US set to host 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup; Soccer plans for LA Olympics shared
FIFA’s president also announced some big news regarding changes for soccer at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. BELGRADE, Serbia — The United States and the United Kingdom looked set on Thursday to be picked by FIFA next year as hosts of Women’s World Cups expanded to 48 teams from 32. Their respective intentions to bid […]
FIFA’s president also announced some big news regarding changes for soccer at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
BELGRADE, Serbia — The United States and the United Kingdom looked set on Thursday to be picked by FIFA next year as hosts of Women’s World Cups expanded to 48 teams from 32.
Their respective intentions to bid for the 2031 and 2035 editions are alone in the contests after a first deadline to enter the race passed. The first formal bid documents must be signed by the end of April.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino told European soccer officials the governing body received one expression of interest to host the 2031 event — from the U.S. with the possibility of other countries in the CONCACAF region joining the project. That long-promised bid would likely include Mexico.
FIFA has just one “valid bid” to host the 2035 event, from the British member federations centered on England, Infantino said at UEFA’s annual meeting in Belgrade, Serbia.
“We are honored to be the sole bidder for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035,” English FA CEO Mark Bullingham said. “Hosting the first FIFA World Cup since 1966 with our home nations partners will be very special. The hard work starts now, to put together the best possible bid by the end of the year.”
The U.K.’s interest was quickly supported last month by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer when FIFA said it was formally seeking bids from member federations. FIFA excluded Europe from the 2031 contest, clearing the way for a long-expected U.S. win.
Spanish soccer officials said last week they hoped to bid, possibly with Portugal and Morocco in a repeat of the co-hosting plan for the men’s 2030 World Cup.
Infantino’s comments to the annual meeting of UEFA seemed to rule out a Spain bid being allowed.
“So the path is there for the Women’s World Cup to be taking place in ’31 and ’35 in some great countries,” the FIFA president said, “to boost even more the women’s football movement.”
FIFA is scheduled to confirm Women’s World Cup hosts next year. The 2027 edition with 32 teams is being hosted by Brazil.
The Women’s World Cup would return to the U.S. for the first time since the 2003 edition. The U.S. also hosted in 1999.
England hosted the Women’s European Championship in 2022 — which the home team won — and the men’s Euro 2028 will be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
Women’s soccer at 2028 LA Olympics
In a further boost for women’s soccer, Infantino detailed FIFA’s plan to have more women’s teams than men’s playing at the next Olympics.
There were just 12 teams in the women’s tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics and 16 in the men’s tournament.
Though the International Olympic Committee strongly supports gender equality at the games, adding four more women’s teams — and about 70 extra players, plus team officials — would push the limit of agreed athlete quotas for organizers in Los Angeles.
Infantino said on Thursday that FIFA’s new proposal is to flip the numbers to have 16 women’s teams and 12 in the men’s tournaments.
The final decision is for the IOC, which has an executive board meeting next Wednesday.
Elise Cooper’s involvement began when her daughter, Sophia, joined the Sydney Northern Beaches Breakers at age 12. Her dedication and support towards her daughter’s water polo career inspired Elise to shift from the stands to the club rooms, volunteering her time behind the scenes. Now in her third season as team manager, she continues to […]
Elise Cooper’s involvement began when her daughter, Sophia, joined the Sydney Northern Beaches Breakers at age 12. Her dedication and support towards her daughter’s water polo career inspired Elise to shift from the stands to the club rooms, volunteering her time behind the scenes.
Now in her third season as team manager, she continues to support the team out of her deep appreciation for the club and the sport.
“The ladies prior to me being manager had done such a great job, that I thought it was my turn to step up and be manager. This is my third season of being team manager and I really love it,” Elise said.
“There’s so many great people that I’ve met through the club that I’ve really become friends with,” she said.
The growth of the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships since its inception is a testament to the popularity and participation at a grassroots level.
“The first year we were at nationals, it was a much smaller pool of teams and clubs playing,” Elise said.
“Now there’s a team from Pilbara, how amazing is that? Such a small community and they’ve got a water polo club here representing. And I think that is a testament to how amazing the sport is,” she said.
