British Volleyball needs a new long-term home for training and events, with preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles set to begin next year. The British Volleyball Federation (BVF) considers London as the ideal location.
Volleyball is one of the most popular sports in the world and is getting more and more popular in England. British Volleyball, needing a new facility after the closure of its 2012 venue, Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre, views London as the ideal location. The London Assembly supports this vision, urging the Mayor to collaborate with the BVF and London-based volleyball club IBB POLONIA LONDON to explore options.
Hina Bokhari Assembly Member, who proposed the motion, commented:
“With the Olympics in Paris having just passed and Paralympics currently still ongoing, many of us will have been thinking back to 2012 when we were celebrating the Olympics and Paralympics here in London. Back in the 2012, the volleyball competition took place in the Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre which no longer exists. With the British Volleyball Federation (BVF) looking for a new home we have called on the Mayor to work with UK Sport to provide support for British volleyball to find a new home in London, ensuring London continues to secure its reputation for the centre of UK sport and a rapidly growing sport as we look forward to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.”
Andrew Boff Assembly Member, who seconded the motion, added:
“I am very pleased to have seconded this motion which draws attention to the importance of securing a permanent training and events home for British volleyball in London. This initiative not only aligns with our city’s proud sporting heritage but also supports our athletes as they prepare for the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. By calling on the Mayor to engage with the British Volleyball Federation and IBB Polonia, we are championing the future of British volleyball and ensuring that London remains at the heart of our nation’s sporting excellence.”
As IBB Polonia London, a key player in the city’s volleyball scene, we expressed enthusiasm about this development.
Bartek Łuszcz, CEO of IBB Polonia London said:
“IBB Polonia London has existed since 1973, which is now more than 50 years. We are making our best efforts to make volleyball more and more popular, creating academies for kids such as IBB Polonia Junior Academy and Pro Volley Academy and giving them opportunities to explore this beautiful sport. Over the years, we have earned plenty of medals and national cups and competed in international competitions. We are proud and excited that volleyball will grow in London, in our city.”
This collective effort reflects a commitment to the development of volleyball and providing a lasting legacy for future generations of players.