The two-year partnership will see the United States company act as Official Language Service Provider for the world governing body.

In this capacity, they will provide training manuals to staff members, as well as officials from across the world, while a limited number of licences will also be given to National Federations to allow players to participate as well.

This marks the first time a major International Federation has pioneered such a scheme, FIVB President Ary S Graça claimed at the announcement of the deal, shortly before the final of the Women's Volleyball World Championships.

"How effectively our players and referees communicate during matches is critical to the success of our sport," said Graça.

"Language diversity has significant impact on how we're currently playing the game.

"We knew we had to find a solution and Rosetta Stone was the clear choice as the industry leader."

FIVB President Ary S. Graça and Rosetta Stone representative Sabine Schnorr were joined by FIVB Referees Commission President Hasan Mohamed (left) and Brazilian legend Giba (right) at the announcement ©ITG



As part of the partnership, due to begin in January, Rosetta Stone branding will feature prominently at all FIVB events, including the Beach Volleyball World Championships, the World League Finals, World Grand Prix Finals, World Cup and FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Finals.

The company will also work with the FIVB to design and supply Rosetta Stone branded uniforms for all referees and the company will supply two language licences to all National Federations of the FIVB, while "innovative and unique" methods will also be pursued on social media.

Eric Ludwig, senior vice-president and general manager for the Americas, Europe and the Middle East for Rosetta Stone, said: "Volleyball has quickly become one of the most popular sports worldwide and we're thrilled to have the opportunity to help address the need for language learning in the international sports arena".

"The power of language to unite people from all over the world is really amazing.

"Not only will we make a significant impact on how the game is played, this partnership will impact how fans around the world experience matches, as well."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
September 2014: President Graça gets rocket science right as FIVB uses Volleyball World Championship in Poland as "launch pad" for Rio 2016
February 2014: Volleyball needs better role in Olympic Movement, claims President