Atlanta Vibe Reveals Schedule for the 2026 Season. Major League Volleyball (MLV) has revealed the schedule for the 2026 regular season today. In the third season of MLV, every team will compete in 28 games, with 14 games at home and 14 away. Last season, the Atlanta Vibe secured second place in the regular season with a record of 19-9 and achieved a league record by winning 13 consecutive games. Head coach Kayla Banwarth, who was named the 2025 MLV Coach of the Year, is getting ready to guide the team into another thrilling season.
Table of Contents
The historic Atlanta Vibe 13-game winning streak announced the Vibe as a dominant force and created an electric atmosphere at Gas South Arena, with fans praising the “great family experience” and “amazing players” on the court. The success has raised the bar, transforming the team from upstart hopefuls into bona fide championship contenders.
First Time Kick Off at Home
The Atlanta Vibe will open the season at home for the first time on Thursday, January 8, taking on the Columbus Fury. That will be followed by another home game on Sunday, January 11, against the Grand Rapids Rise. The Vibe is kicking off the home opener weekend with a game on the 8th and wrapping up the festivities on the 11th with a popular block party – all games, one arena. Fans can look forward to an afternoon filled with interactive games, music and prizes before the game. Those who finish all games will have a chance to win special prizes and special team experiences.
2026 Game Schedule
The 2026 season features a balanced slate of 14 home and 14 away games. For the first time, the Vibe will enjoy a home opener, kicking off the season against the Columbus Fury on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Gas South Arena. Opening weekend will conclude with a fan-focused block party on Sunday, January 11, vs. the Grand Rapids Rise, featuring interactive games and special prizes.
The season is punctuated by must-see contests that will test the team’s championship potential:
- Atlanta Vibe vs. Orlando Valkyries (defending champions): Thursday, March 19 and Saturday, April 4. These are key benchmark games against the 2025 title holders.
- Atlanta Vibe vs. Dallas Plus (new opponent): Thursday, January 22 and Sunday, March 1. First meeting with MLV’s newest franchise.
- Homecoming games: Emotional matchups against former stars. The Vibe will face the San Diego Mojo (featuring former teammates Marley Monserrate and McKenna Vissini) on February 1 and April 17 and the Omaha Supernovas (featuring Morgan Heintz and Merritt Besson) on April 2 and 19.
2026 Home Matchups
| Date | Opponent | Significance | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jan 8 | Columbus Fury | 2026 Season Home Opener | Gas South Arena |
| Sun, Jan 11 | Grand Rapids Rise | Opening Weekend Block Party | Gas South Arena |
| Thu, Mar 19 | Orlando Valkyries | Clash vs. Defending Champions | Gas South Arena |
| Thu, Apr 2 | Omaha Supernovas | Reunion with Former Vibe Stars | GSU Convocation Center |
Atlanta Vibe will return to its home court to face some familiar opponents this season. On Sunday, February 1st and Friday, April 17th, the Vibe will face the San Diego Mojo, featuring former Vibe stars Marley Monserrate and McKenna Vicini. Later in the season, on Thursday, April 2nd and Sunday, April 19th, Atlanta will face the Omaha Supernovas, featuring former Vibe players Morgan Heintz and Merritt Besson.
Important Note: While most home games are at Gas South Arena in Duluth, the matches against Omaha on April 2 and Orlando on April 4 will be held at the GSU Convocation Center in Atlanta.
The MLV Game: Rules, Scoring, and Safety
For new fans, understanding the fast-paced format of MLV enhances the experience. Matches are played in best-of-five sets. The first four sets are played to 25 points (must win by 2) and the deciding fifth set, if necessary, is played to 15. Each team is allowed three touches to return the ball, allowing for fast, strategic rallies.
Player safety is paramount. The league enforces strict protocols on court-level standards, injury management (including a concussion spotter at every match), and regulating practice times to ensure player health and peak performance.
Frequently Asked Questions for Atlanta Vibe Reveals Schedule for the 2026 Season
When and where is the 2026 Home Opener?
The Vibe will open the season at home on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 7:00 PM, facing the Columbus Fury at Gas South Arena in Duluth, GA.
Are there any special opening weekend events?
Yes! Opening weekend concludes with a block party before the game against Grand Rapids on Sunday, January 11. It features interactive games, music, and opportunities to win special prizes.
Will all home games be at the same arena?
Most are at Gas South Arena. However, April 2 vs. Omaha and April 4 vs. Orlando will be played at the GSU Convocation Center in Atlanta.
The 2026 schedule is a roadmap for the Atlanta vibe. With a passionate fan base, a proven coach, and a roster poised for a deep playoff run, each set of the season promises high stakes and high energy. The championship begins on Jan. 8.