WVBF Protour 2010 Presented by Cornèrcard in Vevey (Switzerland)

«Outstanding finals on Swiss Riviera»

(Lausanne, 18 August 2010) The Beach volleyball World Championships Protour 2010 organized by the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF) has for the second consecutive year made a stop in Vevey. It was once again on the beautiful market square, the largest open square in Europe, that eleven men's teams and eight women's teams fought all week to win the title.
The victory in the women's draw was a confirmation of last year’s tournament. Three out of the four young women in final this year were already in final in 2009. It is finally the Brazilian pair composed of Edilma Costa and Angela Moraes who won the title after an outstanding final against the defending champions, the Americans Elizabeth Pagano (best player of the tournament) and Noel Frohman. The podium is completed by a nice Romania pair on the world circuit, Victoria and Elenia Farcas. Africa was represented by the Mali female team.

For the men, the title went to a really solid pair from Brazil made up of Juliano Vieira and Matias Tonnini who fought very hard during an amazing final to defeat a very experienced Italian pair, Roberto Buragina and Milian Lazzaro. It is important to point out the excellent performance of the Swiss team Julien Dougoud and Clement Schoeb who just missed out the third place during the quarter-final leg. Africa was represented by the Zimbabwe male team.

The WVBF President Jean Pierre Seppey said he was very pleased with this edition and already promised great developments for next year: "I am pleased with the success that the event has received from both the public and the political institutions. I am proud to announce that after the Teen Kids camp success of this year, the WVBF, according to its promotional and educational principles through sport, will offer to all the population of Vevey the 2011 Junior U18 Beach volleyball World Championshisp in opening of the 2011 WVBF Protour leg.”

The City of Vevey through its Mayor, Mr. Laurent Baillif, gave a very positive response to this second edition: "The second edition of the WVBF Protour in Vevey took place satisfactorily, even if the sky was less generous that in the 2009 edition. The high level of play of the best teams was very enthusiastic for the audience, whether they were novices or experts. The organisation of the beach volleyball tournament on the Market Square was flawless with a good collaboration with the facilities offered by “Vevey plage”. This association resulted in the joint organisation during a month, of a beach volleyball camp for local children and teens. Increasing the capacity of the stands, a flexible competition schedule of the different pools, qualifying and finals matched, the installation of covers for the spectators, all these factors contributed to the smooth running of the tournament. Even when the rain was invited onto the stage, the tournament was able to continue in compliance with technical and sport requirements. The City of Vevey welcomes this event and thanks both the organizers, sponsors and institutions who have contributed to this huge success."

The Organizing Committee’s President Charles Weber would like to thank both sponsors and political authorities without whom the event would not have been possible: "There are no major events without great support and I am very pleased for the work done by Vevey sports department lead by Jean Marc Bryois. Thank you to the Police who made their best to facilitate our work. Thank you to the sponsors without whom the budget would never have been met. Finally, thank you to all the population of Vevey who came numerously to the competitions. On behalf of the Committee, I invite everyone to be present again in 2011. "

The athletes will now enjoy a full month of training before tackling the fourth edition of the WVBF Protour in Lugano.

WVBF ProTour 2010 Vevey (Suisse)

"Lancement réussi!"
La première journée de la seconde édition de l'étape veveysanne du Championnat du monde de Beach volleyball Protour 2010 vient de s'achever sous le soleil de la très belle place du marché.

Parmi les 12 équipes sur 19 déjà entrées en lice, on peut mentionner dans le tableau masculin la victoire aisée des favoris brésiliens ainsi que le premier succès des régionaux de l'étape, les Suisses Julien Dougoud et Clément Schoeb. Dans le tableau féminin, les tenantes du titre, les américaines Elisabeth Pagano et Noël Frohman ont parfaitement su gérer la pression et se sont imposées en 2 sets.

Un partie officielle a solennellement ouvert le tournoi et a été pour la WVBF une excellente occasion de saluer le soutien tant des institutions politiques de la ville que des partenaires et sponsors qui contribuent au succès de l'événement.

La deuxième journée s'annonce passionnante avec en point d'orgue un affrontement très attendu à 22h00 entre les 2 paires favorites du tournoi chez les messieurs, les brésiliens Matias Tonini et Juliano Vieira et la légendaire paire du Protour composée de Said Souhikane et Gregor Lah.

WVBF ProTour 2010 Vevey (Suisse)

« Vevey dans les starting blocs »

(Vevey le 08 août 2010) La Fédération Mondiale de Volleyball et de Beach Volleyball (WVBF) ainsi que le Comité d’Organisation (CO) invitent la population veveysane et régionale à venir assister à la seconde édition du Championnat du Monde de Beach volleyball Protour qui se déroulera sur la splendide et mythique Place du Marché de Vevey du 12 au 15 août prochain.

