OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER

FIVB PRESIDENT’S ACTIVITY REPORT 2017

PRESIDENT’S ACTIVITY REPORT 2017

■ PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA’S MESSAGE: LOOKING BACK AT 2017

These two competitions are part of the FIVB’s Nucleus Project, approved PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA’S MESSAGE: by the FIVB Board of Administration in LOOKING BACK AT 2017 December 2016, which aims to focus investment on the key markets around Lausanne, - December 22, 2017 the world. We believe that these nations are crucial to raising the international relevance of , which will then in turn help smaller volleyball nations through greater funding and opportunities for hosting.

To be a champion volleyball player, you must have strength, athleticism and speed, as well as the capacity to be a great team player. We believe that the greatest achievements are always created by a team of individuals. In 2017, our athletes in both volleyball and displayed once again their extraordinary abilities on the court. They “Act as One”, showcasing team work and unity to fulfil their dreams of becoming champions.

On the court, we saw phenomenal athleticism, exciting rallies and unbelievable action all over the world, both in volleyball and beach volleyball competitions. The FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in were a highlight, attracting over 170,000 spectators throughout 10 days of exhilarating matches.

Off the court, we celebrated the FIVB’s milestone anniversary in Paris, which gave us an opportunity to review with pride all that we have achieved together over the last 70 years. But it was also a chance to look forward with excitement The year of 2017 was important for the revolutionising our presentation to where we can continue to push the FIVB. After an Olympic year in 2016, in and bringing the game closer to boundaries of innovation. which volleyball and beach volleyball spectators. We have launched the were two of the most watched sports Volleyball Nations League, a competition As we begin 2018, we get even closer to on the Olympic programme, based on for men and women, which brings 2020. Asia continues to be a huge the IOC data, we at the FIVB knew that together some of the best nations in the part of the FIVB’s plans over the next it was crucial for us to continue growing world. This represents the biggest change several years, as we look to recreate the our all over the world. This report to volleyball in the last 20 years! wonderful atmospheres we have seen on is an opportunity to reflect on the the volleyball and beach volleyball courts wonderful moments we have seen, as As well as the Volleyball Nations League, at London 2012 and Rio 2016. well as the tireless efforts to promote there will be a secondary Challenger Cup, volleyball all over the world. incorporating promotion and relegation I want to thank you all for your to guarantee that volleyball remains the commitment to making volleyball a success Our goal was to make volleyball more most competitive and engaging multi- over the past year. Without each member accessible for everyone, not only to gender sport in the world. Countries playing their vital role, the FIVB cannot be play but also to watch live. With hard will compete to qualify through their the world’s number one family sport. work, dedication and great innovation, Confederations, increasing opportunities we have strengthened considerably by for development globally.

3 ■ FEATURE STORIES

THE VOLLEYBALL NATIONS LEAGUE TO REVOLUTIONISE THE SPORT

Paris, - October 12, 2017

The FIVB launched the Volleyball Nations present volleyball as never experienced “This is a pivotal moment in the future of League, a brand new competition set to before, building on innovative sports our sport. The Volleyball Nations League begin in 2018. The league will revolutionise presentation while bringing the action is the most important competition in the volleyball competitions, making it one of closer to fans around the world. FIVB’s history and will completely change the most important events in the history of the way how volleyball is presented: the sport. Speaking at the FIVB’s 70th making it more fan-centric and placing anniversary celebration in Paris, our fans, both inside and outside the The Volleyball Nations League – a where the Volleyball Nations League stadium, at the very heart of the action.” joint project between the FIVB, IMG announcement took place, FIVB (Read more) and 21 National Federations – will President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° said:

The FIVB’s 70th anniversary celebration in Paris was an opportunity to take FIVB CELEBRATES 70TH stock of the innovation and growing fan ANNIVERSARY engagement that has defined the sport in recent years. Lausanne, Switzerland - October 12, 2017 The FIVB has gone from strength to strength since its establishment in 1947 and President Ary Graça expressed his excitement for the future:

“We are in a golden era for volleyball. London 2012 and Rio 2016 were huge. But they are history already. Let’s now build the future.

“We will have what I expect will be the most innovative and technological ever in Tokyo 2020.” (Read more)

President Ary Graça spoke with French Sports Minister Laura Flessel-Colovic

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■ OLYMPIC MOVEMENT

FIVB AND IOC PRESIDENTS DISCUSS VOLLEYBALL’S SUCCESS AT RIO 2016

Lausanne, Switzerland - March 29, 2017

An official lunch at the IOC headquarters down with President Bach, to reflect on “We also discussed the new era for in Lausanne provided the perfect the great success of volleyball, beach volleyball and the important strategic opportunity for President Ary Graça and volleyball and the Volleyball House at decisions the FIVB took during the last IOC President Thomas Bach to discuss the Rio 2016. He confirmed that volleyball Board of Administration meeting several success of volleyball and beach volleyball was at the top of the summer Olympic months ago.” (Read more) at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. sports, according to the official number of TV viewer hours, and that this number After the meeting, President Ary Graça doubled the London 2012 results. said: “It was a great honour to sit

President Ary Graça hailed the IOC’s historic decision to award the 2024 FIVB EXCITED ABOUT PARIS 2024 Olympic Games to Paris and the 2028 AND LOS ANGELES 2028 Olympic Games to Los Angeles, and said that he was very excited by the proposals for volleyball and beach volleyball from Lausanne, Switzerland - September 14, 2017 both host cities.

