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2013 Inductee Vyacheslav Zaytsev Passes Away

6/12/2023

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Russia's Vyacheslav Zaytsev at his IVHF Induction in 2013
PictureIvan Zaytsev shared his dad's passing in this post.
The volleyball world is mourning the passing of Vyacheslav Alekseyevich Zaytsev (Russian: Вячеслав Алексеевич Зайцев).  The champion of the 1980 Olympic Games and the long-time captain of the USSR national team has died at the age of 70.

​His son, Italian Men's National Team member and professional volleyball player at Lube, Ivan Zaytsev, announced his dad's passing on Instagram on June 12, 2023 saying - “Goodbye, dad ...have a good trip, rest now if you can."

The elder Zaytsev (a 2013 IVHF Inductee) paired with teammate Aleksandr Savin, a 2010 Volleyball Hall of Fame inductee, to form one of the most dominating setter-hitter pairs to ever play the game.  Zaytsev was adept at delivering quick sets to his favorite hitter leading to dominating victories and international titles along the way.  Zaytsev was also well-known as among the best blocking setters in the game.

"It is with profound sadness, the volleyball world bids farewell to a true legend and a cherished member of our Hall of Fame family," said George Mulry, IVHF Executive Director. "Vyacheslav Zaytsev's exceptional talents and contributions to the sport of volleyball have left an indelible mark on the fabric of history. His enduring legacy will forever be enshrined within these hallowed walls, reminding us of the profound impact he had."

Making his debut in 1969 with Russian club Avtomobilist as a 17 year old schoolboy, Zaytsev quickly established himself as a leader and force on the court.  In 1971 he won his first European Championship and by 1977 he had become captain of the national team for USSR.

Zaytsev was a key player for Avtomobilist and the Soviet National team throughout most of the 1970s and 1980s- 20 year span of international competition that includes two gold medals and two silver medals at the FIVB World Championship, two gold medal and a silver at the FIVB World Cup, and seven gold medals at the European Championships among many other accomplishments.

Zaytsev was considered one of the best setters in the world, being named the most valuable player of the 1981 FIVB World Cup, best defensive player of the 1977 FIVB World Cup and included in the list of annual 24 best players of the USSR 17 times.

Perhaps Zaytsev’s biggest accomplishments, however, came at the Olympic Games.  Representing the USSR in three Olympic Games, Zaytsev netted the gold medal at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow and led his team to the silver medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games and again at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games.

He was one of the first Russian players to play professional club volleyball abroad and spent five seasons competing in Italy from 1987 to 1992.  He played for Olio Venturi Spoleto the first two seasons with the team moving into the top Serie A1 division the second season.  Zaytsev played in Serie A2 the next two seasons with Sanyo Agrigento and G.S. Citta di Casello before his final season with Citta di Castello returning to the top division.  At the age of 40, Zaytsev played his last International match while playing for the Swiss club “Lugano” and quickly focused full-time on coaching.

As a coach, he adapted many of the volleyball techniques introducred by other coaches to retain the Russian pre-eminence in men’s volleyball competition.  He coached the Russian Men’s National Team from 1996-1997 and led them to the bronze medal at the 1997 FIVB World League.  He coached the Belogorie club to the silver medal in the Russian Championship five times and in 2007, he helped the Dynamo women’s club win the Russian Championship.

Zaytsev will be forever remembered for his long career, remarkable success, impeccable setting skills on the court and his inspirational leadership.

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Induction Class of 2023 and Award Winners Announced

5/22/2023

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CLICK THE VIDEO ABOVE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CLASS OF 2023
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​HOLYOKE, Mass., May 22, 2023 - The International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) is proud to present its induction class of 2023, to be honored on October 21 in Holyoke. The class includes six members across four disciplines who were at the top of the game in their respective category, setting the standard and making history en route to being honored with this prestigious recognition.   

The 37th IVHF Induction class includes the following members: Olympic gold medalist and four-time Olympian Phil Dalhausser (United States, beach male player); two-time Olympic medalist and five-time FIVB World Tour Champion Larissa França Maestrini (Brazil, beach female player); three-time Olympic medalist and iconic setter with a twenty year career Katsutoshi Nekoda (Japan, indoor male player); four-time Olympian and three time Olympic medalist Yumilka Ruiz (Cuba, indoor female player); Olympic medalist and longtime professional and National Team coach Silvano Prandi (Italy, coach); and longtime administrator within various national and international federations and the first member to represent Thailand in the IVHF, Shanrit Wongprasert (Thailand, leader).

