December 17, 2024.- The first matchups of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, the highlight of next year’s international calendar, were determined on Friday in Bangkok, when the Drawing of Lots for the event was held.
The 32 qualified teams that will compete in Thailand from August 22 to September 7 were split into eight pools of four for the start of the tournament:
Pool A: Thailand, Netherlands, Sweden, Egypt in Bangkok Pool B: Italy, Belgium, Cuba, Slovakia in Phuket Pool C: Brazil, Puerto Rico, France, Greece in Chiang Mai Pool D: USA, Czechia, Argentina, Slovenia in Nakhon Ratchasima Pool E: Türkiye, Canada, Bulgaria, Spain in Nakhon Ratchasima Pool F: China, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Mexico in Chiang Mai Pool G: Poland, Germany, Kenya, Vietnam in Phuket Pool H: Japan, Serbia, Ukraine, Cameroon in Bangkok
Having Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket and Chiang Mai as the host cities, pool play will determine the 16 national teams that will advance to the knockout rounds – the top two sides in each pool move forward. Starting in the Round of 16, the single-elimination phases will all be held in Bangkok.
The 2025 World Championship will be the first in the ‘new era’ of the tournament. Starting in this edition, the tournament will be held biannually and will have an expanded field, featuring 32 national teams per gender.
December 17, 2024.- The Empowering the Global Volleyball Movement leaflet has been published today, showcasing the whirlwind of activity in the month that followed the election of FIVB President Fabio Azevedo on 16 November 2024 at the 39th FIVB World Congress in Porto, Portugal.
The FIVB has hit the ground running to advance the goals of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 and serve the Global Volleyball Movement through professionalism, integration empowerment and mass participation with the motto Together as One.
All this incredible work is highlighted in the newly published leaflet, which can be read here.
From hosting the first-ever Global Volleyball Summit and convening the new Board of Administration on the first day following the elections to collaborating with stakeholders across the Olympic and Global Volleyball Movements, work is already well underway.
At the beginning of December, a groundbreaking series of volleyball-focused initiatives in Qatar showcased the sport’s potential to empower, inspire and elevate women and youth across the region. Highlights included, the ‘Women in Sports: Creating Pathways’ Seminar, a FIVB Volleyball Foundation initiative, the inaugural WAVA U20 Women’s Beach Volleyball Championship and much, much more.
December 7, 2024.- The FIVB President Fabio Azevedo met with His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Visit Qatar to explore potential partnerships for volleyball to support promotion of tourism in the country.
They were joined by the President of the Qatar Volleyball Association Ali Ghanem Al Kuwari. and tourism.
The discussions centered on the shared vision of using volleyball to attract global visitors to the region, with a focus on hosting major international events in Qatar. This aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which aims to position the country as a leading global destination for sports and tourism.
The meeting also highlighted opportunities to enhance volleyball infrastructure in Qatar and expand support for the sport through strategic initiatives.
September 25, 2024.- The North, Central America, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA and the volleyball community is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Yuko Arakida on September 16, 2024, at the age of 70; pivotal member of Japan’s national women’s volleyball team, helping secure the gold medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy.
Known for her charismatic leadership, tireless work ethic, and remarkable ability to build strong relationships within the global sporting community.
NORCECA president Cristrobal Marte Hoffiz expresses his condolences for the passing of his dear and esteemed colleague, her loss resonates profoundly within the volleyball community and beyond.
Ms. Arakida was a highly respected figure in various Olympic and sports organizations, including the Japan Volleyball Association (JVA), FIVB, Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC), and the Olympic Council of Asia, where she once chaired the OCA Athletes’ Committee. She also played a significant role in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Organizing Committee.
In Japan’s sports governance Ms. Arakida held several key roles, serving as head of the JVA’s training operations, a director of the JOC, and a program member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). She played a crucial role in Japan’s successful bid for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, serving as both Director and Vice President of the organizing committee. Additionally, she held positions as Executive Vice President of the Japan Softball Association and President of the Japan National Radio Gymnastics Federation.
NORCECA extends their heartfelt condolences to Ms. Arakida’s family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the Japan Volleyball Association, and all who were fortunate enough to know and work alongside Yuko. Together, we honor her memory and continue her legacy in the world of volleyball.
September 14, 2024.- In a spectacular ceremony, held in Manila, the pools for the first phase of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the Philippines were drawn on Saturday.
32 teams drawn into eight pools for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the Philippines. Smart Arena Coliseum and SM Mo Arena in Manila announced as the two venues for next year’s event.
