For years women’s college volleyball athletes have had to go overseas for a chance at a professional career. They now have the opportunity to stay in the states to play for the Pro Volleyball Federation. Brianna Bowman a 9 year volleyball player states, “It’s super exciting because this provides more direct opportunities to continue playing after college.” “A lot like other sports, there is finally a league in the U.S.” Like Brianna, many players are excited at the thought of having a chance to continue playing after college.The federation was founded in 2022 and is owned by multiple people from all walks of life including singers, baseball, basketball, and football players. Some of these investors include Stephen Evans, Dave Whinham, Kerri Walsh Jennings, Joe Burrow, and artist Jason Duerlo. This will be the first active year for the league with a total of seven teams. The seven teams include Atlanta Vibe, Columbus Fury, Grand Rapids Rise, Omaha Supernovas, Orlando Valkyries, and Vegas Thrill. The league is looking to add three teams from Dallas, Indianapolis, and Kansas City come the 2025 season.
So far Atlanta Vibe is standing at number one with seven wins and three losses and San Diego Mojo is standing in last place with two wins and five losses. Along with the new league comes the thought of competition with teams who are overseas due to many players from the states going to play for different countries. Brianna Bowman also says, “I think that because you are going overseas there are different customs and normalities, especially within the sport, that could cause a clash.” Nevertheless, there could be added competition for both states players and overseas players who play at the highest level. The new league in the states is a great opportunity for women’s volleyball players and a new opportunity for volleyball to develop.