Also announced are four special award winners, recognized for their contributions to the IVHF or the sport of volleyball itself. They include the AVP (Court of Honor), the Homewood Suites Holyoke / Susan Concepcion (William G. Morgan Award) and outgoing American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Executive Director Kathy DeBoer (Mintonette Award). Also honored earlier in 2023 was Hector “Picky” Soto (Puerto Rico) with the Mayoral Award of Excellence. 

“Since 1985, the IVHF has had the distinct honor of inducting the legends of our sport while recognizing them for their storied careers and numerous accomplishments,” said IVHF President Steve Bishop, also the President of the Florida Region of USA Volleyball. “This year we look forward to welcoming another amazing class of inductees, along with several very deserving special award winners. We cannot wait to create new memories with this 2023 class of award winners. So many of the world’s greatest volleyball athletes, coaches, administrators, officials and leaders have made the trip to Holyoke, MA, USA, the birthplace of volleyball, to have their names and plaques added to the Wall of Honor, and to experience the pinnacle moment as their name is called and their story is captured forever. We invite everyone to join us for this incredible celebration.”       

All told, the IVHF has inducted 161 individuals from 25 countries into its historic Hall of Fame – those totals will rise to 167 inductees from 26 countries after the 2023 event. More detailed information on each inductee can be found below. 

"The achievements of the class of 2023 are undeniably extraordinary," stated IVHF Executive Director George Mulry. "From exhibiting unparalleled dominance in both indoor and beach volleyball across for more than sixty years to overseeing structure and competition for an entire continent, the IVHF is privileged to recognize these deserving individuals, along with our award recipients. Each honoree brings a unique story that will be shared with the world and we invite you to join us in Volleyball City – Holyoke, Massachusetts - to witness the celebration in person."

The 2023 International Volleyball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place in Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA on Saturday, October 21, 2023. The event is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, and ticket packages are available online at www.ivhf.org. 

Volleyball enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up for an IVHF membership which will provide behind-the-scenes and exclusive content before, during and after Induction Weekend. More information on the IVHF membership program can be found on the organization’s website. 

About the IVHF
Located in Volleyball City - Holyoke, Massachusetts - the city where volleyball was created, the IVHF is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring the legends, recognizing the greats, and preserving the history of volleyball worldwide. The IVHF museum is home to over 160 inductees from 25 different countries and over 5,000 square feet of volleyball history. Thousands of people visit the IVHF museum each year to learn about the game and experience the exhibits. Best known for its annual marquee Induction Celebration honoring the game’s elite, the Hall of Fame also operates youth, collegiate, and recreational programs annually in New England.  For more information on the induction events, please visit the Hall’s website at www.ivhf.org or email info@ivhf.org. 

