I am delighted to be here in Turkey’s capital city for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s Under 23 World Championship.
After a fantastic inaugural competition in Mexico in 2013 I know this week’s event will be one to watch as some of the world’s best emerging female volleyball stars take to the court for what I am sure will be an outstanding show of passion, strength and skill.
This is another FIVB event which demonstrates the ever-expanding global reach of volleyball with the top two teams from each continent competing along with the hosts and the next best team from the world rankings not yet qualified.
The potential for sport to inspire people is not new. And these age group tournaments provide a platform for young players to aim to achieve high. Sparking people’s desire to participate or participate more, and signposting them towards the next stage of that journey.
This year Turkey will add to its credentials as a host of the Age Group World Championships after welcoming the Girls’ Under 18 World Championship in 2011 and the Men’s Under 21 World Championship in 2013.
Turkey is a country which is passionate about sport so it is always fantastic to bring our athletes here to satisfy the fans’ appetite for volleyball.
I have no doubt that the supporters here will do their national team proud this week by providing enthusiastic support for their volleyball heroes and a stimulating atmosphere which the crowd here are so famous for!
Dr. Ary S. Graça
FIVB President