After a year off because of the pandemic, the Minnesota State High School State Volleyball tournament welcomes players, coaches, and spectators back to the Xcel Energy Center on Wednesday.
It's the first time in tournament history that four classes will be featured in the quarterfinal, semifinal, and championship rounds.
"We looked a number of options to see how we could do the state volleyball tournament best," said Erich Martens, the Minnesota State High School League's executive director. "We really like the opportunity at the Xcel Energy Center with two courts going non-stop once we get started."
Wednesday's slate of tournament games gets underway at 1 p.m. with #1 Wayzata vs Roseville and #4 Lakeville North vs #5 Rogers. Two more 4A quarterfinal games will get played at 3 p.m. with class 3A set to play their quarterfinal games Wednesday night.
"As we expanded classes it allows additional opportunities for teams more in the middle and in the smaller classes to have access to maybe take a step further or even make it to a state tournament," Martens said.
Wednesday's quarterfinal opener comes almost one year after the MSHSL announced that postseason volleyball and football would not take place due rising COVID-19 concerns.
"There were really difficult decisions being made throughout the year last year and that even continues this year at times," Martens said. "We took a look at things and we were learning a lot about the virus and how it impacted folks. There were lots we didn't know as well as we wanted to."
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Martens credits the availability of vaccines to the adults and now children as young as 5-years old as a major factor in moving forward.
"We are encouraging our schools and families to take part in vaccinations and any other protocols that helps keep people feel safe," he added. "And think about those things not only in participation, but also outside of the team and outside of school."
Those attending the Minnesota State High School Volleyball Tournament are reminded to abide by Xcel Energy Center's bag policy. The MSHSL is also requiring fans to purchase their tickets online, which can be done here.
Games will be streamed on PrepSpotlight.