Included in the 2023 Induction class are:
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Phil Dalhausser (United States, Beach)
  • A four-time Olympian in men’s beach volleyball, won Gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics with 2021 IVHF Inductee Todd Rogers.
  • Won 62 AVP titles, 38 FIVB gold medals and an Olympic Gold Medal. 
  • From 2006-2018 Dalhausser won at least one FIVB title each year, and the 13-year streak was the second longest in Tour history behind Brazil's Emanuel Rego (14 straight seasons).
  • Won the FIVB World Championship in Gstaad, Switzerland – the first such victory in U.S. Men’s Beach Volleyball history. 
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Larissa França Maestrini (Brazil, Beach)
  • Winningest international beach player of all-time with 62 career titles on the FIVB Tour
  • A three-time Olympian winning bronze at the 2012 London Olympics and a fourth-place finish 2016 Rio Games
  • She is an FIVB World Tour Champion and a five-time FIVB World Championship winner or medalist
  • Larissa formed a successful partnership with Juliana Felisberta da Silva in 2004, and the duo went on to dominate the FIVB Tour for several years. They won their first FIVB World Tour event in 2005 and went on to win a total of 45 titles together, including the FIVB World Championship in 2011
  • Named FIVB Team of the Year nine times: 2005 (Juliana Felisberta), 2006 (Juliana Felisberta), 2007 (Juliana Felisberta), 2009 (Juliana Felisberta), 2010 (Juliana Felisberta), 2011 (Juliana Felisberta), 2012 (Juliana Felisberta), 2015 (Talita Antunes), 2017 (Talita Antunes)
  • In addition to her success on the FIVB Tour, Larissa won several national and international championships, including the Pan American Games and the South American Games.​
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Katsutoshi Nekoda (Japan, Indoor)
  • Setter for the Japanese national volleyball team from the 1960’s to 1980.
  • A four-time Olympian and winner of three medals - gold at the 1972 games in Munich, silver at the 1968 games, and bronze at the 1964 Tokyo games.
  • Invented and popularized the ceiling serve, a serve where the ball is hit up towards the lights in the ceiling making it difficult to judge the landing.
  • Named Best setter of the 1969 and 1977 FIVB World Cup and Best setter at the 1970 FIVB World Championships.
  • Widely regarded as the most iconic player on the dominant Japanese Men’s National Team at the time.
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Yumilka Ruiz (Cuba, Indoor)
  • Represented Cuba in four consecutive Summer Olympics, starting in 1996.
  • Won gold medals at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney games; and bronze at the 2004 Athens games.
  • Won 16 medals, from gold to bronze, over a 12-year span, including Olympics, World Championships, World Grand Prix, World Cup, and Pan American Cup, to name a few.
  • Named Most Valuable Player at the 2002 Pan-American Cup and 2003 NORCECA Championships.
  • Named Best Spiker at the 2004 FIVB World Grand Prix and 2005 Pan-American Cup.
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Silvano Prandi (Italy, Coach)
  • Prandi was the first Italian coach to take the jump into professionalism.  He has coached ten different professional teams in Italy and France from 1976 to present winning national and European championships along the way.
  • He led the Italian Men’s National team from 1982-1986 to a bronze medal at the 1984 Olympic Games.
  • Was twice the head coach of the Bulgarian Men’s National team (2008-2010 & 2019-2021) leading them to a bronze medal at the 2009 European Championships in Turkey.
  • Prandi is known for his tactical expertise and ability to motivate his players. He has been praised for his innovative approach to the game which has helped him achieve success both domestically and internationally.
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Shanrit Wongprasert (Thailand, Leader)
  • Served as Zonal Vice President and Secretary General of the Asian Volleyball Confederation
  • Member of the FIVB Board of Administration since 1992.  
  •  In 2019, he was awarded the Olympic Council of Asia's Merit Award for his outstanding service to the development of sports in Asia.
  • Held various positions within the Thailand Volleyball Association (TVA) over the course of his career including serving as its CEO for several years
  • Helped organize and oversee AVC competitions in indoor and beach volleyball.
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Included in the 2023 Special Awards categories are:

AVP (Court of Honor)
  • Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) produces, markets and distributes volleyball events worldwide, including the popular AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour.  
  • 27 IVHF Inductees have participated in professional AVP events.
  • Established in 1988 and updated in 2023, the Court of Honor award is given to a group, corporation, organization, or team/program in recognition of significant contribution and commitment to the sport of volleyball for at least ten years (does not have to be consecutive).

Kathy DeBoer (Mintonette Medallion of Merit)
  • American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Executive Director since 2006.
  • With her mantra of “Make volleyball matter,” DeBoer has been a tireless advocate for the sport working to create more opportunities for players and coaches.
  • Her name has been synonymous with growth and change for over 17 years, leading the way for NCAA beach volleyball to become an NCAA Championship sport, helping to provide seed money and resources to grow men’s and boys’ volleyball, and so much more.
  • Created in 1996 and updated in 2023 to honor the original name that volleyball’s inventor, William G. Morgan assigned to the sport which he invented in 1895, the Mintonette Medallion of Merit is awarded in recognition of significant individual achievement and dedication to the sport of volleyball or the International Volleyball Hall of Fame for at least ten years (does not have to be consecutive).

Homewood Suites / Susan Concepcion (William G. Morgan Award)
  • The Official Induction Headquarters Hotel since 2011
  • The Homewood Suites and Susan Concepcion consistently deliver a world-class experience for IVHF guests.
  • Created in 1994 and updated in 2023 to honor the founder of volleyball, the William G. Morgan Award is given to a group, corporation, or organization in recognition of significant support and promotion of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame for at least ten years (does not have to be consecutive). 

Hector “Picky” Soto (Mayoral Award of Excellence)
  • All-time great Puerto Rican men’s indoor player and a 2019 inductee to the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame.
  • Picky captured three Central America & Caribbean Games gold medals with the Puerto Rican Men’s National Team and was named Top Scorer of the 2006 FIVB World Championship (271 points) and 2007 FIVB World Cup.  Picky’s 271 points still stand as the record for most points in an FIVB World Championship. ​
  • Established in 2023 to recognize a person, group or organization that has directly contributed to the sport of volleyball or the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and represents the ideals and spirit of the City of Holyoke.  The award is given at the discretion of the sitting Mayor of Holyoke with approval by the IVHF Board of Directors. 

