At the FIVB Women’s World Championship 2025 in Bangkok, the Volleyball Experience featured a sitting volleyball court where ParaVolley Thailand coaches guided visitors to try this adapted discipline. The aim was to promote inclusion and a shared experience between the public and athletes, strengthening recognition of Paralympic talent and creating a sense of equality among all participants.

This interactive space is part of the Volleyball Experience program, driven by the FIVB and the Volleyball Foundation, designed to connect fans with volleyball in a direct and engaging way. In previous editions, such as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, it offered full-scale courts, simulators, skill circuits, historical content and appearances by volleyball legends, all intended to create an immersive and attractive experience for fans.

Inclusion and connection with fans

The presence of sitting volleyball in the program allowed many fans to experience first-hand a Paralympic sport known for its dynamism and tactical intensity. “Having sitting volleyball in the Volleyball Experience creates a sense of equality,” said Sri-iam Sakkarat, assistant coach of the Thai team, underlining the importance of opening an inclusive space for both athletes and spectators with and without disabilities.

The initiative reflects the goal of the FIVB and World ParaVolley to use major championships as platforms to increase visibility for Paralympic disciplines, bringing adapted sports closer to new audiences and fostering participation.

A journey in evolution since 1956

Sitting volleyball, created in the Netherlands in 1956 as a rehabilitation sport, made its debut at the 1980 Paralympic Games in the men’s category and in 2004 for women. Since then, it has grown into a global discipline with World ParaVolley World Championships and a consistent presence in continental competitions.

The sport has seen significant development in Asia. The Thai men’s team has qualified for the upcoming World Cup after winning bronze at the Asian Championship held in Hangzhou (China), while the women’s team has established itself as one of the regional leaders. Both squads have also earned medals at the ASEAN Para Games, confirming Thailand’s progress in the discipline.

A future with more interactive experiences

The Volleyball Experiences concept will continue to be part of major competitions, with spaces open to the public that combine entertainment, inclusive sport and educational activities. The Volleyball Foundation and the FIVB have already indicated that this format will expand at future editions of international championships and tournaments.

As a Paralympic reference discipline within this program, sitting volleyball is set to become one of the central features of these experiences, consolidating its role in promoting volleyball as a truly global and inclusive sport.