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HÀ NỘI — The Volleyball Federation of Việt Nam (VFV) has implemented several new regulations in 2024 aiming to elevate the national volleyball championship to a more professional level. The focus is on assembling national teams comprised of the most exceptional players, capable of conquering international events.

The VFV has issued a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind regulation: "Athletes who are selected to represent the national team or national youth team in international competitions must comply with summons from the VFV and the Sports Authority of Việt Nam. Failure to do so, without valid reasons (except for force majeure with VFV's approval), will result in a one-year ban from future competitions."

Lê Trí Trường, the general secretary of VFV, emphasised the significance of this regulation, stating that it enhances the athletes' and teams' sense of responsibility and honour when called to represent their country. Trường pointed out instances where athletes possessing remarkable skills were proposed for national team selection but repeatedly declined, which raised questions and provoked reactions from experts and fans alike.

"This year, the VFV is striving to create optimal conditions for volleyball teams to maintain long-term focus and stability. We also aim to ensure that teams have a full roster of talented athletes and coaches who can perform well in international tournaments. We will build upon the results achieved last year and place further emphasis on training young players, developing them into the next generation of athletes for the senior teams," Trường explained.

Players competed in the national volleyball championship last year. This year’s event is expected to become more popular. — Photo baodaknong.vn

Revolutionising competition format

In the past, the national volleyball championship has undergone several changes in its competition format in an effort to enhance quality and attractiveness. However, it has yet to achieve an ideal format. This year, the 2024 National Volleyball Championship has once again modified its competition structure, resulting in a positive impact and garnering praise from teams. The new format follows the international model adopted by countries with strong volleyball traditions.

Under the new format, nine men's teams and nine women's teams compete in a round-robin format. Unlike previous years, teams are not divided into two groups competing in separate locations. Instead, they face each other, creating numerous thrilling matches throughout the season.

The tournament retains the two-leg system, with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals. Meanwhile, the bottom four teams engage in a round-robin match to determine the two teams being relegated.

Starting from 2025, the national volleyball championship will consist of eight men's teams and eight women's teams, with one team promoted and two teams relegated.

Additionally, the men's and women's tournaments will be conducted as separate and independent events, departing from their previous joint organisation. Phase 1 of the women's tournament is scheduled to take place in Bình Phước Province, while Phase 2 will be held in Lào Cai. The men's tournaments will be hosted in Hà Tĩnh and Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu.

Trường stated that separating the two tournaments will help attract a larger fan base to volleyball matches.

An outstanding regulation introduced by the organisers of the 2024 National Volleyball Championship stipulates that teams participating in the event must also have their youth teams take part in the national youth tournament; otherwise, they will face relegation in 2025. This regulation has received high praise from professionals as it ensures a sustainable foundation for teams and for Vietnamese volleyball.

The VFV is also planning to focus on and actively participate in international tournaments with the national team, allowing athletes and clubs to take a more proactive role.

Vietnamese volleyball continues to permit teams to recruit foreign players, providing excellent opportunities for domestic players to compete abroad. Currently, three Vietnamese players - Trần Thị Thanh Thúy in Japan, Hoàng Thị Kiều Trinh and Đoàn Thị Lâm Oanh in Thailand - are making a significant impression.

Domestic clubs are fervently preparing for the upcoming season, with the Bank for Industry and Trade Club recently successful in appointing coach Nguyễn Tuấn Kiệt from the Vietnamese national women's volleyball team. VNS