For more Information, contact;
George Mulry, IVHF Executive Director (E-Mail: george.mulry@ivhf.org, Phone: 413-536-0926) 
444 Dwight Street / Holyoke, Massachusetts  USA 01040 / Website: www.ivhf.org
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INTERNATIONAL VOLLEYBALL HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC REBRAND

5/19/2023

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HOLYOKE - The International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) has announced an organization rebrand to align with its strategic vision to be recognized as the authority on the history and excellence of volleyball around the world.  

The rebrand will encompass both the visual identity as well as the purpose, vision, goals and capabilities for the Hall to drive outreach, fundraising, exposure and growth. A fully realized brand strategy will cast the Hall further forward, aligned with the surge in popularity of volleyball around the globe.

As the hall of fame for volleyball around the world, the organization will now officially be known as both the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and the IVHF. Utilizing the acronym of IVHF builds upon the prestige and equity of the existing brand, while leveling up the organization to meet other similar volleyball institutions, whose names have evolved in similar ways, bringing meaning and value to the unique but accessible name.
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Steve Bishop, IVHF Board President commented: “As volleyball continues to grow domestically and internationally, it is important that the brand of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame clearly positions the organization for recognition in every continent and every discipline of the sport worldwide.  This rebrand process allowed the IVHF to reflect on the history and mission of the organization while also looking forward to where we want to be strategically in the global volleyball family.  This was an important project that will help to highlight the IVHF and honor this great sport well into the future.”  

The Hall is on the cusp of major change highlighted by the creation of its International Media Advisory Group comprising media representatives, blog owners, and social media influencers from around the globe that will help create and share stories of volleyball history online and in the physical museum. With change and expansion, branded materials often need to be produced, making this an ideal time for this endeavor.

“The IVHF is poised for expanded recognition nationally and globally due to the excellent leadership and contributions of its board of directors, advisors, and supporters,” said IVHF Executive Director George Mulry. “It is important we create the foundation for a strong brand that accurately represents our purpose, goals, and vision for the future.  We’ve experienced incredible growth over the last decade and our brand new identity and logo will honor our roots while representing who we are today and where we are going tomorrow."

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The tools and resources of the rebrand, including a corporate strategic review, were part of an in-kind donation from is+at, a prestigious strategic brand house out of New York City led by Heather Furman and Matthew Thornton that are both big supporters of international volleyball and the IVHF. The timing and offering of this donation was utilized by a special work group, the IVHF Marketing Committee, and the IVHF Board of Directors to create the final brand concepts and marks. 

The new brand mark will be rolled out throughout the remainder of 2023 including transitioning the website to www.IVHF.org and will include new branding for the Induction Ceremony, to be held October 21, 2023 in Holyoke, Massachusetts.

Tickets are on sale for the 2023 Induction with the Class of 2023 to be announced on May 22. For Induction info and to purchase tickets, click here. 
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About International Volleyball Hall of Fame
Located in Holyoke, Massachusetts - the birthplace of volleyball - the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring the legends, recognizing the greats, and preserving the history of volleyball. The IVHF Museum is home to more than 160 inductees from 25 countries and over 5,000 square feet of volleyball history. Thousands of people from around the world visit the museum each year to learn about the game and experience the exhibits. Best known globally for its annual Induction Celebration honoring the sport’s elite, the IVHF also supports more than a dozen youth, high school and collegiate competitions and programs annually.
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2023 IVHF Fan Vote Launched

4/3/2023

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CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW
HOLYOKE - Have you ever wanted to pick a Hall of Fame inductee? Now is your chance! The list of 16 nominees for the 2023 International Volleyball Hall of Fame Induction Celebration has been announced, and fans are encouraged to participate in the Fan Vote presented by Mizuno, officially open now through April 16, 2023. 
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Fans can vote daily for as many nominees as they feel are deserving, and are encouraged to share the information with their networks to highlight their favorite nominees. The top six Fan Vote selections will be entered onto the official ballot, from which the IVHF International Selection Committee (composed of all living inductees) select the prestigious Class of 2023 International Volleyball Hall of Fame Inductees. 

“On behalf of our board of directors, we invite the world to help us with our 2023 nominees.” stated Steve Bishop, IVHF President. “We seek more engagement with our national and international volleyball family and this is a great way for volleyball enthusiasts to get involved.  Our past inductees date back to 1985, when the founder of our sport, William G. Morgan, was inducted posthumously for his pioneering spirit back in 1895. While the rules have changed a bit over the years, the stars and legends that have impacted our sport continue to move us forward and they deserve recognition on the world’s highest stage. I invite all volleyball fans to get involved and support the IVHF Fan Vote.”