En plus de la présence des meilleurs(es) joueurs et joueuses du monde entier (Brésil, Etats Unis, Bolivie, Italie, Suisse et Zimbabwe notamment), l’événement peut à nouveau compter sur les éléments qui ont largement contribué au succès de l’édition 2009 : Musique non stop, danseuses, bars, restaurants ainsi que, conformément aux principes fondamentaux de la WVBF, de nombreuses animations pour les enfants et adolescents de la région et à nouveau son tournoi inter-entreprises.

Les compétitions se dérouleront du jeudi au samedi de 13:00 à 23:00 ainsi que le dimanche 15 août jusqu’à 21:00 pour les finales. Les bars et restaurants seront quant à eux ouverts tous les jours de 12:00 à minuit.

En plus des compétitions dont les entrées sont gratuites, La WVBF est fière d’offrir aux habitants de la région une démonstration de Capoeira ainsi qu’un concert gratuit de la jeune et talentueuse Elena Davis. Ces deux animations auront lieu le mercredi 11 août dès 20:00 sur le site des compétitions. Toutes les commodités (bars, restaurants) seront ouvertes.

La WVBF et le CO invitent tous les fans de Beach volleyball à venir s’amuser gratuitement dans une ambiance festive et décontractée et à admirer le talent des athlètes ainsi que la beauté de la marraine de charme de l’événement, Micaela Lopez Bianchi, Miss Argentine 2010.

WVBF Presented by Cornèrcard in Diamante (Italy)

Beach Volleyball in Diamond for Diamante

(Diamante July 26) The second Italian leg of 2010 Beach volleyball World Championship Protour organized by the World Volleyball and Beach volleyball Federation (WVBF) just took place in the beautiful city of Diamante (Calabria). Players from all around the world struggled during three days to reach the title in front of a large and brave public. The men title was easily won by the Brazilian team Matias – Vieira after an exciting final against the Italian Lazaro – Buragina. In the women’s draw, the two involved Bolivian pairs reached the grand final. The cup finally went to Canedo – Balderamma who beat Pavisic – Ortiz during an extraordinary three set final.

"We have admired really exciting matches and High sport level - commented Vittorio Silvestri, Italian Beach Volleyball Association President (FIBV). Both Bolivian athletes have challenged their fellows to the ball game. A competition full of acrobatic and excited rallies. The public was amazing, for example during a surprising men’s final between Brazilian and Italo-Cuba pair. The success was so important that there has already been talked of renewing this competition next year. »

The results of this step cannot be more positive – said the World Volleyball and Beach volleyball Federation President Jean Pierre Seppey - we are already ready to reconfirm Diamante in our world Beach Volleyball calendar. The municipality’s reply fell immediately; the Diamante Mayor, Ernesto Magorno, and the head of sports, Mariano Casella, stated: "This tournament was a huge chance for all the city of Diamante and especially for youth, we already bid for an event next year, such a great way to promote our tourist resort located on the sea front.

An exceptional godmother was responsible to reward the winners: Miss Argentina 2010, Miss Micaela Lopez Bianchi, a lovely twenty year old young woman with Italian origins : "I am a volleyball player since more than 10 years and I like the WVBF involvement for youth and poor countries ».

Everybody is now looking at Vevey, the next 2010 WVBF Protour leg (12 -15 of august 2010).

WVBF Protour 2010 Presented by Cornèrcard in Florence
"A Lightly game despite a gloomy weather"

(Vevey June 30, 2010) After two very successful legs in Catania 2008 and 2009, Italy once again brought honour to the WVBF Beach Volleyball World Championship Protour with the organisation of the first ever edition in Florence on the beautiful and legendary « Piazza Santa Croce ». The world best players have braved a very unfair weather to offer an exceptional sport quality to the brave public who has attended the competitions.

The Saturday competitions day had to be cancelled due to a heavy weather and dangerous sand, because of that the finals, originally planed on Sunday, had to be cancelled too. The classification was then done in proportion of matches’ victories. For the women’s draw, it is once again the strong American pair composed of Elizabeth "Liz » Pagano and Noel Frohman who took the first place before Brazil and Canada.

The men competitions where particularly tight, in fact no fewer than four teams were competing for top ranking. It was in fact impossible, according to the number of played games, to separate Brazil, Slovenia, Switzerland and an "American-Italian" pairs who must share the cup by four.

