Hailing from a country where volleyball is more widespread, Poland’s Bartosz Kurek is delighted to share it with the rest of the world, especially in the Philippines for the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
The Philippines is displaying its exceptional love for volleyball as the country hosts the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship, welcoming 31 other teams with trademark hospitality.
Among the biggest names who are currently in Manila is Poland captain Bartosz Kurek, leading the cavalry for the world's no. 1-ranked team.
Kurek and Poland opened their Pool B games on Saturday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, sweeping a determined Romania team, 34-32, 25-15, 25-19. After the match, he reflected on how far volleyball has come.
[RELATED: World no. 1 Poland bucks slow start to outclass Romania in FIVB World Championship opener]
With host team Alas Pilipinas making their debut on the world stage, volleyball continues to spread its wings not just in the country but also for the rest of the globe.
“I think it’s great that volleyball is reaching, spanning itself to different parts of the world and it’s great to see the emotions, the energy, from the fans everywhere. Not only in the gym, but also outside of the gym,” Kurek told media.
“I hope they will fill the arena for the next games and yeah, I just can’t say thank you very much for coming, for cheering, for being interested in our tournament because at the end, it is what matters for us.”
‘It’s no fun’
Among the more decorated teams in the tournament, which include this year's VNL title, Poland has been in the limelight for longer than most.
Poland fans flew to Manila to support the World No. 1 team at the World Championship. | Photo: RM Chua / One Sports
As world no. 1, Poland is naturally among the heavy favorites to win this year's FIVB World Championship.
But for Kurek, it’s never the same if people don’t appreciate the sport as much as they do. Though known as more of a basketball country, Kurek is thankful for the Philippines’ support during the World Championship.
“To play alone on the court, with just against the opponent, without the fans, it’s no fun,” he said.
Poland hopes for more fan support as they games continue in these world championships. Kurek and the rest of the crew will next face Qatar in pool play on September 15, Monday, at 9:30 p.m.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.