The new class of inductees will be announced on May 23, 2023.  The 2023 IVHF Induction Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023 in Holyoke, Mass., the birthplace of volleyball. The Celebration is open to the public and tickets will go on sale at VolleyHall.org on April 17. The ceremony will be streamed live online to a global audience for those unable to attend the event in person. 

"Fan involvement in the selection process for the International Volleyball Hall of Fame has always been important, as volleyball fans around the world are so passionate about their favorite players, coaches, and contributors.” noted George Mulry, IVHF Executive Director “We want to capture that enthusiasm and make sure those greats are recognized alongside the legends who have already been enshrined. We encourage everyone to vote daily and share this information to help pick our 2023 IVHF Induction class." ​​
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2023 NOMINEES

INDOOR MALE PLAYER
  • Kim HO-CHUL (Korea)
  • Ivan MILJKOVIC (Serbia)
  • Katsutoshi NEKODA (Japan)
  • Raul QUIROGA (Argentina)

INDOOR FEMALE PLAYER
  • Rose MAGERS-POWELL (USA)
  • Kumi NAKADA (Japan)
  • Yumilka RUIZ (Cuba)
  • Zhang RONGFANG (China)

BEACH PLAYER
  • Phil DALHAUSSER (USA)
  • LARISSA França Maestrini (BRA)

COACH
  • Siegfried KOHLER (Germany)
  • Silvano PRANDI (Italy)

LEADER/CONTRIBUTOR
  • Gabriel CHEREBETIU Romania/Mexico)
  • Shanrit WONGPRASERT (Thailand)

PARAVOLLEY
  • Kari MILLER-ORTIZ - ParaVolley Player (USA)
  • Hadi REZAEI - ParaVolley Coach (Iran)
CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW
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INDOOR MALE PLAYER

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INDOOR FEMALE PLAYER

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BEACH PLAYER

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COACH

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LEADER

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PARAVOLLEY

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PeoplesBank Donates $5,000 to Support Local IVHF Programming

3/29/2023

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PeoplesBank's Christina Bordeau (Banking Center Manager) and Clare Ladue (Regional Manager) with IVHF Executive Director George Mulry at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame

HOLYOKE - PeoplesBank affirms its commitment to the IVHF with $5,000 donation to support local programming. 

Since the founding of the Hall of Fame in 1978, PeoplesBank has taken a strong position of leadership regarding the Hall and its programs including sponsorship of major events and its officers' serving on the Hall's board of directors  In 2003, PeoplesBank was awarded the IVHF William G. Morgan Award for its service to the community and the Volleyball Hall of Fame.  

"We are very thankful for the continued support from PeoplesBank," IVHF Executive Director George Mulry said. "Their generous donation will support our on-going youth programming in Western Massachusetts that includes boys and girls all-star games and tournaments as well as the IVHF's annual Induction Celebration."

The grant was made as part of the bank's Community Care charitable giving program which, in 2022, included $2.3 million in grants and sponsorships to thousands of non-profits in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut.  

"PeoplesBank has a natural connection with the International Volleyball Hall of Fame – we both share Holyoke as our birthplace," said Matthew Bannister, PeoplesBank Senior Vice President for Marketing & Corporate Responsibility. "Past and present co-exist for the IVHF – preserving and honoring the history of volleyball, even as they are fostering the love of the sport in the next generation.  We’re proud to support the sport and the City, and to welcome the players and visitors coming from around the region and globe to Holyoke."

About Peoplesbank
PeoplesBank is a leader in innovation, corporate responsibility, sustainability, and employee engagement. As the largest community bank in the market, we have a unique ability to help the communities we serve through volunteer efforts and millions of dollars in donations to charitable and civic causes. Our associates devote an average of 10,000 hours to volunteer work each year, and 74 of the bank’s associates have served on the boards of directors and committees of 54 nonprofit organizations in the area.  PeoplesBank is a mutual bank and therefore responsible to our depositors, employees, and the community. This organizational structure allows us to focus on the long-term viability of the bank and the best interests of our customers who are served through our 20 banking centers located in Massachusetts and Connecticut.