Jean Pierre Seppey, WVBF President, the only global Volleyball and Beach volleyball institution who respect and fully implement the International Olympic Committee (IOC) principles and ethical values: financial transparency, democratically elections with secret ballot, recognition of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and full respect of the Olympics fundamental principles, congratulates the work done by the Italian organizing committee and he is optimistic for the future "I want to congratulate the Italian Beach Volleyball Federation (FIBV), its president Vittorio Silvestri and all the squad for their amazing work in very difficult conditions, it is largely due to their excellent reactivity that the tournament has been played in the best possible conditions."

The FIBV President, Vittorio Silvestri, thanked Florence authorities and all the event partners for their support "Despite my disappointment, I would just like to thank the Firence political authorities of the city, Mateo Renzi, the Mayor of Firence, all partners and sponsors without whom the tournament could not have taken place. All have already confirmed their support for the 2011 edition which will be, I am sure, marked by a more favourable weather"

WVBF ProTour 2010 Campeche (Mexico)

« A successful first edition in Mexico! »
(Lausanne April 10, 2010). The first leg of the Beach Volleyball World Championships ProTour 2010, organized under the auspices of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF), the only world volleyball institution to respect and fully implement the Olympic principles: democratically elections by secret ballots, financial transparency and development, has just ended on the beautiful beaches of Carmen in Campeche (Mexico). A festive atmosphere, an exceptional sport level and a radiant sun contributed to make this first edition a great success. Teams from around the world have struggled for three days to catch a spot on the podium. In the women's draw, the Lithuanian pair, living in the USA and newcomers on the world circuit, composed of Iwona Virilaite and Rasa Lodzik, defeated the favourites American Elizabeth "Liz" Pagano and Noel Frohman after a fantastic final (14 to 21, 21 to 15, 15 to 12). The third place was won by the Bolivian team who showed an interesting game and who were rewarded by this very good performance. The male draw was « dominated » by the Americans. The two USA engaged pairs managed in fact to reach the final. The title finally went to Mark Paaluhi and Clint Coe who have taken the best of their compatriots Mike Rupp and Ryan Ratelle after an one-way final (21 to 13, 21 to 17). All the other teams involved have shared the crumbs and it is ultimately the excellent Swiss pair Julien Dougoud – Clément Schoeb who completed the podium after the victory against Italy in the small final.
Campeche authorities and representatives have attended the awarding ceremony. Fernando Galindo Espinosa and Javier Trejo Garay, the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball representatives in Mexico, have thanked specially and warmly the Campeche Sport Institute General manager, Mr. Jorge Carlos Hurtado, for his support and participation at this ceremony.
The Dominican Manuel Lara, WVBF Board member and delegate in Campeche, congratulated
Fernando Espinosa and Javier Trejo Garay’s team for the excellent organization of the
tournament.
Players will be next week in Cochabamba (Bolivia) before travelling to Europe for the Swiss and Italian steps. A beautiful show in perspective, the 2010 WVBF Protour is launched!

WVBF Protour 2010 in Cochabamba (BOLIVIA)

"Devilish Finals in Cochabamba, the WVBF South American Paradise for Volleyball and Beach Volleyball "
(Lausanne April 14, 2010) One week after a successful Inaugural step in Campeche (Mexico), the Beach Volleyball World Championships Protour 2010 took place for the third consecutive year in Cochabamba (Bolivia). Organized by the Bolivian Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Association under the auspices of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF), the Tournament was once again a real success thanks to both a beautiful weather and an High sport level.The women's draw was won by the Brazilian pair Marli de Souza / Ana Teixeira who defeated Johanna Balderrama and Franschesca Canedo from Bolivia, who after a faultless event in front of their public were defeated in the final (21 to 18, 21 to 15). Third place was won by another Bolivian pair composed of Claudia Pavisic and Mara Ortiz who beat the Canadian Stacey Clark and Jenifer Henderson in a classification match. Brazil as well won the men’s title after a breathtaking final against Bolivia. Very much supported by their public, Luis Garcia and David Ramirez made a good start by winning the first set 21 to 19. A bit paralyzed by the challenge, they suddenly made some mistakes. In the same time, Cristiano Martin and Diego Teixeira raised their game level upon to win the last two sets 21 to 13, 15 to 11. The Podium is completed by another Bolivian team : Bernardo Pavisic and Rene Barrientos. The WVBF and his President Jean Pierre Seppey particularly congratulate Bernardo Pavisic who besides being a brilliant athlete, is also WVBF board member and the Bolivian Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Association President, one of the world most active associations "thanks to the devotion and the work of members such as Bernardo Pavisic, his father Roberto and his family, our global institution is an important vector of ethical values and good governance in total compliance with the Olympic principles and charter. I want to congratulate Bernardo Pavisic for the work he is achieving every day to promote our sport in his country and in South America, always in a fair play and non-discrimination spirit”.
www.clubolympic.com

