The SWATCH FIVB Open event, which took place from August 24-29, 2009, was the first time the SWATCH FIVB World Tour had visited The Netherlands, and was deemed a great success. Thousands of fans turned out to see Brazilians Larissa and Juliana beat fellow compatriots Talita and Antonelli in the final on Scheveningen Beach. However Dutch fans were given something to cheer about, with home duo Meppelink and Wiltens, ranked 30th on tour, knocking out USA’s April Ross and Jennifer Kessy who were ranked third. The tournament is up against the North Sea Regatta, a sailing event taking place in The Hague and Football ADO Den Haag securing promotion to the First Division for the prize. To vote for The Hague Promotional Prize click here. Meanwhile, the Dutch Volleyball Federation announced on Tuesday that it was exploring new opportunities to expand the Dutch leagues. The planned proposals include the expansion of the A-League from eight to 10 teams for the 2011-12 season, and to cease promotion and relegation between leagues for two years. The main reason behind these changes are to help clubs settle and develop, thus strengthening Dutch Volleyball overall, according to the Federation. For more information click here. | |