“We now look forward to collaborating with both Organising Committees to ensure a fantastic experience for athletes, fans and the entire volleyball family at both the 2024 and 2028 Olympic Games,” said President Ary Graça.

“I was very impressed with the proposals we received from both Candidature Committees. I have no doubt that the world will enjoy watching indoor volleyball matches at Le Bourget-Pavillon II in 2024 and at the Honda Centre in 2028, and it is sure to be another incredible spectacle when beach volleyball takes place on the Champs de Mars in Paris and at Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles.” (Read more)

5 ■ OLYMPIC MOVEMENT

PRESIDENT ARY FIVB PRESIDENT LEADS GRAÇA AND VOLLEYBALL’S ROLE IN IOC TOKYO 2020 COMMISSIONS

ORGANISING Lausanne, Switzerland - April 26, 2017 COMMITTEE PREPARE FOR ICONIC VOLLEYBALL ANNIVERSARY

Tokyo, - September 7, 2017

President Ary Graça and Secretary General Fernando met TOCOG President Yoshiro Mori to discuss the 2020 Olympic Games

After meeting with the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee (TOCOG), President Ary Graça said that the two organisations were united in their aim to make volleyball a success story at the next Olympic Games, marking the sport’s return to its Olympic birthplace, more than 50 years after it made its debut at Tokyo 1964.

The discussions between President Ary Graça and TOCOG President Yoshiro Mori, along with other members of the Organising Committee, were focused on how best to promote both volleyball and beach volleyball in the build up to the Games in 2020. President Ary Graça was reappointed in Board and the IOC President, giving 2017 to the IOC’s Marketing Commission, guidance, perspective and ideas in Volleyball will be held at the to-be-built as the governing body of the Olympic Olympic marketing to assist the IOC with Ariake Arena, designed for 12,000 Movement confirmed the members of its the generation and growth of long- spectators, on area reclaimed from the commissions. term revenue streams for the Olympic sea. Beach volleyball will be played in Movement. (Read more) a temporary, 12,000-capacity arena in The Marketing Commission advises Shiokaze Park, with a backdrop of the the IOC Session, the IOC Executive iconic Rainbow Bridge. (Read more)

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■ STRATEGIC MEETINGS

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° welcomed representatives from eight of the top GROUND-BREAKING MEETING AS national volleyball leagues from around the FIVB AND NATIONAL LEAGUES world to the FIVB headquarters in Lausanne for an historic two-day workshop to discuss DISCUSS INTERNATIONAL maximising the promotion of volleyball and VOLLEYBALL CALENDAR AND its stars around the world. FUTURE OF SPORT It was the first of several meetings with the sport’s stakeholders in 2017 to help Lausanne, Switzerland - January 19, 2017 confirm short and long term calendars for world volleyball to allow for better promotion and enhanced TV production. “We want to consult and listen to everyone and work together to move volleyball in the right direction,” said President Ary Graça of the process. (Read more)

The international volleyball calendar and the future of the sport will be discussed at a two-day workshop in Lausanne

PRESIDENT ARY FIVB GRAÇA HOSTS PRESIDENT KEY NATIONAL DISCUSSES FEDERATIONS NUCLEUS IN LAUSANNE PROJECT AT

Lausanne, Switzerland - March 15, 2017 GERMAN VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION GENERAL ASSEMBLY

President Ary Graça chaired a meeting of representatives from National Federations Hanover, - among the world’s wealthiest countries to June 24, 2017 discuss how volleyball could be developed within their nations and how they could Speaking at the General Assembly of the events and increased television exposure, contribute to the development of the FIVB. German National Volleyball Federation, as well as the creation of opportunities President Ary Graça laid out plans for for developmental nations to learn about The meeting emphasised FIVB President‘s further innovation focusing on the FIVB’s hosting world class events. (Read more) commitment to ushering in a new era Nucleus Project – the new strategy for for volleyball through real and impactful raising the professional standard of President Ary Graça and German Volleyball reforms. During the meeting, President Ary volleyball. Federation President Thomas Krohne Graça stressed the importance of National also took the opportunity to launch the Federations working with the FIVB to Approved by the FIVB Board of first issue of #VolleyPassion, a brand new professionalise the sport and improve the Administration in December 2016, the e-magazine for fans of all ages that aims to quality of the sport’s product to ensure the Nucleus Project aims to develop the sport promote the sport throughout Germany. highest level of fan engagement. in key markets, with more World Tour (Read more) (Read more)

