The Suva Volleyball Association has resumed its weekly club competitions at the LICI Courts in Laucala Bay, marking a significant milestone in the development of the sport. Following the conclusion of their knockout tournament last week, teams have transitioned into round-robin matches, where the top four teams will earn the chance to represent Suva in the upcoming interclub tournament.
Games Commissioner Jone Baleilomaloma expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing progress of volleyball in Suva, particularly highlighting the growing participation of youth players. “Suva volleyball has progressed really well in terms of development; we see that a lot of youths showing a lot of interest and we’ve seen them moving into our senior teams,” he remarked. This sentiment reflects the positive trajectory of the sport, emphasizing the importance of engaging young players with the experience of competing alongside seasoned athletes.
A total of 13 men’s teams and 11 women’s teams are participating in the current weekly competitions. Notably, an open division has been introduced, allowing new and developing teams to compete directly with senior teams, thus enhancing their match experience and skills. Baleilomaloma noted that this approach not only aids in player development but also enriches the competitive environment, critical for nurturing talent and fostering growth within the sport.
The round-robin phase of the competition is set to continue for the next four weeks, building excitement as teams prepare for the interclub tournament. This structured engagement not only seeks to elevate the performance levels of players but also strengthens community ties through volleyball, showcasing the dedication of both athletes and organizers alike toward the sport’s future in Suva.
With these initiatives, the Suva Volleyball Association is fostering a robust environment for players, ensuring that the future of volleyball in Fiji remains bright and full of promise.