October 19 - Denmark and Poland have pulled off a coup by winning the right to host two major volleyball championships - stealing them from right under the noses of Finland and Estland.


The 2013 men's European and the 2012 Junior European events will take place at a variety of venues ranging from Gdansk to Copenhagen.

Erik Jacobsen, President of the Danish Volleyball Federation, said: "We are looking forward to hosting these events.

"The transfer of knowledge and know-how both with regards to development and practical experience within our federations will ensure a wonderful experience for all participants and supporters alike.

"As our first joint bid we are looking forward to working with Poland and learning from their volleyball experience.''

Miroslaw Przedpelski, President of the Polish Volleyball Federation, said: "This is a unique opportunity to build upon our partnership with our northern neighbours and all countries throughout Europe.

"We are passionate about volleyball and want not only to develop our sport in new markets, but also to host an event which will welcome all of Europe.

"Our cities will transform, creating a festive sporting atmosphere to welcome all Europeans to experience a great volleyball celebration."

The 2013 men's European Volleyball Championships are scheduled as follows: preliminary rounds in Poland (Gdansk/Gdynia) and in Denmark. Playoffs, semi-finals and finals in the Danish cities of Odense, Herning, Århus and Copenhagen (finals).

The 2012 Junior European Volleyball Championships: preliminary rounds in Denmark/Randers and Poland/Rewal. Semi-finals as well as finals in Poland/Rewal.

The announcement that the Danish/Polish bid had beaten off the strong volleyball nation Finland's joint bid with Estland was announced by the European Volleyball Confederation.