Cape Verde has rapidly become a rising force in international beach volleyball, propelled by strategic guidance from Brazilian coach Marcio Araujo and substantial backing from the FIVB’s Volleyball Empowerment program.
Impact of the Volleyball Empowerment Program
Since 2024, the FIVB program has invested over USD 160,000 into Cape Verde's infrastructure, providing:
- Expert coaching leadership
- Vital equipment for training and competitions
- Referee development and certification programs
Marcio Araujo’s Coaching Leadership
Araujo, an Olympic silver medalist and former FIVB World Champion, started coaching in 2024. He introduced a structured approach to athlete development, significantly transforming the sport across the island nation.
Emerging Talent and International Exposure
Under his mentorship, athletes like Ludmila and Janice Varela, and Admilson Melo and Ivan Mota began making waves in regional and international arenas, including:
- African Zone II qualifiers
- African Continental Championships
- FIVB Beach Pro Tour appearances
In a landmark achievement, Cape Verde hosted its first Beach Pro Tour Futures event in São Vicente in 2025, providing local players with critical international exposure.
Facilities and Community Development
The newly inaugurated National Beach Volleyball Training Center in Praia is a cornerstone for elite training and youth programs. Collaborating with the Institute of Sports and Youth (IDJ), this center is enhancing Cape Verde's ability to compete on a global level. Additionally, the initiative involves:
- Clinics across different islands
- Youth engagement through U16 and U18 competitions
- Referee certification and grassroots championships
Notably, the boys’ team won a silver medal at the Lusofonia Youth Games, highlighting the success of early development efforts.
Future Goals
Cape Verde now eyes participation in elite competitions such as:
- FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships (2027)
- Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games
With plans underway to construct more high-performance centers and increase involvement in international tours, Cape Verde's journey seems set to continue its upward trajectory.
The ongoing collaboration between Marcio Araujo, the Cape Verde Volleyball Federation, and national sports authorities is reshaping Cape Verde’s place in the sport, turning what were once dreams into tangible milestones.
