Finland is experiencing a remarkable transformation in beach volleyball, underpinned by strategic investment and support from the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program. This initiative has brought greater consistency and professionalism to the country’s efforts on and off the sand.
Structured Development and Coaching
At the forefront of this revolution is coach Toni Vahela, whose appointment, supported by the FIVB, has added new dimensions to the women’s beach volleyball setup in Finland. His leadership has helped establish:
- Stable and professional training regimes
- Improved athlete development pathways
- Greater exposure to high-level international competition
Top players Taru Lahti-Liukkonen and Niina Ahtiainen are now regular performers on the Beach Pro Tour, a testament to the effectiveness of these initiatives.
International Success
The Finnish duo is already making waves globally:
- Silver medal at the 2023 Beach Pro Tour Challenge (Chiang Mai)
- Gold medal at the 2024 Futures event (Brussels)
- Qualification for the 2024 CEV Nations Cup Finals
These achievements signal that Finland's program is not just developmental, but competitive at the elite level.
Comprehensive Athlete Support
The program isn't limited to technical coaching—it now includes:
- Strength and conditioning
- Professional physiotherapy
- Sports psychology services
- Administrative and logistical support
These services create a robust backbone for Finland's aspirations at future events like the 2025 World Championship and Olympic qualification campaigns.
Growing the Sport Nationally
The positive results are evident beyond the professional tier. Finland's federation has worked closely with clubs and training centers to:
- Expand youth participation
- Create clearer talent pathways
- Promote national excitement around the sport
Partnerships with Biitsi centers have ensured year-round access to high-quality facilities, helping athletes maintain momentum across seasons.
FIVB Investment
Since 2022, a total investment of CHF 221,000 from the FIVB has played a pivotal role in bolstering both grassroots and elite beach volleyball in the country.
Looking ahead, Finland aims for inclusion in the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games, positioning itself as a rising power on the global stage.
For the full article, visit the FIVB official site.
