The UK Beach Tour (UKBT) is the United Kingdom's national competition for beach volleyball players, coordinated in partnership with Volleyball England,[1] Scottish Volleyball,[2] and the Northern Irish Volleyball Federation.[3] It was started in 2018 by Commonwealth Games Team England player Jake Shaef,[4][5] and now delivers dozens of beach volleyball events annually at venues around the UK, catering for all levels of ability, from entry level to elite.
A Junior Tour was introduced in 2021, though experienced juniors can also play in adult events. The tournaments are organised by individuals and clubs, in line with UKBT guidance.[6][7] Participant players are awarded points based on their ranking in UK and international tournaments, and these are coordinated into a national ranking system.[8]
As well as Volleyball England, UKBT has partnerships with its ball sponsor, Wilson, and the disability charity My AFK.[9]
UKBT event structure
The following UKBT event structure is detailed in the UKBT Handbook:[6]
Junior Tour: These are events for players in the Under-14 and Under-18 age categories. They last 1–2 days.
1-Star, 2-Star and 3-Star tournaments: These are local events for mixed or single gender teams. They last 1–2 days.
4-Star tournaments: These 2-day events are aimed at "the UK’s top and developing players".
5-Star tournaments (Grand Slam Series): These 2-day events are aimed at elite players.