The 32 qualified teams were distributed into eight single round-robin pools of four:
Pool A: Philippines, Iran, Egypt, Tunisia
Pool B: Poland, Netherlands, Qatar, Romania
Pool C: France, Argentina, Finland, Korea
Pool D: USA, Cuba, Portugal, Colombia
Pool E: Slovenia, Germany, Bulgaria, Chile
Pool F: Italy, Ukraine, Belgium, Algeria
Pool G: Japan, Canada, Türkiye, Libya
Pool H: Brazil, Serbia, Czechia, China
The dazzling event at the Solaire Hotel in the Filipino capital was streamed on VBTV and the Volleyball World YouTube channel.
The top two teams in the final standings of each pool will advance to the knockout stage of the competition.
The World Championship host cities were also presented during the ceremony on Saturday. The tournament will be staged at two venues in Manila – the Smart Arena Coliseum and the SM Mo Arena – from 12 to 28 September 2025.
September 3, 2024.- As many as 26 international referees from all over the world not only whistled the matches of the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U17 World Championship in Sofia, from Aug. 25-31, but also successfully underwent an extensive course to be confirmed as FIVB referees, following their successful examination and practical performance.
Five candidates came from the NORCECA Confederation: Krystian Krzyzak (United States), José Beltré (Dominican Republic), Jason Dodd (Canda), Yamil Gómez (Puerto Rico) and Kenia Nieves (Puerto Rico).
FIVB Rules of the Game and Refereeing Commission President Guillermo Paredes from Argentina was the Course Director, joined by Commission members Alexander Steel from Scotland, Frans Loderus from the Netherlands and Guy Bradbury from Canada as course instructors.
The course was organized by the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation (BFV). It included three days of theory, which covered various topics like the different referee roles, decision making, game technology with a focus on the Video Challenge system, physical and mental readiness, training attention and focus, and concluded with a written examination before the beginning of the U17 World Championship.
It was followed by practical on-court experience and assessment during the matches with the candidates taking on different referee roles. On the last three days of the competition, the referees received hands-on experience with the Video Challenge system, with Bolt6 experts offering them their extensive knowledge.
All five NORCECA referees concluded the course successfully and are a valuable addition to improve the refereeing level in our region.
September 3, 2024.- The FIVB revealed the participants of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball World Championship that will take place in Thailand featuring 32 national teams, which include six NORCECA teams.
Next year’s edition of the event will be the first to be held biannually.
Current NORCECA Champions Dominican Republic (ranked No.11), United States (ranked No.3) and Canada (ranked No.8) earned their berth via NORCECA quota.
Team USA against Team Dominican Republic on September 3, 2023 in Quebec City, Canada.
Mathieu Belanger/Norceca
Puerto Rico (ranked No.16), Cuba (ranked No.23) and Mexico (ranked No.25) were also confirmed via FIVB World Ranking after the qualification period for the tournament concluded on August 30.
Completing the list are host Thailand and defending world champions Serbia, along with Poland, Germany, Belgium, Czechia, Ukraine, France, Bulgaria, Sweden, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain and Greece.
The exact dates of the 2025 Volleyball Women’s World Championship and information about the tournament’s Drawing of Lots will be released when available.
September 3, 2024.- The FIVB revealed the participants of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball World Championship that will take place in the Philippines featuring 32 national teams, with USA, Canada and Cuba representing NORCECA.
Next year’s edition of the event will be the first to be held biannually.
Team USA NORCECA 2023 Champions
The men’s tournament has two automatic qualifiers – hosts the Philippines and defending champions Italy. As part of the new qualification system, 15 spots were awarded during the 2023 Continental Championships, with Current NORCECA Champions the United States (ranked No.3), Canada (ranked No.11) and Cuba (ranked No.12).
Egypt, Algeria and Libya emerging from Africa, Japan, Iran and Qatar qualifying in Asia, Poland, Slovenia and France taking the European berths, and Argentina, Brazil and Colombia representing South America.
The remaining 15 spots were allocated to the best national teams in the FIVB World Rankings as of August 30, 2024, not yet qualified – Germany, Serbia, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Belgium, Türkiye, Czechia, Bulgaria, Portugal, Finland, Tunisia, China, Romania, Chile and Korea.
The men’s World Championship will be held in the Philippines from September 12-28, 2025, and the Drawing of Lots will take place in Manila, on September 14, 2024, at 19:30 local time (11:30 GMT), and will be streamed live and for free on VBTV and Volleyball World’s YouTube channel.
August 30, 2024.- The FIVB and Volleyball World are excited to announce that Thailand will host the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, subject to the guarantees of the Government of Thailand.
The FIVB, Volleyball World and Thailand Volleyball Association (TVA) today signed an agreement to host the prestigious event, which will bring together the world’s top 32 women’s national teams as they compete for World Championship glory.