WVBF Protour 2009 Presented by Cornèrcard in Catania

"Swiss Victory and amazing finals near the Etna"
(Lausanne the 14 September 09) After the huge success of the Swiss legs (Vevey and
Lugano), the Beach Volleyball World Championships Protour presented by Cornèrcard under
the auspices of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF in the text), the
only world volleyball institution which respects and fully implements the ethical principles of
the International Olympic Committee (IOC): democratic elections by secret ballots, financial
transparency and development, has put its bags in the heart of Sicily for the very expected
stage of Giarre / Catania. A junior World Cup U20 won by Franchesca CANEDO and Pamela
FRIAS from Bolivia took place just before the main event, new evidence of the WVBF’s
involvement for Young people around the world.
The female victory finally came in two sets to the Brazilian pair composed of Edilma COSTA
and Angie GONZALES against the American pair Liz PAGANO and Noel FRHOMAN after
an amazing 3 sets final. For the third time in a row, the bronze medal goes to Bolivian
Claudia PAVISIC and Johanna BALLDERAMA who fought their young compatriots
Franchesca CANEDO and Pamela FRIAS in classification game.
The men’s tournament has been won by an « European » team composed of Swiss player
Bernhard VESTI and Spanish player Sergi TEN against Slovenian team Gregor LAH and
Marko STERLE in a one way street final (21/16 ; 23/21). The podium is completed by the
excellent Brazilian pair composed of Josemar JUNIOR and Andre BRITO.
The Beach Volleyball Italian Federation President Vittorio SILVESTRI thanked sponsors and
political authorities for the assistance provided: "I warmly thank the city of Giarre and
Catania province forthe huge financial and logistical support they provided. I would also like
to thank all the sponsors without whom the event would not have been possible"
WVBF President Jean - Pierre SEPPEY congratulates President Silvestri’s team for the high
organization quality. He particularly thanked the fact that the Italian Federation had made the
effort to organize a Junior World Cup: "I warmly thank President Silvestri’s team which has
consented to this critical effort, another showcase of our institution’s commitment in term of
youth development through sport. In fact, in view of the talent of these young athletes, there
is no doubt that some will play soon at the highest level."
The European Protour legs are now completed. Athletes will now enjoy a well deserved rest
before starting next winter Emirates Protour finals preparation.

Giarre: La Bolivia batte l'Italia e vince la Final World Junior

La coppia boliviana costituita da Francesca Canedo e Pamela Frias ha vinto a Giarre la Final World Junior battendo il team italiano per 2-1, sono loro le vincitrici della Prima Coppa del Mondo per la categoria under 20 organizzata dalla Federbeachvolley. Le due giovani atlete - in foto con Jean Pierre Seppey, presidente della Federazione Mondiale Wvbf (World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation), con Vittorio Silvestri, presidente della Federazione Italiana Beach Volley e con le Beach Volley Cheerleaders - durante i tre set della finale hanno conquistato il podio (i risultati dei tre set ITA-BOL sono stati 16-21, 21-19, 11-15).

WVBF Protour 2009 Presented by Cornèrcard in Lugano (Switzerland)

" Beautiful weather and record attendance in Pregassona"
(Lausanne on 24 August 09) A week after the resounding success of Vevey’s step, the
Beach Volleyball World Championship Protour presented by Cornèrcard under the auspices
of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF in the text), the only world
volleyball institution to respect and totally apply the Olympic principles: democratic elections
by secret ballots, financial transparency and Development, put her bags in Ticino for the third
edition of the Lugano step. The tournament took place in Pregassona in a beautiful area,
property of Lugano’s sport department.
In the women's draw, the Brazilian Gonzales and Da Costa took a nice revenge on their
American rivals Pagano and Frohman, winner a week earlier in Vevey. Once again, the
Bolivian Pavisic and Ballderama finished third with a victory in classification game against
Slovenian pair composed of Sarah Habjan and Ingrid Maraspin.
The men's final was won in three sets by the Italians Lazaro and Buragına against the
Vevey’s winning pair : Lah and Strele from Slovenia. The third place game finally saw a
Spanish victory with Alberti and Ten who defeated the Bolivians Garcia and Hazou in three
sets.
The tournament ended with a beautiful prize giving ceremony attended by many children and
important partners. The WVBF through his spokeswoman Kelly Sprunger thank the
Organizing Committee for their work throughout this week: "I congratulate and thank the
team led by the President of the Swiss Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation Paulo
Tarchini for the high quality of organization. I would also like to thank all partners and
especially the presenting sponsor Cornèrcard ; the two CEOs Vittorio Cornaro and Alexander
Seralvo both attend the ceremony. "
Paolo Tarchini congratulates the four tournament referees Michele Rossi (ITA), Mattia Stolfa
(ITA), Mohamed Chabi (MALI) and Aljiosa Miljevic (SLO) for the overall quality of their
performance "it can not be a High sport level without a high refereeing level. »
The Lugano sports department director Sandro Roveli was very happy of the competition and
has not hidden its intention to examine the possibility to hold in a near future the tournament
at the Lido, a superb sports complex on Lugano Lake, "an exceptional event requires an
exceptional spot and I am sure that the Beach Volleyball World Championship Protour will be
a great success there."

