Volleyball tourney expected to bring 20,000 to city

One of the nation’s largest volleyball tournaments is returning to Indianapolis this weekend, and is expected to attract about 20,000 visitors and generate an economic impact of $15 million.

The 2011 Lids Team Sports Mid-East Qualifier will run Friday through Sunday and feature about 500 teams and 5,500 girls ages 16-18. The tournament typically attracts more than 250 college coaches to scout many of the country’s top volley players. Players from more than 40 states are expected to participate.

Hospitality officials said tournament visitors will fill about 12,000 hotel rooms.

The annual tournament is organized by Capital Sports Center Inc. of Plainfield and will be held on 65 courts installed in the Indiana Convention Center.