Australian Volleyball Schools Cup celebrates 40th anniversary this week on the Gold Coast

The Australian Volleyball Schools Cup is one of the largest annual schools sporting competitions and 2024 is set to be even bigger as the event celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The event once again returns to the Gold Coast thanks to Volleyball Australia’s partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast, with thousands of matches set to take place from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 December 2024.

The event will feature more than 5000 players from over 160 schools with this year’s tournament spread across four different Gold Coast venues.

As the largest volleyball participation event in the country, the Schools Cup is a mammoth logistical undertaking which culminates in a wonderful showcase of the sport.

“The Australian Volleyball Schools Cup is something that all the teams look forward to and is a fantastic way for all participants to cap off the school year,” said Verity Hanka, Volleyball Australia Events Director.

“Many events which have been going for four decades can start to feel a bit stale but the Schools Cup is anything but that. The fun, excitement, colour, passion and talent we see at this event continues to rise every year and it is a credit to the teachers, coaches and parents who continue to support the event and take it to another level.

“While the Schools Cup is about more than just results, the tournament has also been a stepping stone for many of our Olympians and Volleyroos, some of whom have returned over the years to coach and I know we’ll see a number of them back this year.

“The event’s growth since moving to the Gold Coast in 2019 would not be possible without the support of Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast who enable us to stage such an incredible tournament over multiple venues, year after year.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said: “Congratulations to Australian Volleyball Schools Cup reaching its 40th year. What a milestone – four decades of competition, teamwork and sporting excellence.”

“Good luck to all teams competing on the Gold Coast. May this year’s event be filled with unforgettable memories, fierce competition and new friendships. Let’s make this milestone year one to remember!”

The 2024 Australian Volleyball Schools Cup is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.