World ParaVolley is introducing a revised Sport Department structure to create clearer responsibilities, stronger discipline-specific leadership, and a more balanced approach to the development of Sitting and Standing Volleyball.
Under the previous structure, the Sport Department operated through largely independent functional commissions, with responsibilities divided mainly by technical areas and formats. This resulted in some overlap of responsibilities, limited integration, and an imbalance in how Sitting and Standing Volleyball were represented and supported.
The new structure moves to a discipline-based model, with two clearly defined development lines:
- Sitting Volleyball – Indoor & Beach
- Standing Volleyball – Indoor & Beach
Each discipline will be led by an Assistant Sport Director, working under the Sport Director. Both disciplines will have dedicated support in four key areas: Technical, Refereeing, Rules of the Game, and Event Management.
This approach recognizes Sitting and Standing Volleyball as distinct disciplines, while Indoor and Beach remain formats within each discipline.
Why are we making this change?
The revised structure is designed to:
- provide clear ownership and accountability for each discipline;
- ensure balanced representation and development of Sitting and Standing Volleyball;
- strengthen coordination between technical, refereeing, rules, and event management;
- better connect sport development with athlete needs, competitions, and event delivery;
- allow each discipline to develop its own strategy and regularly assess the development and investment required for Indoor and Beach formats;
- create a future-oriented and scalable structure capable of supporting innovation, new formats, and broader participation.
The Sport Director will continue to provide overall leadership and represent all disciplines, while the Assistant Sport Directors will take greater responsibility for the strategic development and delivery of their respective disciplines.
With this change, World ParaVolley aims to build a more transparent, balanced and effective Sport Department, providing a stronger foundation for the continued global development of both Sitting and Standing Volleyball.