Every week, North Penn YMCA members gather at the Lansdale or Indian Valley branch for adult volleyball. Together, they make up a group that is as diverse as the community around them. Different ages, backgrounds and skill levels come together on the court, building friendships and a community that extends beyond the game.
One of the group’s long-time members, Shannon, shares, “As a busy working mother of two, playing volleyball twice a week doubles as my weekly exercise and my only ME time. The people at volleyball are nice and funny, which makes it an enjoyable atmosphere. I also like that it is part of my membership and not an additional fee.”
Ariana, a newer member of the group, explains, “For me, this group has become my safe place and a place where I feel happy. It allows me to play a sport, enjoy a night full of excitement and positive energy, and continue improving my skills. Once you start coming regularly and feel like you are part of the group, you don’t really need to look for motivation to keep coming. Instead, you actually look forward to the days when we have volleyball.”
That sense of community has also inspired players to give back. In 2018, longtime member Leo started a volleyball tournament to raise money for the Y’s Annual Campaign which helps ensure YMCA programs and services are accessible to all, regardless of ability to pay.
The campaign supports the Y’s Extra Hands Financial Assistance program, providing financial assistance for programs including summer camp, child care and swim lessons, as well as free memberships for Active Duty military members, among other forms of community support.
“We wanted the tournament to be special, to be above and more than our typical weekly volleyball night scrimmages. The games were intense and competitive with a win-for-all mentality. But foremost we wanted to give back and help the Y by donating funds to the Y’s annual campaign,” Leo explained.
This August, players brought the tournament to the Lansdale branch for the first time following the opening of its new gymnasium. For players like Mike, the tournaments offered the best of both worlds. “I like the chance to get to play on the larger court and raise funds for the Y,” he shared.
From staying active and building friendships to coming together to support others, the adult volleyball community embodies so much of what makes the Y special. They are a reminder that the Y is a place to find your people, discover a sense of belonging and turn the things you enjoy into opportunities to make a difference.
The Annual Campaign helps fund financial assistance for programs such as summer camp, child care and swim lessons. It also supports free memberships for active-duty military members and other community initiatives.
Yes. Adult volleyball is included with her YMCA membership and does not require an additional fee.
Adult volleyball offers opportunities to stay active, improve your skills, build friendships and enjoy a welcoming, supportive community with other YMCA members.