From Mayor Joshua Garcia’s office:

“Holyoke Announces Plans for New Sports Complex and International Volleyball Hall of Fame Holyoke, MA – The city of Holyoke is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative to construct a state-of-the-art sports complex, set to become the new home for the prestigious International Volleyball Hall of Fame.

Spearheaded by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia and local entrepreneur Cesar Ruiz, leader of the USA International Sports Complex Group, this venture seeks to bolster Holyoke’s status as the birthplace of volleyball and a hub for global sports development.

The men unveil comprehensive details, including the project’s scope, location, and size, reflecting Holyoke’s commitment to fostering athletic excellence and community engagement. The International Volleyball Hall of Fame, currently home to over 160 inductees from 25 countries, attracts enthusiasts from across the globe. Since its inauguration in 1987, the Hall of Fame has celebrated volleyball’s elite through its annual induction ceremony, a tradition cherished by sports enthusiasts worldwide. Holyoke’s association with volleyball dates back to 1895 when William G. Morgan, then the physical director of Holyoke YMCA, conceived the sport’s concept and rules. His visionary contributions earned him the distinction of being the inaugural inductee into the Volleyball Hall of Fame in 1985.

The proposed sports complex is poised to revolutionize Holyoke’s sports landscape, hosting over 30 events and tournaments annually. With an anticipated economic impact of $41 million, the complex promises to invigorate the local economy and provide unparalleled recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Key features of the indoor complex include:

• An estimated investment of $50-65 million

• Approximately 140,000 square feet of indoor space

• 16 volleyball and basketball courts

• Family-oriented activities such as arcade, bowling, and rock climbing Moreover, the complex will generate employment opportunities, with 12 full-time and 30 part-time staff members envisioned to operate the facility.

The press conference offered insights into the project’s vision, highlighting its transformative potential for Holyoke and beyond. Mayor Garcia and Mr. Ruiz, joined by community leaders and stakeholders, outlined the project’s timeline and invite public participation in shaping its development.

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia: “We are proud to unveil this visionary project that will not only honor Holyoke’s rich volleyball heritage but also propel our city onto the global stage of sports excellence. This new sports complex represents a significant investment in our community, promising economic growth and enhancing our reputation as a vibrant destination for sports enthusiasts worldwide.” Cesar Ruiz, Leader of the USA International Sports Complex Group: “Our team is proud to be part of this historic endeavor, which will showcase Holyoke as a beacon of innovation and athleticism. The integration of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame into this state-of-the-art complex underscores our commitment to preserving the legacy of volleyball while embracing its future. We believe this project will not only enrich the lives of our residents but also inspire generations to come.”