Moncton will host a major international volleyball event in the coming year, with Olympic qualification on the line. The city has been selected to host the NORCECA Men’s Continental Championship, bringing eight men’s national teams from across the Americas to the Avenir Centre. Teams from Canada, the USA, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and Suriname will compete in the tournament. The games are scheduled to run over nine days in September 2026 and are expected to draw youth teams, officials, and fans from outside the region. Both the federal and New Brunswick governments are contributing funding to the event, with the Government of Canada committing $498,180 and the Government of New Brunswick contributing $475,000 to help bring the championship to Moncton. Local organizers say the impact goes beyond the competition itself. “This is going to be an incredible experience for young athletes in our community – to see world-class volleyball right here and be inspired to keep chasing their dreams,” said Tracey Clinch, chair of the local organizing committee. Officials with Volleyball Canada say the tournament is also expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. Volleyball Canada’s Alan Ahac estimates the event will generate more than $8.2 million in economic activity for Moncton and the surrounding region, with visiting teams, officials, and fans filling hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses. The NORCECA championship is a key qualifying event on the road to the Olympic Games, raising Moncton’s profile on the international volleyball stage. More details, including ticket information, are expected to be released closer to the event. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
