The 2nd annual Appalachian Winter Classic volleyball tournament began Saturday looking to raise money for two local high school programs according to the organizers.
Owner of Appalachian All-Star Volleyball Joseph Camut said proceeds this year are going toward supporting the Forest Hills boys volleyball and Portage girls volleyball teams.
"Volleyball is not really a big, popular sport in the area. A lot of schools are focused on football, baseball, a lot of budgets go to that. Myself playing volleyball I knew we didn't have a big budget growing up so we were using uniforms from 1995 and stuff so I know they need help in that aspect," Camut said. "I also do fundraising as my main job and I work with these schools everyday and these teams everyday and I see how much money they need and how hard they work for it."
The two day event is being held in the fitness center at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.
Camut said there are two 12-team tournaments. On Saturday a 6v6 tournament, followed by a 4v4 tournament on Sunday for a total of 120 players.
He said some teams travelled from West Virginia, Pittsburgh, and Cleveland for the event.
Treasurer for Appalachian All-Star Volleyball Brian Boone said, "It's a great thing that brings volleyball back into the community."
Organizers said Appalachian All-Star Volleyball runs eight tournaments from October to May, the largest ones being this charity event and a tournament with a $1,500 prize for the winner in May.
For more information about future tournaments visit the AAV Facebook page.
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