SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State officially added beach volleyball as an intercollegiate sport on July 1, and the Bears open their first season of competition in the Spring of 2018. Here are a few common questions and answers about MSU's newest sport.

How many Division I schools play beach volleyball?
Nearly 60 programs currently field a beach volleyball team, with several slated to add the sport in the near future.

When is the beach volleyball season?
The NCAA beach volleyball season begins in early March and concludes with the NCAA Tournament in early May. The 2018 season will mark the third NCAA championship, and Southern Cal has claimed each of the first two titles.

How is a match scored?
Each school divides its roster into five teams of two players each (10 total players will compete for each school in a match), and the winner is the school that captures three of the five matches between the two-player teams. A match is two sets to 21 points with a 15 point third set if needed, and all sets are rally scoring.

Are there any rule differences between indoor and beach volleyball?
The beach court is one meter narrower and two meters shorter than an indoor court. The ball is slightly heavier and less pressurized with a more durable cover. Overhand passing (setting) is called very tightly and players may not tip the ball over the net with an open hand. Players switch sides of the court every seven points in the first two sets and every five points in the third set to equalize sun and wind conditions. (Source: AVCA)