LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 27, 2025 – The President of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), Fabio Azevedo, joined in expressing condolences to the Arias Family following the passing of Ricardo Arias, the “Father of Dominican Volleyball,” who passed away recently in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
President Fabio Azevedo sent a warm felt letter addressed to the Family of Ricardo Arias on behalf of the FIVB in which he underlined that Ricardo Arias was more than a coach, he was a visionary, a mentor and a role model for many athletes.
“His passion and unwavering dedication to volleyball transformed the sport in Dominican Republic and beyond, and his influence reached far beyond the court. He helped to shape not only skilled athletes but also strong and confident individuals”.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ricardo was a cherished colleague and friend, whose kindness, knowledge and support was appreciated by many.
Azevedo’s words offer comfort to the Family of Ricardo Arias, “May you find comfort in knowing that he left an indelible mark which will be felt for generations to come, and that his spirit will continue to live on through our sport”.
President Fabio Azevedo and the FIVB send out heartfelt sympathies as they join not only his family, but his friends, his colleagues as well as the volleyball and sports communities in the Dominican Republic and beyond in celebrating his life and honouring his contributions to volleyball.
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