The Valley Heat League in Fresno, California was founded in 2021, forming a Girls League and Boys League in the first year. The Girls Valley Heat League began with 10 clubs and 49 teams, and then experienced significant growth in the following years, expanding to 14 clubs and 74 teams in 2022 and to 26 clubs and 149 teams in 2023, reflecting the rising popularity and participation in the sport within California’s central valley community.

The Boys Valley Heat League is slowly growing with 13 clubs and 38 teams in 2022. The league is actively looking to expand and grow in the upcoming season, creating more avenues for players of all ages, skill levels, and genders to engage in the sport of volleyball by providing a competitive and inclusive platform.

Participating clubs immediately appreciated the ease of travel and affordability that the league provides, as well as the accessibility to Tournament Director Martina Gregusova and her team. Their goal is a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and player development, while creating a positive and supportive environment within the league. The League strives to achieve their goals through the following principles:

  • Skill Development: Equipping our players with the necessary technical and strategic skills to excel in volleyball and reach their fullest potential.
  • Character Building: Instilling values such as sportsmanship, teamwork, integrity, and perseverance, fostering personal growth and positive character traits on and off the court.
  • Inclusive Environment: Creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where all participants, regardless of their background, skill level, or experience, feel valued, respected, and included.
  • Positive Experience: Ensuring that every athlete has a positive and enjoyable experience within the Valley Heat League, building confidence, self-esteem, and a lifelong love for the sport.
  • Community Engagement: Encouraging active participation and engagement of players, families, coaches, and volunteers, fostering a strong sense of community and support for one another.
  • Growth and Opportunity: Providing a platform for athletes to grow and advance through competitive play, skill progression, and opportunities for higher-level competition and personal development.

By upholding these principles, the Valley Heat League aims to nurture not only skilled volleyball players but also responsible, resilient, and confident individuals who will make a positive impact in their communities.

League Format

The Boys League consists of one day tournaments for ages 12U-18U with the season running from September through December. The Girls League runs from January to May with one day tournaments for ages 10U-18U. Both leagues offer teams the opportunity to move up or down based on their finish the weekend before, creating a matched competition experience.

The league places great importance on inclusivity, providing opportunities for players of diverse backgrounds and skill levels to participate. By fostering a sense of belonging and creating a welcoming environment, the Valley Heat League has built a strong community of volleyball enthusiasts who feel valued and supported. In addition, The Valley Heat League is committed to continuous improvement and innovation. The league actively seeks feedback, listens to the needs of its participants, and embraces new ideas and approaches. By staying agile and adaptable, the league remains at the forefront of developments in the volleyball landscape, ensuring its continued success.

By consistently adhering to its key principles and strategies, the Valley Heat League has established itself as a thriving and respected entity within the volleyball community, providing memorable experiences and opportunities for players to excel in the sport they love.

Learn more about the Girls Valley Heat League HERE. Learn more about the Boys Valley Heat League HERE. All the clubs participating in the Valley Heat League are members of the Junior Volleyball Association, a nonprofit organization that is 100% committed to improving the junior volleyball experience for Directors, Coaches, Athletes and their families.