HISTORY-MAKING VOLLEYBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP KICKS OFF ON FRIDAY

Unique championship in Poland and the Netherlands set to draw crowds in arenas and around the world on television

The beginning of the Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Poland and the Netherlands will begin with a bang as a sell-out crowd witness the first two matches at what promises to a unique and one of the most-watched in the rich history of the competition.

This special championship – which celebrates its 70th anniversary – is bursting with firsts: not only will it be the first to be co-hosted by two countries, but it will also see three matches played simultaneously under one roof for the first time. The GelreDome arena in Arnhem has been transformed to enable three courts to be constructed under its closed roof.

Prior to the first of 100 matches to be played in six cities across the two nations, 4,000 people flocked to Apeldoorn to greet the stars of the next three weeks – the first time an introduction event of its kind to for the players has been staged before a world championship.

Friday evening will then see 7,000 fans witness the opening two matches of competition with both co-hosts in action. Poland take on Croatia at 18:00 CEST before the Netherlands face Kenya at 20:00 CEST under the roof of the GelreDome.

Like the men’s championship – which saw over 10 million watch the final alone in Italy and Poland – the event will screened in almost 90 territories around the globe, ensuring worldwide coverage.

Volleyball World CEO Finn Taylor said: “We are delighted to have the magnificent support of the Dutch and Polish federations to help organize such a historic event in both countries.

“We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to promote our sport and push the boundaries when it comes to enriching the volleyball experience and this championship will certainly give players and fans something to remember.”

FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° said: “The global Volleyball Family is very excited for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship which will build on the incredible success of the Men’s World Championship. Both the Netherlands and Poland are world-class hosts and I have absolutely no doubt that they will host an exceptional event that will inspire fans locally and beyond.

“In fact, I have visited the GelreDome in Arnhem where all 24 nations will play their first game. For the first time in the history of our sport, there will be three arenas under one roof, and the venue looks phenomenal.”

Peter Sprenger, President of the Dutch Volleyball Federation, said: “Celebrating volleyball is what we saw at the unique presentation of all the teams. It’s a celebration where the world comes together in friendship and respect. What a great message from the international volleyball family to the world.”

Information and photo source : International Volleyball Federation