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A growing part of the volleyball sector is the male game, which is picking up pace at the youth, high school and college level.
The National Intercollegiate Athletic Association (NAIA) is seeking a host for its 2027 and 2028 Men's Volleyball National Championship. If you have the indoor space and the desire to help this side of the sport grow, NAIA wants to hear about it.
Bidding and Background Documents:
Player/Spectator Information:
- 250 players, coaches and staff
- 2,000+ fans over the course of the event
Expected Dates:
- April 27-May 1, 2027
- May 2-6, 2028
The event runs Tuesday to Saturday; ideally, teams would have access to the competition facility for practice at least the day before, if not two days prior to, games beginning.
It is anticipated that a total of 12 teams will compete. The format of the tournament will include three days of pool play (four pools of three teams), with the top team in each pool advancing to a single-elimination tournament.
Each team will play one match against the two other teams in its' pool. One match per pool will be conducted on each of Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday morning reserved for any tiebreak scenarios. The top team in each pool will advance to Friday's semifinal matches, while the National Championship final will be played on Saturday.
Facility Needs: The facility shall include all facilities and equipment necessary for volleyball, including standards and nets for one court, adequate spectator seating of 1000, lights, electronic scoreboards, press box area, concession stands, rest rooms, meeting rooms, box office, parking lots, sound systems, signs, etc.
Hotel Requirements: NAIA prefers one or more centralized properties capable of accommodating several meetings and an opening event for at least 275 people. Average length of stay is five to six nights, and the desired room rate, regardless of occupancy, is $99-$135. A 200-room block is needed. All participants are responsible for making reservations and paying for rooms directly with the hotel.
Rights Fee: $5,000 (Minimum)
Deadline for bid packages is February 1, 2026. All completed bid packages should be sent to Bruce Tate.
Event History:
2024-25: Alliant Energy PowerHouse - Cedar Rapids, Iowa
2022-23: MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex - West Des Moines, Iowa
2020-21: Iowa Event Center - Des Moines, Iowa
2018-19: Charles S. Johnson Wellness Center - Des Moines, Iowa
Have questions? Contact Bruce Tate, Championship Sport Manager, at 816-595-8196 or email btate@naia.org.