COLOMBO, May 20 (ePRESS) – The Mercantile Volleyball Association of Sri Lanka is preparing to conduct its biggest-ever tournament this year with more than 100 men’s and women’s teams expected to compete in the Mercantile Volleyball Tournament 2026, which will begin in August and conclude in September at the Sir Albert F. Peiris Sports Complex in Wennappuwa.
Tournament officials revealed this at a media briefing, stating that the competition has grown rapidly since its revival in 2012 with only 50 teams. They said the event has now become one of the leading sporting tournaments in Sri Lanka’s mercantile sector while also helping to promote volleyball, the country’s National Game, among corporate institutions.
The tournament will be worked off under national rules and regulations and will feature four categories – Super League, Championship, Division ‘A’ and Youth for both men and women.
Officials said the Youth category has been introduced to provide more opportunities for players between the ages of 17 and 21 under the sponsorship of member companies affiliated with the Mercantile Volleyball Association.
The 2026 edition will be organized under the leadership of Thilak Thilakarathne, while the organizing committee includes representatives from several leading companies in the country.
The preliminary rounds are scheduled for August, while the finals will be played in September at the same venue in Wennappuwa.
Tournament organizers also announced that the total prize money for the winners will exceed one million rupees. Apart from trophies, medals and certificates, several individual awards will also be presented in both men’s and women’s categories, including Best Player, Best Setter, Best Spiker, Best Outside Hitter, Best Middle Player, Best Opposite Player and Best Libero.
Officials further stated that a number of special attractions, including awards for the Lucky Team and Best Coach, will also be introduced to maintain excitement throughout the competition.
Importantly, the Mercantile Volleyball Association stressed that the tournament is not only focused on competition but also on creating employment opportunities for talented volleyball players while helping them progress to higher levels in the sport.
Tournament officials pointed out that four national players have emerged through this competition since its revival in 2012, highlighting the event’s growing contribution to Sri Lanka volleyball.
The association also plans to felicitate several veteran volleyball players during this year’s tournament as part of its long-term commitment to honouring former stars of the game.
The closing date for applications will be July 31. Further details can be obtained by contacting Chandana on 0710 682 682 or Prasangi on 0775320050.
Website: Mercantile Volleyball Association of Sri Lanka
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