7 ■ NATIONAL FEDERATION VISITS

PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA MEETS KEY FIGURES IN CHINESE GOVERNMENT AND SPORT

China - July and September 2017

On an official trip to in July 2017, A productive week was completed with FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and President of President Ary Graça met with the President a meeting in between FIVB the Chinese Olympic Committee and Director of of the Chinese Olympic Committee and President Ary Graça, the Vice-Governor of the State General Administration of Sports Gou Director of the State General Administration Jiangsu Province Lan Shaomin and other Zhongwen of Sports Gou Zhongwen in Beijing. The province officials to discuss the future of meeting was a chance for the two men to volleyball in the region. “It is our mission discuss FIVB events in China, the progress to instil that love of the sport in the next of China’s men’s volleyball team and the generations, by providing both world class recent successes of the women’s team, as competitions and numerous opportunities well as ways to grow volleyball in schools to take part in volleyball, throughout this and communities throughout the country. province and the rest of China,” said President Ary Graça. (Read more) “China has long been a supporter of the FIVB and the popularity of volleyball President Ary Graça and representatives of the continues to grow, particularly after the China Volleyball Association at the National fantastic success at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games of China in Tianjin Games,” President Ary Graça said. “It was great to speak with Mr. Gou and see his passion for sport - it certainly reflects my Fresh from China’s victory at the FIVB own!” (Read more) Volleyball Women’s World Grand Champions Cup in , Japan, later President Ary Graça also met with in September, FIVB President Ary Graça members of the China Volleyball FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° caught up with the legendary Lang Ping and Vice-Governor of Jiangsu to discuss her role in developing new Association (CVA) to discuss the prospect Province Lan Shaomin of greater collaboration between the FIVB volleyball talent in China’s schools. and the CVA. The CVA Vice President and Secretary General Li Quanqiang expressed President Ary Graça made a follow-up his appreciation for the FIVB’s continued trip to the country in September 2017 to support, and reiterated China’s desire for further the FIVB’s collaboration with the increased hosting opportunities and the CVA. His visit coincided with the National expansion of the sport in China. Games of China in Tianjin, which is held (Read more) every four years and is the country’s top multi-sport event, featuring Olympic FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and Secretary General Fernando Lima met Lang Ping in Nagoya sports including volleyball. (Read more)

“Lang Ping shares the FIVB’s vision that volleyball is a peaceful sport and can be played by people of all ages and backgrounds,” President Ary Graça said. “We were able to talk about the importance of creating a strong FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° connection between schoolchildren and and CVA Vice President and Secretary General Li Quanqiang our elite athletes.” (Read more)

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■ NATIONAL FEDERATION VISITS

JAPANESE VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION EXCITED FOR FUTURE FOLLOWING FIVB VISIT

Tokyo, Japan - September 2017

With the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in “I was extremely pleased to see the JVA Board of Administration joined the FIVB in a view, FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° same passion from the Japanese fans in “monster block” photo visited the Japanese Volleyball Federation Nagoya that we witnessed in Tokyo. All (JVA) during the Women’s World Grand over the country there is an appetite for Champions Cup to discuss the growth volleyball and it will be great to see that of volleyball and beach volleyball grow even more in the run up to Tokyo throughout the country. 2020.” (Read more)

“Both sports have been incredibly successful over the last two Olympic cycles,” President Ary Graça said. “We are hopeful that, as the sport continues to grow all over the world, we will see similar results in Tokyo.” (Read more)

FIVB President Ary Graça and Secretary General Fernando Lima in a meeting with Dentsu

President Ary Graça also met with Dentsu, the FIVB’s marketing agency for A packed Nippon Gaishi Hall Asia and the Middle East. in Nagoya during the Japan v China match “I was delighted that Dentsu matched our Following the success of the Women’s passion for the sport and were enthusiastic World Grand Champions Cup, President As well as Japan’s passionate and to continue their work with the FIVB, Ary Graça led a debriefing, encouraging knowledgeable fans, President Ary creating marketing and TV opportunities so those present to voice their thoughts on Graça highlighted the dedication and that we can stage major tournaments all the current tournament structure. commitment shown by the Aichi Volleyball over Japan.” (Read more) (Read more) Federation, organisers of the 2017 FIVB Women’s World Grand Champions Cup.

9 ■ NATIONAL FEDERATION VISITS

FIVB PRESIDENT PROPOSES GREATER COLLABORA- TION WITH USA VOLLEYBALL IN STATESIDE PRESENTATION

Minneapolis, USA - May 2017

“You have more than 500 players Jamie Davis previously met with FIVB FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° with USA playing outside of the US, but we are President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° in Lausanne, Volleyball Board of Directors Chair Lori going to change this – we are going to Switzerland, to discuss ways USA Okimura and USA Volleyball CEO Jamie Davis create the market here,” FIVB President Volleyball will change its corporate Dr. Ary S. Graça F° told the USA Volleyball strategy in the future under the new (USAV) Board of Directors. “It is going to executive leadership. (Read more) be a success, I guarantee you, and you are going to have all my support on this.” While in the USA, FIVB President Ary Graça also attended the country’s 2017 President Ary Graça’s well-received Volleyball Open National Championships presentation on the FIVB’s vision for — the largest national championships in USAV demonstrated the grand scale any sport in the USA , and one in which of progress in years to come. Closer President Ary Graça has competed in four collaboration with USAV was proposed, times and won twice. in order to take the sport in the USA to the next level. (Read more) “The most important moment was when I realised that USAV wants to be together In a “historic day” for the sport, FIVB with the FIVB, and that working together President Ary Graça attended several is good for both of us,” FIVB President President Ary Graça with Patricia meetings with the USAV leadership team, Ary Graça said. (Read more) “Patti” Rolf, who refereed the including CEO Jamie Davis and Board of women’s Olympic volleyball final Directors Chair Lori Okimura, where they at Rio 2016 talked about the future of all areas of volleyball. (Read more)

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° with the USAV Board of Directors, FIVB General Director Fabio Azevedo and NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz

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■ NATIONAL FEDERATION VISITS

FIVB President met with several key politicians at the Federal Assembly in Bern PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA to discuss the development of volleyball DISCUSSES FUTURE OF in Switzerland, promoting the sport throughout the and to encourage more VOLLEYBALL IN SWITZERLAND people of all ages and genders to engage WITH SWISS PARLIAMENT with volleyball. “The discussion we had was really Lausanne, Switzerland - March 15, 2017 encouraging and I am excited about the future of the sport here in Switzerland,” President Ary Graça said. “We have a clear strategic plan and I am convinced that the FIVB will help the sport reach its immense global potential in years to come.” (Read more)