The agreement was signed by FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° and TVA President Somporn Chaibangyang during the Asian Volleyball Confederation Congress, which concludes today in Bangkok. The formalities from the recently elected Thai Government are expected next month, following the formation of the new cabinet.
Thailand’s selection as the host nation followed a rigorous evaluation process among several strong candidates. This decision comes shortly after Bangkok hosted the VNL Finals for the first time, where enthusiastic local fans turned out in large numbers to support their beloved Thai women’s national team and experience elite volleyball firsthand.
Stay tuned for more updates as we look forward to bringing the Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 to Thailand for the first time in the competition’s history!
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, August 30, 2024.- The North, Central America, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Ramon Suzara on his election as the new President of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC).
Ramon Suzara of the Philippines was elected the President of the Asian Volleyball Confederation during the organization’s elective General Assembly in Bangkok, Thailand, which is a testament to his exemplary leadership and profound dedication to the sport of volleyball for many years.
Ramon Suzara elected AVC President
The newly elected AVC President, who is also currently serving as the President of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, will hold office for the next four years, from 2024 to 2028.
The trust and confidence placed in Mr. Ramon Suzara by the AVC governing bodies highlight the exceptional and visionary skills he brings to this new role.
NORCECA President, Mr. Cristobal Marte Hoffiz has developed an extraordinary friendship for many years, since 1992 and he has full confidence that under Suzara’s leadership, AVC will go into a new era of development to achieve new milestones in the realm of volleyball.
NORCECA looks forward to initiating a partnership and collaboration with Mr. Suzara and AVC; and is excited to continue within FIVB and NORCECA the prospects and opportunities for the global development of volleyball, eager to support and work alongside with him in these endeavors.
On behalf of the NORCECA Confederation, its President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz, the Executive Committee, the Board of Administration, and the 41 national and regional volleyball federation members, we commend Mr. Suzara on his new achievement, wishing him every success as he embarks on this new chapter in his distinguished career.
HATO MAYOR, Dominican Republic, August 26, 2024.- The NORCECA/FIVB Regional Development Center in Santo Domingo, NORCECA Confederation, and FIVB successfully concluded the International Beach Volleyball Coaches Course at Rancho Doña Callita in Hato Mayor.
The course was held from August 20 to 24, led by FIVB Instructor Mauro Hernández from Venezuela, accompanied by Olympic coach Ingrid Morales from Costa Rica.
The 19 coaches from eleven countries successfully completed the course, receiving certification as Beach Volleyball Coaches.
Mauro Hernández expressed that the participants showed great interest during the course and congratulated the Development Center, and its director Professor Nelson José Ramírez, for the organization.
Coach Alex Medina from the Dominican Republic was recognized as an outstanding participant.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, August 24, 2024.- The North, Central America, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Roko Sikirić on his election as the new President of the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) for the 2024-2028 term. The election took place during the CEV General Assembly, marking a significant milestone in European volleyball.
On behalf of the NORCECA Confederation, its President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz, the Executive Committee, the Board of Administration, and the 41 national and regional volleyball federation members, we commend Mr. Sikirić on his new achievement. His extensive experience and dedication to the sport, with over 30 years of involvement in volleyball as a former professional player, Sports Director at Berlin Recycling Volleys, and most recently as the Head of Volleyball & Events in the CEV, have demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the growth and development of volleyball.
Mr. Sikirić’s rapid ascent within the CEV hierarchy is a testament to his exceptional leadership and managerial skills. Recognized by the CEV governing bodies for his vision and ability to drive the sport forward, his election as President is a reflection of the trust and confidence the volleyball community places in him.
NORCECA looks forward to continued collaboration with Mr. Sikirić and the CEV under his leadership, as we work together to further the global growth and success of volleyball. We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead for our sport.
FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° received a very special recognition during the XXVII NORCECA Congress in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The special plaque was presented on behalf of NORCECA and the Dominican Republic Volleyball Federation in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the development of volleyball during his presidency from 2012-2024.
The award was presented by NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, the NORCECA Executive Committee and Board of Administration, as well as former Dominican Republic national team player and Olympian Milagros Cabral.
During his emotional speech, the NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz said:
“From 2012 to today, during these 12 years, we received the necessary know-how, and we received the necessary support. But above all, President Ary Graça taught us how to work! He made us believe in ourselves and you have now seen the NORCECA financial results which speak for themselves. All the NORCECA National Federations and all of our big NORCECA family would like to thank you and share our deepest appreciation for everything you have done for all of us during these 12 years.”
“Thank you so much for such an honorable award, I am extremely touched. NORCECA is fully independent and works very hard, we recognize this and my congratulations go to all of you for changing your mentality and adapting to face the future.
“I am very proud of the extraordinary team of professionals working at the FIVB today. This recognition is a testament to the great work done by the FIVB team under my leadership! I am sure that they will continue to do a remarkable job in the years to come.”
