Tuesday, 16 Jul 2024

How To Build a Beach Court

Beach volleyball competitions are a great way to enjoy the sport in a natural setting. Whether you choose to build a court on a natural beach or create a sand court in an open area, both options have proven successful at the national and international level. The choice ultimately depends on factors such as location, space availability, and resources.

Building on a Natural Beach

Using a natural beach for your volleyball court comes with minimal costs. You will need to ensure that the beach is level and the sand is at least nine inches deep and free from rocks, gravel, and other hazardous objects. Additionally, you’ll need standards, nets, court lines, and antennae. It is advisable to find a beach with pre-existing standards or form an agreement with the local government to construct them. Permit costs are usually reasonable for non-profit organizations not charging admission or other fees.

Portable net systems are not recommended for use on natural beaches, as they may not hold up well. However, if you have access to sand, gravel, and/or delivery at reduced or no-cost from construction companies, local beaches, golf courses, or professional volleyball tournaments, the costs can be further minimized. Sharing the costs with your institution’s campus recreation department or a local park can also be an option.

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Building a Non-Beach Sand Court

If you decide to build a sand court in an open area, the depth of sand needed should be 12 to 24 inches. The playing surface must be as flat and uniform as possible, free from rocks, shells, or other dangerous particles that could cause cuts or injuries to the athletes. It is recommended to use naturally weathered, rounded sand that is not acquired from a crushed rock source.

The net posts should be rounded and smooth, with a height of 2.55 meters, and fixed to the ground at a distance of 0.7 to 1 meter from each sideline. Dangerous or obstructing devices must be eliminated, and the posts must be padded. The net itself should measure 8.5 meters long and 1 meter wide, with a 5 to 8 cm wide horizontal band of two-fold canvas at the top and bottom. The height of the net must be 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women, measured from the center of the playing court. Court lines, antennae, and a boundary marking the boundaries of the court are also required.

Additional Equipment and Optional Extras

In addition to the basic court setup, there are several optional extras you can consider to enhance the playing experience. These include:

  • Balls: A minimum of six per court.
  • Water, umbrellas, and chairs for the time-out zone.
  • Referee stand and scorer’s table with chairs.
  • PA system for announcements and communication.
  • Players lounge or tent with chairs and access to restroom facilities.
  • Optional floodlighting for usage outside of daylight hours.
  • A permanent structure over the courts to allow play during all weather conditions.
  • Fencing to create a natural barrier and prevent balls from leaving the playing area.
  • Division netting or courtside banners to separate multiple courts.
  • Earth banks for windbreak and spectator terracing.
  • Hard standing areas and accessible access points for officials and spectators.
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Remember to consider the specific requirements and regulations for international and Olympic competitions if you plan to host such events.

FAQs

  1. Can I build a beach volleyball court on any natural beach?

    • Yes, as long as the beach is level and the sand is at least nine inches deep and free from hazardous objects.
  2. Are portable net systems recommended for natural beaches?

    • No, portable net systems may not hold up well on natural beaches. It is best to use permanent net systems.
  3. What is the cost of using a natural beach for beach volleyball?

    • The costs are minimal and include standards, nets, court lines, and antennae. Permit costs vary but are usually reasonable for non-profits.

Summary

Building a beach court for volleyball can be an exciting project that provides a great recreational space for players. Whether you choose to build on a natural beach or create a sand court in an open area, it’s important to ensure the sand is of good quality and the playing surface is safe and level. Consider the optional extras, such as permanent structures, floodlighting, and fencing, to enhance the playing experience. With careful planning and consideration of the regulations, you can create a beach court that meets international standards and provides endless hours of fun and competition. Visit Alpinetgheep.com to learn more and get started on building your own beach court.