The VAVA Gold Men have been crowned champions of the 2026 National Open Volleyball Championship after defeating NCDVA Gold 3–2 in a nail-biting Grand Final over the weekend.

The match went all the way to a deciding set, with VAVA Gold showing experience, determination, discipline and composure to claim the championship title.

The VAVA Gold Men were guided by current and former PNG representatives and volleyball veterans Junior Harold Gima, Walter Henao, Junior Momo Taeara and John Soi Jnr, who played key leadership roles throughout the competition.

Their experience, knowledge and composure on the court helped steer the team through to the Grand Final victory.

Meanwhile, the VAVA Women’s Gold Team also displayed tremendous courage and fighting spirit in their Grand Final against Fairfax 1.

Although they fell short of securing the championship, the women fought strongly until the final point and finished the competition with a commendable performance.

Led by volleyball veterans Clara Vele and Aileen Gima, the Women’s Gold Team demonstrated the strength, resilience and unity that VAVA volleyball is known for.

VAVA President Lawes Rabura congratulated both teams on their performances, saying the village was extremely proud of their efforts.

“We congratulate our Men’s Gold Team on winning the championship and commend our Women’s Gold Team for the courage and determination they displayed in the Grand Final. Our veteran players provided valuable leadership, while our younger players stepped up and showed great promise. Both teams represented VAVA with pride.”

VAVA also acknowledged its sponsors and partners, including Hon. Thomas Opa, Hon. Sir Ano Pala, Hon. Turaho Morea, Juice Bar, Love & Light Events, GoldRing Media, Mr Jack Lindsay, Mr Darren Ali and Kuti Sox.

The association also thanked its coaches, team managers, officials, families and supporters for their contribution throughout the competition.

The results highlight Vabukori’s proud volleyball tradition and VAVA’s continued commitment to developing the next generation of players through the guidance of experienced volleyball veterans.

VAVA Gold Men are the 2026 National Open Volleyball Champions, while the VAVA Women’s Gold Team finished with a strong Grand Final performance.