The NORCECA family members congratulated both FIVB President Ary Graça and NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz for their incredible achievements in the development of volleyball in the world and in the respective Continental Confederation.
PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, July 5, 2024.- In a significant event for the North, Central America, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA convened its Executive Committee and Board of Administration for an extraordinary meeting on the eve (July 6-7) of to the 27th NORCECA Congress in Punta Cana.
This session marked a pivotal moment as new members were appointed to the executive committee and the board of administration for the 2024-2028 period, and crucial discussions took place, including a proposed amendment to the NORCECA constitution and the presentation of a new working commissions composition.
The meeting chaired by NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, with special guest FIVB President Dr. Ary Graça, saw the appointment of several new members to the NORCECA Executive Committee and Board of Administration. These appointments are expected to bring fresh perspectives and drive to the organization, as it continues its mission to promote and develop volleyball across the region.
NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz and FIVB President Dr. Ary Graça
These distinguished sports leaders bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing NORCECA’s objectives. Their diverse backgrounds in volleyball administration, and business are expected to enrich the leadership of the confederation.
One of the critical agenda items was a proposed amendment to the NORCECA constitution, whereas the proposal presented by the Legal Commission, which contains an amendment to the NORCECA Constitution establishing that the President and the Board of Administration may appoint four (4) members to integrate the NORCECA Board of Administration, to adopt a similar amendment to that of the FIVB in NORCECA, and both the President and the board members have the ability to propose individuals to be appointed to the board.
The amendment will be put to a final vote scheduled for the NORCECA Congress.
Another highlight of the meeting was the proposal for the new composition of the NORCECA working commissions. These commissions play a vital role in the operational aspects of the confederation.
Each commission is tasked with specific objectives aligned with NORCECA’s strategic goals, and their composition reflects a balance of expertise and representation from the member countries.
As NORCECA looks to the future, these changes signal a strong commitment to evolving and improving the organization’s governance and operational efficiency.
The extraordinary meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination to build on NORCECA’s rich legacy while embracing innovation and progress.
NORCECA President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz concluded, “ As the confederation moves forward, the volleyball community can look forward to exciting developments and continued growth in our region. This meeting’s outcomes set the floor for a successful NORCECA congress which robust agenda reflects a forward-thinking approach to governance and a renewed focus on advancing volleyball throughout its National Federation members”.
The 24 duos in each gender were distributed into six pools for the start of the Olympic tournament
Having the iconic Eiffel Tower in the background, the 24 men’s and women’s teams that will take part in the beach volleyball tournament of the Paris 2024 Olympics found out who will be their first opponents in the event, which is set to begin in less than a month.
The Drawing of Lots for the Paris Games was held at the 14,000-seat Olympic beach volleyball stadium at Champ-de-Mars Park, which will host the matches from July 27 to August 10.
Here are the pools for both genders:
Paris 2024 Beach Volleyball Men’s Pools
Pool A: David Åhman/Jonatan Hellvig (Sweden), Paolo Nicolai/Samuele Cottafava (Italy), Cherif Younousse/Ahmed Tijan (Qatar), Mark Nicolaidis/Izac Carracher (Australia)
Pool B: Anders Mol/Christian Sørum (Norway), Matthew Immers/Steven van de Velde (the Netherlands), Alex Ranghieri/Adrian Carambula (Italy), Marco Grimalt/Esteban Grimalt (Chile)
Pool C: Nils Ehlers/Clemens Wickler (Germany), Michal Bryl/Bartosz Łosiak (Poland), Thomas Hodges/Zachery Schubert (Australia), Julien Lyneel/Rémi Bassereau (France)
Pool D: Andre Loyola/George Wanderley (Brazil), Andy Benesh/Miles Partain (USA), Noslen Diaz/Jorge Alayo (Cuba), Mohammed Abicha/Zouheir Elgraoui (Morocco)
Pool E: Ondrej Perusic/David Schweiner (Czechia), Evandro Gonçalves/Arthur Lanci (Brazil), Julian Hörl/Alexander Horst (Austria), Sam Schachter/Dan Dearing (Canada)
Pool F: Youssef Krou/Arnaud Gauthier-Rat (France), Stefan Boermans/Yorick de Groot (the Netherlands), Pablo Herrera/Adrián Gavira (Spain), Miles Evans/Chase Budinger (USA)
Paris 2024 Beach Volleyball Women’s Pools
Pool A: Eduarda ‘Duda’ Lisboa/Ana Patrícia Ramos (Brazil), Marta Menegatti/Valentina Gottardi (Italy), Liliana Fernández/Paula Soria (Spain), Doaa Elghobashy/Marwa Abdelhady (Egypt)
Pool C: Kelly Cheng/Sara Hughes (USA), Cinja Tillmann/Svenja Müller (Germany), Clémence Vieira/Aline Chamereau (France), Barbora Hermannová/Marie-Sára Štochlova (Czechia)
Pool D:Brandie Wilkerson/Melissa Humana-Paredes (Canada), Tina Graudina/Anastasija Samoilova (Latvia), Esmée Böbner/Zoé Vergé-Dépré (Switzerland), Michelle Valiente/Giuliana Poletti (Paraguay)
Pool E: Carol Salgado/Bárbara Seixas (Brazil), Raisa Schoon/Katja Stam (the Netherlands), Monika Paulikiene/Aine Raupelyte (Lithuania), Miki Ishii/Akiko Hasegawa (Japan)
Pool F: Alexia Richard/Lézana Placette (France), Nina Brunner/Tanja Hüberli (Switzerland), Daniela Álvarez/Tania Moreno (Spain), Laura Ludwig/Louisa Lippmann (Germany)
Competition formula
The competition formula for beach volleyball at the Paris Games will be the same as that of Tokyo 2020, with the 24 teams in each gender being split into six pools. The first round of the tournament will be completed after teams face each of their three pool opponents once.
