Bangkok, Thailand, October 1, 2025 – The AVC International Referee Candidates Course officially got underway today at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, running from October 1–7. A total of 19 aspiring referees from 11 countries are taking part in this intensive training program aimed at sharpening their knowledge, skills, and confidence in the art of officiating.
The week-long course, jointly organized by the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) in close cooperation with the Thailand Volleyball Association (TVA), Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and the FIVB Development Center in Thailand, is designed to groom candidates who wish to join the international refereeing ranks and maximize their potential both in quality and capacity.
Among the participants are five women and 14 men representing Australia, Iran, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Macau China, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand. The course is being conducted under the expert guidance of AVC Course Instructor Mr Dean Edward Turner, who serves as Chairman of the AVC Referee Committee and Member of the FIVB Rules of the Game & Referee Commission.
The opening ceremony was held on Wednesday at the University’s conference hall, presided over by TVA President Mr Somporn Chaibangyang, Assistant Professor Dr. Somsak Klaisang, Vice President for Student Affairs of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and Mr Shanrit Wongprasert, Honorary Life Vice President of the AVC and Honorary Life Secretary General of the TVA.
Also gracing the occasion were Mr Songsak Chareonpong, Chairman of the Thailand Referee Committee and former chairman of the AVC Referee Committee and former member of the FIVB Rules of the Game & Referee Commission, Mr Issara Riddhisinha, General Manager of the FIVB Development Center in Thailand, along with Mr Turner and all course participants.
In his welcome remarks, TVA President Somporn extended a warm greeting to the attendees, wishing them both a pleasant stay in Thailand and fruitful learning experiences throughout the course.
“I am delighted and honored to welcome AVC Referee Instructor Mr Dean Turner and all participants. This program offers not only the opportunity to deepen your understanding of volleyball rules and refereeing theories but also to build the confidence and judgment required to make the right calls and manage matches effectively,” said Somporn.
He further expressed gratitude to Assistant Professor Dr. Somsak and his staff for providing excellent facilities and equipment, and commended Mr Turner for his unwavering dedication and commitment in leading the course.
“Please consider Thailand your home during your stay, and I sincerely wish you every success. With that, I am pleased to officially declare the AVC International Referee Candidates Course open,” the TVA President concluded.
Mr Somporn also presented souvenirs to Assistant Professor Dr Somsak and AVC Course Instructor Mr Turner on this occasion.
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