WVBF Protour 2009 Presented by Cornèrcard in Vevey (Switzerland)

"A successful first edition"
(Lausanne 17 August 09) Since the first edition in Lugano in 2007, the Beach Volleyball World
Championship Protour presented by Cornèrcard under the auspices of the World Volleyball and
Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF in the text) has once again put his bags in Switzerland for
the WVBF Protour first leg in Vevey. The event took place on the mythical market place, the
Europe largest open area. 7 women's teams and 8 men's teams from all over the world have
been competing for four days with a glorious sunny weather and in front of thousands of
spectators.
The female victory came in 2 sets to the American pair composed of Pagano (already winner of
several stages in 2007 and 2008 Protour) and Frohman before the Brazilian Costa and Gonzalez
after a superb final. The podium is completed by the Bolivian Pavisic and Balderrama who beat in
the small final the Italian pair Pino and Pietrucci.
The male tournament has been won by the Slovenian team composed of Strele and Lah who
defeated the Brazilian Brito and Santos Junior in a one-way street final. We welcome the
outstanding performance of Gregor Lah who is also a WVBF Board of Directors member and the
WVBF Beach volleyball players’ representative. The match for the third place was much more
competitive and was won in three sets by the pair composed of Vesti, Switzerland, and Ten,
Spain. We have to note the presence for the first time of an entirely Swiss team composed of
Shoeb and Dougoud who took the 5th place of the competition.
The event has shown the WVBF commitment to promote sport promotion especially among
children and teenagers. The WVBF is the only world Volleyball and Beach Volleyball institution
who respects and fully implements the International Olympic Committee (IOC) fundamentals:
democratic elections by secret ballots, financial transparency and development. WVBF
spokesman, Kelly Sprunger, states on the success of the clinics held daily from 10am to 12am:
"not less than thirty children played for free during 5 days to learn Beach volleyball. In accordance
with WVBF values and development principles, each child received a balloon, a t-shirt and
something to eat during and after exercise."
The WVBF President, Jean-Pierre Seppey, thanks the organizing committee chaired by Charles
Weber and all the volunteers who worked hard and well the week long: "There is no word to
describe the devotion displayed by the team led by Charles Weber. I would also like to thank the
city of Vevey and Jean-Marc Bryois, Head of Sport. Thanks also go to Boissons Riviera’s
Chairman Mr. Bernard Bapst, who provided with an exceptional support and who believes in us
since the beginning of the adventure. Finally on behalf of the World Federation, I thank all the
partners and the sponsors who make this event possible.»
T
he festival ended with a touching message by the Mayor of Vevey, Mr. Laurent Ballif, who
confirmed the city support for future editions.
Photos: www.photos-people.ch; www.sportinforiviera.ch

WVBF Protour 2009 presented by Cornèrcard in Salta (Argentine)

"A brilliant game despite a wrong weather"
(Lausanne the 29 of April 2009) A cool, rainy weather did not prevent tidiness of the first
WVBF Protour 2009 in Salta (Argentina), fourth stage in 2009. The tournament organized by
the Argentina Volleyball and Beach volleyball Association chaired by Rodolpho Bouhid, with
the support of Bernardo Pavisic, WVBF board member, saw teams from everywhere around
the world.
The women's victory finally came back to "queens" of the WVBF circuit, already winner of
several 2008 Protour stages, the U.S. Elisabeth "Liz" Pagano and Patty "Pat" Keller who beat
the Brazilian pair composed of Maria De Sousa and Johana De Paula in two sets (21 – 16 /
21 – 13). Note the beautiful third place of the Bolivian Pavisic and Balderrama who sign their
second consecutive podium after their third place in Cochabamba last week.
The men’s final was beautiful with four champions who have more than ten victories in
WVBF events, the Italians Roberto Buragina and Milian Lazaro against Americo – Slovenian
pair composed of Said Soukaine and Gregor Lah. The high-level final finally saw the victory
of the Italians in two sets (21 - 17 / 21 - 17) with some superb blocks by Milian Lazaro.
Victory in the third place game returned to Cochabamba’s winners, Martins and De Sousa
(Brazil).
Rodolpho Bouhid thanks the players, referees and volunteers who worked for the
tournament’s success. He thank the WVBF who support the national associations for both
development and tournament’s organization. Finally, he also thanked His colleague and
friend Bernardo Pavisic for the assistance it has provided in Salta
The World Volleyball and Beachvolleyball Federation (WVBF), the only world Volleyball and
Beach Volleyball institution who respects and fully implements the International Olympic
Committee (IOC) fundamentals: democratic elections by secret ballots, finance transparency
and development, by through Kelly Sprunger, President assistant, congratulated the
excellent organization of this event and thanked the Argentine authorities who have made
possible the holding of this world tournament. Kelly Sprunger wishes again to thank
Cornèrcard, WVBF main sponsor for the help that the bank gives to WVBF "Sport is an
ethical world and we are lucky to work every day with an ethical team as Cornèr in Lugano
and in Lausanne ».
The Protour will now stop for two months. Next steps are going to be held in July and August
in Switzerland and Italy. The beach volleyball season promises to be full of surprises.

