The Netherlands women`s national volleyball team boasts a rich and extensive history in the FIVB Volleyball Women`s World Championship. Since their inaugural participation in 1956, they have competed in 15 editions of the prestigious tournament. The upcoming 2025 championship will mark their 16th appearance, where they are set to compete in Pool A alongside hosts Thailand, Sweden, and Egypt.
Historically, the Dutch squad was a consistent presence but often struggled to break into the top 10, typically placing between 10th and 17th from 1956 to the early 1980s. However, the 1990s saw a positive shift, with the team achieving 9th place in 1990 and 7th in 1998. This upward trend continued into the 2000s, as they secured 9th in 2002 and 8th in 2006, consistently hovering near the elite tier.
Their most significant achievement came in 2018 in Japan, where they impressively reached the semifinals, ultimately finishing fourth – their highest-ever ranking. This remarkable performance showcased their strategic prowess, strong organization, and exceptional teamwork, marking a pivotal moment for Dutch volleyball.
While their 12th-place finish at the 2022 World Championship, which they co-hosted with Poland, might seem modest, the event itself was crucial for the sport`s development in the Netherlands. Hosting brought increased national attention to volleyball and provided local fans with a unique opportunity to witness top-tier matches on home soil.
To further bolster the team`s growth and prepare them for elite competitions, the Dutch Volleyball Federation has received substantial, targeted assistance through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program. This vital support included $216,000 in 2023 and an additional $90,000 in 2024, totaling $306,000 over two years. The funding has been specifically directed towards enhancing coaching and fostering long-term team development under the guidance of coach Felix Koslowski.
Having secured their spot in the 2025 World Championship by finishing third at the 2023 European Championship, the Netherlands are now poised for their campaign. Their Pool A fixtures include facing Sweden on August 22, Egypt on August 24, and host nation Thailand on August 26. After the experience of co-hosting in 2022, the Dutch team returns as formidable challengers, determined to achieve a stronger outcome in Thailand.
Finley Blackwood 
Oliver Wrenwick