At the end of pool play, the six pool winners, the six pool runners-up and the two best-ranked third-placed teams will qualify directly to the Round of 16, occupying 14 of the 16 spots available.
The remaining four third-placed teams will play a “lucky loser” round, composed of two matches, from where the last two teams to play in the Round of 16 will emerge. Starting at this round and continuing through the quarterfinals, semifinals and medal matches, the men’s and women’s tournaments will progress in a single-elimination format.
France, Slovenia, Canada and Serbia go in Pool A; Poland, Italy, Brazil and Egypt compete in Pool B; Japan, USA, Argentina and Germany appear in Pool C
The first round of the Paris 2024 men’s volleyball tournament took shape on Wednesday, exactly one month before the Opening Ceremony, when pools for the Olympic event were drawn ahead of the start of the 2024 Volleyball Nations League Finals, in Łódź, Poland.
The 12 qualified national teams were distributed into three pools of four, with hosts France topping Pool A, FIVB World Ranking leaders Poland spearheading Pool B and second-placed Japan appearing as the first team in Pool C.
Pool A: France, Slovenia, Canada, Serbia
Pool B: Poland, Italy, Brazil, Egypt
Pool C: Japan, USA, Argentina, Germany
In pool play, teams will face each of their three opponents once. Those ranked first and second in each pool will advance, as well as the two best third-placed teams. Teams will be seeded in the Final Phase bracket according to the Teams Combined Ranking System and starting at the quarterfinals, the tournament continues in single elimination format.
The Paris 2024 men’s volleyball tournament will feature 26 matches (18 pool play encounters, four quarterfinals, two semifinals and two medal matches) at the South Paris Arena, from July 27 to August 10. The men’s match schedule will be released shortly.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, May 31, 2024.- NORCECA President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz led the NORCECA Confederation Executive committee in the FIVB Board of Administration meeting held at the FIVB headquarters on Thursday.
Cristobal Marte along with NORCECA Executive Vice Presidents, Mireya Luis (Gender in Minority) Mark Eckert (NCVA President), Glenn Quinlan (ECVA President), Felix Sabio (AFECAVOL President) and Mushtaque Mohammed (CAZOVA President), took part in the one-day meeting where significant matters were discussed.
A comprehensive overview of the 2023 financial performance was presented and various strategies and proposals of the Finance Commission were discussed, which aim at ensuring sustainable growth and financial stability.
The proposed budget for 2025-2026 was presented and discussed in detail. Key allocations were made towards development programs, major events, and strategic initiatives to foster the growth of volleyball globally.
An ambitious long-term business plan extending to 2032 was unveiled. This plan focuses on expanding the sport’s global footprint, enhancing commercial opportunities, and leveraging new technologies to engage fans.
Reports from the FIVB Empowerment and Development Commissions were presented, as well as the several proposals form the Legal Commission, which included updates to the FIVB Constitution, General Regulations, Sport Regulations, and Event Regulations.
Reports from the continental confederations (AVC, CAVB, CEV, CSV, NORCECA) highlighted regional developments, challenges, and strategic initiatives, fostering a collaborative approach to the sport’s global growth.
Proposals from various FIVB councils and commissions, including the Technical & Coaching Commission, Athletes’ Commission, Rules & Refereeing Commission, Volleyball Council, Beach Volleyball Commission, Snow Volleyball Commission, and Medical Commission, were also discussed.
The members were updated on major upcoming events, including the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), Beach ProTour, Age Groups World Championships, 2025 M & W World Championships (Volleyball and Beach Volleyball), and preparations for the Paris Olympic Games.
