Team Vanuatu heading to China (from left) players Bella Lawac, Tini Toko and coach Steve Anderson. June 2023 Photo: Vanuatu Volleyball Federation
Having a clear pathway and role models will ensure that sports development programs succeed, Vanutau Volleyball Federation president Debbie Masauvakalo says.
In the case of Vanuatu beach volleyball that has been their secret since the sport was first introduced in Port Vila in 2007.
Being the number one beach volleyball nation in the South Pacific is testimony to that.
Masauvakalo says their pathway evolves around the community, especially the young ni-Vanuatuans who are interested in the sport.
2023 is a busy year, with a number of important tournaments Vanuatu's teams will be competing in, including the Youth Commonwealth Games in the first week of August in Trinidad and Tobago, the Olympic elimianation in Port Vila in September and the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara.
RNZ Senior Sports Journalist Iliesa Tora spoke with Masauvakalo and Vanuatu volleyball media officer Jill Scanlon about what it takes to keep Vanuatu beach volleyball pumping.
