Iowa Central Pioneers Beach Volleyball: A Wave of Growth in Junior College Athletics
Iowa Central Community College is making waves in the world of junior college athletics, announcing the addition of women’s beach volleyball starting this fall. This groundbreaking move positions Iowa Central as the first two-year institution in the state to offer the rapidly growing sport.
The Rising Tide of Beach Volleyball Popularity
The decision to add beach volleyball isn’t simply about expanding athletic offerings; it’s about recognizing a significant trend. Since 2020, collegiate beach volleyball has experienced a remarkable 50% growth rate nationwide. In 2023, over 100 NCAA institutions fielded teams, with more than 1,600 athletes competing. This surge in popularity extends beyond the collegiate level, with a 15% increase in youth teams competing nationally in recent years.
NCAA Championship Success and Global Expansion
The NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship, first held in 2016, has seen TCU emerge as the most recent champion, defeating Loyola Marymount in 2024. Historically, USC and UCLA dominated the competition, winning all eight previous titles. The sport’s appeal is as well expanding internationally, with a record 59 events held across 20 countries during the 2024 Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour.
NJCAA Embraces Beach Volleyball
The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) is also recognizing the sport’s momentum. Palm Beach State claimed the 2025 NJCAA national beach volleyball title, and the NJCAA plans to introduce a pairs event at the 2026 NJCAA Beach Volleyball Championship, featuring 16 competing groups.
Iowa Central’s Vision and Leadership
“There’s a different kind of energy when you recognize you’re the first,” stated Iowa Central athletic director Guy Horn. “You acquire to set the tone, create a culture and depart a legacy for others to follow.” Horn, who transitioned from Head Athletic Trainer to Athletic Director in July 2025, emphasizes the opportunity for growth and development within the athletic department.
Leveraging Existing Volleyball Expertise
Iowa Central is strategically positioned for success with Sara Horn, the current Triton Volleyball Head Coach since 2015, and Gabby Marker leading the new beach volleyball program. Sara Horn has already established a strong volleyball program, making it a national title contender, with Marker serving as her assistant.
“We’re really excited about adding women’s beach volleyball,” said Sara Horn. “In addition to the new training opportunities our players will get, it provides potential student athletes a chance to play a new sport that is growing rapidly in popularity. With consistent growth in youth volleyball participation, we’ve seen many youth beach volleyball clubs popping up in Iowa and surrounding states, and we’re excited to give girls the opportunity to continue playing at the college level.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Beach Volleyball in Iowa
Iowa Central’s initiative is expected to inspire further growth of beach volleyball within the state, providing opportunities for student-athletes and fostering a new competitive landscape. The program’s success will likely encourage other junior colleges in Iowa to consider adding beach volleyball to their athletic offerings.
Did you know?
Beach volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, attracting a diverse range of athletes and fans.
FAQ
Q: When will Iowa Central’s beach volleyball team begin competing?
A: The team will begin competition in the fall of 2026.
Q: Is this the first beach volleyball program at the junior college level in Iowa?
A: Yes, Iowa Central is the first junior college in Iowa to offer women’s beach volleyball.
Q: Who will be leading the Iowa Central beach volleyball program?
A: Sara Horn and Gabby Marker will lead the program.
Q: What is the growth rate of collegiate beach volleyball?
A: Collegiate beach volleyball has seen a 50% growth rate since 2020.
Q: What is the NJCAA doing to support beach volleyball?
A: The NJCAA is adding a pairs event to the 2026 NJCAA Beach Volleyball Championship.
Explore more about Iowa Central Athletics at www.ictritons.com and stay tuned for updates on the new beach volleyball program!
