Following a vote from the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, the Albany Capital Center (ACC) is set to host the Boys Volleyball State Tournament! For three years starting in the fall of 2018, the tournament at ACC will include Division 1 and Division 2 semifinal pool play matches and championships.
A Winning Venue
According to a statement by Bob Belber, regional general manager of SMG (the organization that manages the ACC), “The addition of the Albany Capital Center makes this region much more competitive when it comes to attracting statewide events like this one, and nationally with the recent awards of the NCAA Basketball Championships.”
It’s not hard to see why the ACC was chosen to host the State Tournament. The 80,000 square-foot building includes three full-size basketball courts, an exhibition hall and ballroom, 25-foot high ceilings, and six meeting rooms. The Center’s flexible design will facilitate the transformation to a tournament space, with additions including the following:
- A 128′ by 98′ competition floor in the main ballroom
- Judges’ and media areas
- Seating for 900 spectators
- Dressing rooms and hospitality suites for athletes, coaches, and officials
“Albany put its best foot forward with their bid to host our boys’ volleyball state tournament,” said Joe Altieri, NYSPHSAA Assistant Director, in a statement. “Our staff, committee, and board felt the Capital Center had a versatile quality venue, an intimate close setting for fans to watch the games, an affordable price, and was in a location easily accessible for teams and fans.”
“We’re thrilled to play host to the boys’ state volleyball tournament, and know that the coaches, players and families will love the top-notch amenities both onsite, and nearby in downtown Albany,” said Doug McClaine, general manager of the Albany Capital Center, in a statement. “Hosting these tournaments at the Albany Capital Center will truly showcase this venue’s versatility. …We’re excited to reveal the scope of our new facility to visitors.”
About The ACC
Located in the heart of the Capital Region, the Albany Capital Center is a “modern, premier event and meeting destination.” The Center, managed by SMG, features a 22,500 square-foot ballroom and exhibit space, 9,200 square-foot meeting rooms, and 13,500 square-feet of pre-function space, all within walking distance to the New York State Capitol and business, warehouse, and shopping districts.
