Please note: Free agents may be assigned to any teams with less than 8 people in social division, and less than 7 in intermediate or advanced. If you DO NOT wish to have free agents added to your team - reach out to us at Pridesportsleaguedm@gmail.com and make this request. 

Pride Sports League: Sand Volleyball - Defining Play

At Pride Sports League, our mission is to provide safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. While we strive to create a level playing field whenever possible, teams may occasionally be asked to play up or down based on registration numbers and team composition. In most seasons, intermediate and advanced teams are often combined into one division. Players and teams are expected to play in a manner that respects their opponents’ skill level and fosters inclusivity.

A social team consists of players who want to enjoy volleyball for fun and meet new people. These teams are primarily made up of Level 1 and Level 2 players—those who are new to the game or have limited volleyball experience. Social teams will be placed in the Social League.

An intermediate team is primarily made up of Level 3 players who understand the basics of volleyball but may still make regular mistakes. Depending on registration numbers and team composition, intermediate teams may be divided into either division.

An advanced team is composed almost entirely of Level 4 and Level 5 players who have significant volleyball knowledge and experience. These teams will be placed in the Competitive League.

A minimum of four teams is required per division. However, Pride Sports League will always offer at least a Social and a Competitive League, regardless of registration numbers. Pride Sports League reserves the right to place or move teams to ensure fair play.

Pride Sports League Volleyball Divisions

Social League

The Social League is designed for players who prioritize fun, meeting new people, and learning the game in a relaxed environment. This league primarily consists of Level 1 and Level 2 players who are new to volleyball or have limited experience.

Teams are made up of players who are still mastering basic skills like bumping, setting, and hitting.

Overhead hits are permitted, but spiking (hitting with one hand in a downward motion) is not allowed to ensure a beginner-friendly environment.

Focuses on fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for players of all abilities.

Competitive League

The Competitive League is for players with a more advanced understanding of volleyball, who are looking for a higher level of play. Teams in this league typically include Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5 players who have significant experience and skill.

Intermediate Division: Includes teams with primarily Level 3 players. These players understand the basics but may still make mistakes and are refining their skills.

Advanced Division: Includes teams with predominantly Level 4 and Level 5 players who excel at strategic and competitive play. Advanced plays such as spiking, slides, and back-row hitting are common.

Depending on registration numbers, intermediate and advanced teams may be combined into one division to ensure balanced competition.

Individual Rankings

All players registering for Pride Sports League Volleyball must rate their skill level on a scale from 1 to 5. Returning players must rank themselves as Level 2 or higher.

Level 1:

A beginner who has never played volleyball or is playing for the first time with Pride Sports League. Level 1 players are still learning the basics, such as returning the ball, and have not yet started bumping, setting, or hitting. They should play in the Social League.

Level 2:

A player with some experience, either with Pride Sports League or another league. They are starting to bump, set, and hit, and have a basic understanding of game mechanics. Level 2 players may not yet be interested in competitive play and are best suited for the Social League.

Level 3:

A player with a couple of seasons of experience who has a good grasp of the rules and game mechanics but is still refining their skills. They can bump, set (to some degree), and spike but lack consistency. Level 3 players are encouraged to play in the Competitive League at an Intermediate level.

Level 4:

An experienced player with several seasons under their belt. They have a strong understanding of rules, mechanics, and positioning during plays. They know how to approach hitting with proper footwork and are ready for more strategic, competitive play. Level 4 players should play in the Competitive League.

Level 5:

A highly skilled and experienced player, both within and outside of Pride Sports League. Level 5 players excel at all aspects of volleyball, including advanced plays like slides, tandems, crosses, and back-row hitting (when passes allow). Level 5 players should play in the Competitive League.