West Des Moines, Iowa – On Thursday evening, West Des Moines Valley High School made local sports history by holding its volleyball season opener outdoors at Valley Stadium. The Tigers welcomed three rival schools – Ankeny Centennial, Waukee and Waukee Northwest – for the Marj White Kickoff Classic, a new tradition that promises to bring more community excitement to high school athletics.
Outdoor courts bring a fresh fan experience
Temporary courts were installed on the stadium’s turf earlier Thursday, complete with new lighting and video boards that Valley’s athletic director, Mike Egbert, highlighted as recent upgrades to the facility. “This is going to be a great event,” Egbert said, adding that the outdoor setting offers athletes a unique experience and gives fans a chance to enjoy a full‑court atmosphere under the lights.
Tickets are $10 and are available online. Organizers expect a sizable crowd, especially given the clear skies and comfortable 78‑degree temperature forecast for the start of play at 7:30 p.m.
Community support and school spirit
The decision to move the opening matches outdoors reflects a broader effort by the school district to engage families and community members in high school sports. By creating a festival‑like environment, the district hopes to encourage more parents to attend games, support their children’s athletic pursuits, and reinforce the role of school sports in building character and teamwork.
Local businesses have already shown support, with several vendors setting up booths near the stadium to offer food and refreshments. The event also provides an opportunity for student volunteers to gain experience in event management, ticketing and crowd control – valuable skills that extend beyond the playing field.
What’s next for the Tigers?
After the opening night, Valley will continue its regular season schedule, facing additional district opponents both at home and on the road. The outdoor kickoff is expected to boost morale and give the team a competitive edge as they aim for a deep run in the district playoffs.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to claim seating, enjoy the new video board highlights, and cheer on the Tigers as they serve, spike and block under the night sky. The community’s enthusiastic response to this inaugural outdoor event suggests that future seasons may feature more creative venues and fan‑focused experiences.
How to attend
Tickets can be purchased through the school’s athletic website. The Marj White Kickoff Classic will run from 7:30 p.m. onward on Thursday, August 27, at Valley Stadium, 4440 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines. Families, alumni and local residents are invited to join the celebration of high school athletics and community pride.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
