While Sydney endured a scorching weekend, Manly Beach radiated with the finest beach volleyball in the state. The 2023/24 NSW Beach Volleyball Championships, hosted by Volleyball NSW, unfolded over the weekend, turning the heat into an exhilarating showcase of skill and competition.

This marked the biggest Beach Volleyball tournament in the history of VNSW, and Mother Nature, in her unpredictable glory, treated us to a diverse array of weather, throwing nearly every season at our event.

Manly Beach hosted the tournament with a total of 256 players, forming four divisions, each comprising 16 teams for both genders. The captivating event unfolded over two thrilling days, featuring games across 16 courts. Against the picturesque backdrop of Manly Beach, thousands of spectators gathered to revel in the excitement, seeking respite from the hot December weekend.

Players from Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory converged alongside the NSW contingent, adding a diverse and competitive flair to the Championships.

Saturday saw all teams take part in modified pool play with the team that finished top of the pool going straight into the quarterfinals while the others battled it out in the round of 12 determining who progressed to the quarterfinals. Players battled through the sizzling temperatures however the sea breeze added a little relief, but most took to the ocean for a much-needed post-game cool down.

Unfortunately, the scorching heat on Saturday gave way to thunderstorms and at 5 pm play was delayed due to thunder and lightning in the area.  Luckily players were able to get back on court at 5.45 pm and finish the round of 12.  Division 4 Men and Women were the only ones who were able to get their quarterfinals started so it meant teams had to return earlier on Sunday to make up for the weather delay.

Sunday added to the varying weather conditions starting off a little wet in the morning before the clouds cleared and the sun belted down.  The day progressed with teams playing quarterfinals, semifinals and then some epic showdowns in the finals.

Gold, silver, and bronze medallists for each division were celebrated and received VNSW gift packs with goodies from sponsors Valour and True Protein. 

Over the weekend athletes were also offered discounted services at the Recoverie Centre Manly and special rates on food and drink at Dolce Terra. Chiropractic students from Macquarie University were also on hand on Saturday to take care of the players.

We would like to thank all the sponsors listed above as well as Mikasa Sports Australia and Helloworld Helensvale Plaza.  A special thanks go to Northern Beaches Council and NBVA for helping us host the event at such a beautiful location.  Thanks also to the referees and volunteers who assisted the VNSW team in delivering the event.

Congratulations to all the winners.  Thank you to all who took part in the Championships or who came to watch such high-quality beach volleyball. We will see you all next year for an even bigger event.

Please see below the medallists from the weekend: