Let me preface this piece by saying when I was in grade seven, I tried out for my elementary school volleyball team. The coach (and my then-teacher) made me team manager instead of a player. I think he didn’t want me to feel excluded–a nice gesture, I must say, but it ended my volleyball career.
However, I still get excited to see people bump, set and spike their way to victory on the court! That is why I will be one of thousands in attendance at the 32nd annual Hope Volleyball SummerFest on July 12 at Mooney’s Bay Beach. What about you?
The Hope Volleyball SummerFest is the world’s largest one-day volleyball tournament. While diving and digging are important to the game, Hope is foremost about giving back to the community: H.O.P.E. is Helping Other People Everywhere. Over the past 32 years, Hope has raised more than $3.4 million for over 110 charities.
This year, Hope is donating to the Arthritis Society, Anxiety Disorders Association of Ontario, Candlelighters Children’s Cancer Support Programs, the Good Companions, Hopewell Eating Disorder Support Centre and the Max Keeping Foundation.
Join the fun and support the great causes at Mooney’s Bay this Saturday. Watch as over one thousand volleyball teams, ranging from recreational to competitive, take to 86 courts for what is sure to be a sporting extravaganza you will not want to miss.
The best part? There are tons of other activities to keep you having fun throughout the day. Hot 89.9 and Live 88.5 are bringing spectators over seven hours of live music, including performances by Matthew Good and local band the Cardboard Crowns. Tickets are available for purchase here.
Be sure to stop by and check out the many booths around the festival, grab a bite to eat and catch a few rays.
Are you playing in the tournament this weekend? Let us know! Have fun Ottawa Lifers.
