Why Volleyball Is the Fastest-Growing Girls’ Sport in the U.S.
From local clubs to TV screens, see why volleyball is winning over girls across the U.S.
By Ovanto.org Team
This article is in sync with our mission to contribute to the development of health culture and the growth of all disciplines of volleyball. We provide informative and educational content about volleyball training and the benefits of playing the sport.
Introduction:
Girls’ volleyball is officially the fastest-growing sport for high school girls in the U.S. With hundreds of thousands of players nationwide and rising viewership on TV and social media, volleyball has evolved into one of the most dynamic, inclusive, and opportunity-rich sports for young female athletes.
This article explores the top reasons behind volleyball’s explosive growth in 2025, from media exposure and scholarships to professional leagues and youth development programs
📈 Volleyball Participation Is at an All-Time High
According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), girls’ volleyball reached 479,125 participants during the 2023–24 school year—making it the second most-played high school sport for girls in the United States. This growth continues into 2025, with even more schools and clubs offering volleyball programs.
The sport is especially popular due to its low-cost equipment, smaller team sizes, and year-round availability through school and club seasons.
📺 Increased Media Coverage Drives Interest
The visibility of women’s volleyball on national TV has never been higher. In 2024, a Fox Sports broadcast of a Wisconsin vs. Minnesota NCAA match drew 1.7 million viewers, setting a record for regular-season volleyball coverage.
As of 2025, networks like ESPN, BTN, and FS1 are airing more collegiate volleyball games than ever before. Viral moments on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are also attracting younger fans and players, growing the sport’s cultural reach.
🏐 Professional Leagues Are Changing the Game
In January 2025, League One Volleyball (LOVB) launched its inaugural season as the first major professional indoor volleyball league for women in the U.S. The league includes six city-based teams and offers players competitive salaries, benefits, and visibility—bridging the gap between college and pro volleyball.
LOVB is backed by top investors and supported by Olympic athletes, providing legitimacy and long-term vision. Its debut season drew strong attendance and streaming viewership, further boosting volleyball’s profile nationwide.
👭 Youth Development Programs Fuel Long-Term Growth
LOVB is also developing the future of the sport through a nationwide network of 60+ youth volleyball clubs across 23 states. This grassroots system gives girls as young as 10 the opportunity to receive high-level coaching and compete in regional and national tournaments.
Additional programs run by USA Volleyball, JVA, and AAU continue to expand access in underserved areas, making volleyball one of the most inclusive and community-driven sports for girls in the U.S.
🎓 College Scholarships & NCAA Exposure
The NCAA Women’s Volleyball Tournament continues to gain popularity, with the 2024 championship match between Louisville and Penn State drawing over 1.3 million viewers.
Volleyball also offers more than 1,800 college programs across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, as well as NAIA and NJCAA programs. For many families, this provides a tangible path to higher education through sport.
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🌟 Why Volleyball Resonates With Young Women
Beyond competition, volleyball promotes teamwork, communication, mental resilience, and empowerment. The sport’s fast pace, inclusive roles, and non-contact nature make it ideal for building confidence and leadership in a team-based setting.
Girls across the country are drawn to the game not only to compete—but to connect, grow, and lead.
🚀 The Future of Girls’ Volleyball in the U.S.
With historic participation numbers, growing professional opportunities, expanded youth programs, increased media exposure, and a surge in cultural relevance, volleyball is positioned to remain the #1 rising sport for girls in America well into the next decade—especially as excitement builds toward the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and educational purposes only. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to consult official sources and organizations for the most current data and developments related to volleyball participation and trends. The author and publisher disclaim any liability for injuries, misunderstandings, or errors resulting from the application of this content.
