Santa Barbara Volleyball Club to Construct New Youth Training Facility in Goleta

Santa Barbara Volleyball Club (SBVC) has announced plans to construct a new indoor youth volleyball facility at 4550 Hollister Avenue in Goleta after Santa Barbara County approved a ground lease.

The facility would be developed on county-owned land through a long-term ground lease approved by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors. With the lease approved, the project will enter the planning and permitting phase next.

The property is located next to Santa Barbara County Fire Station 13 and the Page Youth Center.

Santa Barbara Volleyball Club is a youth and junior volleyball organization serving both girls and boys. While formally established in 2010, the club has been part of the local volleyball community since 1994.

In spring 2025, SBVC entered a new phase through a leadership partnership with the Los Angeles Volleyball Academy to strengthen its coaching structure and competitive programs.

Expand Sports Opportunities for Youth

The new facility is expected to expand youth sports opportunities in Santa Barbara County, where limited access to indoor court space has long made training and competition challenging for local programs, SBVC said in a statement.

A dedicated facility is expected to reduce those challenges by providing a consistent, year-round space for volleyball training and competition.

Matt Riley, executive director of SBVC, described the facility as a long-term investment in Santa Barbara’s youth, citing its potential to create positive experiences and build confidence.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2027.

What the Indoor Facility Entails

The indoor, year-round gym will host practices, training sessions, and organized league play. While volleyball will be the primary focus, the space may also be used for other youth sports programs.

Santa Barbara has long faced a shortage of indoor sports facilities, particularly for youth programs. The new gym would allow SBVC to reduce its reliance on shared school facilities and expand learning opportunities for athletes.

“By investing in youth sports and creating spaces where kids can learn teamwork, confidence, and resilience, we’re strengthening the fabric of our community for years to come,” Santa Barbara County Supervisor Laura Capps said in the statement.

SBVC officials said additional details on design, programming, and community engagement opportunities will be released as the project moves forward.

Project Funding

Santa Barbara Volleyball Club operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The project will be funded primarily through philanthropic donations and grants, with the county continuing to collaborate with the club on permits and entitlements.

SBVC officials said the partnership with the county reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to youth-focused recreational spaces while making productive use of public property.