Kitsilano Beach Volleyball: A Vancouver Tradition
Kitsilano Beach has hosted top-tier Canadian Olympians in beach volleyball, making it a historic venue for national and global talent.
WBN News Kitsilano
✍️ By Karalee Greer | WBN News – Kitsilano | April 29, 2025
Kitsilano Beach has hosted top-tier Canadian Olympians in beach volleyball, making it a historic venue for national and global talent.
Kitsilano Beach has been a cornerstone of Vancouver's beach volleyball scene for decades. The sport began gaining popularity here in the 1970s, evolving from casual games among locals to a competitive hub for regional and international tournaments.
Season & Access
The beach volleyball season typically spans from late April through early September. Kits Beach boasts 7 permanent sand courts, with space for up to 16 nets. The City of Vancouver reserves these courts primarily for non-profit leagues and tournaments, with specific booking rules in place to ensure fair access . For casual play, individuals can join drop-in games, but organized play requires prior booking through the Vancouver Park Board.City of Vancouver
Rules & Play
Standard beach volleyball rules apply: teams of two or four, rally scoring, and matches played to 21 points. Players are expected to bring their own equipment, including nets and balls, unless participating in an organized league or tournament.
Major Events in 2025
Kitsilano Beach will host several premier events in 2025:
- Kits Classic: May 17-18, a 2-star tournament attracting top talent. Registration Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2025, at 12:00 pm. More Info & Registration: https://www.beachtourbc.com/
- Jim Clive Cup: June 7-8, honoring a local volleyball legend. Registration Deadline: Friday, May 23, 2025, at 12:00 pm. More Info & Registration: https://www.beachtourbc.com/
- Vancouver Open: July 11-13, the 32nd edition of this marquee event featuring international teams. https://www.beachtourbc.com/
- Beach Provincials: August 9-10, the provincial championship concluding the Beach Tour. https://www.beachtourbc.com/
Legacy
Over the years, Kits Beach has hosted numerous elite athletes, including Olympians and national team members, solidifying its reputation as a premier beach volleyball destination in Canada. Kitsilano.ca
Olympians Who Have Played at Kitsilano Beach
- Josh Binstock: A two-time Olympian (2012, 2016), Binstock has a history with the Vancouver Open, having won back-to-back titles in 2013 and 2014 alongside fellow Olympian Sam Schachter .Wikipedia+3Destination Vancouver+3Destination Vancouver+3
- Martin Reader: Competed in the 2012 Olympics and has participated in the Vancouver Open, often partnering with Binstock .Daily Hive Vancouver
- Sarah Pavan: A two-time Olympian (2016, 2020), Pavan has been a prominent figure in Canadian beach volleyball. While specific appearances at Kits Beach are not documented, her participation in national events suggests possible involvement .Vancouver Is Awesome
- Melissa Humana-Paredes: An Olympic gold medalist (2020), Humana-Paredes has competed in various national tournaments, including those at Kits Beach .Vancouver Is Awesome
- Christian Redmann and Ben Saxton: Both have represented Canada at the Olympics and have been past champions at the Vancouver Open, with Saxton winning in 2010 and Redmann in 2011 .Vancouver Is Awesome
These athletes' participation underscores Kitsilano Beach's status as a premier venue for beach volleyball in Canada, attracting Olympic-level talent to its courts.
Tags: #WBN News -Kitsilano #Karalee Greer #Kitsilano #Kitsilano Beach #Olympians In Vancouver #Beach Volleyball Canada #Vancouver Open #Kits Beach Events
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