The 13th annual European Global Challenge will return to Pula, Croatia on July 11th – 14th, 2017 to host u17 and u22 divisions from around the world. The mission of the European Global Challenge is to give American players experience playing international teams with FIVB rules. The tournament is designed to match up teams from North America with teams from Europe
Last year’s Global Challenge proved to be a volleyball showdown between youth and junior national teams from Russia, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and Denmark. Past tournaments have hosted a mix of club and country federation teams from Romania, Germany, Bosnia, Montenegro, and Puerto Rico, plus USA regional HP, youth national, junior national, and collegiate national teams.
Competitive international volleyball is what you get at the European Global Challenge year after year. All teams, regardless of their nationality, stay in close quarters at the beach front Hotel Pula to encourage a cultural exchange between players and coaches. The hotel is perfectly positioned within walking distance to both the competition arena and the crystal teal water of the Adriatic Sea. The town of Pula Croatia is 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 – which is where the tournament’s opening ceremony will take place.
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. Pre-tours for American and Chinese teams will take place throughout Europe the week prior to the tournament.
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 Volleyball