President Ary Graça, Olivier Français, member of the Council of States (left) and Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

FIVB PRESIDENT HOLDS CONSTRUCTIVE TALKS WITH TUNISIAN VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION AND KEY GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

Tunis, Tunisia - May 9, 2017

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° met In their discussions, President Ary Graça FIVB President Ary Graça met with representatives of the Tunisian Volleyball underlined the important role hosting key figures in Tunisian volleyball Federation and key government officials to the Championship can play in engaging discuss the country’s candidature to host more young people in volleyball the 2019 edition of the FIVB Volleyball and ensuring the sport’s long-term Boys’ U19 World Championship and development in Tunisia. excellent opportunity to connect young the ways the federation could develop people with volleyball and inspire them volleyball in the country. “For any country, organising the Boys’ to get involved in the sport,” he said. U19 World Championship provides an (Read more)

11 ■ NATIONAL FEDERATION VISITS

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° expressed his excitement about the future EXCITING DEVELOPMENT OF of volleyball in after attending VOLLEYBALL IN POLAND several meetings in the host nation of the 2017 FIVB Volleyball Men’s Club World Warsaw, Poland - September 21, 2017 Championship. “It was a great pleasure to travel to Poland and see the amazing enthusiasm for volleyball and the excitement for the upcoming Club World Championship,” President Ary Graça said. “It was an honour to meet with Mr. Banka and map out our joint vision for how to develop the sport even further.

“The FIVB is committed to continuing its close cooperation with the Polish Volleyball Federation Board of Administration. Poland is a key country within the FIVB Nucleus Project and there is great excitement about the future of volleyball here.” (Read more)

President Ary Graça met with the Polish Volleyball Federation Board of Administration

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) FIVB AND CEV JOIN FORCES President Aleksandar Boricic met with TO PROMOTE VOLLEYBALL IN senior officials from , UK Sport and Sport England to discuss ENGLAND methods of increasing the popularity of volleyball in England. London, England - October 19, 2017 During the meetings, President Ary Graça spoke about the overall success of Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, and the benefits of investing in volleyball and beach volleyball.

“Your country’s Olympians have become great role models in the UK, and I believe we can do the same thing with the elite volleyball players,” FIVB President Ary Graça said. (Read more)

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and CEV President Aleksandar Boricic met key officials from Volleyball England, UK Sport and Sport England

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■ FIVB MEETINGS

FIVB EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EMBRACES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Lausanne, Switzerland - December 7, 2017

“We are making history in our sport. The project, which was approved by the The FIVB Executive Committee Digital transformation is not only FIVB’s Executive Committee and will be met in Lausanne, Switzerland irreversible and unavoidable, but it is unveiled in 2018, will put fans at the essential in helping us grow,” President heart of the volleyball experience when Ary Graça said, following the FIVB’s the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) decision to embark on a new digital makes its debut in May 2018. transformation project. “This will bring (Read more) the action even closer to the fans, wherever they are in the world.”

Morocco’s noted Olympic gold medallist and International Olympic Committee (IOC) FIVB EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Member Nawal El Moutawakel opened the AND BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION FIVB’s Board of Administration meeting in Marrakesh, encouraging members to make ARRIVE IN MARRAKESH AHEAD bold decisions that will take the sport of OF KEY MEETING volleyball to new heights. “The sport of volleyball is dear to us all Marrakesh, Morocco - May 2, 2017 and it has taken giant steps in Morocco and at the Olympic Games,” said Nawal El Moutawakel in her opening address. (Read more)

Key items on the agenda included a review of the federation’s progress and an assessment of its strategic plan for the years ahead as it aims to become the world’s number one family sport. (Read more)

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° shared an FIVB appreciation award with IOC Member and FIVB’s special guest Nawal El Moutawakel

13 ■ FIVB MEETINGS

“To date, we have achieved a level Administration during their two-day The FIVB Executive Committee of accountability that has given our meeting. and Commission Presidents with stakeholders more confidence in our FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° work,” President Ary Graça said, when Under the proposed system, world and prior to the start of the meeting addressing the Executive Committee. international tournaments will provide (Read more) countries with their first opportunities to secure their places at the Olympic Games, A proposed qualification process for with Continental Championships and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games was world rankings providing the remaining discussed by members of the Board of spots. (Read more)

Speaking after the conclusion of the first day of the Board of Administration, President Ary Graça said:

“We had a fantastic meeting, which has very much focused on the future development of volleyball. The FIVB has embraced the future and we cannot wait for the future to happen. We must shape it so that we can control our own destiny.” (Read more)

On the last day of the FIVB Board of Administration meeting, members received many updates, and discussed key initiatives designed to modernise the sport of volleyball and the FIVB properties.

