The 14th annual Global Challenge returned to Pula, Croatia hosting under 17 and under 23 divisions from around the world. The opening ceremonies took place on July 9th and competition took place on July 10, 11, 12 & 13th.
Year after year, the mission of the Global Challenge is to provide teams international playing experience and exposure. Past tournaments participants have included club and country federation teams from Slovenia, Russia, Romania, Germany, Bosnia, Montenegro, China, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Italy, Denmark and Puerto Rico, plus USA regional HP, youth national, junior national, and collegiate national teams.
The 2017 U17 division Global Challenge proved to be a volleyball showdown between Croatia’s Youth National Team and Slovenia’s Nova KBM Branik. In the U23 final match the USA College National Team toppled the Mountain West Conference All-Star Team. To gain insights from players and coaches in attendance the tournament, be sure to watch these video interviews on our live blog.
In preparation for tournament play teams took Pre-tours throughout Europe between July 5th-8th. Opening ceremonies took place on July 9th in Pula, Croatia, a town marked by 3,000 year old Roman ruins including one of the last remaining fully intact Roman Colosseums in the world dating back to 68 AD. All teams, regardless of their nationality, stayed in close quarters at the beach front Hotel Pula to encourage a cultural exchange between players and coaches. The hotel was perfectly positioned within walking distance to both the competition arena and the crystal teal water of the Adriatic Sea.
Competitive international volleyball is what you get at the Global Challenge year after year. If you’re a volleyball player, coach or fan who loves to travel, there’s no better place in the world to be in July than Pula, Croatia.
The 15th Annual Global Challenge will take place in Pula, Croatia on July 16 through July 19, 2019 for u18 and u23 teams from around the world. Pre tours will start July 10th.
The global challenge provides a great overseas volleyball experience. The level of competition combined with the cultural experience and location make it well worth the trip. I have great memories on and off the court.
Michael Sealy , Head Coach - UCLA Women's VolleyballThe Global Challenge is one of my favorite events for many reasons. The competition is excellent and yet the environment of friendliness and sportsmanship makes the event challenging but fun. The fact that players and coaches all stay in the same hotel and have a chance to meet and learn about each other’s cultures makes it even more special. Any player considering it should definitely take advantage of this amazing opportunity.
Beth Launiere , Head Coach - University of Utah Women's VolleyballTraveling to Europe is an amazing opportunity for our student-athletes. BIP provides a unique way to educate our athletes while playing high level volleyball around the world; a first class operation.
Jeritt Elliott, Head Coach - University of Texas Women's Volleyball