Volleyball is fighting Credit Crunch, says Callicott

BRITISH Volleyball president Richard Callicott is full of confidence ahead of this summer's European League, despite the hefty funding cuts from UK Sport in January.

Volleyball was one of the eight unlucky Olympic sports to see its funding significantly diminished, as a £50million government shortfall left ensured a 57.3 per cent decrease for the sport.

The news came as a sucker-punch to British Volleyball, which has made great strides in recent with Great Britain chosen to host World Championship qualifying matches earlier this year.

But Callicott, who has overseen a major overhaul of the sport which has seen a number of GB players relocate to Europe, is adamant the future is still bright for British Volleyball.

"Despite suffering cutbacks in our funding British Volleyball have determined to carry on and build on the magnificent progress made by our men and women's squads," he said.

"We have remained steadfast in our desire and determination to honour its commitments to the European Volleyball Confederation and its players by hosting and building on its existing successes.

"I have no doubt that British players who have shown total commitment and dedication will have benefited from playing and training in Europe and we will be assured of some great Volleyball in the competition."

Great Britain's men side made its European League debut last season but 2009 will mark the first occasion where a women's league has been stage.

"The European League will provide both the men and women squads an ideal opportunity to continue their developments towards participation in the London 2012 Olympics," added British Volleyball performance manager Kenny Barton.

"It is also another chance for Volleyball fans across the UK to get behind the teams as they play in this prestigious competition."

Each European League group consists of four teams, with home and away matches during a month-long period. For the first time Great Britain's matches will take place across the UK, including in Sheffield, Edinburgh and Norwich.

GB men have been drawn in Pool A against Croatia, Turkey and current European Champions Spain, while the women have been drawn in Pool B against Turkey, Romania and France.

In addition to the European League, Great Britain men will also play an International Challenge Series against Australia at EIS-Sheffield on the 30 - 31 May.