Historic Wrigley Field, traditionally home to the Chicago Cubs baseball team, hosted a notable outdoor volleyball event on September 6, 2026, featuring collegiate teams from the SEC and Big Ten conferences, including Kentucky, Missouri, Penn State, and Nebraska. Over 43,000 spectators attended the matches, which aimed to elevate the profile of volleyball. However, the second game between Nebraska and Missouri faced multiple interruptions due to a dangerously slippery court surface, leading to repeated delays and eventually a suspension of the match to prioritize player safety.

The condensation issue on the court baffled the event organizers and led to extensive efforts to dry the surface, including wiping and using blow dryers. The NCAA website highlighted safety concerns and documented the ongoing efforts by players, coaches, and event staff to manage the moisture on the court. Despite the challenges, the dedication to player safety remained paramount. Yet, the weather-induced delay revealed a significant oversight, particularly in the planning stages of the event at a unique venue like Wrigley Field.

Meteorological analysis identified the cause as condensation resulting from cool air temperatures dropping to the dew point, a condition that causes moisture to accumulate on surfaces. The field’s proximity to Lake Michigan, combined with cool east-northeasterly winds and the natural grass surface underneath, created ideal conditions for the formation of condensation. Expert input from meteorologists, including WeatherSTEM founder Ed Mansouri, confirmed that the dew point depression was likely minimal in this lakeside location, increasing the risk of moisture development on the court.

Reflecting on the incident, author Marshall Shepherd, a meteorologist and volleyball parent, suggested that warning signs from weather forecasts were present but seemingly overlooked. Consulting a meteorologist ahead of the event might have helped in mitigating the condensation risk and avoiding the lengthy disruptions. While the earlier Kentucky-Penn State game was completed successfully, the suspended match underlined the importance of interdisciplinary planning when holding sporting events in non-traditional venues and diverse weather conditions.