The HBCU Athletic Conference has officially announced the eight schools competing in the 2024 Volleyball Championship. Hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission from November 11-13 at Bossier Parish Community College, this tournament promises fierce competition and outstanding athleticism. As teams gear up for the showdown, fans are eager to see which school will take home the coveted title.
Teams Ready to Battle for the Crown
Eight prestigious institutions have earned their spots in this year’s championship, each bringing unique strengths and talents to the court.
Dillard University (La.), Fisk University (Tenn.), Oakwood University (Ala.), Philander Smith University (Ark.), Southern University at New Orleans (La.), Stillman College (Ala.), Talladega College (Ala.), and Tougaloo College (Miss.) are set to compete. The final seeds will be determined after the conference play concludes on November 4.
- Talladega College: Defending champions with a strong record of 20-7 overall and 13-1 in HBCUAC play.
- Fisk University: Last season’s runner-up, currently holding a 22-14 overall and 13-1 conference record.
- Dillard University: The 2023 regular season runner-up, boasting a 13-7 overall and 11-1 conference record.
These teams have been neck and neck, each with only one loss, setting the stage for a thrilling battle for the top seed.
Intense Rivalries and Standout Performances
The competition has been heating up with key matches shaping the tournament landscape. Last night’s showdown between Talladega and Fisk ended with a five-set victory for Fisk, avenging their previous season’s loss. Earlier, Talladega swept Dillard in a pivotal HBCUAC Crossover match, while Dillard responded by sweeping Fisk on October 18.
Player Highlights
- Talladega College:
- Franchesca Rivas and Briyith Echeverri have been standout players, earning multiple Attacker of the Week honors.
- Fisk University:
- Trinity Britt leads with eight Setter of the Week awards, dominating assists with 939 total.
- Reagan Jones shines with five Attacker of the Week awards and 401 kills.
- Dillard University:
- Gabrielle Washington tops the conference with 1.24 blocks per set.
These performances not only highlight individual excellence but also contribute significantly to their teams’ successes.
Championship Format and Schedule
Understanding the tournament structure is essential for fans and participants alike. The 2024 Volleyball Championship follows a clear and engaging format to ensure fair competition.
Tournament Structure
- Preliminary Rounds: Teams are split into pools for a round-robin to determine seeding.
- Knockout Stages: Top teams from each pool advance to elimination rounds.
- Final Match: The championship game will crown the tournament winner.
Important Dates
Event | Date |
---|---|
Opening Ceremony | November 11, 2024 |
Preliminary Rounds | November 11-12, 2024 |
Quarterfinals | November 12, 2024 |
Semifinals | November 13, 2024 |
Final Match | November 13, 2024 |
This schedule ensures a well-paced tournament, allowing ample time for each match and giving fans plenty of action to enjoy.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
Beyond the competition, the championship serves as a platform for community involvement and youth development. On Sunday afternoon, the competing schools will lead clinics for junior high and high school students at local YMCA centers.
Upcoming Events
- Volleyball Clinics: Hosted at BHP YMCA and Lash Family YMCA.
- All-HBCUAC Awards: To be presented during the Reception at Eleven Events LLC.
These initiatives not only promote the sport but also inspire the next generation of athletes.
Broadcasting the Action
Fans eager to watch the championship can tune in through HBCU-Plus, available online and via a free mobile app. This ensures that supporters can follow every spike and serve, whether at home or on the go.
For more details on the 2024 HBCUAC Volleyball Championship, visit Tournament Central.