Award for Media Excellence

Established in 2024, the IVHF Award for Media Excellence is given to an individual, group or organization in recognition of outstanding media contributions and dedication to the sport of volleyball or the International Volleyball Hall of Fame  for at least three years.  The award may be given in three divisions: international, national and regional.

---

Anyone can submit a nomination for the Award for Media Excellence.

Deadline: March 1 to be considered for current year.

Any nominations submitted after the deadline will be considered for a future year.

QUESTIONS? Contact George Mulry, Executive Director, at [email protected] or (413) 536-0926.

Use the button below to submit a nomination.

AWARD FOR MEDIA EXCELLENCE NOMINATION FORM

---

2025: Paul Sunderland

​2024: Ed Chan and Bill Kauffman

---

2025: Paul Sunderland

Paul Sunderland’s voice has become synonymous with the sport of volleyball for generations of fans around the world. As a former Olympic gold medalist turned acclaimed broadcaster, Sunderland’s contributions have elevated the visibility and understanding of volleyball across television screens for more than three decades.

A standout collegiate athlete at the University of Oregon and Loyola Marymount, Sunderland went on to compete for the U.S. Men's National Team, helping lead the squad to a historic gold medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Following his retirement from competition, he seamlessly transitioned into a pioneering career in sports media.

Since the late 1980s, Sunderland has become a fixture in Olympic and NCAA volleyball coverage, known for his deep knowledge of the game, articulate analysis, and passionate storytelling. His work as the lead volleyball commentator for NBC Sports, especially during the Olympic Games, has introduced millions of viewers to the sport’s drama, athleticism, and global appeal. Whether calling a five-set Olympic thriller or a collegiate rivalry match, Sunderland’s commentary has brought insight and emotion that reflects his lifelong love for volleyball.

Beyond his on-air talents, Sunderland has been an advocate for the growth and professionalization of volleyball broadcasting, mentoring young broadcasters, supporting parity in coverage for the women’s game, and helping raise the production quality of televised volleyball worldwide. His career spans multiple networks, including NBC, ESPN, FOX, and the Pac-12 Network, and he is one of the few broadcasters with extensive credentials in both indoor and beach volleyball.

Paul Sunderland’s impact on volleyball media is unmatched—not only as a decorated athlete, but as a powerful voice that has brought the game to life for countless fans. His legacy continues to shape how the world sees, hears, and appreciates the sport of volleyball.

---

2024: Ed Chan

Ed Chan was a beloved figure in the volleyball community, known not just for his unparalleled talent as a photographer but for his genuine warmth, kindness, and deep passion for the sport. His journey with volleyball began as a hobby, but it quickly became a lifelong pursuit that would see him capturing some of the most iconic moments in the sport's history.

In 2016, Ed made a pivotal decision that would change the volleyball media landscape. Alongside his business partner and close friend, Lee Feinswog, he acquired Volleyball Magazine, transforming it into the thriving online platform VolleyballMag.com. Together, they built a media outlet that became a vital source of volleyball news, photography, and storytelling, reflecting Ed's commitment to showcasing the sport he loved.

Ed's photography wasn't just about capturing action shots; it was about capturing the essence of volleyball—the energy, emotion, and community. His work covered every level of the sport, from grassroots events to the grand stages of the Olympics and World Championships. Ed was a fixture at volleyball events across the globe, always seen with a camera in hand, ready to capture the perfect shot.

But beyond his technical skills, Ed was known for his kindness and generosity. He was a mentor to many in the volleyball and photography communities, always willing to share his knowledge, lend equipment, or offer encouragement. His positive spirit and love for the game were infectious, making him a cherished friend to players, coaches, and fellow photographers alike.

Ed's legacy extends far beyond the photographs he took. He left an indelible mark on the sport through his work with VolleyballMag.com, his dedication to promoting volleyball, and his unwavering commitment to his craft. His sudden passing in 2021 at the age of 60 was a profound loss for the volleyball world, but his contributions and the memories he created will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.

For his outstanding contributions to volleyball media and his role in elevating the sport through his photography, the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is proud to honor Ed Chan with the inaugural Award for Media Excellence.

---

2024: Bill Kauffman

Bill Kauffman was a dedicated and influential figure in the world of volleyball communications, whose contributions spanned three decades and left a lasting impact on the sport. As the first communication coordinator for the International Volleyball Hall of Fame, Bill played a crucial role behind the scenes, managing elections, researching and writing inductee biographies, producing press releases, and serving as a photographer during induction weekends.

Bill's career in volleyball communications was marked by his long tenure as the communications manager for USA Volleyball, where he served as the press officer for the women’s national pipeline through three Olympic Games. His expertise and commitment extended internationally, where he was appointed by the FIVB to oversee communications at the 2014 FIVB Women’s World Championships.

Beyond his professional work, Bill was passionate about supporting Para sports. He volunteered his talents to the World ParaVolley Communications Commission, using his skills in statistics and storytelling to increase awareness and exposure for the sport. He was also appointed to the Communications Committee of Safe Sport International, where he worked on safeguarding athletes.

Bill's impact went beyond volleyball; he was deeply involved with Angels of America’s Fallen, where he supported communications and fundraising efforts for military families who had lost loved ones.

Bill Kauffman’s sudden passing on May 20, 2023, was a significant loss to the volleyball and ParaVolley communities. 

For his outstanding contributions to the sport, the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is honored to award Bill Kauffman with the inaugural Award for Media Excellence, recognizing his lifelong dedication and the indelible mark he left on the world of volleyball.