July 31: The Chinese Volleyball Association have released three statements referring to  China Volleyball League’s new reforms for the upcoming season, including new measures for teams, adjustments to the league’s schedule, overseas players and a new entry system for future clubs.

The new season will see 14 teams compete in both the men’s and women’s leagues, two more than last season. With these new teams, it also results in the expansion of the 2017/2018 season's length. Moreover, for the new season, the top two teams in the Playoff Finals will compete in a best of seven series, with the first team reaching four games crowned champions. 

The overseas player policy also sees a significant adjustment in the men’s league. For the new season, the top six teams last season can play 2 overseas players in a game, while the remaining teams have been approved the use of 3 overseas players in each game. In the women’s league, every team can only start with 2 overseas players in a game.

Finally, there will be a new entrance system set up for potential clubs who would like to join the China Volleyball League. According to the reform statements released,  even if the new clubs are set up by local governments or social investments, clubs which meet the qualification requirements can apply to compete in the league. 

If any club wants to enter the league, it has to establish a youth training system base with no less than 18 registered players and provide investment of not less than RMB1 million (US$148.9k) each year. As for being socially inclusive, the club has to form a fan community group with over 300 fans and carry out interactive activities for every two months, and have a funding of RMB100,000 (US$14,886.5) each season. Finally, the club should be based in a venue with over 2500 seats and have an attendance of 60% for each game. 

Source: sports.sina.com.cn

Proofread by Raymond Fitzpatrick