FIVB AND IVHF JOIN FORCES TO PROMOTE LEGENDS OF THE SPORT AND INSPIRE NEW GENERATIONS

The MoU signing took place during the Class of 2025 Induction Celebration in Holyoke

The FIVB and the International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in honoring and promoting volleyball legends, recognizing outstanding contributors to the sport, and preserving the global history of volleyball. 

Headquartered in Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA, the IVHF is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the sport’s rich history. Since its founding in 1978, the IVHF has inducted 185 legends from more than 27 countries. 

Through this new partnership, the FIVB and IVHF will enhance collaboration, with the IVHF recognized as the sole international hall of fame within the global volleyball community. The two organizations will also explore opportunities for events and initiatives celebrating volleyball’s history to promote the sport and grow the Global Volleyball Movement.  

FIVB President Fabio Azevedo commented:  
“This partnership is perfectly aligned with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032. The IVHF is doing a fantastic service promoting volleyball’s values of collaboration, respect and unity, and together we will continue to honor the athletes who make our sport so special. Celebrating volleyball’s legends has also become an important part of our international events, and this partnership is another step in that journey. Together as One is more than a motto; it’s a principle that this partnership truly brings to life.” 

IVHF Executive Director George Mulry stated:  
“This historic agreement with the FIVB represents a defining moment for our sport and for the IVHF. Under Strategic Vision 2032, the FIVB has placed a strong emphasis on heritage and legacy – using the stories of our sport’s greats to both preserve its history and inspire its future. That mission aligns perfectly with what the Hall has championed since its founding. Together, we will amplify those efforts on a global scale – connecting Holyoke, the birthplace of volleyball, with fans and communities around the world and ensuring the legends of the game continue to motivate new generations.”    

IVHF Board of Directors President Steve Bishop added:
"This agreement marks an extraordinary milestone for the International Volleyball Hall of Fame and for the global volleyball family. We are deeply grateful to the FIVB for recognizing the importance of preserving and celebrating the legends of our sport. By linking the birthplace of volleyball here in Holyoke with communities worldwide, we are not only honoring our past but also creating pathways to inspire future generations. Together, we look forward to elevating the history, values, and spirit of volleyball on a truly international stage."

​The signing took place during FIVB visit of the IVHF during its Class of 2025 Induction Celebration on Saturday 18 October. Read more about the event here.