Vale Tomas Santamaria

Volleyball Australia is saddened by the passing of Life Member Tomas Santamaria OAM.

Tomas, former Member of FIVB Technical & Coaching Commission and former Chairman of AVC Coaches Committee, and widely regarded as the godfather of volleyball in Victoria, Tomas’ influence spanned generations. 

In 1976, the Victoria Amateur Volleyball Association appointed him, the then Philippines National Women’s Coach, to the newly created position of State Coaching Director. The role was the first full time paid position in volleyball in Australia.

Tomas coached both Victorian men’s and women’s teams, and was the National Men’s Coach for several years, and a highly credentialed referee. 

The Santamaria name is synonymous with Heidelberg, with Tomas becoming immediately involved with the Club in 1977, relocating his wife, Gloria, and four sons: Jim, James, Geoffrey, and George to Australia. 

In 2000, Volleyball Victoria inaugurated the Tomas Santamaria Shield, awarded annually to the most successful State League Club across all divisions.

In his numerous capacities, Tomas influenced a generation of volleyballers who themselves will carry on his legacy; Affiliate Presidents, Club Coaches, and players alike have all been influenced by and carry on his legacy.

For the whole Asian volleyball family, Tomas has played a significant role in the development of volleyball not only in Victoria, but also Australia, and his beloved home country Philippines, and the continent’s volleyball-governing body. He has had great impact on mentoring the volleyball community spanning decades and is highly respected for his knowledge, dedication and passion to the sport.

Volleyball Australia President Craig Carracher said: “We’re deeply saddened by the passing of Tomas.

“On behalf of the Victorian and Australian volleyball community, we send our deepest sympathies to the extended friends and family of Tomas,” he said.