By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa is hosting the 11th Elite event of the 2025 Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour this week, from Wednesday, October 22, to Sunday, October 26.
The tour was officially launched yesterday, marking the first time this prestigious global event is being hosted on South African shores.
The opening ceremony took place at the picturesque Grand Africa Café and Beach in Cape Town.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, sponsors, athletes, media, and influencers united by a shared goal of growing volleyball in Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, underscored the importance of investing in grassroots sports development:
“As the Western Cape Government, we are proud to support this event and the investment in volleyball, especially in schools. Our school sport strategy, set to launch soon, will be the first of its kind in South Africa. Great athletes don’t just appear on the beach; they begin in classrooms and school fields. By strengthening school sport, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of Olympians and world-class athletes.”
Anna K. Marais, Founder and CEO of The Connected Group, a strategic partner of the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour, spoke on the broader impact of sport:
“Sport unites communities and changes lives. South Africa continues to prove what’s possible with limited resources. Imagine what could be achieved with greater investment in talent, infrastructure, and the business of sport. The potential for economic growth, job creation, and social upliftment is immense.”
The modified pool play format will determine the three teams per pool that will advance to the elimination rounds, which will eventually lead to Sunday’s medal matches in Cape Town.