It is my pleasure to welcome you to Argentina – hosts of the FIVB Volleyball Boys’ Under 19 World Championship 2015 – where 20 of the world’s best teams in this age category will take part for a chance to win the coveted top spot on the podium.
This is the 14th edition of the tournament and the second time that the South American country has held the competition, having welcomed it last in 2011. The organisers know the importance of delivering top class facilities and structures, which allow the young players to focus on getting the most out of the experience.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for the support they give our athletes and for providing a comfortable environment to those taking to the international sporting stage at such a young age.
The age group World Championships are an important fixture in this year’s volleyball competition calendar as they provide an invaluable opportunity for young talent to be recognised internationally. Indeed some of the participants have the potential to become elite performers who will represent their country at the highest levels in our sport.
These Championships prove there is an appetite for competitive volleyball existing in every nation, at all ages. They also allow our young athletes to experience fierce competition and develop strong international friendships – two things I consider to be the most beautiful aspects about the world of sport.
The teams will no doubt be watching current champions, Russia, very closely after they claimed their third tournament victory in 2013. However, with more and more teams from around the world taking their first step onto the podium in recent years, this competition really is anyone’s to win.
I wish all of our young players the very best and I greatly look forward to watching you develop as the stars of our future!
Dr. Ary S. Graça F°
FIVB President