This past weekend, Albanian Volleyball Federation (FSHV) in Tirana, Albania, made a grand celebration marking the 80th anniversary since the establishment of the Federation.
The festivities were organised to honour eight decades of continuous development and contribution to volleyball in Albania and the wider Balkan region. Among the distinguished guests were leaders and officials from the international volleyball community, along with national authorities and partners from across Europe.
The ceremony was highlighted by a keynote address from CEV President Roko Sikirić and BVA dignitaries, who paid tribute to the Federation’s achievements, its role in nurturing young talent, and its commitment to promoting volleyball at all levels. The celebration also reflected on Albania’s successful organisation of regional and age-group competitions in recent years, including events delivered in partnership with neighbouring countries.
Representing the Balkan Volleyball family, representatives of volleyball federations Montenegro, North Macedonia and Kosovo attended galla ceremony.
Their presence underscored the strong unity and collaboration among Balkan federations, as well as shared dedication to the sport’s growth throughout the region.
During the event, FSHV President Erlind Pëllumbi received special recognition for his leadership, and all guests reaffirmed their commitment to supporting volleyball development across the Balkans and beyond.
The Balkan Volleyball Association congratulates the Albanian Volleyball Federation on this remarkable milestone and looks forward to many more years of cooperation, achievement, and progress in the sport.
In the final match, Bulgaria defeated Serbia to claim direct qualification for the European Championship. Despite the loss, Serbia advanced to the second round of qualification, where they will continue their campaign for a place at the continental tournament.
Alongside Serbia, the national teams of Türkiye, Montenegro, and Romania also secured progression to the second round of qualifiers and will continue their pursuit of qualification through the next phase of the competition.
Meanwhile, Greece and Kosovo ended their participation in the qualification process after the completion of the first round.
