NAIA Extends Agreement with Cedar Rapids to Host Men’s Volleyball Championships Through 2028

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has extended its agreement with Cedar Rapids Tourism to host the 2027 and 2028 NAIA Men’s Volleyball National Championships in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The championship events will be contested at the Alliant Energy PowerHouse.

The Alliant Energy PowerHouse, a modern downtown venue along the Cedar River, has become a premier destination for collegiate championships and major sporting events, offering a dynamic setting for the NAIA’s top men’s volleyball programs to compete for the national title.

“Cedar Rapids Tourism is thrilled to partner with the NAIA and Mount Mercy University to extend our agreement to host the NAIA Men’s Volleyball National Championships in Cedar Rapids through 2028,” said Jay Fanta, Director of Sports Tourism at Cedar Rapids Tourism. “We look forward to welcoming national and international travelers to Cedar Rapids and working with the NAIA and Mount Mercy University to continue to provide a top-tier student-athlete experience."

Mount Mercy (Iowa) will continue to serve as the host institution, working alongside Cedar Rapids Tourism to deliver the championship experience for participating teams and fans.

“Hosting the NAIA Men’s Volleyball Championships is a tremendous opportunity for Mount Mercy and the Cedar Rapids community," said Mount Mercy Director of Athletics Paul Gavin. "Through our partnership with Cedar Rapids Tourism, we’re proud to welcome the nation’s top programs while showcasing our campus, our city, and our commitment to providing a first-class championship experience.”

According to Austin Bennett, NAIA Vice President of Championships, the partnership has consistently delivered the type of environment the NAIA seeks for its national championships.

“Cedar Rapids and Mount Mercy have demonstrated a strong commitment to creating the kind of Championship Moments that define the NAIA experience,” Bennett said. “Their collaboration, attention to detail, and focus on the student-athlete experience ensure that our national championship events are conducted at the highest level while providing an unforgettable stage for the nation’s top men’s volleyball programs.”

The extension further strengthens the partnership between the NAIA, Mount Mercy, and Cedar Rapids Tourism, building on the city’s track record of successfully hosting national collegiate events while highlighting Cedar Rapids as a destination for championship competition.

The NAIA Men’s Volleyball National Championship features the top teams from across the country competing for the NAIA’s coveted Red Banner. Additional details regarding the 2027 and 2028 championships will be announced at a later date.