families: One-day tournaments typically require less travel and fewer or no overnight stays, significantly reducing expenses related to transportation, lodging, and food. This makes it more affordable for families, especially for those new to the sport or on a tighter budget.
  2. Reduced Club Expenses: Hosting or participating in a one-day event can lower operational costs for clubs, as they don’t need to book facilities or cover additional expenses for multiple days. This savings can be redirected towards other programs or resources for players.
Time Efficiency
  1. Minimized Time Commitment: One-day tournaments fit into busy schedules more easily than multi-day events. For younger players and their families, who might not be ready to commit to extended weekends away, this offers a more manageable option. Athletic boys and girls that participate in other sports have an easier entry point into volleyball with a schedule that includes one day tournaments.
  2. Concentrated Play: These tournaments allow teams to pack a full competition experience into a single day (See templates below). Players get the benefits of game play and experience without the need for a significant time investment.
Increased Participation
  1. Introductory Opportunity: One-day tournaments can serve as an excellent introduction to competitive play for young athletes. They offer a taste of tournament experience without the pressure and commitment of longer events, which can be enticing for new players and their families.
  2. Encourages Grassroots Involvement: By offering a less daunting commitment, clubs can attract more players who might otherwise be deterred by the high demands of travel volleyball. This helps build a broader base of participants and can stimulate interest in the sport from a younger age.
  3. Fosters Team Development: Even at a younger age, short tournaments can be a great way to foster teamwork and skill development in a competitive setting. It allows teams to bond and grow together without the extended time commitment.
Flexibility and Accessibility
  1. Easier Scheduling: One-day events are easier to fit into the calendar for both clubs and players. They can be scheduled around school activities, other sports, or family commitments, making them a practical choice for busy athletes.
  2. Local Opportunities: These tournaments often take place closer to home, reducing the need for extensive travel. This increases accessibility for teams who might not have the resources or inclination to participate in distant events.
Competitive Experience
  1. Variety of Competition: With one-day tournaments, teams can experience a range of opponents in a shorter span of time. This variety can be beneficial for skill development and helps players adapt to different styles of play.
  2. Balanced Play: Coaches can use one-day tournaments to give different players experience and try out different strategies in a competitive setting, helping to balance development and build a more versatile team.

Incorporating more one-day tournaments into the competition schedule can provide numerous benefits for clubs and players at all levels. They offer a cost-effective, time-efficient, and accessible way to foster participation and competitive experience, making them an excellent addition to any volleyball program.

Sample Formats

1 Day 32 Team Pool     1 Day 32 Team Playoff
1 Day 28 Team Pool     1 Day 28 Team Playoff
1 Day 24 Team Pool     1 Day 24 Team Playoff
1 Day 20 Team Pool   1 Day 20 Team Playoff
1 Day 16 Team Pool      1 Day 16 Team Playoff
1 Day 12 Team Pool      1 Day 12 Team Playoff
1 Day 8 Team Pool        1 Day 8 Team Playoff
1 Day 4 Team Pool        1 Day 4 Team Playoff

This article was written by Briana Schunzel, JVA Director of Marketing, Education and Partner Development, and Formatting Samples provided by Adam Beck, JVA Director of Events. Learn more about running a tournament. View a list of one day tournaments.