Two Paths to Nationals: BNQs and BRQs
To earn a spot at the NBT Junior Championships, teams must qualify through one of two types of events:Beach National Qualifiers (BNQs)
BNQs are the fast track to the Open Division, the highest level of play at Nationals. At each BNQ, the top four teams in each age division (12U, 14U, 16U, 18U) for both boys and girls earn a bid to the Open Division of the Junior Championships.
- Compete against top teams from across the country
- Showcase your skills for college recruiters and USA Volleyball talent scouts
- Experience high-level, interregional play in a competitive environment
Note: BNQ bids do not trickle down, and there’s no minimum number of teams required for bids to be awarded.
Beach Regional Qualifiers (BRQs)
BRQs offer more localized access to Nationals and award bids to both the American Division and Open Division of the Junior Championships.
- Girls: Top 3 teams in each age group (12U–18U) qualify for the American Division
- Boys: Top 3 teams in each age group qualify for the Open Division
Bid Trickling: If a team declines their bid or already holds one, it may trickle down to the next highest finisher—provided both players decline. If even one player accepts, the bid does not move.
Like BNQs, BRQs are a great opportunity to:
- Play at a high level within your region
- Get noticed by college and national scouts
- Build skills and experience in a fun, competitive setting
What If We Don’t Qualify? Try the Patriot Division
The Patriot Division at Nationals is for teams that didn’t earn a bid but still want to compete. It’s open-entry, capped at 16 teams per division, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. As other teams earn bids, spots may open up from the waitlist.
Whether you’re aiming for a top spot or just want to grow in the sport, beach volleyball has a place for everyone. Find a qualifier near you, start training, and join us on the sand for a summer to remember!