SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 4, 2026. – The NORCECA Refereeing Commission held a productive virtual meeting focused on the implementation of new rules of the game, technological advancements, and the continued development of refereeing standards across the region.
Opening the session, NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz welcomed participants and underscored the importance of adapting to the many rule changes currently being introduced. He emphasized that national federations must promptly adjust their competitions and prepare their national teams to apply these updates in accordance with recommendations from the FIVB.
Among the key topics discussed was the rollout of new rules currently under testing in 2026, which are expected to be formally approved during the upcoming FIVB Congress 2026 before coming into force. Participants were encouraged to submit reports on their implementation and overall impact throughout the season.
The Commission confirmed that NORCECA will implement these new rules across all its 2026 competitions to ensure alignment with global standards. The first event under this framework will take place in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
Technological innovation was another major focus, particularly the expansion of the Video Challenge System. Following extensive discussions within the FIVB Executive Committee and Board of Administration, it was noted that these changes are designed to benefit the sport. The system will be enhanced starting with the FIVB Volleyball Nations League, and NORCECA will adopt it for key events this year, including the Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Continental Olympic Qualifiers and during the Olympic Continental NORCECA Beach Volleyball Qualification Championship.
Additionally, a proposal by USA Volleyball to utilize its domestic Video Challenge System was approved. This system will be implemented at the U21 Women’s Pan American Cup in Columbus, Ohio.
Refereeing development remained central to the discussions. NORCECA will introduce updated written guidelines outlining the duties and responsibilities of Referee Coaches, as well as new initiatives such as testing the presence of coaches on court during one stage of the NORCECA Beach Tour.
Education and training programs will also be strengthened. The NORCECA Centre of Excellence in Santo Domingo will conduct an International Continental Beach Volleyball Referee Course in July, in conjunction with an ECVA event. Several refresher courses for both volleyball and beach volleyball referees are also planned, alongside the establishment of clear criteria for officials aspiring to become International Continental referees.
Further efforts will focus on structured development pathways, detailing progression from grassroots to national, continental, and ultimately international levels within the FIVB system.
Guy Bradbury expressed pride in the work of the NORCECA Refereeing Commission, highlighting that referees from the region are highly respected worldwide due to their dedication, professionalism, and commitment.
The meeting concluded with a unified call for collaboration and support from all stakeholders to ensure the continued success of NORCECA events throughout the 2026 season.
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