Take it from George, you want to be a part of Adelaide 2025

Volleyball has taken referee George Chalhoub around the world.

From the Olympic Games to World Championships, George has given immeasurable amounts of time and energy to his sport which he believes has also paid him back handsomely.

How would George describe being part of such iconic events which are watched by millions across the world?

He uses words like “unforgettable”, “special” and “excitement”.

Having experienced those feelings and emotions as one of a small number of Australians officiating at the biggest tournaments in the sport, George says volunteering to be part of the Beach Volleyball World Championships in Adelaide next year shouldn’t require second thoughts.

“When you get to work with elite sportspeople and be even a small piece of the big puzzle, contributing and helping others fulfil their dreams – well that is special,” he says. “On top of being an unforgettable experience, meeting new people and reconnecting with old acquaintances will always help building your network of connections, improve your knowledge of the sport and its characteristics which will in turn have a positive effect on your involvement in the volleyball community.”

An accomplished international referee, at Paris 2024 George turned his hand to the Operations team for indoor volleyball, an essential team which ensures matches run smoothly, on time and without fuss.

From coordinating everything from getting ball retrievers were ready to go, teams seamlessly moving between practice courts and the main arena and preparing the match control area before and after matches, George was part of the beating heart of Paris 2024.

When taking in his Paris experience and reflecting on the last time a major international event invigorated the Australian volleyball community, George can already feel the excitement building ahead of Adelaide 2025.

“A lot of our community members who were involved in the Commonwealth Games at the Gold Coast in 2018 still recall moments and experiences from that event even today,” he says. “If you ask them, they are looking forward for something that is shaping up to be really special.

“The build up to Adelaide and eventually being a part of it will bring out a warm feeling in everyone involved and at any level.”

Click here for more information on volunteering at Adelaide 2025