Stressing the importance of volunteers, Elise acknowledged the vital roles they play within the water polo community. She urged greater involvement to ensure the sport continues to grow, particularly in youth pathways.
“Clubs don’t exist without volunteers from the committee level, all the way through to tour managers and booking accommodation. The kids don’t get to play if it doesn’t exist, so I think it’s really important,” Elise said.
“You can do as much, or as little as your life and time allows. If you love water polo as much as I do, step in and give it a go,” she said.
The Bermuda Volleyball Association is sending teams to compete at the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship in Denver this month. A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Volleyball Assocation is please to announce the two teams who will be competing in the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship. The teams will compete in their respective competitive […]
The Bermuda Volleyball Association is sending teams to compete at the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship in Denver this month.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Volleyball Assocation is please to announce the two teams who will be competing in the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship. The teams will compete in their respective competitive BB Divisions of the tournament from May 26 to 28, held this year in Denver, Colorado. The BVA will be streaming matches on their Facebook Page: “Bermuda Volleyball National Team”. Alternatively, people can watch via BallerTV.
Women’s Team: Devil’s Isle VC
Kayley Hamilton [1]
Kate Marcotte [2]
Caitlin Bento [3]
Demetria Hollis [4]
Kayla Grant [6]
Sharri Weldon [7]
Anna Marcotte [8]
Olivia Taylor [11]
Amber Simons [24]
Head Coach: Braedon Madeiros-Cooke
Assistant Coaches: Kyle Hamilton and Stacey Madeiros Cooke
“Devil’s Isle VC, Bermuda’s Women’s National Volleyball Club, proudly announces its participation in the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship. The team will compete in the competitive BB Division of the tournament, held this year in Denver, Colorado.
“The U.S. Open is a prestigious annual event that brings together elite adult volleyball teams from across the United States and around the world. Representing Bermuda, the Devil’s Isle VC squad will showcase its talent and determination on a national stage, competing against top-level clubs and athletes in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.”
“We’re incredibly proud of this group of athletes and all the hard work they’ve put in,” said Kyle Hamilton, Coach of Devil’s Isle VC. “This is a great opportunity to test ourselves against strong competition and represent Bermuda on the international volleyball scene.”
The spokesperson said, “The tournament will take place from May 24–29, 2025, and promises an exciting lineup of matches and a valuable development experience for all participants.
“Follow us on social media [@bdavolleyball] for live updates and results throughout the competition.
Ace Boyz VC
Jake Roberts [1]
Braedon Madeiros-Cooke [2]
Tyler Siese [4]
Connor Somerville [5]
Dylan Somerville [6]
Benjamin Barnett [7]
Eron Woods [8]
Tiago Morais Ferreira [9]
Tristan Mullan [11]
Brandon Sousa [13]
Head Coach: Mike Smith
Assistant Coaches: Juanita Blee, Chad Stoddard and Robert Saraiva
“The coaching staff are very excited about our upcoming tournament in Denver. The team we are bringing to Colorado is strong, and ready to compete. There are a few new faces this year, and they complement the rest of the team well. We have added depth on the court and the bench, and a bigger arsenal of tools to work with.
“After an incredible showing at the ECVA’s in October, we realized that we have the potential to be a very technically sound team and have spent this season tightening that up. We have focused a lot of time dialling in our ball control, blocking, and coverage on defence. We’ve also spent a considerable amount of time working with our Middle and Pin Hitters, on offensive transition, and strengthening our setter-hitter connection. We’re happy to report that the tedious work has paid off. With our passing percentage much higher, we are able to run a more well-rounded offence. The Middles are getting into the game more and our Pin Hitters are as effective as ever.
“I want to give a quick shout out to the entire Men’s National Team. They have all worked very hard to get us to where we are. Due to the nature of our practices, and really honing in on the technical part of the game, its taken a tremendous amount of discipline to stay present and dedicated. We believe their hard work will pay off and that will be proven in Denver.
“Finally, one last shout out to Olek Rymon-Lipinski. His dedication and hard work throughout the year have been inspiring for the entire team. Unfortunately, due to an ACL injury he can no longer travel with us. We all wish him a speedy recovery, and his presence in Denver will be missed.”
