Mali, Maldives, July 31, 2009 --The Beach Volleyball Grass Root programme supported by the World Volleyball governing body FIVB started on 27th July and held the final ceremony on 31st July.

The course was run by FIVB Instructor Mr. Yaniv Noyman of Israel The main objective of the programme is to equip players, officials, and promoters with the necessary skills in Beach Volleyball.

The programme was held at Youth and Sports Development Centre for theory sessions and at the newly built Beach Volleyball court in Male' (the Capital Island) for practical classes.

The Opening ceremony for the programme was attended by honorary life president of Maldives Olympic Committee, Mr. Zahir Naseer, President of Maldives Olympic Committee Mr. Ibrahim Ismail and Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Human Resources, Youth and Sports Mr. Mahid Shareef.

Mr, Zahir Nasser said at the opening ceremony that he is happy to see this course running to help Maldivians to go through this branch of volleyball and to develop this sport in the country.

Certificates were awarded to 27 participants who completed the programme. Certificates were handed over by the guest of honor of the programme, honorary life president of Maldives Olympic Committee Mr. Zahir Naseer.

This programme is the actual start of the activity of this volleyball category in Maldives. Beach volleyball is expected to emerge rapidly in Maldives in the coming few years as the members of the VAM will put their interest to develop this sport. The plan of the Volleyball Association of Maldives is to develop a strategy for further promotion of Beach Volleyball in the Maldives.