HISTORIC MOMENT FOR AUSTRALIAN MENS PARAVOLLEY TEAM IN CHINA 

The Australian Men’s ParaVolley team made history in their match against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday at the 2025 ParaVolley Asia Oceania Zonal Championships in Hangzhou, China. 

Securing the win in a five-set thriller, the Australians came away with their first international win since the 2000 Paralympics. 

Having lost to the Saudi Arabian team in September 2024, the win was an incredible moment for all of the athletes and staff involved. 

Volleyball Australia General Manager, Disability Sport and Technical Development Nam Pham said: “This is a historic moment for our men’s sitting volleyball team. 

“To record our first international win since the 2000 Paralympics is a testament to the belief and resilience of everyone involved. 

“It shows the progress we’re making in rebuilding this program and the potential that lies ahead,” Pham said. 

Australian ParaVolley Men’s Head Coach Scott Handley said: “That fifth set going to 18–16 was an absolute battle. 

“I’m so proud of this group of athletes and how they held their nerve under pressure – we’ve been working hard to build cohesion, fitness, and belief and today’s win over Saudi Arabia is a great reflection of that,” Handley said.

“This is a special moment for our program and a big step forward in the tournament, but we’re not done yet, there’s still work to do, but I just want to acknowledge the effort, the passion, and the fight these players brought to the court today – and a big thank you to everyone supporting us back home, it means a lot – let’s keep going.”

Australian Men’s Sitting Volleyball Team Captain Japhy Duldig said: “Honestly, it was an unreal experience – the elation of winning match point will be something I’ll never forget!

“We’ve been building towards this for a while, and to finally get that win – it’s such a proud moment. 

“Everyone played their hearts out and made Australia proud. It’s something we’ll remember for a long time, and we’re hungry for more.”