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■ FIVB MEETINGS

hearing presentations on the FIVB “In a competitive environment, it is partners and suppliers, technology, essential that we focus on results,” he COMMISSIONS communications, marketing and said. “Growing the number of volleyball branding, and TV production and players and consumers is fundamental to AND COUNCIL broadcasting. (Read more) our sport and development continues to be a key part of the FIVB’s 9 Goals, which COME All competitive rivalry was put aside as set out the long term strategic plan for the TOGETHER TO some of volleyball and beach volleyball’s federation.” (Read more) greatest came together for a meeting REVOLUTIONISE of the FIVB Athletes’ Commission. New event categorisation and single VOLLEYBALL Olympic gold medallists elimination tournaments are the signature (London 2012) of Germany and ’s changes for the new FIVB beach volleyball (Athens 2004) sat side- season, which the FIVB Beach Volleyball Lausanne, Switzerland - by-side to highlight some important Commission celebrated during its annual February 2017 issues affecting the professional lives of meeting. (Read more) volleyball and beach volleyball players around the world. (Read more) The 2018 FIVB Volleyball World FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° Championships and the Olympic volleyball welcomed volleyball officials from all The FIVB Medical Commission reviewed tournament in Tokyo in 2020 were key over the world to the FIVB headquarters the main pillars of the FIVB’s anti-doping points on a busy meeting agenda for the in Lausanne to take part in a series of programme, including testing, examining FIVB’s Sport Events Council. (Read more) commission meetings that will shape the Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) and future of volleyball. Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs). It The FIVB’s Communication Commission also examined the federation’s education also met to discuss promotion of “Volleyball is not broken, but can benefit and communication initiatives, and the sport, based on state-of-the-art from improvements,” said , efforts to intensify testing and develop technologies, which are at the top of the three-time Olympic gold medallist partnerships with national anti-doping organisation’s priorities. (Read more) and current coach of the US women’s organisations. (Read more) national team, at the FIVB Technical and President Ary Graça underlined the success Coaching Commission meeting. (Read more) President Ary Graça called on the of the refereeing programme at the Rio members of the FIVB’s Development 2016 Olympic Games and the importance The FIVB Beach Volleyball Commission Commission to focus on growth as they of the Challenge System as he opened the and Technical Supervisors and Referees examined new measures to be put in first meeting of the mergedRules of the seminar discussed the new FIVB Beach place for the federation’s development Game and Refereeing Commission. Volleyball Events Structure, the 2017 activities. (Read more) calendar and assignments, before

The FIVB President completed a crucial two-day meeting with representatives FIVB AND LEAGUES WRAP UP from eight of the top volleyball leagues IMPORTANT MEETING IN LAUSANNE in the world at the FIVB headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Lausanne, Switzerland - January 20, 2017 The promotion, growth and expansion of volleyball around the world was a key goal for the FIVB and this meeting was a significant first step in optimising the international volleyball calendar with additional meetings planned for the future. (Read more)

15 ■ VOLLEYBALL

PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA SALUTES INCREDIBLE WORLD LEAGUE FINALS IN

Curitiba, Brazil - July 11, 2017

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° winning the World League trophy for the for a sixth time. The Arena da Baixada celebrated an incredible edition of the second time, Brazil claiming silver and stadium in Curitiba, which FIVB Volleyball World League Finals, which securing bronze, their first top- hosted matches of the 2014 FIFA World reached a pulsating climax at the Arena three finish in the tournament’s history,” Cup, staged an amazing tournament this da Baixada in Curitiba, Brazil. he said. year and provided a first-class volleyball experience for our passionate fan base.” “What an exciting 2017 FIVB World “My sincerest thanks go to Brazil for (Read more) League Group 1 Finals it was with France hosting the FIVB World League Finals

The Gold Coast proved to be a fantastic venue for the World League Group 2 Finals and high-quality action was demonstrated in every match, ensuring IMPRESS ON a captivating end to the tournament.

THE GOLD FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° said: COAST “The Slovenian national team deserve much praise after their Group 2 Finals win, a straight sets victory over Japan. The Gold Coast, - The result is even more impressive given June 27, 2017 that Japan beat Slovenia earlier in the competition.” (Read more)

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■ VOLLEYBALL

UNFORGETTABLE RUN FOR ESTONIA: FROM WORLD LEAGUE DEBUTANTS TO GROUP 3 WINNERS

Leon, - June 18, 2017

At their first-ever participation in the FIVB Leon’s Domo de la Feria was louder than led by top scorer and main blocker Ardo Volleyball World League, Estonia seized top ever on the final day of action, pulsating Kreek, the main star of the convincing 3-0 spot in Group 3 with a brilliant campaign, not only to the beat of the host team (25-22, 25-16, 25-21) win. The European crowned with a straight-sets triumph over but also recognising Estonia’s fantastic side did not lose a single set on American Spain in the decisive match. achievement. In the final, Estonia denied soil and extended their winning streak to Spain with an unbreakable wall at the net, six in a row. (Read more)

BRAZIL’S GRAND PRIX SUCCESS PROVIDES PERFECT ADVERT FOR VOLLEYBALL

Nanjing, China - August 11, 2017

In Nanjing, China, fans were treated to an “The 2017 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Association, which has hosted a number exhilarating final as Brazil were crowned Prix has been a fantastic advert for the of events this year, has shown great FIVB Women’s World Grand Prix Group FIVB,” said President Dr. Ary S. Graça F°. commitment to developing volleyball 1 champions after a thrilling 3-2 victory “This event provided another showcase throughout the country.” (Read more) over . for our sport, and the China Volleyball

