Starlings Volleyball USA Presented 2026 IVHF Court of Honor Award

The International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) was honored to present its prestigious Court of Honor Award to Starlings Volleyball USA during the organization's National Championship Opening Ceremony in Irvine, Calif., on June 12, recognizing three decades of service, opportunity and impact within the volleyball community.

Since its founding in 1996, Starlings has provided affordable volleyball opportunities to thousands of young women across the United States, using the sport as a vehicle to promote confidence, leadership, education and personal growth. Through the dedication of its club directors, coaches and volunteers, the organization has helped remove barriers to participation while creating life-changing experiences for athletes from diverse backgrounds.

"We are proud to recognize Starlings USA and the incredible impact the organization has made on generations of young athletes," said IVHF Executive Director George Mulry. "Their work extends far beyond the volleyball court, helping young women develop the confidence, skills and opportunities that will serve them throughout their lives."

The IVHF Court of Honor Award recognizes organizations whose contributions have significantly advanced the sport of volleyball and positively influenced the lives of participants. Starlings exemplifies those values through its longstanding commitment to inclusion, access and empowerment.

"The International Volleyball Hall of Fame's recognition of Starlings Volleyball is both an incredible honor and a testament to the enduring power of our mission." said Starlings Executive Director Megan Kennedy. "For 30 years, Starlings has demonstrated that volleyball is more than a game—it is a pathway to confidence, education, leadership, and opportunity. This recognition celebrates the collective efforts of our founders, coaches, directors, partners, and most importantly, the young women whose lives have been transformed through our program. We are proud of our history, grateful for this distinction, and energized to continue creating opportunities for girls through the sport we love."

​Starlings USA will also be formally recognized during the International Volleyball Hall of Fame's 2026 Induction Weekend, Oct. 16-17, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, the birthplace of volleyball, where the organization will be celebrated alongside some of the sport's most accomplished athletes, coaches, officials and leaders. ​​

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