In a move that signals a pivotal shift for Sri Lanka`s national sport, Sajeewa Medawatte has been elected as the new President of the Sri Lanka Volleyball Federation (SLVF). The elections, held recently at the esteemed National Olympic Committee Auditorium in Colombo, saw a comprehensive overhaul of the federation`s leadership, ushering in a fresh Executive Committee tasked with steering the sport for the next two years.
Volleyball holds a unique place in the hearts of Sri Lankans, being officially recognized as the national sport. Consequently, the outcomes of these elections carry a significant weight of expectation from athletes, enthusiasts, and the public alike. The newly elected committee faces the dual challenge and opportunity of preserving the sport`s heritage while propelling it towards modern excellence on both national and international stages.
A New Team at the Helm
Medawatte`s appointment is complemented by a robust and diverse team, each member poised to contribute to the federation`s renewed vision. The immediate support structure for the President will be provided by Akhila de Alwis, who takes on the crucial role of General Secretary. This core duo will be instrumental in formulating and executing the strategic direction for Sri Lankan volleyball.
The Executive Committee, a collective brain trust, has been meticulously assembled to cover various facets of the sport`s administration and development. The newly elected officials include:
The Driving Forces:
- President: Sajeewa Medawatte
- General Secretary: Akhila de Alwis
The Strategic Pillars (Vice Presidents):
Six Vice Presidents have been elected to provide broad leadership and guidance across the federation`s activities. Their collective experience will be vital in navigating the complexities of sports governance.
- Chandan Wijesinghe
- Bandara Herath
- K. P. M. Kariyawasam
- Ashoka Ambanpola
- S. M. A. N. I. Sambandapperuma
- Chaminda Lakshman
Operational Backbone:
Ensuring the smooth day-to-day functioning and meticulous record-keeping will be the responsibility of the Assistant Secretaries, while the Treasurer manages the financial health of the federation. The Chief Organiser and Ground Secretary will play pivotal roles in event management and facility oversight.
- Assistant Secretaries: Kanthasiri Meegamuwa, Kapila Wijemanna, S.S.N.K. Fernando
- Treasurer: G. D. T. S. Perera
- Chief Organiser: Danapala Jayapathma
- Ground Secretary: Capt. K. R. K. T. Malinda
The Wider Executive Committee:
Completing the full roster of the Executive Committee, a group of dedicated individuals brings a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives. Their participation underscores the collaborative effort required to achieve the federation`s ambitious goals:
Ajith Nettasinghe, Aruna Shantha, Deepal Ekanayaka, Lalith Priyantha, Wimal Amarasinghe, A. Ravivarman, Sajith Nandasiri, Krishnapillai Manoharan, Ramani Kulathilake, S.N.S. Kithsiris, and Renuka Nilmini.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The assembly of this comprehensive committee, a list of names almost as long as a well-played volleyball rally, speaks volumes about the multi-faceted nature of modern sports administration. Each role is critical, from the strategic vision of the President and General Secretary to the meticulous planning of events and the sound management of finances.
The primary mandate for this new leadership will undoubtedly involve a renewed focus on grassroots development, ensuring that the sport continues to attract and nurture young talent across the island. Beyond local development, elevating Sri Lanka`s presence and performance on the international volleyball circuit will be a significant challenge, requiring strategic investment in training, coaching, and international exposure for athletes.
The real game, of course, begins not on the polished court with cheering fans, but in the quiet boardrooms and strategic meetings where the future of Sri Lankan volleyball will be charted. It`s a demanding role, balancing administrative rigour with the passion inherent in competitive sport.
With a fresh two-year term stretching ahead, the Sajeewa Medawatte-led Executive Committee has an immense task before it. The expectation is that this new era will bring not just stability, but also innovation and significant progress, cementing volleyball`s cherished status and propelling Sri Lanka`s sporting pride to new heights. The serve has been made; now, the game truly begins.
Marcus Blakely