17 ■ VOLLEYBALL

TEAMWORK CRUCIAL IN ZENIT POLAND WIN WRAP UP MEN’S CLUB WORLD Ostrava, - August 3, 2017 CHAMPIONSHIP WITH PERFECT RECORD

Krakow, Poland - December 17, 2017

Zenit Kazan became the proud holders of the most coveted title in club volleyball after completing a clean sweep of the 2017 FIVB Volleyball Men’s Club World Championship without dropping a single set on the way. “What a fantastic team effort we saw as in their semi-final victory over Germany, Poland overpowered Korea in straight particularly Yeon Koung Kim, who scored FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° sets to become 2017 FIVB Volleyball World 29 points in the match. However, it was congratulated the new champions after Grand Prix Group 2 champions,” said world class blocking that gave Poland an their impressive performance: “It is a FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F°. advantage in the final, handing the team difficult task to make the final, but Zenit the title as well as their first victory over Kazan showed their skill and teamwork “The Korean team had shown great spirit Korea since 2012.” (Read more) throughout, and to go through the tournament without losing a set is a remarkable achievement.” (Read more)

FIVB PRESIDENT CONGRATULATES WORLD GRAND PRIX BEGINNERS VAKIFBANK HUNGARY WIN WOMEN’S CLUB WORLD , Australia - July 25, 2017 CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE FOR SECOND TIME

Kobe, Japan - May 14, 2017

European champions Vakifbank Istanbul topped South American champions Rexona-SESC Rio 3-0 (25-19, 25-21, 25-21) to claim their second title in the FIVB Volleyball Women’s Club World Championship at Green Arena .

“Vakifbank went unbeaten throughout Hungary became 2017 FIVB Volleyball “I would like to extend my warmest the tournament, showing great resolve World Grand Prix Group 3 champions in congratulations to all players, coaches and team spirit throughout,“ said FIVB Canberra, going unbeaten throughout and officials who helped the Hungarian President Dr. Ary S. Graça F°. “It was their debut season and defeating the team achieve their dream,” said FIVB a great reflection of the core values of hosts, Australia, in the final. President Dr. Ary S. Graça F°. (Read more) volleyball.” (Read more)

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■ BEACH VOLLEYBALL

ICONIC VENUE LAUNCHED COUNTDOWN TO 2017 FIVB BEACH VOLLEYBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Vienna, Austria - March 30, 2017

The iconic Spanish Riding School in Vienna FIVB President Ary Graça and members The FIVB Beach Volleyball provided a sensational backdrop for a of the Organising Committee outlined World Championships press press conference, held to launch the 2017, Vienna’s vision to make the tournament conference took place in the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships the biggest and best in beach volleyball Spanish Riding School, Vienna when the Austrian capital will welcome the history, following the success of the sport top beach volleyball teams in the world at Rio 2016. (Read more) from July 28 to August 6.

BRAZILIANS EVANDRO GONCALVES AND ANDRE LOYOLA NET WORLD CHAMPION TITLE

Vienna, Austria - August 6, 2017

For the seventh time, a men’s team medal match before more than 10,000 over the 12th-seeded Doppler and Horst, from Brazil climbed atop the podium fans on the Donauinsel centre court. who were seeking to become the second at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World team to win a World Championship on Championships as Evandro Goncalves and In only their eighth World Tour event their home sand. (Read more) Andre Loyola defeated Clemens Doppler together, Evandro and Andre posted a and Alexander Horst of Austria in the gold 2-0 (23-21, 22-20) win in 57 minutes

19 ■ BEACH VOLLEYBALL

LUDWIG AND WALKENHORST CAPTURE WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY

Vienna, Austria – August 6, 2017

Reigning Olympic champions was also named the Smart Most The 2017 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Ludwig and won their Valuable Player for the tournament, Championships welcomed over 180,000 third major beach volleyball crown as while Walkenhorst also became the first spectators throughout 10 days of world the Germans captured a three-set victory women’s team player from a European class action. (Read more) over and of the team to win a gold medal at the FIVB in the gold medal match World Championships. at the 2017 FIVB World Championships, presented by A1.

USA AND GERMANY CLINCH WORLD TOUR FINALS GOLD

Hamburg, Germany - August 27, 2017

Phil Dalhausser and Nick Lucena of In the women’s competition, reigning the USA defeated world champions Olympic and world champions Laura Evandro Goncalves and Andre Loyola of Ludwig and Kira Walkenhorst of Germany Brazil 2-0 (21-15, 21-13) in the two- won a thrilling three-set match over Brazil set finale at Rothenbaum Stadium to to capture the gold. Seeded 10th in the collect the $100,000 winner’s prize and competition due to their limited play in become champions of the 2017 Swatch 2017, Ludwig and Walkenhorst posted Beach Volleyball FIVB World Tour Finals, a 2-1 (21-17, 19-21, 15-10) win, lasting presented by Vodafone. (Read more) 51 minutes, over fourth-seeded Agatha Bednarczuk and Eduarda “Duda” Lisboa. (Read more)

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■ BEACH VOLLEYBALL

The FIVB demonstrated how it was increasing opportunities for fans NEW TOURNAMENTS TO TAKE around the world to experience first class beach volleyball when it BEACH VOLLEYBALL FURTHER announced the tournaments set to take THAN EVER BEFORE place in 2017/2018.

Lausanne, Switzerland - November 8, 2017 The announcement was made at the World Tour Council meeting at the FIVB headquarters, which ratified the 2017/2018 beach volleyball calendar and discussed the further development of the FIVB’s properties around the world.

