Wrigley Field Hosts First-Ever Volleyball Games in Sept

Wrigley Field is about to witness something it's never seen before: a volleyball net in center field.

On September 6, the legendary Chicago stadium will host its first-ever volleyball matches when four powerhouse women's college teams take the court. Nebraska faces Missouri and Penn State battles Kentucky in a doubleheader that caps off the Big Ten/SEC Volleyball Challenge Week.

The games kick off at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., with tickets going on sale April 9. FOX will broadcast both matches live, bringing this historic moment to homes across the country.

Renderings show the volleyball court set up in shallow center field, with standing-room areas spread throughout the outfield. While Wrigley has hosted concerts, football, and hockey over the decades, volleyball marks an exciting first for the 114-year-old venue.

The Ripple Effect

This event isn't just about playing volleyball in a cool location. It's about showcasing how far women's sports have come and where they're heading.

Women's volleyball has been on a remarkable upward trajectory. In 2023, Nebraska set a world record for the largest crowd ever at a women's sports event when it hosted a match at its football stadium.

Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti says the unique venue choice reflects volleyball's surging popularity. "As women's volleyball participation, sponsorship, attendance and viewership continue to grow, we look forward to providing this unique opportunity to showcase the exceptional competition," he said.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey echoed that sentiment, calling the initiative a celebration of competitive excellence. "This not only elevates volleyball on a national stage but also underscores a continued growth and investment in women's athletics," he explained.

The choice of teams is no accident. All four programs are volleyball powerhouses with passionate fan bases, particularly Nebraska, whose supporters have shown they'll travel anywhere to cheer on their team.

By placing women's college volleyball in one of baseball's most iconic venues, the Big Ten and SEC are making a statement about the sport's value and future.

Get ready for a September night when America's pastime makes room for a sport that's rapidly becoming America's new obsession.