Your chance to take part in the biggest sporting event in the world

The British Volleyball Federation (BVF) has asked the Northern Ireland, Scottish and English Volleyball Associations to provide volunteers for the London 2012 Olympics. The BVF has been tasked with providing the National Technical Officials (N.T.O.’s), both Male and Female, to act as Linesjudges, Scorers and Assistant Scorers for the Indoor, Beach and Sitting Volleyball events. The Major Officials such as Referees and Court Managers will be provided through FIVB Other assistants such as Moppers, Sand Rakers and Ball Retrievers will be provided by the London Organising Committee (LOCOG).

So, what are the requirements ?

1. The London Games are scheduled to begin on the first week of August 2012. You should be able to commit your services 1 week previous plus the 2 weeks of the Games and/or the 2 weeks of the Paralympic Games.
If you are uncertain of your availability in 2012 you should still volunteer as your services can be used in other Major events. Candidates must be 18 or over when applying

2. You should have a general understanding of how the Game is played, whether Indoor and /or Beach and/or Sitting Volleyball. An accomplished level of playing ability and a Refereeing qualification are not required. However, participation in any form of organised Volleyball will be beneficial.

3. Candidates will have to meet certain performance criteria. They will require a specified level of fitness, good eyesight, and a low Body Mass Index, as yet to be determined.

At World and Olympic levels, the pace of the Game and speed of the ball are incredibly fast in comparison to even the best events in the U.K. As such, the BVF is devising a training programme for NTO’s to develop and improve their abilities to meet the standards required for the London Olympics.
Candidates development will be steered through National events, such as Cup Finals, to Minor Internationals, onto Major Internationals and World Class where possible.
It is anticipated that 24 Linesjudges and 12 Scorers/Assistant Scorers will be participating in each of the Indoor and Beach events. Figures for Sitting Volleyball have not yet been determined.

As a Legacy of the Games, it is expected that other Major Volleyball will take place in the UK. Those candidates with the NTO qualification will most likely be invited to participate. Their contribution will no be completed solely after the Olympic Games.

To register your interest, or for further information fill in the online form here.

Should there be sufficient response by 28th February 2009, the NIVB Refereeing Commission will endeavour to train and appoint candidates to participate in the NIVB Cup Finals in April, and at least one of the Major NIVB Beach events this summer.

Drew Mc Gookin,
NIVB Refereeing Commission

2nd February 2009