The Federation Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) Men’s Nations League was held in Melbourne over a few days last week. The goal of the tournament is to revolutionise the presentation of volleyball, with more technology, and digital broadcasting making it easier for fans to engage with and understand the game.

I went to see the last 2 matches in the tournament.

Good support from locals for the Brasilian, Polish and Volleyroo teams.Baby boomers who had previously played volleyball competitively (and some still continuing to play) were in the audience….friend Janine pointed out the oldsters! HiSense is a versatile arena and was set up beautifully to showcase the volleyball matches. 

The Brazil/Argentina match was a close affair – a few points the difference. My main man in the Brazilian team in the 2016 Olympics, Wallace de Sousa, no.8, substantially contributed to his team winning 3-0 against Italy in the finals.  The GOLD medal.

Today, he was on the bench for most of the match – I think the coach decided to play the B team and get them some experience! But he did get to play a few points which he won..(he’s second from right having an animated discussion with other squad members).

The Australia/Poland match was a close affair as well. But Australia was beaten decisively 3-0! (25:16; 26:24 and 25:23).

A ‘stand out’ – Arash Dosanjh, 22 years, no. 2 for the Volleyroos….the setter. Magnificent fingers that boy! He’s currently playing professionally for a team in Finland.  Loved Paul Carroll’s skills, 32 years. He’s currently playing for a Berlin team. 

The Polish team, mostly over 2 metres, is one of the world’s strongest teams. Today, I was blown away by 2 players, no. 15 Jacub Kochanowski, and no 6. Bartosz Kurek.