[Photo: Taina Basiyalo]

The Easter Volleyball Championship has taken a notable leap forward this year, with a rise in participation and a commitment to gender parity underscoring the competition’s growth.

Tournament director John Baleilomaloma confirmed that 54 teams will contest the three-day event, evenly split between 27 men’s and 27 women’s sides.

The figure represents an increase from last year’s 48 teams, where 24 teams competed in each division.

The expansion has been driven in part by the inclusion of new teams from the North, Maduwata and the Central Division, while two new associations have also joined the fold after meeting affiliation requirements — a sign of the sport’s widening reach across the country.

“This is more of a gender equality competition. We have 27 women’s teams and 27 men’s teams participating this year, compared to last year we had 24 in each division, so you can see the growth is there.”

The balanced numbers highlight a deliberate push by organisers to ensure equal representation, with both divisions given the same platform in what continues to be one of the sport’s key domestic tournaments.

“It’s also good to see new teams and associations coming in and meeting the requirements to be part of the competition. That shows that volleyball is developing and there is interest from different areas around the country.”

The growth in entries has also forced a shift in scheduling. Traditionally a two-day competition, the tournament has been extended to three days to better manage the increased workload and avoid late finishes that have affected previous editions.

While the on-court product continues to strengthen, challenges remain behind the scenes.

The tournament is being run without a major sponsor, leaving organisers to rely on gate takings and team registration fees to cover costs.

As a result, prize money for both the men’s and women’s divisions is yet to be finalised, with confirmation expected once organisers assess available funds.

Regardless, both divisions will receive equal recognition through prize payouts and trophies.

Despite the financial constraints, the rise in team numbers and the emphasis on equality point to a competition on the upward trajectory and a sport continuing to build momentum across Fiji.

The three-day tournament will conclude tomorrow.