The Dutch men`s national volleyball team is set to participate in their 14th FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. They will compete in Pool B at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, with their schedule including matches against Qatar on September 13, Romania on September 15, and a preliminary round closer against Poland on September 17.
The last time the Netherlands secured a podium finish in this prestigious tournament was 31 years ago, when they earned silver at the 1994 World Championship in Athens. This historic achievement marked a golden era for Dutch volleyball, leading to an Olympic gold medal in Atlanta just two years later and a European Championship title in 1997. Following this period of success, the team has been focused on rebuilding its roster and re-establishing itself among the elite international teams.
The current Dutch squad features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising new talent, all driven by the ambition to emulate the past successes of their national team. A key figure in their aspirations is opposite hitter Nimir Abdel-Aziz, widely recognized for his formidable attacking prowess and consistent scoring. His consistent offensive threat makes him a pivotal player and a leading personality in the sport.
Guiding the team is head coach Joel Banks, who assumed the role in 2025. Banks introduces a fresh technical approach as the squad gears up for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive tournament. His leadership focuses on fostering consistency, enhancing tactical understanding, and enabling the Netherlands to compete strongly against traditional volleyball giants.
These ambitions are significantly bolstered by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program, which allocated CHF 496,000 in 2025 towards coaching and athlete development in both volleyball and beach volleyball. This financial support is considered crucial for helping the Netherlands narrow the performance gap with the world`s leading teams.
The national league in the Netherlands remains a robust foundation for player development, essential for preparing athletes for the demanding environment of international tournaments.
Furthermore, an increasing number of Dutch athletes are now playing in top professional leagues abroad, acquiring invaluable experience by competing against elite global talent. This international exposure not only improves their individual skills but also strengthens the national team as they bring back new strategies and advanced techniques.
While the Netherlands anticipate a challenging Pool B campaign, their primary focus remains on advancing in the tournament and creating a new legacy in their World Championship history. Their current endeavors are a continuation of a persistent quest to secure a spot on the World Championship podium, a feat not achieved in over three decades.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood