Omaha was the place to be for thousands of young volleyball players this weekend. The fifth annual Asics Presidents' Day Volleyball Tournament gave them a chance to be seen by college scouts.

It also gave Omaha another chance to shine in the sports spotlight.

Club volleyball teams from around the country and Canada were vying for wins and the attention of college recruiters at the Qwest Center.

"It's kind of neat because you want to try to impress them so you work really hard," said 15-year-old Christen Williamsen of Omaha. She’s not counting on a scholarship yet at her age, but she’s hoping if she works hard enough it may come in time.

"My dream's been to go to UNL and play there, but it's kind of a long shot because they are pretty good and they've got to pick the best of the best."

Christen's mother is well aware of her dream and the growing popularity of her daughter's sport. "It's gotten huge,” said Gloria Williamsen. “I think it has a lot to do with the Nebraska volleyball being so successful, the Husker girls playing well."

That success has caused a spike in sales at Lawlor's Custom Sportswear at 87th and J streets. "I was actually surprised how popular it is," said manager Sam Comfort. "A lot of young girls and women are coming in for it, but guys have also discovered what a popular a sport it can be."

It’s enthusiasm spurred in part by NCAA Tournament action at the Qwest Center, which set attendance records for the sport.

Creighton associate head coach Paul Geisselmann was among the recruiters at the Qwest Center this weekend. "In the volleyball circle, when you talk about hotbeds for volleyball around the country, everybody knows how big Nebraska is and how important the sport of volleyball is in the state of Nebraska."

“This is one of the larger ones in the country," said Colorado State assistant coach Jesse Mahoney. "I come back every year. It's a great venue. There's always really, really good teams from this part of the country."

A part of the country that puts football on a pedestal is making some room for volleyball. "Yeah, I think there's room for everybody up there,” laughed Gloria.

The Asics Presidents' Day tournament continues through Monday with 368 teams competing. Players are between 10 and 18 years old. Admission is free, but the seats fill up fast.