Speaking at the meeting, FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° said: “We want beach volleyball to be a successful business, for both National Federations and organisers as we continue to grow the sport. This meeting was an important event to discuss how to achieve this goal going towards Tokyo 2020.” (Read more)

Lucerne returns to the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour calendar in 2018

Local heroes and last year’s winners Laura Ludwig and Kira Walkenhorst will hope FIREWORKS EXPECTED IN to shine when welcomes the top teams on the 2017/18 FIVB Beach HAMBURG AS FIVB BEACH Volleyball World Tour to next year’s FIVB VOLLEYBALL WORLD TOUR FINALS Beach Volleyball World Tour Finals. RETURN TO GERMANY IN 2018 “After a highly successful event in 2017 and the equally impressive Hamburg Lausanne, Switzerland - December 19, 2017 Major in 2016, I look forward to another exciting event in 2018, which continues the great tradition of the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Finals,” President Ary Graça said. (Read more)

Hamburg will host the 2018 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Finals

21 ■ SNOW VOLLEYBALL

PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA SHINES LIGHT ON SNOW VOLLEYBALL’S GREAT POTENTIAL

Wagrain-Kleinarl, Austria - March 24, 2017

President Ary Graça played President Ary Graça and Austrian Volleyball Wagrain-Kleinarl in Austria. snow volleyball for the first Federation President Peter Kleinmann time at Wagrain-Kleinarl attended the snow volleyball grassroots and “Of course I was very apprehensive and local communities engagement workshop, cautious to give an opinion about what I FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° which culminated in the successful three- would see here,” he said. “I am Brazilian, described his focus on the potential for day event. (Read more) I am a man of the beach and I am a diver. widespread growth of snow volleyball I don’t know how to ski, I did not learn it when he attended the final day of the FIVB President Ary Graça was fascinated when I was a kid, so this is a new world inaugural FIVB Volleyball Your Way Snow by his first encounter with snow for me. I’ve never seen such a beautiful Festival at Wagrain-Kleinarl in Austria. volleyball during his presence at the view like this. It’s amazing! I love it!” “Snow Volleyball Goes Europe” event at (Read more)

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° made a passionate presentation to the USA PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA LOOKS Volleyball (USAV) Board of Directors, where he discussed the future of snow TO MAKE VOLLEYBALL FIRST volleyball and pledged to work tirelessly SUMMER AND WINTER OLYMPIC to help put the exciting version of the sport on the competition programme of SPORT the Olympic Winter Games.

Minneapolis, USA - May 26, 2017 “Volleyball was an incredibly popular sport at Rio 2016 - in fact it was the most viewed sport on the entire programme,” he said. “I would love to bring the same excitement and passion for the sport, which we saw in Rio, to the fans at the Olympic Winter Games, and I believe snow volleyball is an amazing way of doing this.” (Read more)

President Ary Graça, together with USAV CEO Jamie Davis, and two snow volleyball event organisers Veit Manninger and Martin Kaswurm, spoke about the exciting future of volleyball to the USA Volleyball Board

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■ CONFEDERATIONS

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and the newly elected President of the CEV AND FIVB STRENGTHEN Italian Volleyball Federation, Pietro BOND FOLLOWING SERIES OF Bruno Cattaneo, joined the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) Board HIGH-PROFILE MEETINGS of Administration meeting, further demonstrating the sense of unity and Rome, Italy - April 30, 2017 cohesion among all key members of the world’s volleyball family.

President Ary Graça, FIVB Secretary General Fernando Lima and FIVB General Director Fabio Azevedo were special guests at the Champions League Finals and all three participated in the CEV Board meeting before taking a tour of the new headquarters of the Italian Volleyball Federation. (Read more)

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° spoke to the CEV Board of Administration, alongside CEV President Aleksandar Boricic and Italian Volleyball Federation President Pietro Bruno Cattaneo

FIVB PRESIDENT LOOKS TO THE FUTURE AT CEV MEETING

Moscow, - November 18, 2017

FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° “It was great to be with the CEV Board our vision for the future of our sport is shared his ideas and thoughts for of Administration and hear their thoughts aligned. This is not just for our traditional the development of volleyball, beach on the growth of volleyball throughout disciplines but also in snow volleyball, volleyball and snow volleyball over Europe,” President Ary Graça said. where we see a great deal of promise.” the next few years at the European (Read more) Volleyball Confederation (CEV) Board of “The FIVB also has many ideas and Administration meeting in . initiatives and it is encouraging that

23 ■ CONFEDERATIONS

FIVB PRESIDENT UNVEILS PLANS FOR VOLLEYBALL IN ASIA

Bangkok, - November 14, 2017

Ahead of the 22nd Asian Volleyball Rio 2016. The FIVB’s aim is to continue President Ary Graça unveiled his plans for volleyball Confederation (AVC) General Assembly in and strengthen this popularity at Tokyo and beach volleyball in Asia Bangkok, Thailand, FIVB President 2020.” Dr. Ary S. Graça F° laid out his vision for the growth of volleyball and beach As well as speaking at the General “This is the same strategy for men’s volleyball in Asia over the next eight Assembly on Wednesday, President Ary indoor volleyball in Asia. Traditionally the years. Graça also attended the AVC’s Executive women’s game has been very strong, but Committee meeting, where he shared our priority must be to raise the standard “The eyes of the Olympic Movement will the FIVB’s key targets for Asia. of the men’s game. It is a wonderful be on the region over the next few years, opportunity for us.” with the next three Olympic Games “I believe that we can develop a beach being held here, and this is a fantastic volleyball culture in Asia,” President Ary A total of 47 federations are due to attend chance for the FIVB,” he said. “We were Graça said. “With the emergence of elite the AVC General Assembly, which will very successful at London 2012 and, athletes and world class teams, the next provide a platform for exchanging ideas last year, volleyball and beach volleyball generation of volleyball players will be between the federations and prepare were two of the most watched sports at inspired to play our sport. comprehensive development plans for the future growth of the sport in Asia. (Read more)

