On June 21, a document surfaced from the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), presenting rigorous standard for presidential candidacy within this umbrella organization of European volleyball. The freshly updated document, publicized on the CEV’s official website, raises eyebrows and perhaps a few heated discussions within the volleyball community.
A particular highlight, Section 3, distinctly states that any prospective candidate for the CEV President must boast an expansive experience in Volleyball and leadership, including a minimum of 4 years as a board member in a National or International Volleyball Federation. The implications are profound – the presidential candidacy is effectively restricted to those who are already deeply woven into the governing system of the European volleyball.
In case of candidate to the position of CEV President, to have a broad experience in
CEV General Regulations Section 3 – Article 1.1 §4 g
Volleyball and leadership, including serving at least 4 years as board member in a National
or International Volleyball Federation,
This provision potentially locks out candidates with significant achievements in volleyball, heroes of the sport, leaders, role models, and individuals who have possibly significantly contributed to other institutions and organizations. These could be individuals who have made a name in the volleyball, led and inspired generations of volleyball lovers, and continuously improved their leadership skills and knowledge even after retiring from their playing career.
Interestingly, the provision appears to make it easier to run for the presidency of a some European country than for the presidency of this primary European volleyball organization. The current stipulations potentially discourage any attempts at integration or candidacy by individuals who may enjoy the support of the volleyball community but aren’t part of the governing structures of volleyball.
Our stance, mirroring views widespread in the part of volleyball community, is that anyone endorsed by a minimum of one national association should be accorded the chance to vie for the presidency. It is conceivable to even broaden this principle in line with practices in other sports, which mandate the backing of three national federations.
Nevertheless, the publication of the document outlining these exacting requirements for potential CEV presidential candidates is a step in the right direction. We anticipate this sparking robust and constructive discourse, ultimately paving the way for guidelines that will enhance European volleyball and create an avenue for integrating fresh, dynamic forces, celebrated playing legends who’ve continued to excel in their post-sport careers, individuals who continuously learn, and trailblazers in global sports and related business activities.
