FIVB launches E-Learning Course on the Prevention of Competition Manipulation

Lausanne, Switzerland, April 1, 2019 – The FIVB has launched its Prevention of Competition Manipulation E-Learning Course aimed at athletes, coaches, referees and FIVB officials today.

The introduction of the course aims to minimise the threat of manipulation in future competitions and secure the integrity of volleyball, beach volleyball and snow volleyball competitions as a way of promoting family-friendly, safe sports for all. The completion of the e-learning programme is a mandatory requirement in order to participate in FIVB and world competitions.

Highlighting the importance of the course, FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F° said:

"At the FIVB we work by the principles of good governance and sports integrity. Fair play is vital as we continue to work hard to become the number one family sport in the world. We would like to see thrilling matches with our athletes giving their best to reach the ultimate goals of becoming the champions. We take the competition manipulation issue very seriously and the introduction of the e-learning course is a big step forward in the fight against it.”

President of the FIVB Athletes’ Commission Gilberto Amauri Godoy Filho, better known as Giba, has been appointed Project Ambassador for the course. As one of the most decorated players in the history of indoor volleyball, Giba understands first-hand the pitfalls of professional sport:

“Sport manipulation is a very dangerous phenomenon. It sucks the spirit of fair play, ethics and joy from the game for all people on and off the field of play. No sport or team can be safe from sport manipulation by default. We, as athletes need to be aware of the dangers that exist and that can put our careers at risk. The introduction of the Prevention of Competition Manipulation Course is a great opportunity for all of us and I am very proud to be an ambassador for this project.”

The FIVB Prevention of Competition Manipulation Course has been designed by RC3 and Partners Consulting, a consultancy and education firm with renowned experts in the field of sport integrity and law enforcement.

Norbert Rubicsek, managing partner of RC3 and Partners Consulting said:

“Our educational programme that has been successfully developed with the FIVB provides the perspectives of sports manipulation with our relevant stakeholders, from the sports movement and justice to law enforcement and the betting industry. This collaborative experience with such a prestigious sports federation has been enriching and has resulted in a unique programme for all members.”