(KMAland) — Regional sports news updates are posted throughout the day. Continue to refresh for all of the latest from regional schools listed below. Iowa State -Men’s basketball to play home and home exhibitions with Northwestern: https://cyclones.com/news/2025/5/21/mens-basketball-iowa-state-to-face-northwestern-in-home-and-home-exhibition-games Iowa -Field hockey finalizes 2025 schedule: https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2025/5/21/hawkeyes-release-2025-schedule-fh Northern Iowa -Qualifiers set for West Preliminary meet: https://unipanthers.com/news/2025/5/21/track-and-field-uni-track-and-field-qualifiers-set-for-ncaa-west-preliminary-meet Creighton -Izzy Ashburn hired […]
(KMAland) — Regional sports news updates are posted throughout the day. Continue to refresh for all of the latest from regional schools listed below.
Iowa State
-Men’s basketball to play home and home exhibitions with Northwestern: https://cyclones.com/news/2025/5/21/mens-basketball-iowa-state-to-face-northwestern-in-home-and-home-exhibition-games
Iowa
-Field hockey finalizes 2025 schedule: https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2025/5/21/hawkeyes-release-2025-schedule-fh
Northern Iowa
-Qualifiers set for West Preliminary meet: https://unipanthers.com/news/2025/5/21/track-and-field-uni-track-and-field-qualifiers-set-for-ncaa-west-preliminary-meet
Creighton
-Izzy Ashburn hired as assistant volleyball coach: https://gocreighton.com/news/2025/5/21/ashburn-named-volleyball-assistant-coach
-Tory Lanham named Most Outstanding Performer: https://kcroos.com/news/2025/5/21/track-and-field-lanham-named-most-outstanding-performer-six-roos-earn-all-league-designations
Kansas
-Men’s basketball hires Jacque Vaughn as assistant: https://kuathletics.com/news/2025/5/21/mens-basketball-kansas-great-jacque-vaughn-named-mens-basketball-assistant-coach.aspx
Kansas State
-Bowling Green transfer Marcus Johnson commits to Kansas State: https://x.com/TiptonEdits/status/1925235206010630603
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Kerber cousins help Marquette top Kirkwood to repeat as girls water polo district champion
Steve Overbey | Post-Dispatch KIRKWOOD — Marquette sophomore attacker Cassidy Kerber rarely gets a chance to outscore her uber-talented senior cousin Nevaeh. “She’s just that good,” Cassidy said. Yet for one night, at least, Cassidy has family bragging rights. Cassidy scored six times to lead the Mustangs to a 14-7 win over Kirkwood on Wednesday in […]
KIRKWOOD — Marquette sophomore attacker Cassidy Kerber rarely gets a chance to outscore her uber-talented senior cousin Nevaeh.
“She’s just that good,” Cassidy said.
Yet for one night, at least, Cassidy has family bragging rights.
Cassidy scored six times to lead the Mustangs to a 14-7 win over Kirkwood on Wednesday in the Missouri Water Polo girls district championship contest at the Walker Natatorium on the Kirkwood High campus.
Nevaeh added five goals for Marquette (24-1), which claimed its second successive area title and third overall since play began in 2021.
The Mustangs, who also won the initial crown in 2021, have quickly become a dynasty in the up-and-coming sport. The have won 43 of their last 44 matches following an unbeaten campaign last season.
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And the Kerber family has played a huge role in that domination.
Nevaeh scored a record 123 goals this season and tallied approximately 370 times in her four-year career. A dominating force for the past three seasons, she is taking her talents to Wagner College in Staten Island, New York.
Cassidy is a younger version of Nevaeh and closed the season with 90 goals.
“They work so hard, every morning, every practice, they’re always out there trying to get better,” Marquette coach Claire Maniscalco. “In the game that mattered most, they were calm and they went out and did their best.”
The dynamic duo worked in perfect sync against a gutsy Kirkwood team that never let the contest get too far out of hand.
The Pioneers (12-7-2) had never beaten Marquette in 12 previous tries and were outscored 186-85 since the first meeting on March 31, 2022. The Mustangs beat Kirkwood 15-3 just 19 days ago.
