Hangzhou, China – 8 June 2025 – World ParaVolley has bestowed its highest recognition, the Honorary Life Membership, on former President Barry Couzner OAM in a special ceremony held during the 2025 Asia-Oceania Sitting Volleyball Zone Championships in Hangzhou, China.

The award was presented by World ParaVolley President Juergen Schrapp, who praised Couzner’s extraordinary leadership and lifelong dedication to the sport of volleyball for people with disabilities.

“Barry is a true icon in the Paravolley world,” said Schrapp. “His unparalleled contributions—both on national and international levels—continue to inspire all of us, and his legacy is embedded in the very structure of World ParaVolley.”

During his presidency, Couzner championed improvements in governance, fostered international partnerships, negotiated multiple homologation and sponsor agreements, promoted athlete inclusion in decision-making, preserved the sport’s history, and expanded human resources within the organisation. Notably, he spearheaded the creation of the Honorary Life Members system, designed to recognise individuals with outstanding contributions to the global ParaVolley community.

President Schrapp also highlighted the rapid development of sitting volleyball in the Asia-Oceania region, citing his recent visit to the Zhejiang Cultural and Sports Guidance Center for Disabled as evidence of the region’s progress in disabled sports.

The ceremony concluded with a standing ovation in honor of Couzner’s service, “In gratitude and recognition of his extraordinary achievements and dedication to Paravolley worldwide” said Schrapp.

Barry Couzner OAM joins a distinguished group of Life Members whose continued involvement supports the development and future of ParaVolley around the world.