Thailand Volleyball Association (TVA) President Somporn Chaibangyang welcomed President Ary Graça to Bangkok

24 PRESIDENT’S ACTIVITY REPORT 2017

■ PARTNERSHIPS

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION DRIVE FIVB AND SENOH PARTNERSHIP

Lausanne, Switzerland - February 15, 2017

The FIVB has entered a key sponsorship Tetsuya Ozaki. “The next Olympic Games FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça deal with Senoh Corporation, who are will be held in our home, Tokyo. Senoh is F° and Senoh President Tetsuya now the official supplier of volleyball and ready to open a new era with the FIVB to Ozaki at the FIVB headquarters in beach volleyball equipment for all FIVB further volleyball development. Through Lausanne events and the Olympic Games. this sponsorship opportunity, we will do our best so that the sport of volleyball “We are very proud of being the FIVB continues its exceptional growth and partner and to have this partnership for takes technology around the sport to eight years,” said President of Senoh another level.” (Read more)

The International Volleyball Federation and logistics services provider DB Schenker FIVB AND DB SCHENKER EXTEND have extended their partnership for four PARTNERSHIP FOR ANOTHER more years, bringing world class logistics solutions to the international federation’s FOUR YEARS volleyball and beach volleyball events.

Lausanne, Switzerland - March 27, 2017 “As official partner of the FIVB, we look forward to the challenges that await us when providing the logistics for the countless national and international events,” said Christian Schultze, Head of DB Schenker Sports Events. “Volleyball and beach volleyball are sports for which our enormous experience will allow us to present global solutions for all logistics requirements.” (Read more)

FIVB and DB Schenker signed contracts in Lausanne to extend their parternship for another four years

25 ■ MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

FIVB REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO FULFILLING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY WITH GENERATIONS FOR PEACE AGREEMENT

Lausanne, Switzerland - July 11, 2017

President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and The FIVB has long been committed to FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Generations For Peace (GFP) Founder and maximising the constructive impact Graça F° and HRH Prince Chairman HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein volleyball can have in people’s lives, on Feisal Al Hussein at the FIVB signed a Memorandum of Understanding and off the court, and the MoU with GFP headquarters in Lausanne, (MoU), as the FIVB looks to ensure that is set to enhance this significantly. Switzerland volleyball is used as a tool for positive (Read more) social change all around the world.

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■ PRESIDENT ARY■ BEACH GRAÇA VOLLEYBALL’S MESSAGE: WORLD LOOKING CHAMPIONSHIPS AHEAD TO 2018

PRESIDENT ARY GRAÇA’S MESSAGE: LOOKING AHEAD TO 2018

Lausanne, Switzerland - January 3, 2018

The new year will be a very exciting time The FIVB is working closely with IMG It is a pivotal time for the FIVB as the for all volleyball fans. It represents a to take complete control of content Executive Committee has approved plans revolutionary change for the whole FIVB production for the first time. This allows to push forward with a brand new digital family as the inaugural seasons of the us to highlight the greatest moments transformation project for 2018, ensuring Volleyball Nations League and Challenger and promote a compelling, on-court that fan experience remains the key driver Cup get underway. narrative, encouraging fans to engage in our vision to become the world’s number with, and celebrate, the amazing points one family sport. The digital transformation The innovative sports presentation that in each match. The excellence on court is not only irreversible and unavoidable, but was first showcased at the Rio 2016 will be matched by the quality off it. essential in helping us grow. Olympic Games will be used throughout these new competitions. In the Volleyball This is a very exciting project for all of In every competition, our athletes deliver Nations League, there will be a fierce us and we can’t wait to share it with great performances and demonstrate the battle between 16 world class teams for you! As well as the Volleyball Nations value of teamwork in pursuit of becoming each gender. More than 35 cities and League and Challenger Cup, we also champions. In volleyball, unlike any other 20 countries will host the tournament, look forward to the 2018 FIVB Volleyball , no individual can score without bringing the live action closer to volleyball World Championships. This year’s men’s the direct involvement of their team mates; fans globally. The Challenger Cup will also edition will be jointly hosted by Bulgaria teamwork is essential. It is the same for us include teams from all over the world, and and Italy, while the women’s tournament at the FIVB and all National Federations: the winner will get the opportunity, via a will take place in cities throughout Japan. we must all work together to ensure the play-off, to secure their place in the 2019 Both are sure to be great contests. greatest chance of success. edition of the Volleyball Nations League. The 2018 beach volleyball calendar It is my hope for 2018 that the FIVB Working together, we are continuing continues to grow and will provide continues to look forward, moving to push the boundaries of technology, more opportunities for fans to witness from strength to strength as we lead innovation and digital broadcasting. The incredible live sporting moments than by example. Let’s commit fully, connect Volleyball Nations League will offer fantastic ever before. The competition will be always, play smart and aim higher! new angles and replays. Spectators at extremely strong and, with the FIVB home will witness the elite athleticism of World Tour Finals, the U19 Beach On behalf of the FIVB and entire each nation’s best players. Volleyball is a Volleyball World Championships and volleyball family, I wish all of you the very newcomer in this presentation format but four 5* World Tour events, we will see best for 2018. you will see quickly the great difference another fantastic year for the sport. with your own eyes.

27 FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE VOLLEYBALL

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