 The Expanded Interest in Volleyball
Volleyball has gained popularity since its inclusion in the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan. In 1968 at Mexico City and in 1972 in Munich, there were sell-out crowds at the volleyball
competitions. This popularity was enhanced by the television coverage of the Olympic Games, which led to increased spectator interest. Television helped bring knowledge of the
refined skills and strategies of the game to people around the world. With this increase in knowledge, there came a demand for training clinics, workshops and videotapes to teach these
volleyball skills and strategies to potential participants.
Even though Americans participate in numerous sports, it is ironic that volleyball has been the slowest to develop in the United States, where it originated, than in other nations around
the world. In this country, it has not yet acquired the popularity of basketball, football, and baseball because of a lack of knowledge about the advanced skills of volleyball. However,
with the expanding education and skill development of younger players and a more common knowledge of the skills and rules, volleyball should experience a growing popularity in the United
States. This growth may have already begun to occur. Millions of people participate in informal recreation leagues and school settings each year. In 1984, the United States men's and
women's teams were ranked in the top three teams in the world.
Volleyball is now the leading major sport in 30 countries and ranks third internationally among all sports. Refer to the Historical Timeline to trace the major milestones in its development
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