About International Volleyball Hall of Fame
Located in Holyoke, Massachusetts - the birthplace of volleyball - the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving, honoring and promoting the sport of volleyball at every level - men and women, amateur and professional players, coaches and contributors, in the United States and internationally. The IVHF Museum is home to more than 160 inductees from 25 countries and over 5,000 square feet of volleyball history. Thousands of people from around the USA and the world visit the museum each year to learn about the game and experience the exhibits. Best known globally for the annual Induction Celebration honoring the sport’s elite, the IVHF also supports and operates more than a dozen youth, high school and collegiate competitions and programs annually in the New England area. 
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Pedro "Pete" Velasco Dies at 85

3/24/2023

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Pedro "Pete" Velasco died at home in Pahoa, Hawaii USA on March 21, 2023.  A 1997 Hall of Fame Inductee, Pete was a starting player on the U.S. Men’s Olympic Volleyball team in Tokyo in 1964, serving as team captain, and again in Mexico City in 1968.

Pete first appeared on the national volleyball scene at the United States Volleyball Championships in Seattle in 1956, his freshman year at the University of Denver, as a member of the Denver YMCA team. He returned to his Hawaiian Island home the following year, hooking up briefly with the Central Hawaii YMCA team, before a long and glorious relationship with the Outrigger Canoe Club.

As part of the Outrigger team, Pete took the mainland by storm, beginning a ten-year run of first team All-American Team honors in 1962, and was also named the National Tournament “Most Valuable Player” in 1965.

Not content with just winning over the country, Pete joined the United States National team and represented Uncle Sam in the 1963 Pan American Games in Sao Paulo, Brazil and again in 1967, when the U.S. Team won the Gold Medal at the Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Canada.

When the XVIII Olympiad opened in Tokyo, Japan in 1964, volleyball was officially presented to the world, and leading the U.S. Olympic Volleyball team onto the floor was its team captain, Pete Velasco. He returned to the Olympic forum in Mexico City four years later as a member of the 1968 US Olympic Team, which scored a tremendous victory in the early going, upsetting the highly favored Soviet team in pool play.

After the ’68 Olympics, Pete decided to return to school, but still teamed up with John Lowell, the assistant Olympic coach in Mexico, playing the 1969 and ’70 seasons at Church College in Hawaii. The honors also followed Pete home, as he earned collegiate All-American status in both years, and was named the Outstanding College Athlete of America Award recipient in 1970.

The year 1970 was doubly rewarding to Pete as the USVBA named him an “All-Time Great Player” award recipient as well, in recognition of his many achievements over the years.

While Pete retired from national competition following the 1972 Nationals in Salt Lake City, the honors still continued. In 1978, he was the first volleyball player elected to the Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. Pete was appointed AAU Junior Olympic Volleyball Development Chairman in 1979, and was named to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Hall of Fame in 1980.

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Puerto Rico's Hector 'Picky' Soto Honored with Inaugural IVHF Mayoral Award of Excellence

2/15/2023

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Hector ‘Picky’ Soto, a prominent Puerto Rican volleyball player and a 2019 inductee to the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame, received the inaugural IVHF Mayoral Award of Excellence on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at the Teatro Renacimiento in Arroyo, Puerto Rico by Joshua Garcia - Mayor of the City of Holyoke and IVHF Board Member. 

Joining Mayor Garcia at the special presentation was Arroyo Mayor Mr. Eric Roman, Noel Marrero & Jesus Prieto of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, Puerto Rican Senate Member Gretchen Hau, and members of the Massachusetts House of Representatives Carlos Gonzalez and Pat Duffy (through her aide Juan Anderson-Burgos).

​“Picky Soto, the Pride of Puerto Rico, is a volleyball superstar,” Mayor Joshua Garcia said. “He has been a high scorer and a Most Valuable Player from his college days in Indiana to his professional career that brought him from Puerto Rico to Italy, Russia, Japan, Korea, Belgium, Turkey, and Tunisia. As Mayor of the City of Holyoke, the Birthplace of Volleyball, it was my honor and privilege to recognize Arroyo native Picky Soto with the inaugural Mayoral Award of Excellence.”


“I'm grateful,” Soto said. “Coming out of a small place (Arroyo) compared to the world, it is difficult to process this recognition. It's a lot to process to have the International Hall of Fame recognize my career.  I have the opportunity to receive this award, but many more citizens deserve it."

Soto thanked his parents, María and Héctor, for being responsible for taking him around Puerto Rico to play since he was a child, his family of four, with his wife Amnerys, who accompanied him around the world when he played. And he thanked his teammates on the National Team, like the present Enrique Escalante, who helped him shine on the court, and his teachers in volleyball, like the present Frankie Santana and César Díaz, in addition to the late Carlos Arroyo.

