We don’t give up easily, so after our first attempt at installing the new storage shed failed, it was time for a second try. But first, we started by replacing our beach volleyball sand. Let’s first explain why that sand needed to be replaced.
Everything you need to know about the perfect beach volleyball sand
As a beach volleyball player, you know that the sand you play on can have a big impact on your game. Sand can vary from fine and soft to coarse and hard, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at the different types of sand.
Different types of beach volleyball sand
There are different types of beach volleyball sand used on beach volleyball courts around the world. Each type of sand has its own characteristics and can affect the quality of the game.
Fine sand: Fine sand is a popular type of sand for beach volleyball courts because of its soft texture. It’s easier to dig in and provides more grip. However, this type of sand can quickly become wet and cling to players and the ball, slowing down the game.
Coarse sand: Coarse sand has a harder surface and can therefore be faster than fine sand. However, it’s harder to dig in and provides less grip, making it harder to maintain your balance during the game.
Mixed sand: Mixed sand, as the name suggests, is a combination of fine and coarse sand. This type of sand offers the best of both worlds and is a popular choice for beach volleyball courts because of the ideal texture for the sport.
What is approved sand?
There are various organizations that have established guidelines for the quality of sand that should be used on beach volleyball courts. For example, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has specific requirements for the sand used in professional beach volleyball tournaments. The sand must be clean and free from contaminants and must meet certain requirements for grain size and shape.
What would cause sand to be rejected?
There are several reasons why sand may be rejected. Incorrect grain size is one factor that can contribute to poor playing conditions. Another important factor is the moisture content of the sand. If the sand is too wet, it can be heavier and more difficult to move, causing players to move slower and less efficiently. On the other hand, if the sand is too dry, it can become looser and more unpredictable, making it difficult for players to maintain their balance. Usually, a moisture level of 3 to 5% is considered ideal. At higher humidity levels, the sand may be rejected and the court must be dried before it can be used again.
In addition to grain size and moisture content, there are other factors such as contamination. Contaminants can include shells, stones, glass, or metal. Too much dust can also lead to sand rejection. It is therefore important to regularly check the sand and replace it if necessary.
Our sand had to be replaced because the sand we played on last summer was too compact. It almost felt like landing on a concrete slab. For example, the old sand was perfect for beach soccer (which the court was designed for), but not for beach volleyball. The sand that is now on our beach volleyball courts has been approved by the FIVB. So we can look forward to a beautiful summer!
But, what about that storage shed? Did it really come down that slope? Let’s take a look.
Placing the storage shed
It’s March 3rd and while I’m attending the Prime League Volleyball in India, Vincent Lugtenburg is once again at Steenwijklaan to watch as the 18-ton storage shed is deposited from the slope, over the planks, onto the correct spot. He is not only there to witness but also to take some photos, of course.
What went wrong last time? Something with a pit… You can read about it in this blog. Last time it was cold, but the weather was great. This time it was quite misty and crowded in the same pit. At the same time as the placement of the storage shed, the sand was being replaced, which caused a lot of commotion on those road plates. But, patience is a virtue and after some waiting, the storage shed was finally placed on Friday, March 3rd at 7:30 am. The slope was no longer a problem because they simply used the other slope, which turned out to be less steep. Couldn’t that have been done last time? Of course! But, the most important thing is that the storage shed is now in place. Now, all the beach volleyball equipment can be stored in it and we will be ready in time for the outdoor beach volleyball season on our own Sovicos Beach Court!
Oh, before I forget, the Municipality of The Hague, together with the company Huck/Torimex, will also be working for the next 4 weeks to adjust the fencing on the long sides of the Beach Court so that a ball-catching net can be installed.
Thanks to everyone who contributed, the Municipality of The Hague for the new sand, Rekers for delivering the new storage shed, P&K for laying the road plates, and of course our own Vincent Lugtenburg for arranging everything!