Volleyball Australia Issues Formal Apology

Written by MOS Editorial Team

Published on 19 July 2024

Volleyball Australia has issued a formal apology to players who endured distress while part of the Australian Women’s Indoor Volleyball team from 1997 to 2005.

A recent independent review conducted by Sport Integrity Australia uncovered several unsettling findings regarding the athletes’ experiences during that period:

– The presence of a fear-inducing environment
– Implementation of unacceptable and overly punitive training practices
– Inadequate procedures for handling complaints
– Lack of accountability among coaches
– Insufficient support for the athletes

Volleyball Australia acknowledges the courage and resilience shown by the players who came forward to share their stories as part of the Restorative Engagement process led by the Australian Sports Commission.

The organization expresses its firm commitment to enhancing the practices and overall experience for all athletes involved in its national team programs.

For those interested in reading the complete apology from Volleyball Australia, click here.

To delve into the Executive Summary and the Recommendations stemming from Sport Integrity Australia’s Independent Review of the National/AIS Women’s Team Program spanning from 1997 to 2005, click here.

For further details on the reporting channels available to individuals who witness or undergo any form of inappropriate behavior while engaged in the sport, click here.