Bangkok, the bustling heart of Thailand, recently played host to the FIVB Volleyball Women`s World Championship 2025, an event that brought together the global volleyball community. Amidst the cheers for able-bodied athletes, a different kind of star emerged, stealing the spotlight not just for their skill, but for their powerful message of inclusion: Thailand`s men`s and women`s sitting volleyball teams. Their participation in the accompanying “Volleyball Experience” marked a significant moment, showcasing that the spirit of the game truly embraces all.
The “Volleyball Experience,” strategically set next to the Huamark Indoor Stadium, was designed as an interactive celebration of volleyball in all its forms. Among the various installations, a dedicated sitting volleyball court stood out, becoming a focal point of engagement. Here, Thailand ParaVolley coaches generously offered guidance, inviting fans—regardless of ability—to try their hand at the sport. It was a tangible demonstration of how sporting events can be reimagined to foster a broader sense of community and equal opportunity.
“To have sitting volleyball at the Volleyball Experience creates a sense of equality,” remarked assistant coach Sri-iam Sakkarat, articulating a sentiment shared by many. “It`s not only non-disabled athletes and fans who can come to this event. Para-athletes and fans can also come.” Her words underscored a profound truth: true sporting celebration isn`t about exclusion, but about widening the circle. This initiative, perhaps with a subtle nod of irony to past oversights, demonstrated that when we speak of “the global volleyball movement,” we genuinely mean everyone is welcome on the court.
The presence of the sitting volleyball teams wasn`t merely symbolic; it was backed by a solid record of athletic achievement. Thailand`s women`s sitting volleyball team stands as one of Asia`s formidable forces, consistently demonstrating their prowess. The men`s team, not to be outdone, secured a bronze medal at the Asian Championship in Hangzhou, China, subsequently qualifying for the prestigious Sitting Volleyball World Cup in October. Both squads have routinely claimed podium finishes at the ASEAN Para Games, illustrating a consistent trajectory of dedication, rigorous training, and competitive excellence. These athletes are not just participants; they are formidable competitors rewriting the narrative of para-sports.
Beyond their active role in the “Volleyball Experience,” these inspiring athletes further solidified their connection to the wider volleyball world by attending a Women`s World Championship match between Thailand and the Netherlands. This gesture of support for their national counterparts served as a powerful testament to the unifying power of sport. It highlighted that the bonds of athleticism transcend classifications, creating a singular, supportive community under the banner of the Thai flag.
The integration of sitting volleyball into such a prominent event in Bangkok signals a progressive step forward for sports inclusivity, not just in Thailand but globally. It serves as a compelling model for future large-scale sporting events, demonstrating how a simple dedicated space and open invitation can bridge gaps and foster a more equitable sporting landscape. As these athletes continue to serve, spike, and set their way to success, they are not only winning medals but also undeniably building a more inclusive and inspiring future for sports.
Rupert Caldwell