Indonesian Women’s Proliga champions diversity and inclusion in volleyball

The FIVB has praised the diversity and inclusion of the Indonesian Women’s Proliga as players from diverse backgrounds and cultures showcased world-class teamwork in front of a packed crowd at the GOR Among Rogo area in Yogyakarta.

Indonesia’s top professional volleyball league wrapped up its 2023 season this weekend, and while the incredible action on the court wowed fans across Indonesia, the players also showcased the diversity that is the very heart and soul of volleyball.

A symbol of Indonesia’s united, multi-ethnic population and the universality of volleyball, many of the league’s clubs have rosters of local and international players from various religious and cultural backgrounds. This diversity was on full display during the finals, with players donning the sportswear they felt most comfortable playing in whether for religious, cultural or personal-preference reasons.

The teamwork, determination of the club sides was also clear for all to see as the players supported each other during the lows and roared and passionately celebrated together during the highs of the fierce contest. The emotion of the players was infectious and made for an electric crowd atmosphere, as spectators of all genders and ages clapped and cheered on the female players of various nationalities.

The FIVB has celebrated these images as a champion of diversity and inclusion on and off the court, and for embracing the uniform regulations applied by the FIVB at international events which ensure both volleyball and beach volleyball are culturally and religiously inclusive.

Commenting on these values on display in Indonesia, FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° said:

“Unity in Diversity. That is the official motto of Indonesia, and the true meaning and power of these words was on full display during the women’s Proliga finals. Not only were the teams showcasing seamless teamwork, but the passionate fans were also right behind them to cheer them on.

“The atmosphere was incredible, and it truly felt that everyone in the stadium, alongside millions of fans across Indonesia, were one united team. The excitement and strong emotion from the younger fans were palpable, and I have no doubt the passion and sporting excellence of the players will continue to empower girls of all cultures and backgrounds to dream big!

“Diversity and inclusion are also at the heart of volleyball’s identity, and we recognise that we are uniquely positioned to help shape a more inclusive world through our sport. So we are always filled with pride when we also see this responsibility embraced by national leagues around the world.”

The Proliga came to a dramatic close this weekend with defending champions Bandung BJB Tandamata taking on Jakarta Pertamina Fastron in the gold medal match.

Both teams were on the hunt for Proliga glory from the offset, with every set, point and rally fiercely contested. It was Bandung BJB Tandamata who came out on top to claim a 3-2 (27-25, 25-22, 24-26, 20-25, 15-8) victory and successfully defend their title.

In the battle for bronze, Gresik Petrokimia Pupuk Indonesia defeated Jakarta BIN 3-0 (27-25, 25-20, 25-18).