On September 18, the Armenian Volleyball Federation (VFA) reignited its efforts for the CEV School Project ‘Play Volleyball – Grow with it’ at Khachatur Abovyan School No. 4 in Etchmiadzin. Following the summer break, a dedicated training session was organized for sixth-grade students, marking the official resumption of these important activities.
Etchmiadzin holds significant cultural and spiritual importance as Armenia`s spiritual center, housing its revered Mother Church and the seat of the nation`s religious leaders. Within this historic city, volleyball has long been a popular sport among the local community. Demonstrating its commitment to the sport, the VFA is currently hosting the U17 Boys’ and Girls’ Volleyball Championships in Etchmiadzin, attracting an impressive 20 teams from various cities across Armenia.
A notable increase in interest in volleyball among local children and youth has been observed since the groundbreaking CEV U16 Volleyball European Championship held in Yerevan last August. Coaches operating throughout Armenia confirm this surge, reporting an unprecedented number of new participants joining their teams, underscoring the championship`s positive impact.
At the local school in Etchmiadzin, a substantial number of children are already engaged in volleyball. The VFA anticipates that this figure will grow even further following the latest initiative. This expected growth is significantly bolstered by the presence of Samvel Barseghyan, a former professional volleyball player who now serves as the school`s physical education teacher, bringing invaluable expertise and inspiration to the young athletes.
During the recent training session, students were introduced to the fundamental rules of the game and familiarized themselves with essential technical skills. To ensure the continuity and effectiveness of these efforts, the Volleyball Federation of Armenia generously provided the school with new volleyballs, enabling these enriching sessions to continue throughout the academic year and foster long-term engagement with the sport.
Finley Blackwood 
Jasper Thornfield