As the sun rises over Gulf Shores Public Beach, anticipation fills the air for the AVCA Small College Beach Volleyball Championships, taking place from April 17-19, 2026. This prestigious event gathers 37 teams from across the nation, marking it as the largest collegiate beach volleyball championship in the United States.
Teams from NCAA Division II, Division III, and NAIA are set to battle it out over more than 500 matches throughout the tournament weekend. The competition kicks off on April 17, culminating in the crowning of champions in each division, but it’s not just about wins; recognition will also be given to All-America and All-Tournament teams.
Championship Details
Held in the scenic Gulf Shores, Alabama, the matches will take place right in front of The Hangout restaurant, located at 101 E. Beach Blvd. Admission is free, making it accessible for beachgoers and fans alike. With a total of 20 championship courts and four practice courts, the logistics are well-designed to host the bustling crowd expected during the event.
The tournament format will see 16 teams participating in a knockout system where each team fields five pairs. Matches are set to occur at specific times per division: the NAIA finals on Saturday at 12:20 PM, followed by Division III at 1:25 PM, and Division II on Sunday at 1:50 PM. Last year’s champions, including the University of Tampa in Division II, were formidable competitors, but new contenders are sure to make their mark this year.
Community Support and Growth
The partnership between the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) and Alabama’s Beaches Sports & Events signifies a commitment to enhancing Gulf Shores as a premier destination for collegiate beach volleyball. Dr. Jaime Gordon, CEO of AVCA, emphasizes the importance of this partnership, while Michelle Russ, Vice President of Alabama’s Beaches Sports & Events, expresses gratitude for the growth of the region as a collegiate beach volleyball hub.
With this event set to remain in Gulf Shores through 2031, efforts are underway to establish a lasting home for the championships, which could pave the way for further sporting events in the future. Volunteers are being sought to help during the event, as community involvement is a key part of its success. Those interested can register to assist via the official volunteer site.
Looking Ahead
In addition to the excitement brewing for the AVCA championships, the NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships will follow closely, scheduled for May 1-3. This means fans of the sport will have plenty to look forward to in the weeks to come, with matches broadcast live on ESPN networks.
This year’s AVCA championship promises to deliver thrilling entertainment and a showcase of young talent, while also spotlighting the beautiful locale of Gulf Shores. As the players compete with vigor, spectators can enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere, making it a perfect spring getaway for volleyball enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
For more information about the event, reach out to Jason Jones at jason.jones@avca.org, and follow the event’s journey online using the hashtag #AVCABeach.