Pakistan U-18 Volleyball Team Appeals for Urgent Government Support for World Championship Amid Funding Crisis.
Pakistan’s U-18 volleyball team has made history by qualifying for the World Championship for the first time, following an impressive performance at the Asian Volleyball Championship, where they secured a bronze medal by defeating powerhouses like India, South Korea, and Japan.
Coach Saeed Ahmad is confident in the team’s potential to win a medal at the World Championship but emphasizes the need for government support. “Technically and skill-wise, our boys are outstanding with great team chemistry,” Saeed Ahmad stated during a prize distribution ceremony organized by the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF), where cash prizes were awarded to the U-18 team.
Saeed Ahmad highlighted the importance of government backing, particularly through European tours, which could enhance the team’s chances of securing a medal. “If the government supports us with at least two European tours before the World Championship, we can achieve a medal,” he added.
The team’s qualification marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time Pakistan will participate in the World Championship. All team members attended the event except captain Talal Ahmed, who was absent due to a throat infection. Vice-captain Khizar Hayat emphasized the need for foreign exposure to compete against top teams. “We need a couple of foreign tours to strong volleyball countries before the World Championship,” said the 16-year-old, who plays for WAPDA on a stipend of Rs25,000 per month.
The PVF has been supportive of the team, but financial constraints remain a challenge. Coach Saeed, a former national player from 1996 to 2006, appealed to Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem to raise awareness for volleyball and other underfunded sports. “Arshad understands our struggles, and his voice can make a difference,” Saeed Ahmad remarked.
PVF Chairman Mohammad Yaqoob announced a cash prize of Rs 2 million for the team, with each member receiving Rs 100,000. The venue for the World Championship will be decided in November, and the team is eager to make a strong impression on the global stage.
