THE Digicel Suva Volleyball Association has confirmed close to $2000 in total prizemoney for the open knockout tournament at the National Netball Centre and LICI Courts in Laucala Bay.

SVA executive Viliame Katia said $500 each would be paid to the champion teams in the men’s and women’s grades.

Katia said runner-up teams would each pocket $250.

“The losing semi-finalists will be getting $100 each,” he said.

Katia said SVA was impressed with the interest showed by clubs of other associations for the one-day tourney.

“We have three men’s and three women’s clubs from Lautoka. Nadi is sending one men’s club. Topline will have three men’s and three women’s clubs,” he said.

“Raiwai is sending four men’s and four women’s clubs.

“It will be a busy day of competition for us.”

Katia said SVA had plans to make the tournament an annual event.

“It’s the first time for an association to invite clubs from other associations for a tournament,” he said.

“These clubs need more game time in tournaments like this before they play in national competitions.

“This is how SVA together with our sponsors Digicel and FBC are trying to develop volleyball in our country.

“There is no registration fee for the clubs and this is what we can offer to volleyball,” Katia said.