With over 140 competitors in the arena, the setting was lively with each team having its own unique cheer. Flags from country lined the walls lending a festive atmostphere to the games throughout the day. At any given time up to five courts were used in the pool play format. 

The eighteen teams were separated into three pools playing each other once during Phase 1. Phase 2 of the competition paired off the first and second, third and fourth, and fifth and sixth place finishers of the first round of pool play. The pool play of the first and second place teams determined the final medal champion. 

Most of the teams were formed at the Games, although some team members had played together at the last World Games in Manchester. The first couple of games were an adventure as team members familiarized their playing styles with each other. Italy, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Finland and the United States played strong games throughout with the Netherlands team prevailing as the gold medal champion, and Great Britain as the silver medalist. 

The action, although highly competitive and involving several "grudge" matches, provided the opportunity to rekindle friendships from past games and make new acquaintances. A lively and fun time was had by all at the volleyball venue of the XI World Transplant Games. 

Members of Team Italia. Eleanor Jones interviews Kacimi Nordine (left) and Mario Fazzi (right) with help from translator Christina Riboni (middle).

 

Anne Helander of Team Finland speaks with Eleanor Jones here.

An interview with Peter Haak of the Netherlands.

 

Venue: Whitlam Leisure Center, Liverpool  Rules: Format: National Teams comprising a minimum of 6 and maximum of 8 players; one female on the court at all times. Age Categories: Open -- no age categories.