Gambian National Olympic Committee President Alhaji Momodou Dibba (centre, left) welcomed representatives of the Gambia Volleyball Federation to the Olympic House ©GNOC

Gambian National Olympic Committee (GNOC) President Alhaji Momodou Dibba has reiterated his support for the Gambia Volleyball Federation (GVBF) as the country's beach volleyball team bids for Rio 2016 qualification.

Dibba was speaking during a visit to the Olympic House from GVBF Executive Committee members, headed by President Yunusa Barry.

Accompanying the delegation was Mamadou Lamine Ba of the Confederation of Africa Volleyball (CAVB), who was inspecting the GVBF’s implementation of the African Dream Project (ADP).

Launched officially in February of this year, the ADP is a flagship four-year programme aimed at developing volleyball on the continent.

Dibba urged the GVBF to increase its efforts in implementing the project effectively.

"I am aware of the progress made at the Volleyball Federation and I am ready to support it in all sectors," he told the delegation.

"The Gambia beach volleyball team is on course for Rio Olympic qualification and we are hoping to see the team in Brazil next year, and I assure you of GNOC’s fullest support to the Olympic team."

The African Dream Project is an initiative of International Volleyball Federation President Ary Graca
The African Dream Project is an initiative of International Volleyball Federation President Ary Graca ©FIVB

Dibba went on to hail the ADP, an initiative of International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) President Ary Graca with the primary aim of seeing an African country taking "centre stage" at the World Volleyball Championships.

Ba spoke of his appreciation for the GNOC’s support in rendering the development of volleyball in Gambia and its smooth implementation of the ADP.

"I am aware of the financial and technical support the GNOC is offering to the Gambia Volleyball Federation, which was demonstrated  by the recent performance of Gambia national volleyball teams in international competitions, including Rio 2016 Olympic qualifiers," he said

"I am impressed with the commitment from GVBF and I think this will open an era of triumph for the Gambia in years to come."

The ADP has been rolled out in four centres across Gambia, namely in Banjul, Serekunda East, Brikama and Farafenni.



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