Spikes in the sand

Continuing a tradition takes a lot. Some traditions serve a larger purpose, such as generating funds for local projects. Others bring a local community together. Some are just about taking advantage of the weather for some summer fun.

The Creston Sand Volleyball Tournament does all three, and has become one of the summer’s most popular community events ever since its inception in 2020. Headed by Mindy Stalker and Sam Baird this year, the 5th Annual Sand Volleyball Tournament is the spot to be on Sunday, June 29.

Taking over the sand courts in Taylor Park, any team of six can sign up for a registration fee of $60, with those fees being used to help fund the community swimming pool.

Originally, the funds raised through the tournament would be donated for an upgrade project for the city pool. Over four editions of this fundraiser, that’s where the team fees have been sent.

With the pool project ending a year ago, the sand volleyball tournament will still be raising money for the pool. A replacement AED kit for the pool will be funded through the sand volleyball tournament.

Baird said a major part of the tournament’s continued presence in Creston is the atmosphere generated by the local community. As a chance to also give back to the community, it’s a tradition worth keeping.

“It’s so laid back.” Baird said. “People show up for the day, they sign up at 11, done by 5, 5:30. There’s no greater expectation than just to hang out and enjoy the summer day.”

While it’s technically a tournament, the laid back approach means there’s no officials and teams call their own courts.

“It’s a fun day,” Baird said. “It’s important to get people together to do something. We don’t give out prizes, winners just win the bracket. It’s fun, that’s the way we want to keep it.”

Two different tournaments take place for different age groups. The divisions are separated by age, with those fifteen and under forming their own teams and sixteen or up in an adult division. For those under 18, a signed waiver will have to be provided during registration.

Each year, the amount of teams has been growing, with Baird estimating last year 15 teams were formed between the two divisions. Ever since the second year of the tournament, the competitive atmosphere has grown, with some teams even printing T-shirts with crazy team names.

For those looking to sign up, they’ll have to gather a team of six. Registration begins at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 29 at Taylor Park. A registration fee of $60, $10 per person, will be paid. Checks can be made out to Creston Parks and Rec. The registration form is available online on the 5th Annual Sand Volleyball Tournament Facebook page.

Parking for the tournament is recommended in the parking spaces at McKinley rather than street parking near Taylor. It’s going to be a hot summer day, with temperatures as of Wednesday, June 25, expecting to hit a high of 89 degrees. Planning for a handful of hours in the sun requires smart preparation.

“Bring chairs, sunscreen and lots of water,” Baird said.