WVBF Protour 2009 presented by Cornèrcard in Cochabamba (Bolivia)

Bolivia hosted with great success the world Beach Volleyball
(Lausanne 24.4.09) After the success of the African stages, the 2009 Beach Volleyball world
championship Protour of the World Volleyball and Beach volleyball Federation (WVBF in the
text), the only world Volleyball and Beach Volleyball institution who respects and fully
implements the International Olympic Committee (IOC) fundamentals: democratic elections
by secret ballots, finance transparency and development, joined South America for a step in
Cochabamba (Bolivia). It is within the dynamic Olympic Club, led by WVBF’s board member
Bernardo Pavisic, that the male and female teams from around the world were able to
compete for a three day struggle. The show was very impressive, a large crowd joined the
beautiful arena on Sunday for the tournaments’ finals.
The Brazilian pair composed of Marly de Souza and Devora Paula took over the formidable
U.S. Pat Keller and Liz Pagano, former winner of several 2008 Protour legs, in a majestic
woman final. Third place was won by the Bolivian Francesca Canedo and Mara Ortiz against
Claudia Pavisic and Johana Balderrama.
Brazilian pair Jairo and Fabio made a true exploit with their victory in the men’s final against
the Protour "legend" pair composed of Said Souikane and Gregor Lah. The quality of play
offered by these four champions was brilliant according to audience’s joy. The Bolivians Luis
Garcia and Rolando Ismael finished third with their victory in three sets against Sergio Hazou
and Rodrigo Perez.
WVBF joined local authorities, press, supporters and athletes to applaud the brilliant
organization of this event. Everybody is looking forward for the 2010 edition.

WVBF Protour 2009 presented by Cornèrcard in Beira (Mozambique)

"Africa plays a major role in the WVBF"
(Lausanne the 14 of April 09) After the success of the inaugural stage in Lome (Togo) in
March, the WVBF Beach Volleyball World Championnship ProTour 2009 presented by
Cornèrcard has again raised its bags in Africa for a step in Beira (Mozambique) on April 11
and 12. The tournament organized by the Mozambican volleyball and beach volleyball
association, chaired by Mr. Trevor da Gama, hosted men's teams from Zimbabwe, Zambia,
Malawi and the host nation, Mozambique.
After a two day struggle, it is finally the pair composed of Lawrence Hlatshwayo (Zimbabwe)
and Erduardo DoSantos (Mozambique), who won the first place before the Mozambican
Warawara and Benjamin Manucho Jorge. The duo composed of Maliens Kasomali and
Alfonso Banda Mwale complete this podium.
It should be noted the superb fourth place took by the team led by Neil Chamisa who in
addition to its skills in the field, is also chairman of one of the most active national association
in Africa, the Zimbabwe and as well WVBF board member. Neil is happy at the time of
closing this historic new chapter in the African volleyball history "Thank you all for making
possible this inaugural edition of the first international beach volleyball tournament in
Mozambique, my thanks go first to the Mozambique who managed to organize this
tournament and then to the WVBF that shows once again its support to Africa. Thank you
finally to Cornèrcard, WVBF’s main sponsor which makes the organization of these events
possible ».
The before mentionned Mozambican volleyball and beach volleyball association president
congratulated the players who have traveled from other countries in Africa and his country’s
political institutions that have made this event possible.
For Kelly Sprunger, WVBF president assistant, this tournament is a true recognition in a
country too often ignored by the highest world volleyball levels: "Africa plays a major role in
our global institution, several African associations’s presidents like Mr. Chamisa are indeed
WVBF board of administration members and work all days for the development of our
institution. This tournament is the second to be held in Africa and it seems clear that,
according to its high quality’s organization, it will quickly become a permanent WVBF Protour
leg"
The 2009 Protour promises to be rich: after African stages athletes will migrate to South
America (Bolivia and Argentina), to Europe (Switzerland and Italy) and finally to the Emirates
for the finals of the season.