“We played them as hard as we could and I felt like it was a really good effort,” Kirkwood coach Robert Peglar said. “I’m super proud of them.”
Marquette is just that talented. Its only loss was a 14-6 setback to Illinois power Naperville North, which is ranked sixth nationally.
The Kerber girls weren’t the only standouts on this night. Junior keeper Olivia Brzyski recorded 18 saves and was particularly effective in the first half when the contest was close. She made 198 saves over 19 matches this season and her performance often gets overlooked under the Mustangs offensive explosions.
“She’s not only the best goalie and my best friend, but she’s so good at throwing the ball on those counter attacks,” Nevaeh said.
Brzyksi even made a stop with the top of her head and knocked the ball out to Cassidy Kerber, who scored to push the lead to 11-4 midway through the third period.
Marquette used a three-goal blitz over the final 3 minutes and 8 seconds of the first of four 7-minute quarters to take a 4-1 lead. Nevaeh snapped the tie with back-to-back tallies in less than a minute. Her nifty shot that skidded off the water and into the net pumped the advantage to 3-1.
Kirkwood stayed close behind three goals from senior Chloe Inion. Her tally early in the second period brought the Pioneers to within 4-2.
Cassidy Kerber took over from there with a three goal-explosion in 95 seconds. Two of the goals came on assists from Nevaeh.
The Mustangs, who carried an 8-2 lead into the break, took control with two goals early in the third period. Isla Sattler led the charge with a drive from close range. Sattler had three goals.
“We’ve worked our butts off all season long,” Brzyski said. “This is proof that hard work gets it done.”
Cassidy, who will likely take over the role as face of the program, doesn’t plan on reminding Nevaeh of her 6-5 goal advantage in the title game.
The two lived together for seven years and get along like sisters.
“We all have our jobs and sometimes mine is assisting and hers is shooting,” Nevaeh said. “I’m just glad I’m able to share this experience with her.”
Marquette became the first team to win back-to-back area titles. Oakville won the crown in 2022, and Ladue claimed the gold in 2023.
“Last year, winning it all was definitely new and there was a lot of stress with it,” Cassidy Kerber said. “This year, I liked doing it again a lot more.”
Missouri Water Polo girls district championship: Marquette 14, Kirkwood 7
The Marquette students row the boat after a goal against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Dani Hume (2) of Marquette takes a shot against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Nevaeh Kerber (14) of Marquette fends off Anna Huebner (10) of Kirkwood lin the last few second of the game in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Nevaeh Kerber (14) of Marquette leans back and will shoot and score against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cassidy Kerber (13) of Marquette helps run down the shot clock late in the game against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cassidy Kerber (13) of Marquette takes a shot against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls district championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Kirkwood coaches talk to their swimmers during a trime out against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Chloe Inion (7) of Kirkwood passes the ball against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cassidy Kerber (13) of Marquette looks to score against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Nevaeh Kerber (14) of Marquette throws a pass against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cece Medeiros (19) of Kirkwood takes a shot against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cassidy Kerber (13) of Marquette tosses the ball in the air to get a better grip against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cece Medeiros (19) of Kirkwood fends off Avery Anthony (3) of Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Dani Hume (2) of Marquete takes a shot against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Abigail Graf (3) of Kirkwood leans back to keep the ball away from Dani Hume (2) of Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Annaya Sethi (8) of Marquette pulls duty as a photographer during a time out against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Mia Rogles (8) of Kirkwood throws a pass against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Nevaeh Kerber (14) left, and Olivia Brzyski (1) hold up their championship trophy after defeating Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championsip game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Kirkwood goalie Leila Ambuehl (1) reaches out to make the save on a scoring attempt from Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Nevaeh Kerber (14) of Marquette takes a shot against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Avanell Mitchell (6) of Kirkwood swims to the net looking to score against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cassidy Kerber (13) of Marquette shoots and scores a goal against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Chloe Inion (7) of Kirkwwood moves the ball uo the pool against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
The Marquette Mustangs celebrate their win over Kirkwood with a dip in the pool after the Missouri Water Polo Girls district championship at Kirkwood High School in Kirkwood on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Olivia Brzyski (1) the goalie for Marquette stood tall for the Mustangs in the net against Kirkwood in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Anna Huebner (10) of Kirkwood goes after a loose ball in the pool against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Anna Huebner (10) of Kirkwood swims to the goal against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Avanell Mitchell (6) of kirkwood takes a shot against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Mia Rogles (8) of Kirkwood shoots against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Cece Medeiros (19) of Kirkwood looks to pass as Gabriella Sillasi (15) of Marquette defends in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Paul Baillargeon
Octavia Durnin (14) of Kirkwood gets control of the ball against Marquette in the Missouri Water Polo girls championship game at Kirkwood High School on Wednesday May 21, 2025.
