Sitting volleyball was invented in the Netherlands in 1956 as a rehabilitation sport for injured soldiers, but the game was introduced for men in the 1980 Paralympics – held in the Dutch city of Arnhelm – with the sport later being included in the women’s program from Athens 2004 onwards.

Sitting volleyball is a variation of the standing version of the sport, with two teams of six players. The court is smaller with a lower net when compared to a volleyball court – meaning the sport is incredibly fast paced.
Competitors use their arms and legs to slide around the court – always remaining in contact with the floor with part of the body between the buttocks and the shoulders when touching the ball – and teams play the best of five sets, trying to score points by grounding the ball on the other side of the net, much like in other forms of volleyball.

In the sitting version of volleyball, blocking a team’s serve is allowed. Each team is allowed up to three touches to launch the ball over the net,
and the first team to 25 points wins in each of the first four sets; the number is reduced to 15 in a final, deciding set.

There are 11.5 million disabled people in England, accounting for almost 20 per cent of the total population. Sitting volleyball provides a dynamic sport that can be enjoyed by a wide variety od disabilities or can just be played as an inclusive sport. This open event provided by East Midlands Volleyball Association is an an opportunity to try this exciting sport.

Sitting Volleyball Open Event – Everyone Welcome!

Join us for a fun, inclusive day of sitting volleyball – a sport for everyone, whether you’ve played before or you’re brand new!

14th March
10am – 3pm
Limhurst Academy, Bridge St, Loughborough LE11 1NH
FREE community event

This event inclusive and is open to all – disabled and non-disabled participants, beginners and experienced players alike.

The day will be split into two parts:

• First half: Coach-led training where you’ll learn the basics
• Second half: Mini tournament with teams and friendly competition
  Come along, meet new people, learn a new sport, and have a great time!

For more information email: eastmidlandsvolleyball@gmail.com