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OVA to Launch Ontario Volleyball Connect

By Ontario Volleyball Association, 01/31/25, 11:45AM EST

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OVA to Launch Ontario Volleyball Connect to Support Member Clubs and Grow the Game Province Wide

In Ontario, volleyball is a dynamic and widely loved sport, with strong participation across its three major categories: Indoor Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, and Sitting Volleyball. As the governing body for the sport in the province, the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) is dedicated to supporting its member clubs by fostering growth, sustainability, and inclusivity within the volleyball community.

With nearly 19,000 unique members—marking a 12% increase from 2023—and over 90% of members recommending OVA programs and clubs, it is evident that volleyball in Ontario has a strong foundation. However, sustained success requires ongoing efforts to attract new participants and provide OVA clubs with tools to expand their reach. In addition, the OVA wants to support organizations, persons and cultural community groups in providing programming for non-OVA members and for former OVA members that continue to play the sport as adults, beyond club participation. Thereby, strengthening each person to participate in “Volleyball for Life.”

Statistics Canada highlights that “Overall, 83% of sports players reported playing recreationally, outside of a club or league.” This underscores the need for accessible, structured pathways to bring these athletes into OVA-sanctioned programs. It is especially crucial for newcomers to Ontario (nationally and internationally), who often rely on sports as a means to integrate into their communities but may struggle to find suitable opportunities. By growing grassroots participation, Ontario Volleyball can ensure long-term success for its clubs and programs, as well as, attract new coaches, referees and volunteers.

To address these challenges, Ontario Volleyball has launched Ontario Volleyball Connect, a groundbreaking program discovery and booking platform integrated into the OVA website. Developed in collaboration with the Communiti app, Ontario Volleyball Connect centralizes volleyball opportunities, making it easier for players, parents, and enthusiasts to find and engage with OVA-affiliated programs.

Launch Phases for Ontario Volleyball Connect :
  • Phase 1: February 1st-10th, 2025 – Exclusive access for OVA Member Clubs to list their programs and familiarize themselves with the platform.
  • Phase 2: February 11th-21st, 2025 – Expansion to adult leagues and individual volleyball providers, broadening the reach of the platform.
  • Phase 3: February 24th, 2025 – Full public launch, making Volleyball Connect available to all participants in Ontario.
How Volleyball Connect Benefits OVA Clubs:
  • Increased Visibility: Member clubs can showcase their programs, camps, and training sessions in one centralized location, increasing their exposure to potential participants.
  • Streamlined Registration: The platform simplifies the discovery and booking process, making it easier for clubs to attract new players and fill their rosters. Plus, it makes it easy to manage registrations, payment and communication in one platform.
  • Stronger Community Engagement: Clubs can connect with recreational and competitive players, bridging the gap between casual participation and structured OVA programming.
  • Support for Diversity & Inclusion: Volleyball Connect aligns with inclusivity recommendations from the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner (OSIC), ensuring that OVA clubs provide welcoming and accessible opportunities for all participants.

“We have always enjoyed a very engaged community passionate about volleyball, and finding ways to bring more participants into the fold has always been a priority,” said Jo-Anne Ljubicic, Executive Director, Ontario Volleyball Association. “This is why we are proud to launch Ontario Volleyball Connect , where clubs, public providers and participants can connect effortlessly in one place.”

By leveraging Ontario Volleyball Connect, OVA member clubs can strengthen their programs, attract new members, and contribute to the broader mission of growing volleyball in Ontario. Whether clubs are looking to promote beginner-friendly programming, recruit competitive athletes, or expand community outreach, Ontario Volleyball Connect is the key to unlocking new opportunities.

For more information on how your club can get involved, visit:

Website:

https://ontario.volleyballconnect.org/providers 

Email:

Kerish Maharaj, our Manager of Marketing and Community Outreach: kmaharaj@ontariovolleyball.org

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