Asia’s emerging men’s volleyball programme is gaining ground, securing landmark victories and building on their World Championship experience to reach new competitive peaks
Qatar has already carved a niche on the international stage with its highly successful men’s beach volleyball programme, producing Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan. This triumph is the pinnacle of years of diligent efforts by the Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA), which they are now determined to replicate in their volleyball programme. As an emerging powerhouse in men’s volleyball across the continent, Qatar is setting its sights higher, aiming to scale unprecedented levels.
Qatar has received backing from the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme since 2018 to strengthen its men’s volleyball team. The support has focused on improving coaching, training, and equipment to help the team compete at a higher level.
Qatar celebrate during the Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifier in Brazil.
In 2023 alone, Qatar received 384,500 CHF to continue developing its volleyball programme. Most of the funding – 360,000 CHF – was allocated to coaching support, allowing the team to work with experienced coaches and implement advanced training methods. This included structured technical sessions, tactical planning, and performance analysis to enhance player development and team strategy.
The programme also provided essential equipment, including for Senoh indoor volleyball nets and 100 Mikasa indoor volleyballs. Additionally, 5,000 CHF was invested in national team coach development to help maintain high-quality coaching.
With this support, Qatar has been able to improve its training conditions, raise the level of play, and take steps toward becoming a stronger competitor in men’s volleyball across Asia.
Camilo Andres Soto of Argentina has guided Qatar to unprecedented achievements.
Qatar’s progress in men’s volleyball is becoming increasingly clear, with its top national federation official recognising the strides made in recent years.
“The transformation has been substantial and multidimensional,” said QVA President Ali Al-Kuwari. “Before receiving FIVB support, Qatar’s men’s volleyball team faced several challenges, including limited exposure to high-level international competitions, gaps in advanced technical training, and the need for a stronger grassroots development structure.”
The implementation of the Empowerment support, particularly through coaching and competition exposure, has accelerated the team’s development.
“With the expertise of Coach Camilo Andres Soto and FIVB’s resources, we have witnessed remarkable improvements in our team’s technical skills, tactical execution, and overall performance. The financial support has been instrumental in enhancing training camps, international participation, and upgrading our equipment,” Al-Kuwari explained.
QVA’s dedication to strengthening its volleyball programme has been manifested in its international performances, reflecting a clear trajectory of improvement.
“A key example of this impact was seen in Brazil and Cuba, where our team demonstrated significant advancements in defensive systems, attacking efficiency, and fitness levels,” he added.
The results of this structured venture have been clear in major competitions, where Qatar has gained recognition on the international level.
“Since the implementation of FIVB’s support programme, Qatar’s national team has achieved several milestones, including qualification for the 2022 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, boosting confidence and international recognition. Additionally, our victory in the Gulf Championship in Kuwait, where Qatar dominated the tournament with a flawless 3-0 victory in every match, and winning the Asian Challenge Cup in Bahrain, securing first place in a highly competitive event, are testament to our growing prowess,” Al-Kuwari highlighted.
Qatar against Brazil at the Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifier.
Qatar’s progress has also extended to club volleyball, beyond its string of successes in the national team.
“Our continued success in club volleyball, with Qatari clubs winning the West Asian Championship for the third consecutive time and competing at the highest level in Asian club tournaments, further demonstrates the depth of our programme,” he mentioned.
Qatar’s momentum in men’s volleyball was on full display throughout 2023, as the team achieved several key milestones that reinforced its growing presence. Their campaign saw them qualify for the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers, taking another step toward Olympic contention.
The year also marked Qatar’s role as a host nation, welcoming elite teams for the 2023 Volleyball Challenger Cup, where they went on to secure a silver medal – an achievement that signalled their rising competitiveness in high-level events.
They also made a mark in regional competitions, clinching a historic bronze at the 22nd AVC Asian Senior Men’s Volleyball Championship, their first-ever podium finish in the tournament’s history. They also secured another bronze at the 2023 Pan Arab Games, adding to their growing list of accolades. Additionally, Qatar qualified for the volleyball tournament at the 2023 Asian Games, reinforcing their status as a serious contender in Asia.
With these achievements laying a strong foundation, Qatar has now turned its focus toward an even greater challenge – preparing for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
“FIVB’s ongoing support plays a crucial role in our roadmap to the 2025 World Championship,” said Ali Al-Kuwari. “We have introduced new strategies, player development programmes, and increased exposure to high-level competitions. Our main objectives include advancing further in international tournaments, ensuring a steady pipeline of young talents, and strengthening Qatar’s standing in global volleyball through consistent performances.”
The impact of the Empowerment support has been felt across all levels of volleyball in Qatar.
“The programme has increased youth participation and grassroots development, with more young players joining the sport,” Al-Kuwari noted. “We have expanded our coaching staff, thanks to the additional support, allowing us to hire experienced trainers for both junior and senior teams. The investment in equipment and facilities has significantly improved training conditions and overall development.”
Qatar is looking beyond 2025 with its commitment to maintaining its upward trajectory. The long-term vision is to sustain strong international performances, continue investing in youth development and fully utilize FIVB’s expertise to refine it coaching and training methods.
“We strongly encourage all nations to apply for similar support, as it can make a substantial difference in achieving high-level of success,” Al-Kuwari said.
“FIVB Volleyball Empowerment’s support has played a pivotal role in elevating our programme and ensuring continued success. We look forward to further collaboration and continued growth of the sport worldwide.”
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