National teams benefiting from the FIVB Empowerment programme delivered a commanding performance at the South American Beach Volleyball Tour in Santa Marta, Colombia. Their impressive medal haul reflects the rising influence of targeted international development in the region's beach volleyball landscape.
Countries such as Uruguay, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, and Paraguay—all recipients of FIVB support—claimed five out of six medals available. The programme’s contributions include specialized coaching and crucial training equipment aimed at enhancing athlete preparedness and national team strength.
Men’s Competition Highlights
- Gold: Uruguay’s Nicolas Llambias and Hans Hannibal, undefeated in both semifinals and finals.
- Silver: Colombia’s national team.
- Bronze: Chile, completing an all-FIVB-supported men's podium.
Women’s Competition Highlights
- Gold: Ecuador’s Ariana Vilela and Karelys Simisterra, who rebounded after an early loss.
- Silver: Paraguay’s Fiorella Nunez and Denisse Alvarez.
- Bronze: Brazil’s Thainara Oliveira and Talita Simonetti— the only non-FIVB-supported medalists.
Support and Investment Driving Growth
Santa Marta featured 16 men's and 16 women's teams from 11 countries, a sign of deep and expanding talent in South America. The FIVB's investment strategy includes:
- Over CHF 250,000 in coaching support for both Uruguay and Chile.
- Funding for Ecuador and Paraguay focused on technical guidance and training materials.
These investments are contributing to tangible success, offering a blueprint for continued growth as the tour progresses. The next challenge awaits in Lima, Peru, from May 2–4, where these emerging programs will once again showcase their development.
The Santa Marta tournament serves as compelling evidence that structured, well-supported developmental programmes can significantly raise competitive standards and cement beach volleyball’s status throughout the continent.
For more details, visit the official FIVB report here.