Winter Park Boys Volleyball repeats as state champions
The Winter Park High School boys volleyball team has cemented its place as a powerhouse in Florida, winning its second straight state title and third in four seasons. The Wildcats captured the championship by sweeping Miami Southwest in straight sets, closing out a flawless postseason in which they didn’t drop a single set — going […]
The Winter Park High School boys volleyball team has cemented its place as a powerhouse in Florida, winning its second straight state title and third in four seasons. The Wildcats captured the championship by sweeping Miami Southwest in straight sets, closing out a flawless postseason in which they didn’t drop a single set — going 21-0.
California (CIF) State boys volleyball high school playoff bracket (5/18/2025)
All eight No. 1 seeds during the first round of the first CIF State boys volleyball high school playoff tournament on Tuesday. North California top seeds Mitty (D1), Buchanan (D2), Leigh (D3) and Ben Holt College Prep Academy (D4). and No. 1 Southern California Mira Costa (D1), Mater Dei (D2), Sage Hill (D3) and Mater […]
All eight No. 1 seeds during the first round of the first CIF State boys volleyball high school playoff tournament on Tuesday.
North California top seeds Mitty (D1), Buchanan (D2), Leigh (D3) and Ben Holt College Prep Academy (D4). and No. 1 Southern California Mira Costa (D1), Mater Dei (D2), Sage Hill (D3) and Mater Dei Catholic (D4) lost a total of three games while combing to win 24.
Semifinal matches in each divisions and region take place Thursday with regional finals on Saturday, and state championship matches scheduled for May 31 in Fresno City College.
Three Fresno area teams, all from the Tri-River Athletic Conference (TRAC), advanced to semifinal play including Clovis and Clovis East in the Division 1 North region. Clovis, the fourth seed, defeated No. 5 Northgate 25-20, 25-18, 19-25, 25-23, while Clovis East swept sixth-seed Saint Francis. The top two seeds in Division 1 North, Mitty and Harker, also swept first-round matches.
A third TRAC team breezed to a first-round victory in top D2 North seed Buchanan, which knocked off West Park, 25-9, 25-17, 25-13. Other first-round North winners were second seed Amador Valley, No. 3 Del Oro and fourth-seed Los Gatos, which will travel to Buchanan for a 6 p.m. Thursday semifinal.
In Division I South, there were a pair of mild upsets, though top seed Mira Costa and second seed Huntington Beach cruised to first-round wins. Fifth-seed Newport Harbor
Top seeds in the North are Mitty (D1), Buchanan (D2), Leigh (D3) and Ben Holt College Prep Academy (D4).
Top seeds in the South are Mira Costa (D1) and Huntington Beach won handily, but fifth seed Newport Harbor went on the road to beat fourth-seed Torrey Pines, 25-13, 25-23, 25-20 and sixth-seed Corona del Mar upset third seed and host Carlsbad, 25-22, 20-25, 26-24, 25-21. Semifinal matchups pit Newport Harbor (27-11) at Mira Costa (34-2), while Huntington Beach (34-6) hosts Corona del Mar (25-6). These Southern Section rivals have met before.
Mira Costa beat Newport Harbor earlier this season, 25-15, 20-25, 30-28, 25-22. while Huntington Beach twice defeated Corona del Mar, three games to none and 3-1.
In the Northern California D1 semifinals, Clovis (29-4) travels to Mitty (38-2), and Harker (26-8) hosts Clovis East (26-11). Clovis and Mitty haven’t met this season, however Harker upended Clovis East 25-18, 22-25, 17-15 in a tournament match on April 26.
