It is a pleasure to welcome you to Mexico for the 2017 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U20 World Championship, with the tournament celebrating its 19th edition.
As one of the oldest FIVB tournaments – held for the first time in 1977 – the Women’s U20 World Championships has helped forge the careers of hundreds of athletes over the past four decades.
This is the second time that Mexico has staged the tournament and the Mexican Volleyball Federation has a proud history of hosting FIVB tournaments, most recently welcoming the 2015 U21 World Championship. It means that they will be able to use that experience in producing a marvellous tournament and I know that the athletes and fans are delighted to be enjoying their sport in such a great location.
Sixteen of the world’s top teams in this category will be in Mexico for a little more than a week and with every confederation represented, it is yet another example of the growing diversity of volleyball around the world.
Two years ago the Dominican Republic played some magnificent volleyball en route to winning gold – a first major success on an international stage for the country. It was success that was greeted in emphatic style on their return and one they will be out to repeat.
Brazil were the last team to successfully defend their crown – winning the tournament four times in a row from 2001 to 2007 – and the Dominicans will be hopeful to emulate that achievement. However, there will be a host of teams standing in the way as they look to reach the pinnacle of the sport in their category.
I cannot wait for the action to start and look forward to seeing the action unfold. The very best of luck to all involved!
Dr. Ary S. Graça F°
FIVB President