The Technical Director of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Martin Melandi, has articulated the federation’s ambitious plans for the 2024 National Beach Tour, which aims to identify and nurture talent in anticipation of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Speaking in Ibadan, Oyo State, during the 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star/Open Tour at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Melandi expressed the federation’s commitment to securing a spot in the upcoming Olympics as well as participating in the Commonwealth Games set to take place in Glasgow in 2026. These events represent major milestones for Nigeria’s beach volleyball aspirations, with an overarching goal of maintaining the country’s position as a leading team within Africa.
Melandi highlighted the promising prospects of the current U-19 female players, who recently showcased exceptional talent in continental competitions. With a gold medal at the African Championship in Morocco and a commendable second place at an Olympic qualifier that offered just one ticket, these young athletes have laid a strong foundation for future success. At just 19 years old by the time of the next Olympics, these players are anticipated to gain vital experience in international competitions, which Melandi believes will enhance their chances of securing the African ticket for the Olympics. There is a sense of optimistic determination within the federation that the next Olympic outing will harness the potential of these players effectively.
In addition to nurturing talent, Melandi underscored the importance of popularizing beach volleyball across Nigeria. The federation is committed to making the sport widely accepted, and part of this strategy involves hosting events in various locations. By shifting the games around, the federation aims to broaden awareness and draw interest in the sport from different states. Melandi elaborated on the initiative to move events from major urban centers like Abuja and Lagos to other states willing to host the tournaments, thereby fostering local engagement with beach volleyball.
The technical director also believes that partnerships with organizations and philanthropists will be vital in moving the sport forward. By inviting collaboration and support from the community, the federation hopes to enhance resources and access to beach volleyball for aspiring athletes. This initiative goes beyond just talent scouting; it aims to create a robust ecosystem for the sport, which includes facilities, training resources, and funding for future events. Engaging the corporate sector and individuals with a passion for sports will be crucial in establishing a strong foundation for beach volleyball in Nigeria.
Moreover, Melandi expressed the federation’s commitment to maintaining high standards in performance, targeting podium finishes in both international and continental competitions. The strategy is not merely about participation but also about competitive success on the world stage. With a focus on building a resilient team and investing in the next generation of players, Nigeria is strategically positioning itself as a formidable contender in beach volleyball, especially as the pathway is laid for potential success in forthcoming international competitions.
In summary, the 2024 National Beach Tour represents not only a scouting opportunity for talent but also a critical step in elevating Nigeria’s beach volleyball scene. With a vision for the future that includes Olympic aspirations and Commonwealth participation, coupled with a high commitment to growing the sport’s popularity nationwide, the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, under Melandi’s leadership, is poised to embark on a promising journey that could redefine beach volleyball in the country. By fostering local talent and creating opportunities through community engagement and partnerships, the federation aims to raise the profile of beach volleyball, striving for excellence in an international arena.
