Just one day after two upsets at the Boulder Open, Colorado fans want more.
During the men’s beach volleyball award ceremony, chants of “Come back next year … Come back next year” by spectators resonated throughout a standing-room-only center court.
It had been nine years since the Association of Volleyball Professionals Tour stopped in Boulder.
After financial difficulties and loss of sponsorships on the tour in the late 1990s, Boulder was left out as a venue. Now, however, AVP commissioner Leonard Armato sees the turnout and is more than pleased.
“People in the surrounding area are finding their way to the reservoir,” Armato said.
“Colorado is really good volleyball country. Not just in Boulder, but in the general surrounding area. We’re trying to generate a lot of enthusiasm at the local level so it justifies coming back here.”
Within the next month, the AVP committee will plan next year’s schedule.
One component of whether the AVP returns to Boulder Reservoir depends on the city council’s approval.
For the players, returning to a venue that features terrific scenery and pristine weather was a breath of fresh air. They hope they can return next year.
“Our players love it here. It’s so refreshing. It’s great for life for all of us to come here,” said Elaine Youngs, who was partnered with Rachel Wacholder as an all-Colorado duo and claimed first place on the women’s side Sunday.
“This was a great crowd, and they’re really appreciative AVP is back. I hope the AVP and the city of Boulder lets them come back,” said Todd Rogers, who took first place with partner Sean Scott.
Bryan Chu can be reached at 303-820-1979 or bchu@denverpost.com.
