Red Deer Polytechnic is set to receive a $1-million investment to develop a new outdoor beach volleyball facility featuring 16 courts for training and tournaments.
Volleyball Alberta and the Government of Alberta will each contribute $500,000 toward the project, which is among 20 sport and recreation infrastructure developments receiving funding through the province’s $14-million Active Communities Initiative.
“Our government is proud to provide grant funding towards Volleyball Alberta’s new beach volleyball courts on the Red Deer Polytechnic campus,” said Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport.
The new facility will build on an existing partnership between Volleyball Alberta and RDP. The polytechnic currently hosts approximately 10 Volleyball Alberta Premier indoor tournaments each year at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, its main campus gymnasiums and several Red Deer schools.
The outdoor courts will provide additional opportunities for RDP Kings and Queens athletes, students and community members to participate in beach volleyball.
Located northwest of the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, the courts will feature surrounding berms along the north, west and south sides. This will create natural tiered viewing areas for spectators while also protecting from the wind.
The facility’s proximity to the centre will give athletes access to changerooms, food and beverage services and fitness amenities. A nearby tournament building will also provide storage, event support and water access.
“This project is about more than courts in the sand; it’s about creating opportunities for people to connect through sport,” said Diane Clarke, CEO of Volleyball Alberta.
The facility is expected to serve athletes, coaches, referees, volunteers, families and community members, while supporting recreation, development and competition at all levels.
Beginning in 2028, the site is expected to host several Volleyball Alberta beach tournaments throughout the spring and summer. It will also accommodate training and development camps, recreational leagues and high-performance athlete training.
Construction of the beach volleyball courts is scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
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