SAVA unites all 11 federations in Bangkok ahead of landmark 2025 volleyball world championship
On June 9, 2025, the Southeast Asia Volleyball Association (SAVA) convened its Board of Administration Meeting in Bangkok, achieving a notable milestone with full attendance from all 11 member federations. Hosted in a hybrid format at the Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel, the meeting underscored a unified commitment to fostering regional collaboration and promoting the sustainable development of volleyball across Southeast Asia.
Chaired by SAVA President Somporn Chaibangyang, who holds an additional leadership role as President of the Thailand Volleyball Association (TVA), the meeting gathered representatives from diverse associations, including those from Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines among others. Notable attendees included AVC Executive Vice President Heyzer Harsono from Indonesia and SAVA Vice President Tran Duc Phan from Vietnam. This broad representation highlighted the strong interconnectivity of volleyball governance in the region and set the stage for collaborative efforts moving forward.
The opening address was delivered via Zoom by Ramon Suzara, President of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), who, while joining remotely, emphasised the importance of unity in ensuring success for both SAVA and AVC initiatives. He expressed hopes that the meeting would serve as a strategic platform for planning and elevating volleyball's presence in the region.
As the meeting progressed, delegates reviewed key updates from both the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) and AVC, particularly focusing on upcoming events like the 5th SEA V League. Scheduled to commence in July in the Philippines and Indonesia for men’s competitions, and thereafter in August for women’s competitions in Thailand and Vietnam, this year's league promises to be an exciting fixture on the regional volleyball calendar.
The timing of the meeting coincides with significant sporting events in the region. Notably, Thailand is set to host the 2025 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship from August 22 to September 7, marking the first time this prestigious championship will be held in Southeast Asia. This event, which will feature 32 teams across four cities, including Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima, further elevates the profile of volleyball in the region and highlights Thailand's growing status as a prominent host for major sporting events.
In addition to the World Championship, the AVC Women's and Men's Volleyball Nations Cups are also scheduled for June 2025 in Vietnam and Bahrain, respectively. These tournaments will provide opportunities for teams to earn vital world ranking points and prepare for the 2026 Asian Championships.
The SAVA meeting served not only as a forum for administrative matters but also as an opportunity to reinforce the collective commitment to enhancing volleyball at all levels throughout Southeast Asia. With full membership engaged and actively participating, SAVA is poised to leverage these developments for the sport's growth and sustainability in the region.
As the volleyball calendar unfolds, the enthusiasm reflected in Bangkok promises an invigorated approach to the sport, promoting participation across all member nations and fostering connections that will undoubtedly enhance the competitive landscape of volleyball in Southeast Asia.