John Speraw: Volleyball Set for Major Breakthrough Ahead of LA28
USA Volleyball Director believes the Los Angeles Olympics will be a turning point for the sport.
1Strategy for LA28 Olympics
John Speraw states that the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics will be a turning point for American volleyball. He is on a dual mission to win medals and increase youth participation. Speraw highlights that women's volleyball is the largest team sport for girls in the U.S. but remains commercially underdeveloped. This presents a significant growth and sponsorship opportunity.
2Potential of Women's Volleyball
Speraw points out that women's volleyball is the largest team sport for girls in the U.S. but its commercial potential is untapped. The 2027 World Championships in Anaheim could boost the sport's mainstream popularity. Speraw hopes this event will have the same impact as the 1999 Women's World Cup did for soccer. Building a commercial engine is key to attracting more investment.
3Cost of Youth Sports
Speraw's biggest concern is the rising cost of youth sports participation. Club systems, with their travel and tournament fees, are becoming unaffordable for many families. This issue isn't unique to volleyball; soccer, baseball, and basketball face similar challenges. Speraw believes volleyball can be part of the solution.
4Medal Targets
USA Volleyball aims for medals in indoor, beach, and sitting volleyball every Olympic cycle. Speraw believes these programs are well-positioned heading into Los Angeles. He praises new men's indoor coach Karch Kiraly for inheriting a strong program but emphasizes the need for continuous improvement to sustain success.
5Success in Beach Volleyball
The U.S. beach volleyball program has shown positive results after recent structural changes. Progress is particularly noticeable on the men's side, while women continue to set international standards. The explosive growth of NCAA beach volleyball has given the U.S. remarkable depth entering the LA28 cycle.
6Boosting Youth Participation
One of Speraw's long-term goals is to get more kids playing volleyball. He highlights the rising costs that prevent many families from participating in organized sports. Speraw believes volleyball can offer a solution. Creating more accessible programs is crucial for the sport's future.
7Importance of Commercial Investment
Speraw stresses the need for major sponsorship deals to unlock volleyball's commercial potential. Women's volleyball, in particular, offers a huge opportunity. Building a commercial engine will enable more investment in the sport and fund youth programs, which are vital for long-term success.
8Role of the 2027 World Championships
The 2027 World Championships in Anaheim present a major opportunity to boost volleyball's popularity. Speraw hopes it will have the same impact as the 1999 Women's World Cup did for soccer. Such events can increase mainstream media coverage and attract new fans.
9Future of Volleyball
Speraw believes the LA28 Olympics will be a turning point for volleyball. Medal ambitions and efforts to increase youth participation will shape the sport's future. Commercial investments and major events will strengthen volleyball's position in the U.S. Speraw's leadership will play a critical role in this process.
Original article: Forbes - Business — John Speraw: Voleybol LA28 Öncesi Büyük Atılım Yapacak