Volleyball Foundation
Event introduces children to volleyball and provides opportunities to connect with sports’ global community
The FIVB Volleyball Foundation, in collaboration with the Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA), Qatar Foundation, and the West Asian Volleyball Association (WAVA), yesterday hosted a transformative volleyball initiative in Doha, Qatar. Predominantly attended by schoolgirls from across the nation, the event at the Al Gharafa Beach Complex provided a unique platform to empower young women through sport.
Over two hours, the participants engaged in dynamic volleyball activities on 10 courts, learning essential skills and gaining exposure to the sport’s vibrant community. They then had the opportunity to watch an exciting live match as part of the WAVA U20 Women’s Beach Volleyball Championship.
The event provided a unique platform to empower young women through sport
The event also saw participants have the chance to engage with iconic volleyball figures, including Olympians Louise Bawden, Doaa Elghobashy, Elizaveta Bracht, Ahmed Tijan, Cherif Younousse, Tina Graudina, and Anastasija Samoilova. FIVB Board of Administration members, HRH Princess Ayah bint Faisal and Margaret Ann Fleming also attended the event.
Speaking about the initiative, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo said:
“It was truly heartwarming to see the children enjoying volleyball and experiencing the sport’s energy and community. Events like these are crucial for inspiring the next generation of players and fans.”
The event was made even more impactful by the involvement of coaches of the Qatar national teams, who conducted sessions to teach fundamental volleyball techniques.
Additionally, athletes competing in the WAVA U20 Women’s Beach Volleyball Championship joined the community activation. Notably, the eventual winners of the tournament—a duo from FIVB Volleyball Empowerment supported Lebanon —benefitted from an inspiring clinic led by Latvian beach volleyball player, Anastasija Samoilova, who shared invaluable tips on ball-setting techniques.
This activation was part of a series of initiatives leading up to the highly anticipated Beach Pro Tour Finals, taking place in Doha from 4 to 7 December 2024. The Finals will showcase the world’s best beach volleyball teams as they compete for the podium.
