On behalf of Volleyball Ireland, I’d like to wish you and your loved ones a happy and peaceful Christmas.
While you’re feeling the buzz of the festive period, I’d like to recap some highlights of what’s happened so far with our own Feel the Buzz strategy this year. Together we have made incredible progress that has led to:
• 35% more players now competing in Volleyball Ireland competitions
• 53% more under 18s have a playing license with VLY.
• 19% more Referees are taking to the stand
• 54% more coaches are giving their time to develop the next generation
• An amazing VLY. Live event with world class guest speakers and dramatic matches as our u20 Boys & Girls teams win exciting games with Scotland
• There are now 88 different nationalities representing across our membership
This is incredible growth, and huge testament to the work going on in clubs, schools and communities across Ireland. Thank you for investing your time, energy and passion into our beloved game.
The buzz of Volleyball is starting to reach more and more people. We want everyone to feel the buzz and to be part of our inclusive, diverse, and welcoming community. With that in mind, Gary and I are pledging to visit every club in Ireland over the next six months. We’ll talk a bit more about our strategy with you, and discuss your ideas for continuing to progress our brilliant sport.
We’ll also chat through some exciting plans for 2024 – which will be historic for Volleyball Ireland. We really want as many people to be involved as possible, there is a role for all.
The highlights are:
• A first ever European Championships in Ireland as we host the u20 Women’s European Finals: whether you’re a player, referee, coach, DJ, floor mopper or a spectator pop this date in your calendar and don’t miss out on this incredible experience. The best young talents in Europe will be in Dublin (August 5-13th).
• As part European Volleyball’s support for this event, we now have a new Terraflex Volleyball floor which will be unveiled at the revamped VLY. Cup Finals Weekend: for 2024 this will include Schools and Youth league deciders! (May 3-5th). It will be a real festival of Volleyball.
• And in late January (26-28th), we’re hosting the u20 Men’s Small Countries Association Championships – it will be great fun. We are still looking for a number of event volunteers to help, drop us a line if you’re interested in playing a role
There will be much much more of course throughout the year, and in addition to all that we will soon be revealing a new partnership with a global brand, and thanks to increased support from Sport Ireland, we will be enhancing our Coaching, Refereeing and club Volunteer supports programme – there’s never been a better time to share your passion and inspire future generations.
But for now, it’s time to rest, enjoy the festive celebrations and when you put your feet up to watch some TV this Christmas and the New Year, keep an eye out for some exciting RTE coverage recently shot at the school finals in the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena.
Nollaig Shona.
Clodagh.
Clodagh NicCanna, President