“Thank you for getting me out of basketball. I thank you, said the 6'7 tall player with a great leap to his teachers”, said Soto.
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“On behalf of the IVHF Board of Directors, we welcome Mr. Hector ‘Picky’ Soto as the inaugural recipient of the newly established Mayoral Award of Excellence,” commented IVHF President Steve Bishop.  “Mr. Soto’s contributions to volleyball and the Federation of Puerto Rico are numerous.  He has a storied career that merits recognition and this award will record his name in history alongside some of the sport’s greatest athletes, coaches, officials and leaders from around the world.  We celebrate Mr. Soto and welcome him to the IVHF family.”

Picky captured 3 Central America & Caribbean Games gold medals with the Puerto Rican Men’s National Team and was named Top Scorer of the 2006 FIVB World Championship (271 points) and 2007 FIVB World Cup.  Picky’s 271 points still stand as the record for most points in an FIVB World Championship. ​

The International Volleyball Hall of Fame Mayoral Award of Excellence was created in 2023 as an opportunity to recognize a person, group or organization that has directly contributed to the sport of volleyball or the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and represents the ideals and spirit of the City of Holyoke, Massachusetts – the birthplace of volleyball. The award will be given at the discretion of the sitting Mayor of Holyoke supported by the IVHF Board of Directors.
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About the IVHF
Located in Holyoke, Massachusetts - the birthplace of volleyball - the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring the legends, recognizing the greats, and preserving the history of volleyball worldwide. The Hall of Fame museum is home to more than 160 inductees from 25 countries and over 5,000 square feet of volleyball history. Thousands of people visit the Hall of Fame museum each year to learn about the game and experience the exhibits. Best known for its annual Induction Celebration honoring the game’s elite, the IVHF also operates over a dozen youth, high school, and collegiate competitions and programs annually. You can be a part of honoring and preserving the history of volleyball by joining the IVHF Membership Program. To learn more, visit https://www.volleyhall.org/membership.html.
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No. 3 Springfield College Topples No. 11 NYU for Seventh Straight IVHF Morgan Classic Title

2/12/2023

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The Springfield College men's volleyball team won the International Volleyball Hall of Fame Morgan Classic Championship on Saturday night in a straight-set victory over nationally-ranked NYU.  

Springfield, which was ranked third in the latest AVCA Division III National Coaches Poll, improved to 10-1 on the season.  Appearing in its 11th-straight Morgan Classic Championship match, this marks the eighth time, and seventh straight time that Springfield has been crowned the champion. 
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For the second-straight year, Jarrett Anderson (San Jose, Calif.) was named the Most Outstanding Player as he produced a team-best 11 kills on a .423 hitting percentage to go along with 10 digs, four aces and two blocks.  Dylan Mulvaney (Reston, Va.) had 32 assists in helping the Pride hit .427 and Chris Rouleau (Bay Shore, N.Y.) added seven kills and two blocks in the middle as the duo also earned All-Tournament Team honors. 

The weekend also featured #15 Rutgers-Newark and MIT who faced off in the consolation match with Rutgers-Newark emerging with the 3 set sweep.

The Classic Weekend began, as it traditionally does, with a welcoming luncheon at the IVHF Museum where the teams had an opportunity to tour the Museum, learn more about the historic tournament, and hear remarks from each coach.  


MIT head coach Todd Elwell shared the impact the Morgan Classic has not only on the participating teams but the associated clinic participants as well.

"You're going to be a light for somebody at the players clinic. You are going to say or do something that inspires someone." Elwell noted. "There are a lot of eyes on you and it is up to you to honor the game in how you handle the clinic, how you handle the match."

On Friday night, Blake Arena was full of cheers at 6:00 pm when Springfield took on MIT in the opening match.  Springfield dominated in a 3-0 sweep. At 8:00 pm, Rutgers-Newark took on NYU in a back-and-forth battle with NYU winning in 4 sets.

Saturday was another action-packed day starting with the coach's and player's clinics. 80 participants of all ages and experience levels came to learn from the top coaches, Charlie Sullivan (Springfield), Jose Pina (NYU), Aidan Albrecht (Rutgers-Newark), and Todd Elwell (MIT) in clinics led by their teams. Area players and coaches spent the morning and afternoon learning and growing their skills. 

