Ningbo, China, June 8, 2016 - China's students may be taking their College Entrance Examination this weekend, but if they are looking for an education in volleyball then they best head to the Beilun District of Ningbo as the city welcomes back the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix with defending champions USA clashing with Thailand, Germany and host China.
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Ningbo is no stranger to the world’s premier annual women’s volleyball tournament, a fact Lu Yafen, Vice governor of Beilun District, reiterated during the FIVB Control Committee and Organizing Committee joint meeting.
"As the home court for China women's volleyball team, Bielun District of Ningbo City has hosted 15 international volleyball events in the past 11 years, including the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix Finals in 2007, 2010 and 2012,” she explained. “It is with the concern and support from FIVB and CVA officials that we can form such a relationship with volleyball. We will further work hard to reach a best possible presentation of the World Grand Prix." Control Committee delegate Yermek Syrlybayev thanked the organizers for their hard work and complimented the experience of the Beilun District and CVA. Referee Delegate Takashi Shimoyama also expressed his gratitude before stressing the importance of the new technology set to be used during the World Grand Prix, with the challenge system and coach tablets returning.
"We still have two days before the match and we will practice and practice,” he said. “I believe with all the experienced persons here, we will have a smooth and successful tournament." The opening match will see Germany take on world No.1 USA at 07:00 GMT on June 10, while host China face Thailand at 11:30 GMT. The second day will see USA versus Thailand and China facing Germany. China will encounter the same team that beat them to the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2014, USA, at 11:30 GMT on June 12.