Bearcat Arena — Attraction in Maryville

Bearcat Arena Review: A Venue in Need of Improvement for Volleyball Games

Bearcat Arena, while serving as the home of many Northwest Missouri State University sports teams, leaves much to be desired as a volleyball venue. One of the most glaring issues is the ceiling height, which feels inadequate for competitive play. During games, the low ceiling poses a constant problem as pipes and other overhead structures interfere with the natural flow of the match. This significantly hampers gameplay, particularly for volleyball, where digs can end up in the pipes bouncing around. Players often find themselves frustrated by balls that hit these obstacles mid-play, breaking momentum and disrupting the overall experience.

Additionally, the video quality of games streamed via the MIAA network is disappointing. The poor angles often result in obstructed views, which, combined with subpar camera quality, makes it difficult for viewers to follow the action. The footage appears grainy and lacks the professionalism expected from a collegiate-level sports broadcast. Fans who are unable to attend in person deserve better, especially when video streams are one of the primary ways for distant supporters to stay connected with the team.

While Bearcat Arena may suffice for other sports, it clearly falls short as a volleyball venue. To elevate the experience for both players and fans, improvements are necessary—starting with the ceiling and the overall quality of the...

Nice arena, but low ceiling for volleyball, lots of pipes and things hanging down too low. Seating is also set way back...

Been here for a basketball game and now for graduation. Highly...