2023 Morgan Classic All-Tournament Team:

MIT - Kevin Windish
Rutgers-Newark - Daniel Quay
NYU - Gautham Dasari
NYU - Lucas Osiecki
Springfield - Dylan Mulvaney
Springfield - Chris Rouleau 
Springfield - Jarrett Anderson (MOP)
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Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Famer to Receive Inaugural Mayoral Award of Excellence

2/9/2023

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PictureHector 'Picky' Soto (FIVB)
The International Volleyball Hall of Fame is pleased to introduce the Mayoral Award of Excellence.  The award is an opportunity to recognize a person, group or organization that has directly contributed to the sport of volleyball or the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and represents the ideals and spirit of the City of Holyoke, Massachusetts – the birthplace of volleyball. The award will be given at the discretion of the sitting Mayor of Holyoke supported by the IVHF Board of Directors.

The inaugural award will go to Hector ‘Picky’ Soto, a prominent Puerto Rican volleyball player and a 2019 inductee to the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame.  Picky captured 3 Central America & Caribbean Games gold medals with the Puerto Rican Men’s National Team and was named Top Scorer of the 2006 FIVB World Championship (271 points) and 2007 FIVB World Cup.  Picky’s 271 points still stand as the record for most points in an FIVB World Championship. 

“Picky Soto, the Pride of Puerto Rico, is a volleyball superstar,” City of Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia said. “He has been a high scorer and a Most Valuable Player from his college days in Indiana to his professional career that brought him from Puerto Rico to Italy, Russia, Japan, Korea, Belgium, Turkey, and Tunisia. As Mayor of the City of Holyoke, the Birthplace of Volleyball, it will be my honor and privilege to recognize Arroyo native Picky Soto with the inaugural Mayoral Award of Excellence.”

“On behalf of the IVHF Board of Directors, we welcome Mr. Hector ‘Picky’ Soto as the inaugural recipient of the newly established Mayoral Award of Excellence,” commented IVHF President Steve Bishop.  “Mr. Soto’s contributions to volleyball and the Federation of Puerto Rico are numerous.  He has a storied career that merits recognition and this award will record his name in history alongside some of the sport’s greatest athletes, coaches, officials and leaders from around the world.  We celebrate Mr. Soto and welcome him to the IVHF family.”

The presentation to Picky Soto will take place on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 in Arroyo, Puerto Rico.  Joining Holyoke Mayor Garcia will be the Mayor of Arroyo, Mr. Eric Roman and representatives from the Volleyball Federation of Puerto Rico.
​

About the IVHF
Located in Holyoke, Massachusetts - the birthplace of volleyball - the International Volleyball Hall of Fame is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring the legends, recognizing the greats, and preserving the history of volleyball worldwide. The Hall of Fame museum is home to more than 160 inductees from 25 countries and over 5,000 square feet of volleyball history. Thousands of people visit the Hall of Fame museum each year to learn about the game and experience the exhibits. Best known for its annual Induction Celebration honoring the game’s elite, the IVHF also operates over a dozen youth, high school, and collegiate competitions and programs annually. You can be a part of honoring and preserving the history of volleyball by joining the IVHF Membership Program. To learn more, visit https://www.volleyhall.org/membership.html.

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IVHF Western Mass. Girls High School All-Stars Announced

11/4/2022

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IVHF ANNOUNCES 2022 WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS GIRLS VOLLEYBALL ALL-STARS

The International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) is excited to announce the annual IVHF Girls High School Volleyball All-Star Teams and All-Star Showcase presented by PeoplesBank. 

The event returns for its tenth installment honoring 58 student-athletes from 26 Western Massachusetts schools. 

A
ll-Stars will be recognized for their achievements on Tuesday, November 22nd, at Holyoke Community College.  Play begins at 6:30pm with a 3-set 2nd team all-star match followed by a 3-set 1st team match at 7:30 pm.

Spectator tickets will be available at the door and include a complimentary admission pass to the International Volleyball Hall of Fame Museum.

“The IVHF is very proud to have its home in Western Massachusetts and we are very excited to have this year’s event physically in Holyoke,” said IVHF Executive Director George Mulry.  “Nowhere else in the world can call itself the Birthplace of Volleyball but Holyoke and it is a great honor to recognize and showcase these gifted high school athletes in the Birthplace of the sport.”

All-Stars were chosen by the coaches that represent the 44 girls high school varsity teams in Western Massachusetts. Season standouts Paulo Freire (6), Amherst (5), Frontier Regional (5), Longmeadow (4), and Mt. Greylock (4) led all selections. 
CLICK HERE TO MEET THE ALL-STARS AND FOR MORE INFORMATION
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