China played hosts to Italy, Russia and USA in Pool B1 in Kunshan in the first week of the 2017 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix
Lausanne, Switzerland, July 12, 2017 - FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° thanked the hosts of the tournaments in the opening week of the 2017 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix as the world's top teams gear up for action in Week 2 as of Friday.
"Many congratulations on the fantastic opening week of the 2017 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix matches, which entertained fans around the world, as well as in the stadium," said President Graça.
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Latest VideosFacebookTwitterInstagramMedia GuidesOver three days 48 matches were played, with 3081 points scored in Group 1 and 2794 in Group 2. In Group 3 there were 1818 points totalled in 12 matches, and there is already a battle commencing across all three groups for the chance to become 2017 World Grand Prix Champion.
Serbia and the USA got off to a flying start in Group 1, winning all three of their opening matches to begin the tournament unbeaten. Brankica Mihajlovic was in fine form for Serbia, scoring a phenomenal 58 points. Poland and the Czech Republic claimed maximum points in Group 2, while Hungary and France also maintained winning records in Group 3.
The highest scoring set of the week came on Sunday as Croatia beat Argentina 30-28. Despite losing the opening set the Croatian team showed tremendous spirit, fighting back to win the match 3-2 in a thrilling contest.
"My sincerest thanks go to all eight of our Week 1 hosts for making the opening round of this competition such a spectacle. With matches in China, Turkey, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Argentina, Peru, Cameroon and Mexico, volleyball truly is a global game for everyone to enjoy," added President Graça.
"I am now look forward to Week 2 in what promises to be another exhilarating four days of world class volleyball action. It is fantastic that we can show every match through the official
FIVB YouTube channel to countries where there is no broadcast partner. Through our improved communications networks we can achieve our dream of becoming the world’s number one family sport.
"As the FIVB continues to pioneer new technology and event strategy, it is crucial that each National Federation and Confederation is also planning their own innovative ideas for staging tournaments. It is only through working together that we can continue to further the great progress already made.
"Best of luck to every nation competing in Week 2 of the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix."