When Is National Volleyball Day? February 9 Explained

By Sarah Miller · May 9, 2043

National Volleyball Day is celebrated annually on February 9 in the United States, honoring the sport's legacy, promoting participation, and recognizing athletes, coaches, and contributors to volleyball at all levels.

What Is National Volleyball Day?

National Volleyball Day, observed every year on February 9, is a dedicated day to celebrate one of the world's most dynamic and inclusive team sports. Established to raise awareness and encourage community involvement, this day highlights the values of teamwork, athleticism, and sportsmanship inherent in volleyball.

Key Objectives of National Volleyball Day

Promote youth and adult participation in volleyball
Celebrate professional and amateur athletes
Encourage schools and recreational centers to host events
Highlight safety, training, and skill development
Recognize coaches, referees, and administrators

History and Origins

Volleyball was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan in Holyoke, Massachusetts, originally called "Mintonette." It evolved into a global phenomenon, becoming an Olympic sport in 1964. While no official federal declaration exists for National Volleyball Day, its observance on February 9 has gained traction through grassroots campaigns, school programs, and support from organizations like USA Volleyball and the NCAA.

Why February 9?

The exact reason for selecting February 9 remains informal, but it aligns with efforts to promote indoor sports during winter months in the U.S. and precedes major collegiate tournaments, including the NCAA Volleyball Championships held in December, keeping momentum through the academic sports calendar.

How to Celebrate National Volleyball Day

There are numerous ways individuals, schools, clubs, and communities can observe National Volleyball Day:

Organize pickup games or mini-tournaments at local gyms or beaches
Host clinics for beginners led by high school or college players
Schools can integrate volleyball units into PE classes
Share social media posts using hashtags like #NationalVolleyballDay
Recognize standout players, coaches, or volunteers in your community

Global Impact and Participation Trends

Volleyball ranks as one of the most played team sports worldwide, with over 800 million participants according to FIVB estimates. The sport’s accessibility—requiring minimal equipment and adaptable to indoor, beach, grass, or sand—makes it ideal for diverse populations.

Country	Estimated Players (Millions)	Top Competition Level	Beach Volleyball Popularity (1-5)
Brazil	35.2	FIVB World Tour Elite	5
United States	27.8	NCAA & AVP Pro Tours	4
China	26.5	Chinese Volleyball League	3
Russia	21.3	Russian Super League	3
Italy	18.7	Italian Serie A	4
Japan	15.4	V.League	3

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that Brazil leads in both overall participation and beach volleyball enthusiasm, reflecting its coastal culture and elite performance. The U.S. maintains strong engagement across collegiate and professional tiers, particularly in women’s volleyball and beach disciplines. European nations like Italy and Russia emphasize structured league systems, contributing to consistent international competitiveness.

Professional Leagues and Player Development

In the U.S., player pathways often begin in high school, progress through NCAA programs, and may lead to professional careers domestically or abroad. Notable leagues include:

AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals): Premier beach volleyball tour
Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF): Emerging women’s indoor league launched in 2024
NCAA Division I: Top collegiate competition feeding national teams

Internationally, leagues in Turkey, Poland, and Brazil offer competitive salaries and attract American talent, underscoring volleyball’s growing professionalization.

Frequently Asked Questions About National Volleyball Day

When is National Volleyball Day celebrated?

National Volleyball Day is celebrated annually on February 9 in the United States, promoting the sport’s values and encouraging community participation through events and recognition.

Who founded National Volleyball Day?

There is no single officially recognized founder of National Volleyball Day. Its observance on February 9 has emerged through collaborative efforts by schools, recreational leagues, and volleyball advocacy groups rather than a formal decree.

Is National Volleyball Day a federal holiday?

No, National Volleyball Day is not a federal holiday. It is a commemorative day recognized by enthusiasts, educational institutions, and sports organizations to celebrate the sport and inspire new players.

How can schools participate in National Volleyball Day?

Schools can participate by organizing gym classes focused on volleyball fundamentals, hosting intramural matches, inviting guest speakers such as college athletes, or partnering with local clubs to run skill clinics for students.

Does the date of National Volleyball Day ever change?

No, National Volleyball Day is consistently observed on February 9 each year. Unlike movable holidays, it remains fixed to allow consistent planning for events, promotions, and educational activities.

Are there international equivalents to National Volleyball Day?

While no global equivalent is officially recognized by the FIVB, many countries celebrate volleyball through national championships, Olympic qualification events, or Youth Volleyball Weeks. Some nations observe Volleyball Week around major tournaments or anniversaries of national team victories.