The Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) is at a pivotal moment, with participation rates skyrocketing since the return to play following the COVID-19 pandemic. While this surge is an encouraging sign of volleyball’s growing popularity across the province, it has also created new challenges. To stay ahead of these issues, the OVA is conducting a comprehensive review of its competition structure, seeking ways to expand capacity while maintaining the high-quality experiences players, coaches, and families have come to expect.
To lead this crucial project, OVA has retained Sport for Life, a global leader in Long-Term Development in Sport and Physical Activity. Known for introducing the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework, Sport for Life has extensive experience working with national and international sports organizations to create participant-centered, scalable, and developmentally appropriate competition systems. Their track record of supporting organizations such as Volleyball Canada and Skate Canada makes them the ideal partner for this ambitious project.
“Sport for Life is very excited to work collaboratively with the OVA to explore the challenges and opportunities of club competition in Ontario,” said Richard Way, CEO of Sport for Life. “We look forward to consulting with the community to develop practical recommendations that contribute to the competitive experience, are developmentally appropriate, and help create a sustainable competition structure and system in Ontario.”
Tom Jones, who will serve as Project Manager, brings deep experience from his time as a national volleyball player, having represented Canada in the 1984 Olympic Games. His qualifications include extensive knowledge of volleyball development from serving as a PTA President and Board member, Athlete Development Manager for the province of BC, and Chef de Mission at the Canada Games.
The OVA joins other provinces in undertaking a competition review as the volleyball landscape across the country rapidly evolves. Community engagement will be a cornerstone of the OVA’s process, with athletes, coaches, parents, referees, and club administrators invited to provide input. This feedback will help shape the future of volleyball competition in Ontario, ensuring it aligns with the needs of a diverse and growing membership base.
Meetings, surveys, and focus groups will take place over the coming weeks, and the OVA encourages its members to stay tuned for opportunities to get involved. Keep an eye on OVA’s social media channels and website for announcements later in October and November.
Stay engaged, stay informed. Let’s continue to build a thriving volleyball community in Ontario.