During a recent visit coinciding with the Pacific Mini Games, leadership from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) held a significant meeting with the President of the Republic of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr. The core objective was to explore avenues for substantial growth and development of volleyball within the island nation and its potential role in the wider Oceania region.
The meeting, notably held on the inaugural World Volleyball Day (June 7th), also included a ceremonial aspect. Representatives presented President Whipps Jr. with gifts commemorating the day and symbolizing the global reach of the sport, including a print of a painting depicting the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic beach volleyball venue.
Discussions highlighted the foundational support already provided through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2017, a total of 168,000 USD has been invested across 11 distinct projects in Palau. This funding has been directed towards critical areas such as providing essential volleyball equipment necessary for training and competition and supporting the development and training of local coaches, laying groundwork at the grassroots and developmental levels.
Looking to the future, a key topic was the ambitious vision of establishing a Centre of Excellence specifically for beach volleyball in Palau. This facility is intended not only to nurture Palauan athletic talent but also to function as a vital regional training and development hub, benefiting athletes and programmes across neighboring Oceania nations. President Whipps Jr. conveyed strong support for this transformative project, recognizing its potential regional impact. Establishing such a center is no small undertaking, but the apparent enthusiasm suggests a clear intent to make Palau a focal point for beach volleyball in Oceania.
In a clear demonstration of commitment to elevating Palau`s profile in the sport, President Whipps Jr. also fully endorsed the concept of Palau potentially hosting an FIVB Age Group Beach Volleyball World Championship in the future. This endorsement signals Palau`s aspiration to step onto the international stage as an event host. Following this, the FIVB is set to commence feasibility studies and detailed planning efforts to explore the practicalities of bringing such a prestigious junior competition to the island nation.
This meeting underscores a deepening partnership between the FIVB and Palau, marking a determined step towards enhancing volleyball infrastructure, fostering regional talent development, and exploring opportunities to host international events. Palau is clearly signalling its intent to build a significant legacy for the sport within its borders and across Oceania.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely