Kamil Pavlinsky, a former indoor volleyball player who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Greece, is now a dedicated beach volleyball athlete. More importantly, he is a young man passionate about contributing positively to society. Pavlinsky recently participated in the Ios Futures tournament, where he achieved one victory during the qualification rounds.
Following his matches on the island of Ios, he shared insights into a unique initiative that combines Beach Volleyball, Olympic values, and social impact. He also expressed optimism that Greece could potentially adopt a similar model.
What are your initial impressions of the Ios tournament and how it was organised?
This is my first visit to Greece. Although I completed my master`s degree at a Greek university, all the coursework was online due to COVID-19. I found the event to be exceptionally well-organised. There were four courts available, including practice areas, and everything was set up exactly as it should be. The only real challenge was the wind, which we aren`t accustomed to. Apart from that, everything was perfect. We are used to high temperatures; in Slovakia, it can sometimes reach 40 degrees Celsius, but the wind was a new factor for us.
Do you intend to play in Greece again in the future?
Absolutely, it`s definitely in our plans. Greece isn`t just an excellent location for Beach Volleyball; it’s also a wonderful place to relax and enjoy life. We are staying in Ios until Saturday, then travelling to Santorini until Monday, before heading to Czechia. Our main objective was to qualify for the main draw. This was only our second tournament. Our first was in Prague, where we also won our initial match but lost the second. These experiences are incredibly valuable for us, and we are seeking more opportunities like this.
You are only 29 but have already achieved a great deal. One of your initiatives merges Beach Volleyball with social impact, particularly focusing on children facing disadvantages. Could you elaborate on this?
I manage several projects aimed at underprivileged children, with Beach Volleyball being a central component. My research indicated that children most excluded from sports are those residing in orphanages or from families lacking financial means. The first camp took place in Slovakia – a five-day event allowing children to try various sports and discover their preferences. Since relocating to Prague, the project has continued there, with a specific focus on Beach Volleyball.
We integrate Olympic values such as respect and friendship while teaching fundamental skills like serving and attacking. Some of these children had never even experienced playing on sand before. For them, it is an incredible opportunity. Our goal is to hold two camps annually. Our next objective is to establish year-round training programs to help these children maintain their engagement with the sport.
What was your motivation to initiate this? Was it driven by a desire to give back to society?
Precisely. Sport has enriched my life significantly, and I felt a strong desire to contribute something back. Discovering the IOC Young Leaders Programme was a truly inspiring moment for me. I applied, was accepted, and decided that Volleyball, specifically Beach Volleyball, would be my area of focus. I felt I had something valuable to offer, so I dedicated myself to this cause.
Do you believe Greece has the potential to develop a similar project?
Absolutely. I have a deep affection for this country. Greece, after all, is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. It would be a tremendous opportunity for the nation to launch such an initiative.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood