Hugely popular in China, air volleyball is winning fans of all ages as an exciting, accessible way to play the sport and inspire more children to play volleyball.
With its lighter, softer and slightly larger ball, the game encourages longer rallies, more touches and more fun for everyone. A lower net and smaller court make it easy to set up and enjoy in almost any setting – from community spaces to bustling shopping malls.
While in Ningbo for the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Finals 2025, the FIVB delegation, led by FIVB President Fabio Azevedo, experienced firsthand why air volleyball has become such a sensation in China. The FIVB joined local players for a lively demonstration match, where smiles, laughter and long rallies kept the crowd cheering.
“It’s amazing. It’s fantastic because air volleyball can be the best way for kids to start playing,” President Azevedo told Xinhua news agency. “The ball is light, it doesn’t hurt, and the way of playing is so easy. It enables mass participation and brings joy to all age groups.”
“Keep playing. Keep enjoying the game. Volleyball has the power to bring people together. It’s all about togetherness. We want to see more people playing and getting engaged in volleyball.”
More than just a pastime, air volleyball aligns perfectly with the FIVB’s vision for mass participation in sport – a central pillar of its Strategic Vision 2032. By making volleyball more accessible, affordable and understandable for everyone, it is helping to grow the sport’s global community one rally at a time.
