The countdown is officially underway for one of the biggest sporting events southeastern Manitoba will see next year. Providence University College is preparing to host the CCAA National Women’s Volleyball Championship, running March 11–14, 2026, at Niverville’s Community Resource and Recreation Centre (CRRC).
Tournament Director Chris Koop says the work has already begun, and the excitement is building.
Bringing National-Level Volleyball Back to Niverville
Providence hosted the CCAA men’s championship last year, earning glowing reviews from coaches, athletes, and national officials. That success helped the school secure this year’s women’s event.
Koop says the Canadian College Athletic Association - CCAA - represents a high level of volleyball just under U-sports, and fans might be surprised by the level of athleticism they’ll see.
“There are different levels of volleyball across Canada,” Koop explained. “College would be considered probably the second highest… It’s surprisingly great quality of volleyball.”
The tournament will bring eight teams from across Canada, representing regions from British Columbia to the Atlantic provinces. Manitoba’s own conference, the MCAC, is still relatively new to the national stage, but Providence automatically qualifies as host.
Prov Women's Volleyball players in action during recent tournament. (Photo credit: Prov)What It Takes to Host a National Championship
Even though March is months away, Koop and his team are already deep into planning.
“We’re in the middle of getting the word out,” he said. “There’s a ton of work. We have a dedicated committee of volunteers from Providence, including former players, coaches, and athletes. Last year was amazing, and we want to build on that.”
One of the biggest challenges is a tight turnaround once teams officially qualify. Conference championships wrap up around late February, leaving organizers roughly 10 days to finalize custom banners, accreditation cards, team materials, athlete packages, and travel logistics.
“It becomes quite chaotic,” Koop admitted. “But we’re ahead of the game this year because we’ve done it once already.”
The organizing committee will have room blocks organized for accommodations and rental vehicles, but families and fans will arrange their own travel. And they do, Koop says that many relatives travel across the country to support their athletes.
“As a volleyball parent myself, I know what it’s like,” he said. “You’re invested, and you travel.”
Creating a Top-Tier Athlete Experience
One thing Koop is especially proud of is the experience Providence delivers for visiting athletes, an effort that goes beyond the court.
“The athlete experience is unbelievable,” he said. “We take a lot of pride in it.”
Each team is matched with a host, often a Providence student, athlete, or coach, who helps with communication, scheduling, and logistical needs throughout the tournament.
“There’s an army of volunteers,” Koop said. “Ball crews, floor sweepers, our Junior Pilots kids, student staff, everyone plays a role.”
Providence is also known for its personal touches.
“Every day of the tournament, athletes would get a branded gift, a towel, a hat, a shirt,” Koop explained. “We wash their jerseys, hang them up. It’s all about making them feel celebrated.”
Those efforts paid off last year when participants described the men’s championship as one of the best national tournaments they had ever experienced.
“When people say that, it means the world,” Koop said. “It tells us we’re doing something right.”
Prov Mascot at recent Prov Women's Volleyball tournament. (Photo credit: Prov)A Fan Experience That Surprises People
Koop says one of the most pleasant surprises last year was the number of fans who packed the CRRC for games.
“It’s actually surprising how many parents, family, and friends travel,” he said. “These are the top eight teams in the country. It’s a big deal.”
To help fill the stands during weekday matches, Providence is reaching out to local schools, including French-language programs. The tournament broadcast even includes French commentators when French-speaking teams are playing.
“We want to be super inclusive,” Koop said. “And we want to create a great experience for everyone watching, both in person and online.”
Why Hosting Matters for Providence, and for Manitoba
Beyond volleyball, the championship is a chance for Providence to highlight its athletic program, its values, and the region it calls home.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to be an ambassador for the sport,” Koop said. “And to represent Providence University College in a really positive way.”
The CRRC, where Providence hosts its home games, impressed visiting coaches and players last year.
“When they pulled up to this beautiful gym… it’s an unbelievable complex,” Koop said. “A lot of Niverville residents were involved as volunteers. Some were halfway through the tournament saying, ‘Sign me up for next year.’”
He says the event also gives young local players, from places like Steinbach Christian School and the St. Pierre team, a chance to see what high-level volleyball looks like close to home.
“I think young athletes will be blown away,” Koop said. “They’ll see that this level of volleyball is accessible. College volleyball is a real pathway for players who want to keep competing.”
Call for Volunteers and Ticket Info
As March approaches, Koop says the tournament will rely heavily on community support.
“Tickets will be available early in the new year, and we’d encourage people to buy early,” he said. “We’d love to fill the gym for all matches.”
Volunteers are also essential.
“No tournament like this could run without volunteers,” Koop said. “Whether it’s a four-hour shift at the front door, helping with ticketing, supporting our meal service, there are so many ways to help.”
Volunteer information and tournament updates will be posted at gopilots.ca, which will link to riseasone.ca as details are finalized.
Looking Ahead
Koop says the team feels more confident heading into this tournament after the experience of hosting the men’s nationals.
“It’s not easy, but at least now we know what we’re up against,” he said. “We’re excited. If you love volleyball, this is the place to be. And hopefully, we’ll see you there.”
CCAA 2026 National Women's Volleyball Championship tournament poster, created by Chris Koop and tournament volunteers.
*Photos in the gallery below are courtesy of Providence Women's Volleyball Pilot program.
Tue, Dec 2, 7:00 AM
Full-time, Seasonal, Hospitality
Featured
