Philippines hosting of VNL leg huge success

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is no stranger to successfully hosting big sporting events.

Count the third and final week of Men’s Volleyball Nations League at the MOA Arena as part of its never-ending success stories.

The country drew nothing but praise from the FIVB, the sport’s governing body, after selling 45,886 tickets representing 86.80 percent available seats, including a remarkable final-day attendance of 93.82 percent or an event best 12,497 tickets sold that day alone.

The event had an average attendance of 85.50 percent overall that was amplified by, according to FIVB, excellent organization and warm hospitality that allowed real, exciting volleyball action to take center stage.

And people, including those from FIVB, were impressed.

“The VNL Men’s pool in the Philippines exceeded my expectations,” said Zdeslav Barac, a member of the powerful FIVB board of administration.

“The organization was excellent and there were many highly enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers and staff who were always smiling, friendly and attentive. In my opinion and experience, this is one of the best ever organized FIVB events,” he added.

It was the third time the country hosted the VNL.