FIVB Athlete Ambassadors have been heavily involved in these activities and have shared their praise for the initiative
- The Volleyball Experiences at the Olympic Games have been an unprecedented success, attracting more than 120,000 participants to date
- This groundbreaking initiative by the FIVB and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation has transformed how fans engage with volleyball and beach volleyball during the Olympic Games
- FIVB Athlete Ambassadors have been heavily involved in these activities. They have shared their passion for the sport and highlighted the impact of these experiences
The Volleyball Experiences at the Olympic Games have been an unprecedented success, attracting more than 120,000 participants to date. Hosted at the iconic Eiffel Tower Stadium and South Paris Arena 1, these interactive experiences have captivated fans of all ages, bringing them closer to the sport they love in an immersive and exciting way.
Fans soak up the atmosphere in the Beach Volleyball Experience at the foot of the iconic Eiffel Tower
This groundbreaking initiative by the FIVB and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation has transformed how fans engage with volleyball and beach volleyball during the Olympic Games. Whether it’s trying out a spike or a serve on a mini court, taking part in a serve challenge, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, the Volleyball Experiences have offered something for everyone.
Visitors to the South Paris Arena 1 walk through the Volleyball Experience tunnel to catch sporting action from Olympic Games gone by
FIVB Athlete Ambassadors have been heavily involved in these activities. They have shared their passion for the sport and highlighted the impact of these experiences. Three-time Olympian and FIVB Volleyball Foundation Ambassador, Vlad Grbić, praised the initiative:
“We are bringing our world closer to spectators. They can immerse themselves in the sport up close, and this is extraordinary. I think it’s a fantastic example of how to bring people together and make them more involved with our sport. It is also very important for the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, as people can better understand what we are trying to do with the Foundation—our mentality, our philosophy, our way of doing things.”
Vlad Grbić welcomes fans as they step on to the volleyball court
The unique setting of the Volleyball Experiences, particularly the beach volleyball courts near the Eiffel Tower, has added an extra layer of excitement. Julius Brink, who won gold in the men’s beach volleyball competition at the Olympic Games London 2012, described the atmosphere:
“It’s a big success story. It’s the first time we have not just the excitement the fans have about the match on the centre court, but also the moment where the pre-match becomes a nice recreational part. You can play volleyball by yourself, you can find some shade in one of the most iconic parks in the world, you can play volleyball next to the Eiffel Tower. It doesn’t happen often that you play beach volleyball here on the Champ de Mars and get yourself a photo, being helped out by some people with some knowledge.”
Fans serve and spike on the golden sands of the Beach Volleyball Experience
The joy and unity that volleyball brings were also highlighted by two-time silver medallist at the Olympic Games and the Executive Director of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation Elizaveta Bracht, who was struck by the camaraderie of fans who have never met before:
“The reaction of the people entering the arena is priceless. What amazed me the most is that you put random people together to play even a couple of points—they don’t know each other, but when you put them together on the court for those five minutes, they become a team. This is the core of the sport; we bring people together, and we bring joy. There’s so much on offer at both the volleyball and beach volleyball experiences. I come to the experiences and see people’s smiles at 7:30 am—it’s quite remarkable.”
Elizaveta Bracht demonstrates a set on the sand
Sam Deroo, Captain of the Men’s Volleyball team of Belgium, also noted the importance of introducing the sport to new fans:
“It’s a very positive experience. It’s great that people are experimenting and getting to know the sport with a smile on their face. It’s enjoyable to watch people having fun. For many, this is their first introduction to the sport. They’re here as neutral fans and want to explore the sport. I enjoy the mini courts the most.”
Fans watch on as their friends and family play on a full-sized mock-up court with Sam Deroo
The fantastic response in the first week alone highlights the power of volleyball to connect people and to create unforgettable memories. As the Olympic Games continue into their second week, the Volleyball Experiences are sure to continue inspiring thousands fans who have come to immerse themselves in the world of sports.
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