2022 Ontario Volleyball Championships return to Waterloo

After a two-year hiatus, the city of Waterloo is once again hosting the 2022 Ontario Volleyball Championships.

City staff said they are thrilled to have the event return to the city.

“This is a great kick-off to bring back some vitality and excitement to the city. We have been so quiet with our sports over the last two years. Finally, there is a sense of normalcy and something for our local volleyball club has something to look forward to,” said Jill Fleming, Manager of Marketing and Business Services, City of Waterloo.

831 teams from across Ontario have registered for the championships, with 572 teams being hosted at Rim Park Manulife Sportsplex. That means motorists and visitors should give themselves extra time in the area from April 14 to 19, April 22-to 24, and April 29 to May 1.

Fleming said, “we have notified the resident and surrounding businesses of this. We have suggested an alternative route to the Carriage Crossing neighbourhood. Country Squire Lane is the recommended access route. Rather than Millennium Drive.”

The city has also allowed for temporary parking in the bike lane along Millennium Drive to allow more vehicle parking. In addition, cyclists are encouraged to use the multi-use trail alongside Millennium Drive.

Not only is this event a kick start to events finally happening in the city, but local businesses are also very excited. The city has reached out to companies within a five-kilometre radius of Rim Park, giving them a heads up to resource their staff and supply adequately.

The OVA and coaches' packages have this information, so teams and parents know what to check out in the city.

Fleming noted historically, this event brings in five million dollars for the local economy.

The OVA has teams playing from U12-18, making it one of the largest volleyball championships in the country.

“This is one of the first events coming out of the pandemic. This will be a good test for us all. We have all the safety protocols in place, and all the city staff and OVA staff/volunteers will be wearing masks. We are encouraging visitors to wear masks as well. We all want to remain safe and play the sport we love,” said Fleming.