VOLLEYBALL – The Arab Volleyball Association (AVA) signed an agreement yesterday with the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) officially recognising the AVA.
The move was confirmed by FIVB president Fabio Azevedo and AVA chief Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, who is also the Bahrain Volleyball Association (BVA) president.
The development is supported by the Asian Volleyball Confederation, headed by Ramon Suzara, and the African Volleyball Confederation, headed by Bouchra Hajij, given that the AVA is composed of member nations from both continents.
The agreement was signed in Manila, Philippines, on the sidelines of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
AVA secretary general Feras Al Helwachi, who is also the BVA secretary general, was also in attendance.
The AVA is celebrating this year its landmark 50th anniversary, having been established in 1975.
On the occasion of the monumental recognition, Shaikh Ali expressed his pride and great happiness at the FIVB’s decision. He said that it is an historic and pivotal milestone in the history of volleyball in the Arab world.
“This decision is the result of the strenuous and continuous efforts made by the Arab association over many years, in cooperation and coordination with the national federations under its umbrella, with the aim of advancing the game and placing it more effectively on the international map,” Shaikh Ali said.
Shaikh Ali further highlighted that the AVA’s recognition will have a broad and direct impact on the future of the game in the region, raising the level of competition, which will be reflected in the quality Arab championships at all levels.
This will thus help develop national teams and open up broader horizons for players, both male and female, to join the international ranks of the game, facilitate professional opportunities, and develop their skills in line with the highest standards.
Shaikh Ali expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the Azevedo and the FIVB for this move, and to all the presidents and members of the Arab federations for their continued support and confidence.
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