Jēkabpils Hosts the Two-Day International Catch’n Serve Ball Tournament “Lūsijas’ FEST ’26”

On April 11–12, the Jēkabpils Sports Hall hosted the international Catch’n Serve Ball tournament “Lūsijas’ Catch’n Serve Ball FEST ’26”, which this year was held in Latvia for the first time as a two-day event. The competition brought together 16 teams from Latvia, Finland, and Lithuania, creating a warm and dynamic sporting atmosphere.

The tournament stood out for its unique and unconventional competition format – teams played eight rounds using the Swiss system, with time-limited matches. This format placed special emphasis on every rally, as each point mattered. Participants noted that not knowing their next opponents until the end of each round added extra excitement.

The games were challenging and emotionally intense, requiring a high level of focus, teamwork, and endurance. Players especially appreciated the opportunity to compete against teams from other countries.

After eight rounds, the top four teams advanced to the playoffs, where medal matches were played in a classic format. The winners of the tournament were “Letijas” from the Rēzekne region; second place went to the hosts, “Jēkabpils Lūsijas”, while “Mamanet Valmiera” claimed third place.

During the tournament, fair play values were also highlighted – green cards for sportsmanship and respectful behaviour were awarded to seven players and one coach. The title of the friendliest team, along with a special prize, was awarded to “Mālpils Zemenes”.

Alongside the competition, the organizers prepared a wide range of activities – children enjoyed entertainment zones, participants took part in various challenges, and memorable moments were captured in photo activities. Throughout the event, a positive and family-like atmosphere prevailed, which has become an integral part of the “Lūsijas’ FEST” tradition.

“This tournament is a true team effort. Each ‘Lūsija’ had her own responsibilities, and we are very proud that everyone fulfilled them with great care and dedication. This is exactly what made it possible to create such a high-level two-day event. We are still living in the emotions – receiving so many positive reviews, warm words, and messages from participants. It gives us great satisfaction and motivation to continue,” says Dace Zariņa-Spravniece, representative of “Jēkabpils Lūsijas”.

“Jēkabpils Lūsijas” also expresses gratitude to the event sponsors for the generous prize pool, to the teams for their participation, to the referees for their professional work, and to the volunteers for their contribution to the tournament’s success.
Special thanks are extended to the Jēkabpils Municipality for its support, which allows the tournament to grow and develop while bringing more participants to the Jēkabpils Sports Hall each year.

“Lūsijas’ Catch’n Serve Ball FEST” continues to strengthen its position as one of the most significant events in this sport in Latvia, promoting women’s participation in sport and international cooperation.

Thank you for the support: Jēkabpils Municipality, Jēkabpils Sports Centre, Catch’n Serve Ball Sports Federation Latvia, “ICONFIT”, “Hesburger Latvija”, www.atputabalote.com, Jēkabpils Karting Hall, “SUP Jēkabpils”, “BB Batuti”, SIA “Marteks”, sports goods store “Fans”, photographer Kaspars Siliņš, “RN Padel Club”, “Fazer Latvija”, “AnSan” café, and “Kvartāls 86”.

Report: Jēkabpils Lūsijas
Photos: Lāsma Irša

15. April 2026 / news