WVBF Protour 2009 presented by Cornèrcard in Lomé (Togo)

"A new era begins for the Beach Volleyball in Africa"
(Lausanne 31 March 09) The 2009 WVBF Beach Volleyball World Championship WVBF Protour
presented by Cornèrcard and organized by the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation
(WVBF in the text) started on 27 March by the first African stage of history in Lome (Togo). The
tournament, which was successfully organized by the Togo Volleyball and Beach Volleyball
Association chaired by Mr. Corneille Kpatcha, welcomed the men's and women's teams from
Italy, Ghana, Benin, Mali and of course from the host nation, Togo.
As guests of prestige, the tournament was able to rely on the presence of the Italian pair ,already
winner in 2008 Lugano Protour, composed of Roberto Buragina and Lazaro Milian. This team
finally won the men’s final against the Togo team composed of Lawsonagloulou Anani and
Komlan Weldeck. Third place was won by the Mali team composed of Cissé Zomana and
Ibrahima Diallo. Mali, one of the most dynamic associations in West Africa and chaired by Mr.
Makan Diarra who is also member of the WVBF Board of Administration, won the Women’s final
by the pair Fofana Sian and Doumbia Kadiatou; Ghana finished second with the pair Evelin
Fanoussam and Allan Souzana and also won the third place by the pair Polina Gwallalte and
Nortey Béatrice.
The Italy Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation President, member of WVBF Board of
administration and responsible for WVBF Protour, Mr. Vittorio Silvestri, confirms "This is only the
beginning of major competitions in Africa, a second event is already planned in Mozambique this
April”. The WVBF President, Jean Pierre Seppey, is full of joy about the creation of these new
African competitions "This is the clear evidence of the importance of the WVBF development
within our global institution. I want to congratulate personally President Kpatcha’s team, all the
volunteers and the Togo authorities for their successful first competition in Africa”.
The first Beach Volleyball World Protour also gave an opportunity to Michele Rossi, Italian and
WVBF international referee, to give refereeing courses to many African officials willing to referee
on the continental and world levels.
The 2009 WVBF Protour promises to be rich: after Africa steps, athletes will migrate to South
America then to Europe and finally to the Emirates for the grand finals which will make the end of
a majestic season.

Beach Volleyball on the Historical Place of Giare Catania

WVBF and ETNA joined their flames to conquer the World Beach Volley

(Catania, September 4-08) An enthusiastic Sicilian audience, an extraordinary weather and the beautiful historical Place of Giare, between Catania and Taormina Naxos, for major finals: Sunday late in the evening, the pair composed of the talented Gregor LAH and Said SOUIKANE respectively bearing the colours of Slovenia and the United States.
awards the 2008 Italian second stage of the WVBF PROTOUR Beach Volleyball World Championships 2008. For women, the Brazilians Angie GONZALES and De CONCENSAO won the Final.

All participants and spectators who came by thousands have expressed their joy for the second Italian edition of WVBF PROTOUR Beach Volleyball : three days of high competition, presented by West Scout and organized by the Italian Beach Volleyball and Volleyball Federation (FIBV) with the support of the City of Giare, have found an ideal location and final (already confirmed for the edition 2009) in the Historical Place at Etna’s feet, which is now confirmed as an idyllic place for this spectacular sport.

Both athletes Gregor LAH and Said SOUIKANE lost an endless first set
and took the upper hand at the third set over the talented pair of the Brazilian Santos Pereira JUNIOR and the Italian BRITO.

Among women, the pair "made in USA" formed by the two ladies of San Diego, Liz PAGANO and Casey MCFARLIND, was defeated by the extraordinary pair composed of "the best player", the Brazilians Angie GONZALES, and De CONCENSAO.
Third Women's of the Tournament, the two Bolivian Fabiola FLORES and Fabiola MARTINEZ.

“Thanks to WVBF, the dynamic image of Giare has been exported to Italy and to the World, we are proud and we will repeat this fabulous experience next year” said Mrs. Concetta SODANO, Giare’s Mayor, when handing the first price to the men victorious pair. Jean-Pierre Seppey, the sole World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball democratically by secrete ballot elected President, enthusiastically congratulated and thanked Mr. Vittorio SILVESTRI, FIBV President, Catania and Giare politic authorities for the extraordinary Feast at ETNA’s feet.

