HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference has agreed to a new contract to keep the Fall Fling volleyball tournament and the conference championships here through 2021.

The Fall Fling takes place in August of each year. The tournament will expand from two days to three days in 2019. Additionally, 13 teams outside of the KCAC member colleges will arrive in Hutchinson for the tournament, increasing the field to 26 teams.

In November, the KCAC Volleyball Championship will continue to be played in Hutchinson. The championship will follow a 12-team, double-elimination format over two days at the Sports Arena.

“We have enjoyed welcoming KCAC volleyball to Hutchinson for the last few years and are excited about continuing this partnership. Scott Crawford and his team have been tremendous supporters of the Sports Arena renovation and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue hosting their events,” Holly Leiker of Visit Hutch said.

“With our recent successes using the Hutchinson Sports Arena to host the Fall Fling season kickoff tournament and the KCAC Volleyball Championships, this was the right time to extend our agreement with the city of Hutchinson ensuring continuity for the coming three school years,” Crawford said. “Hutchinson has really delivered with a quality facility, great support from local businesses, and helping the conference develop strong relationships with the overall community.”

The Sports Arena will also host the NJCAA National Volleyball Tournament in 2019, 2021 and 2023.