An update on the 39th FIVB World Congress was also discussed, ensuring the event will be a significant milestone in the sport’s calendar.
NORCECA’s involvement in the Board of Administration meeting in Lausanne was a significant step for the region, laying the groundwork for the Confederation’s future growth and success.
Volleyball Foundation ready to serve the world following incredible launch event at the FIVB Headquarters in Lausanne
The Volleyball Foundation’s mission to connect, serve and inspire commenced with a vibrant launch event at the FIVB Headquarters
The IOC President and Olympic Movement representatives joined members of the volleyball community and other esteemed guests for the celebration
A total of CHF 559,000 was raised through donations and an exciting auction, with funds set to support impactful projects across the world
The FIVB Headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland yesterday welcomed guests from the international sports community and beyond for the launch event of the Volleyball Foundation, raising over CHF 559,000 through donations and a special charity auction to support impactful volleyball projects worldwide.
Key figures from the international sports community, including leaders from the volleyball community, the Olympic Movement, local authorities, sponsors, partners and distinguished sports leaders gathered for this milestone event.
Successful Fundraising Efforts
The event featured a special charity auction conducted by Piguet Auction House, with unique volleyball memorabilia generously donated by the FIVB and legends of the game. Featuring both online and live bidding, the auction raised an incredible CHF 59,000 for the Volleyball Foundation.
Reunion. Photo FIVB
This amount, along with CHF 300,000 from the FIVB, GBP 100,000 from the CVC Foundation, and generous contributions from IOC Member KhunyingPatama Leeswadtrakul and FIVB Board of Administration Member and Volleyball Australia President Craig Carracher, brought the total funds raised to CHF 559,000.
As announced by FIVB and Volleyball Foundation President Dr Ary S. Graça F°, the FIVB plans to allocate an annual budget of CHF 1 million for the Volleyball Foundation in 2025 and 2026, pending the approval of the FIVB World Congress later this year.
FIVB and IOC Presidents welcome guests
The night began with a powerful speech from FIVB and Volleyball Foundation President Dr Ary S. Graça, welcoming guests and explaining how the Foundation will better connect and expand the global volleyball community of 800 million people across 222 countries.
“The Volleyball Foundation will play a vital role in promoting positive social values, helping to create a more collaborative and harmonious world,” stated the Volleyball Foundation President. “The Foundation is dedicated to creating a world where everyone has access to sport, no matter their gender, age, background or position. Where they have the opportunity to be healthy and active. To experience the joys of volleyball. And to learn important skills that will serve them throughout their lives.”
IOC President Thomas Bach. Photo FIVB
Meanwhile, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach praised the initiative and thanked Dr Graça for his vision in launching the project. “Through this project, volleyball can really contribute to delivering the Olympic values and make the world a better place through sport,” he said. “The IOC already works closely with the FIVB with Olympafrica and the Olympic Refuge Foundation, and with this Foundation this excellent cooperation can be strengthened.”
Inspirational pilot projects take centre stage
During the evening, the Volleyball Foundation introduced two pilot projects: the Brahmaputra Volleyball League, a grassroots community league in Assam, India, involving over 10,000 children; and the Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Academy, which offers youth in one of Nairobi, Kenya’s most challenging slums a sanctuary through volleyball.
Diverse Volleyball Foundation Board and the Executive Director announced
The Volleyball Foundation’s independent Board was also introduced, featuring a diverse group of individuals dedicated to the Volleyball Foundation’s vision of a greater world through volleyball.
The Board members include:
Dr Ary S. Graça F°, President of the FIVB and Volleyball Foundation
Fabio Azevedo, General Director of the FIVB
Alejandrina Mireya Luis, FIVB Executive Vice-President, and a three-time Olympic and two-time World champion
Yuji Saeki, President & CEO of Mikasa, FIVB Board of Administration Member
Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation
Her Royal Highness Princess Ayah bint Faisal of Jordan, President of the Jordan Volleyball Federation and Jordan Olympic Committee Board Member
Nick Clarry, CVC Managing Partner
And Charles Joye serving as the Secretary of the Board.
Elizaveta Bracht, a two-time Olympic volleyball silver medalist, has been named as the Executive Director of the Volleyball Foundation.
Supporters & Ambassadors celebrated
Key supporters of the Volleyball Foundation were also announced, including renowned organisations KITT & KISS, Mikasa, Decathlon, the Qatar Foundation, Generations for Peace and the Jordan Olympic Committee.
