by Dorothy Vouri Moli & VVF Media
The Volley4Change (V4C) program has officially landed on the shores of Tanna Island, the gateway to TAFEA Province, marking an historic milestone for volleyball development in the southern province.
The VVF initiative, which aims to promote both volleyball and sitting volleyball, and the benefits of sport and physical activity for health and well-being in communities, and as a foundation for improving life skills, is expected to continue its expansion to the outer islands in the near future.
V4C morning ‘theory’ sessions done and celebrated
For the first time, the program has been introduced to the people of Tanna and nearby islands, through a hands-on workshop led by V4C sport for development officer and program coordinator, Stanley Toa. The 4-day workshop, which began on Monday, combines both theory and practical sessions, offering participants a comprehensive introduction to the sport.
Participants from across Tanna — including representatives from various area councils and Aneityum Island — gathered to take part in the workshop. The V4C initiative is also supporting a broader effort by the Tafea Sports Committee to rejuvenate dormant sporting leagues across the province.
Tafea Volleyball President Jack Roger hailed the arrival of the program as an “historic milestone” for volleyball in the south.
Tafea Volleyball President Jack Roger
“Volleyball used to be a sport loved and well played by islanders, but for some time now it has been dormant, just because there are no active leagues that should arouse more participation,” he said.
Toa kicked off the V4C workshop, which included the Referee Training course with theoretical sessions for local referees, introducing them to the fundamental rules of beach volleyball, indoor volleyball, and sitting volleyball. The training also included referee signal signs and line judge guidelines, aiming to build local capacity in officiating and game management.
President Roger expressed his gratitude to the Vanuatu Volleyball Federation for extending its outreach to the southern provinces, calling it a sign of renewed hope for the sport in Tafea. He expressed optimism that this foundational step would lead to greater opportunities and long-term growth for volleyball in Tafea.
With the successful launch of the V4C program in Tanna, the future of volleyball in Tafea looks set for a strong revival, beginning with grassroots education and community engagement. The Volley4Change program, which is Australian government funded under the Team Up initiative, is also delivered in Shefa and Sanma provinces, and has been introduced through V4C Awareness sessions to communities in Torba Province.
