Stone’s Volleyball Play Day A Success

Over 20 volleyball teams from around the area participated in the third annual “Upper Cumberland Play Day” this week at Stone Memorial.

In the event’s three year history, organizer and head coach of Stone Volleyball, Tori Permenter has seen the numbers rise from eight teams in 2022, up to 16 teams in 2023 and in 2024 the event had 21 teams. Permenter said the purpose of a play day is to get a preview of what the regular season will look like.

“It’s made for coaches to figure out what’s going to happen,” Permenter said. “So, we have volunteer officials, we keep score, but if there needs to be an illegal substitution or they need to switch out girls or anything at any point, pause the game to teach them something, that’s definitely going to happen.”

Each team got the chance to play four games against four different opponents. Permenter said this is the program’s one and only fundraising opportunity of the season. The event’s gate and concession sales will go towards volleyballs, new uniforms, transportation and any needs that pop up throughout the season.

“The main goal is for this money to go towards the girls, always goes back to the girls” Permenter said. “How can we make this experience a great high school experience that they’ll always remember, that’s the goal. And I feel like that fundraiser really helps us with that.”

Permenter said she feels required to put on this event for the Upper Cumberland. With Stone having a gym and net system large enough to host over 20 teams, Permenter said there’s nothing stopping her from putting on this event for her team and community.

“I love the game of volleyball, I want to spread the game of volleyball, I want to make it more available for people to come watch in this area,” Permenter said. “For me to put something on like this, not only is it a big fundraiser, but we’re also spreading the love of volleyball.”

Stone Memorial’s season will kick off with a home opener against White County August 19 at 5pm.