Earlier this month Ukrainian communities from around Cork gathered to enjoy a day of volleyball and celebrate Stage 2 of our project.
Although the initial five-week programme of skill development and games has ended the appetite for volleyball has never been stronger, therefore communication on additional supports is already underway between VLY, Cork Sports Partnership and the Ukrainian communities.
The project is yet another joint venture between Volleyball Ireland and Cork Sports Partnership that was launched during European Week of sport in late September. The goal, to provide opportunities for Ukrainian children and adults to engage with volleyball. Arnolda Stankaitiene has been leading the project on the ground delivering weekly sessions with groups from Millstreet, Blackrock, Youghal and Blackpool. “The project has been a real success story. From the first day the groups have just wanted to play a game they love making my job of facilitating a real pleasure. The blitz and skill session today was a great way to bring the groups together and also to start planning the next steps”
A special thanks goes to Cork YMCA and Cork ETB for providing free transport that helped the players get to Turner’s Cross. Also, to Cork Volleyball Academy for hosting the fun day. Last but not least, to James Kirby and Cork Sports Partnership for their continued support of volleyball programmes as well as the fabulous merchandise of water bottles, T-shirts and bags.
Conor Flood, National Development Manager was also present in Cork and was delighted to see such a great turnout. “I am excited to see the continued growth of volleyball here in Cork. We have a lot of great partnership programmes with CSP and this one has proven to be yet another success. To be sure the activities do not end today the Ukrainian communities have been provided with equipment that will enable them to continue playing locally and Volleyball Ireland will be rolling in with further supports and opportunities as the season continues. I would like to make a special mention to Arnolda who has project led this programme from week 1. She has been a vital piece in making it all come together and so I want to thank her publicly for her dedicated work”
