(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Slovenia to Make Historic Debut at 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Thailand
Slovenia will compete for the first time at the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to elevate its women’s national volleyball team. Their debut at the global event highlights steady progress built on the success of Slovenia’s men’s volleyball program.
Drawn into Pool D, Slovenia will face strong opponents including the United States, Czechia, and Argentina. All Pool D matches will be held in Nakhon Ratchasima. Slovenia kicks off their campaign against the USA on August 22, followed by matches against Czechia on August 24 and Argentina on August 26.
This qualification reflects the steady development of Slovenia’s women’s volleyball team. While the men’s team has quickly risen in international rankings, the women’s team has followed a more gradual path that is now producing tangible results.
Slovenia’s best continental achievement came with a bronze medal at the 2016 CEV European League. They have also finished 16th at the European Championships in 2015 and 2019, and 20th in 2023. At the junior level, Slovenia showed promise by securing a silver medal at the 2017 FIVB U23 World Championship.
The current squad blends experienced veterans with emerging talents nurtured through Slovenia’s national development pathway. Recent international competitions have strengthened team cohesion and provided valuable exposure to top-level play. With improved technical skills and growing experience, Slovenia aims to compete confidently on the world stage.
Action from Slovenia vs. Ukraine at the 2025 CEV European Golden League. (Photo credit: CEV)
Slovenia’s Volleyball Federation has benefited from consistent support through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program, receiving over half a million dollars in funding since 2022. This investment focuses on coaching development, high-performance systems, and sustainable growth.
The women’s program now mirrors the successful structure behind the men’s rise, emphasizing continuous coaching support, player development at all levels, and regular competition against strong international opponents.
This strategic approach has helped Slovenia close the gap with more established volleyball nations. Regular matches against top teams have improved their gameplay and boosted their world ranking, a key factor in qualifying for the 2025 World Championship.
Entering as underdogs, Slovenia’s first World Championship appearance is a proud achievement and a stepping stone for the future growth of women’s volleyball in the country.