The World Federation of Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (FMVB / WVBF), the sole World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball federation respecting the Olympic Charter and the ethics, the FIBV Organizing Committee thanked the sponsors through which competitions were held: Cornèrcard, Axius, Dumas constructions, Schelde Sports, West Scout, Les fils Maye, SKY. The WVBF Protour continues; next step in Mexico in autumn in 2008.

WVBF PROTOUR Beach Volleyball Championship 2008 : Amazing Finals in Lugano

(Lugano August 25 08) An enthusiastic audience, an extraordinary weather and the beautiful cornice of the Foce of Cassarate for major finals: Sunday late in the evening, the pair composed of the Cuban Lazaro MILIÁN CARVAJAL and the Italian Roberto BURAGINA awards the only stage of the WVBF PROTOUR Beach Volleyball World Championships 2008 in Switzerland. For women, the American Liz Pagano and Casey MCFARLIND won the Final.

All participants and spectators who came by thousands have expressed their joy for the second edition of WVBF PROTOUR Beach Volleyball in Lugano: three days of high competition, presented by Cornèrcard and organized by the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF) with the support of "Dicastero Sport" of the City of Lugano, have found an ideal location and final (already confirmed for the edition 2009) in the Foce Cassarate, which is now confirmed as an idyllic place for this spectacular sport. A success thus for a tournament, which saw Sunday evening, after three days of intense emotions, the pair formed by the Cuban Lazaro MILIÁN CARVAJAL and the Italian Roberto BURIGINA, reach the pinnacle of Lugano.

Both athletes took the upper hand over the talented Gregor LAH (winner of the 2007 edition) and Said SOUIKANE respectively bearing the colours of Slovenia and the United States.
Third and narrowly missing the final pair composed of the Espagnol David Sergi LLOP and TEN, after an interminable and exciting set, where they overcome the pair of the Brazilian Santos Pereira JUNIOR and the Italian BRITO.

Among women, the pair "made in USA" formed by the two ladies of San Diego, Liz PAGANO and Casey MCFARLIND, won the supreme title, beating the pair composed of "la Regina del tour", the Brazilian Angie GONZALES and of the Slovenian Sara HABJAN.
Third Women's of the Tournament, the two Italian Giuliana Di EMANUELE and Loredana CANATO.

The President of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyballl Federation, Jean-Pierre Seppey, enthusiastically congratulated all volunteers, partners and especially Paolo Tarchini, Chairman of Organizing Committee, the Co-Chairman, Davide Miozzari, and Viero Foglia, coordinator, for the great dedication and work done. The WVBF President invited Ticino and Switzerland to have the eyes now turn to the future and to the organization of the Men Volleyball World Cup to be held from 8 to 14 December 08 in Cadempino.

The World Federation of Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (FMVB / WVBF), the Organizing Committee and sports Sayaluca society, thanked the sponsors through which competitions were held: Cornèrcard, GARLIC, Axius, Dumas constructions, Schelde Sports, Rosato , Allencox, Sebastian, Les fils Maye, Giornale del Popolo (media partner) and Eventopolis (communication).

The WVBF Protour continues; next step in Catania from 29 to 31 August 2008.

Internorm WVBF Protour heading for Bolzano, Italy

(Lausanne on June 9th, 08) The World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF) is proud to host within its Protour Beach Volleyball Tournament Internorm WVBF protour Bolzano, to be held from 4th to 6th of July 2008 for the Men, and from the 5th to 6th of July 2008 for the Ladies. The tournament of Bolzano so joins the other prestigious cities such as Cochabamba in Bolivia, Lugano in Switzerland, Mexico and Santo Domingo in Dominican Republic within WVBF protour 2008.

A press conference took place to Bolzano on June 4th, 2008 in front of a wide flowerbed of media and sponsors. The promoter of the tournament, Mr. Kurt Anrather, predicts that the tournament of Beach Volleyball Internorm WVBF protour Bolzano " This will be the most beautiful and the most important tournament of the year". According to the Vice Mayor of Bolzano, Mr. Elmar Pichler Rolle, the tournament Beach Volleyball Internorm WVBF protour Bolzano "will contribute International brilliance to Bolzano whose region counts already more of 27millions overnight stays a year, the fifth moste important tourist region of Italy ".

The President of the Italian Federation of Volleyball and Beach Volleyball (FIBV), Mr. Vittorio Silvestri, said “I am proud that Bolzano represents the 1st tournament of the world competitions WVBF in Italy“.

Finally the President of the World Volleyball and Beach Volleyball Federation (WVBF), Mr. Jean Pierre Seppey, congratulates the organizers insisting on the principle that children and adolescents play together during the tournament, and after on the occasion of a kids camp, an action which suits perfectly to the values of ethics and development which the WVBF advocates, defends and applies.