ISF Leadership inspects Shangluo, China in Preparation for ISF WSC Volleyball

Jun. 24, 2025 – Shangluo, P.R.China – As preparations continue for the upcoming editions of the ISF World School Volleyball Championship, a  delegation from the International School Sport Federation (ISF) visited Shangluo to assess local hosting capacities and meet with city authorities and ISF Member Federation of China.

The ISF delegation was led by ISF President Mr. Željko Tanasković and ISF Executive Director Mrs. Hasnae El Ayoubi, accompanied by representatives from the China Student Sports Federation (CSSF), ISF’s active member federation in China. The visit was warmly received by Ms. Zhao Jing, Secretary of the CPC Shangluo Municipal Committee, and the leaders of Shangluo's municipal government.

During the three-day visit, the delegation toured key venues and service areas, including the Belt and Road Volleyball Training Base for Youth, Shangluo International Conference Center, the City Sports Stadium, Shangzhou Mass Fitness Park, and Danfeng Cultural Tourism Demonstration Zone. Particular attention was paid to competition venues, medical and accommodation facilities, catering services, and volunteer coordination, all of which were evaluated against ISF international standards.

Following the inspection, President Tanasković praised the city's commitment:

"We clearly felt Shangluo’s determination to deliver a high-quality event. The local team’s preparations are thorough and well-organised, and the infrastructure is strong. We expect that the same high standard will be maintained throughout the championship period to ensure an excellent experience for all participants."

Vice Mayor Ms. Wen Lin, who chaired the feedback meeting following the field visits, expressed gratitude for ISF’s guidance and reaffirmed the city's resolve to meet expectations:

“With ISF and CSSF’s support, we will move forward with high standards, high quality, and high efficiency to deliver a remarkable championship.”

As a further step in the collaboration, CSSF and the Shangluo Municipal Government signed a Strategic Cooperation Framework Agreement on June 23, laying the foundation for long-term partnership. The agreement outlines joint efforts to develop international and domestic student volleyball events, promote youth sport education and coaching programmes, and share expertise in sport-based youth development.

Shangluo’s vision of becoming a “City of Volleyball” is rooted in its unique ecological and infrastructural assets, and the cooperation with CSSF aligns with ISF’s broader goals of empowering youth through sport and education. This visit marks a significant milestone in preparing for future ISF Volleyball events in China and in strengthening the legacy of school sport development across the region.