The Hague, Netherlands, June 24, 2015 - President Dr Ary. S. Graça F° praised the Netherlands as first-time hosts of the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships as the tournament kicks off in The Hague on Friday.
The Netherlands will be the first country to host the competition over several host cities – making the 2015 Championships a truly historic moment for the FIVB and world volleyball.
President Dr Ary. S. Graça F° said:
“In what is a growing tradition for the FIVB, this week we welcome another ‘Championship of firsts’ as four cities – Apeldoorn, Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam – host what will be a truly national celebration for fans in the Netherlands as they experience the magic of watching their sporting heroes perform on their home ground.
“The Netherlands have always been a strong contender in beach volleyball. There is a real thirst for beach volleyball in the country and I am sure the excitement from home fans over the next week will help drive the players forward as they look to the final and Olympic Games qualification!”
President of the Dutch Volleyball Federation, Hans Nieukerke, said:
“The Nevobo has been working tirelessly over the years to ensure the development of volleyball throughout the Netherlands and these World Championships are really the icing on the cake for us. The volleyball community here has been truly inspired by these championships and I am confident that this will result in a continued boost to beach volleyball throughout our country. This week will be a celebration after many years of hard work, but it is also the beginning of a new era as the Netherlands looks to an even bigger and brighter future with even more volleyball opportunities for our passionate population.”
Tournament Director, Bas van de Goor, said:
"For me, one of the greatest pleasures will be the opening ceremony on Friday, where the King will be present to celebrate the immense growth of beach volleyball in The Netherlands with us. All parties will be eager to see the result of years of hard work and everybody will feel as excited as the athletes - ready to start a great show."