The Volleyball Foundation President Ary Graça with (from left to right) Her Royal Highness Princess Ayah bint Faisal of Jordan, Cecilia Tait, HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan. Photo FIVB
In recognition of its support, IOC Executive Board Member, Jordan Olympic Committee President and Generations For Peace Founder and Chair, HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan, took to the stage and said:
“In 2004, I went to the Olympic Games in Athens with a mantra: ‘peace is greater than gold.’ In 2007, to put this into practice, we founded Generations For Peace to use the power of sport to change divided communities for the better. What the Volleyball Foundation is doing is a continuation of this work, and that is why it is an honour and a pleasure to align ourselves with the Volleyball Foundation.
“The values of respect, friendship and cooperation are all lessons from sport. Volleyball is so well positioned because it has these values, alongside communication and coordination. These are key in transforming societies and communities that are suffering. As President Ary S. Graça said, together we can make a difference. And this Foundation will make a difference.”
Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) President Francesco Ricci Bitti was also present at the event, and stated:
“As the President of ASOIF, I have had the privilege to work with the FIVB and Dr Ary S. Graça for five years. What he has done tonight through the Volleyball Foundation, is to create an organisation for the grassroots, social and community benefit, and this is very important. The Volleyball Foundation sets a model for others, and I wish it every success.”
The event also introduced ambassadors for the Volleyball Foundation, all of whom are true legends of the sport. These include Mireya Luis from Cuba, a three-time Olympic champion and two-time World Champion; Vlad Grbic from Serbia, an Olympic champion; and Giba from Brazil, an Olympic champion and three-time World Champion.
The FIVB Volleyball Foundation is also proud to announce that the official notary signing ceremony took place this week in Lausanne, Switzerland, marking the formal establishment of the organisation that will serve the world through volleyball.
For more information about the FIVB Volleyball Foundation and how to get involved, please visit https://volleyballfoundation.com/ and follow us on Instagram at @volleyball.foundation.
May 30, 2024.- The FIVB Executive Committee this week praised the incredible successes of the sport’s governing body during its meeting at the FIVB Headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The Executive Committee congratulated FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° and the professional team he has built on their outstanding contributions and for creating an exciting and lasting legacy for the sport during his mandate.
During the meeting, the FIVB President said:
“During my Presidency, all our actions have been guided by two key principles: Innovation and Opportunity! The FIVB has strived to innovate both on and off the court, while providing even more opportunities for our 222 National Federations, alongside our players, coaches, fans and valuable stakeholders.”
The members met to study the FIVB financial reports and the legal presentation, as well several other topics to make recommendations to the Board of Administration.
The FIVB Board of Administration meeting will get underway the same afternoon before continuing the next day.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 8, 2024.- To celebrate and recognize International Women’s Day 2024, the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation Refereeing Commission hosted a virtual session “Sharing Our Story” to Inspire and Include NORCECA Female International Referees.
Guy Bradbury, president of the NORCECA Refereeing Commission, highlighted this was the second occasion that NORCECA female international referees had the opportunity to speak about their experiences refereeing at an international level, how they’ve been inspired in doing so and promoting inclusion in volleyball.
Julie Voeck of the United States, member of the NORCECA Refereeing Commission, was the moderator of the virtual session that was divided into two panels.
The first panel was taking a moment to listen to Suzanne Lowry, FIVB International Beach Volleyball Referee and USA National Referee, who spoke about officiating as First Referee for the outdoor match in Nebraska, United States with more than 94,000 spectators, an event in August that set a new world record for the most highly attended women’s sporting event in history.
Suzanne shared her experience sharing how she prepared before the match, the atmosphere and her vivid feelings about the great responsibility and excitement taking part in this great historic event that exposed volleyball to the world, which inspired young girls that aspire to become athletes, coaches and referees. “This was life changing for my career, it gave a sense of awe, pride and inspiration”.
The second panel was a “Q&A” session with the new International Referee Candidates who participated in the Beach Volleyball and Volleyball International Referee Course that took place in January in Puerto Rico, who shared their journeys to becoming a NORCECA International Referee. Among them Rebecca Johannes – PUR (beach), Rochelle Artwell – JAM (beach), Chantal Kasters – SUR (indoor), Breanna Spain – USA (indoor), Ana Marlenis Rodriguez – DOM (indoor) and Diana De la Mora – MEX (beach).
Guy explained that 55 Female International Referees are part of NORCECA and continues to grow, “NORCECA is the only Confederation in the world that is developing International Referee Courses and 54% of the participants during the International Referee Course held in January were female”.
In her closing words, Julie stated “we enjoyed this gathering to celebrate women, inspiring inclusion and their amazing journey full of meaningful moments, which have led us to become a family”.
While Guy thanked each and everyone for their commitment as referees in NORCECA, which have led them to take time from their families, work and friends “as a Confederation we send you our appreciation to help grow volleyball in NORCECA. Happy whistling”.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, December 21, 2023. – NORCECA held its 2023 Executive Committee and Board of Administration Virtual Meeting, where the working reports for the past two years (2022-2023) were discussed.
