The 2025 World ParaVolley Sitting Volleyball World Cup opened in Fort Wayne on Saturday, marking the discipline’s first major gathering since the Paralympic Games in Paris. Before competition begins, the day focused on preparation, coordination and connection among athletes, officials and organisers as the week’s events got underway.

Activities began with an athletes’ photo shoot featuring all participating teams, a first for World ParaVolley, putting the spotlight on the athletes who define the sport. With the 2026 World Championships ahead, the session captured both familiar faces and newcomers, reflecting the growing reach and diversity of sitting volleyball.

The General Technical Meeting followed, bringing together team representatives, referees and organisers to align on details for the tournament. Discussions covered competition logistics and the broader pathway that links this World Cup to next year’s World Championships. The local organising committee and technical officials showed steady preparation and professionalism as teams completed their final preparations before the start of play.

A short dialogue between the World ParaVolley Board, led by President Juergen Schrapp, and team leaders added a thoughtful moment to the day. It served as an opportunity for World ParaVolley to connect directly with its stakeholders, strengthening cooperation and encouraging shared involvement in shaping the sport’s future.

In the evening, the Opening Ceremony offered a warm and inclusive welcome to Fort Wayne. Teams were introduced to the crowd as athletes and officials filled the venue with applause and anticipation for the week ahead. Schrapp addressed those gathered, noting World ParaVolley’s recent Memorandum of Understanding with the FIVB as an important step toward expanding opportunities for athletes and increasing visibility for ParaVolley within the global volleyball community.

Turnstone, the event’s local host, guided the day with efficiency and care, setting a welcoming tone that reflected the strong sense of community surrounding the tournament. The occasion also highlighted Fort Wayne’s growing role in supporting adaptive sport and creating meaningful experiences for athletes and fans alike.

The 2025 World ParaVolley Sitting Volleyball World Cup will begin on Sunday at the Plassman Athletic Center at Turnstone Center for Children & Adults with Disabilities. Over the coming week, Fort Wayne will welcome the world’s top teams in a celebration of competition, inclusion and the continued growth of sitting volleyball.