Western Cup Volleyball is a two-day tournament that kicks off with pool play on Day 1, followed by playoffs on Day 2.  Western Cup Volleyball is proudly hosted by Spectrum Volleyball Calgary, a volunteer-run organization dedicated to creating community for 2SLGBTQIA+ volleyball enthusiasts of all skill levels.

 

Western Cup Volleyball is renowned for its vibrant, inclusive energy—uniting queer volleyball players from across Canada to compete, connect, and form lasting friendships. This action-packed tournament celebrates 2SLGBTQIA+ community, athleticism, and a shared passion for the game.  

 

As the longest-running multi-sport queer tournament in North America, Western Cup carries a rich legacy, enthusiastic support and participation from community business partners.

 

We are thrilled to welcome you and your team to be part of this incredible tradition. Welcome to volleyball at Western Cup 42!

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Tournament Details:

 

Date: Friday April 3rd and Saturday April 4th, 2026

 

Venue: Volleydome GYM, 10 Stonehill Pl NE #250, Calgary, AB T3N 1T7

 

Registration Opens: January 3rd, 2026 12:00 PM MST

 

Registration Closes: March 13, 2026 12:00 AM MST (Rosters must be finalized by this date)

 

Regular Team Fee: $875.00 (7 players); Additional players $125.00 each

 

Team Registration: Includes 7 players per team; max of 10

 

Weekend Party Pack: Registration fees includes tickets to all events at the Hyatt for Friday and Saturday (Sunday Drag Brunch Tickets are not included)

 

Required: Numbered Jerseys & Non-Marking shoes

 

Rules: All players must review tournament rules before registering

 

FULL PAYMENT of the regular team fee is required to confirm registration 

 

Zero Tolerance Policy: This is and inclusive event; All participants are expected to promote a safe space with zero tolerance for hate speech, discrimination, intimidation, threats, and any other disruptive behaviours. This includes cheating or downplaying your abilities, and any unsportsmanlike conduct. Spectrum Volleyball Calgary reserves the right, without warning, to remove teams or players from the event if found in violation of the Zero Tolerance policy. If found in violation of the above, no refunds will be provided, and teams and/or players may be banned from participating in future events.

 

 

 

Tournament Divisions & Format:

 

Tournament Divisions:

 

During registration, teams will choose between 4 divisions: Competitive, Intermediate Plus, Intermediate and Recreational Plus.

 

Refer to Division Descriptions to find the right division for your team.

 

Roster Review: Organizers WILL review final rosters before the tournament; Teams may be removed if found in violation of division requirements contained in the Division Descriptions

 

Tournament Format:

 

Duration: 2 days

 

Day 1: Round-robin games

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Day 2: Playoffs and finals (double elimination)

Estimated start time: 9:00 am - you will receive the tournament schedule via email after registration closes. 

 

On Day 1, teams will participate in round-robin games during pool play. The results from these games will be used to rank teams for Day 2 playoffs, where four divisions will be created based on performance.

 

On Day 2, teams will compete in a double-elimination format, with each match played as best-of-three sets. In the loser's bracket, games will consist of one set played to 25 points.

 

Refereeing: Teams referee within their division during round-robin; Volleyball Canada refs onsite for playoffs and finals, teams will be assigned to do score and lines.

 

Failure to show up for your assigned duties may result in 10pt reduction in standings.

 

Prizes:

 

Top 3 teams in each division are awarded medals

 

Payment Methods:

 

- Credit card payments incur a 2.9% fee

 

Refund Policy:

 

Full Refund: Refunds will be provided up to 60 days before the start of the tournament.

 

Partial Refund: 50% of the registration fees will be refunded for requests made within 40 days of the tournament start date.

 

No Refund: No refunds will be issued within 30 days of the tournament start date.

 

Note: All refunds exclude service fees, which are non-refundable.

 

Organizer Discretion

 

To ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants, tournament organizers reserve the right to make necessary adjustments, including moving teams between divisions to maintain competitive balance and fairness.

 

Additionally, organizers may deny registration or participation to individuals or teams who have violated tournament rules, demonstrated unsportsmanlike behavior, or acted against the inclusive spirit of Western Cup. These decisions are made with the goal of preserving a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone.

 

All rulings by the organizers are final and made with the community’s best interest in mind. Thank you for helping us uphold the values that make Western Cup a cherished tradition.

 

Divisions

 

Recreational - The overarching theme for this division is a "fun-first" mentality. Some players may focus on basic plays like getting the ball over the net, but most teams engage in three-hit plays.

 

● Players generally do not adhere to specific positions (e.g., power, setter, middle).

● Underhand serving is just as common as overhand serving.

● Hard spiking is not permitted in this division. Examples: Volleydome Adult League Tier 5 – 6, VGVA Rec

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Intermediate - all players possess volleyball experience and are adept in the fundamentals. Intermediate teams seek challenging games with evenly-matched opponents. Key features of this level of play include:

 

● Expect consistent hitting from at least 2–3 players on each team.

● Back row attacks are occasional but not prevalent. ● Some jump serving is expected, with the majority using overhand serves.

● Games feature crisp passes and well-organized attacks.

● Blocking is more common in this division, although not always a solid double block.

● Some teams may incorporate a Libero. Examples: Volleydome Adult League Tier 2 – 4, NAGVA B Division

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Intermediate Plus - This is the tournaments 2nd highest level, suitable for individuals with competitive high school or some experience, consistent adult players, or ex-varsity athletes who are wanting something challenging but not as fast as the competitive division. Key points include:

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● Players at this level are typically specialized in one position (e.g., setter, middle, power, libero) and are effective in their roles.

● The majority of players can execute powerful hits, and female players are comfortable defending hard hits.

● Games include crisp passes, solid blocks, good digs, and well-organized attacks. Examples: NAGVA BB, VGVA Comp 3 or 2

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Competitive - Participants in the Competitive Division boast extensive volleyball experience, having competed at high school, club, or even collegiate levels. This division is ideal for ex-varsity athletes, individuals who have played competitively throughout adulthood, and those bringing a wealth of competitive experience to the game. Key features of this level of play include:

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● Games in the competitive division feature precise passes.

● Formidable blocks are a common sight.

● Clean and quick passes are combined with organized attacks. Examples: NAGVA A, VGVA Comp 4

 

Contact:

 

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Please direct all questions to registration@spectrumvolleyball.ca, and visit @SpectrumVolleyball on Facebook for photos from previous Western Cup tournaments!