NORCECA President, Mr. Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, delivered the welcoming remarks, highlighting a fruitful 2023 from all perspectives, “I am very pleased that we were able to complete the competition calendar, allowing NORCECA to rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic by establishing a marketing strategy and providing support to all the National Federations”.
The Executive Committee and Board of Administration members had the opportunity to review and discuss NORCECA’s annual activity report, which included two multi-sport competitions, the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador and the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago. Additionally, the first editions of the Under-17 Continental Championships in both genders and the NORCECA Under-23 Beach Tour.
President Marte Hoffiz presented a proposal for the NORCECA classification system for the FIVB World Championship, which will be further analyzed for its approval.
In 2023, NORCECA established a historic long-term partnership for eight years (2023-2030) with MIKASA to be the official ball for Volleyball and Beach Volleyball competitions within the Confederation. The Under-19 Men’s Pan American Cup held in Guatemala in March was the first official event to use MIKASA.
The reports from all NORCECA working commissions were presented after a detailed discussion of its Financial Statements audited by the external firm Ernst & Young.
NORCECA has been a pioneer in volleyball development programs, a model adopted by the FIVB to create the Volleyball Empowerment program with a larger budget.
Regarding refereeing, NORCECA is the only Confederation simultaneously conducting refereeing courses for Volleyball and Beach Volleyball, aiming to maintain refereeing standards through an education program for the integration of new referees, along with refresher courses for the development of active referees.
Among the responsibilities of the sports organization committee, NORCECA conducted several inspections before the two multi-sport events held this year, leading to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the organizing committee and ensuring the success of both competitions.
According to the discussions during the working session, it was highlighted that time, patience, and a dedicated group of volleyball enthusiasts are required to achieve success, which will help National Federations must find ways to face various challenges to attain it.
NORCECA is in continuous growth, and there is a need to enhance its structure, leading to a subsequent session to analyze various proposals from the FIVB legal commission for constitutional changes which arose during the meeting.
An important change took place in 2023 with the implementation of the statistical software Volley Station, prompting various training sessions and an induction plan for the members of the VIS and Statistics commission and the Refereeing commission to adapt to the changes made in the e-score sheet.
A review of the 2024 Volleyball and Beach Volleyball competition calendar highlighted the classification system for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The session concluded with the announcement of the XXVII NORCECA Congress, scheduled to be held in Punta Cana from July 6 to 7, 2024. The next NORCECA Board of Administration session is set for July 5.
The Volleyball Nations League 2024 will take the elite of international volleyball to nine countries and four continents during six weeks from May to June, when the Preliminary Phase of the sixth edition of the tournament will take place.
The top 16 female and male national teams in the planet will compete in Asia, Europe, North America and South America before the best eight in each gender battle for titles in the VNL Finals. The women will play from June 20-23 and the men from June 27-30, just a few weeks before the start of the Paris 2024 Olympics, in cities yet to be determined.
Besides the host cities (venues will be announced soon), the composition of the six men’s and women’s pools for the Preliminary Phase was also announced, setting up some exciting duels between the top national teams in every corner of the globe.
WOMEN’S VNL 2024 POOL OVERVIEW
The women will be the first to get on the court, competing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Antalya, Türkiye, from May 14-19. One week later, the men will start their campaigns at the same locations.
From Europe and South America, the VNL 2024 will head to Asia and North America. The women will play in Macau and Arlington, Texas, USA (the host city of last year’s VNL Finals), from May 28-June 2, with the men battling in Japan (with the host city to be confirmed), and Ottawa, Canada, from June 4-9.
The Preliminary Phase will come to an end for the women from June 11-16, with pools hosted in Hong Kong and Japan. In the following week, the men will complete their schedules in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and Manila, the Philippines.
The top seven teams in each gender will advance to the VNL Finals, as well as the host countries.
MEN’S VNL 2024 POOL OVERVIEW
The 16 women’s national teams competing in the VNL 2024 will be Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, the Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Poland, Serbia, Thailand, defending champions Türkiye and the United States.
The men’s title will be contested by Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cuba, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, defending champions Poland, Serbia, Slovenia, Türkiye and the United States.
Olympic Spots in Play
The VNL 2024 will also play a major role in determining the last national teams that will qualify for the Paris Olympics. The result of each match of the tournament’s Preliminary Phase will impact the FIVB Volleyball World Rankings, which will determine the teams to occupy the last five spots in next year’s Games.
As of now, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Japan, Poland and the United States are guaranteed on the men’s side while Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Poland, Serbia, Türkiye and the United States have qualified among the women – host country France will also be represented on both genders.
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