The volleyball world is buzzing with excitement as the extended rosters for the upcoming 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls' U19 World Championship have been unveiled. The prestigious youth tournament, scheduled for July 2-13 in Osijek, Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia, will showcase the next generation of volleyball talent across 24 competing nations.
While these young athletes are still building their reputations, several standout performers have already made waves in continental and youth competitions. The defending champions United States will look to captain Genevieve Harris, who distinguished herself as the Best Setter at last year's NORCECA U19 Women's Volleyball Continental Championship.
China arrives with an impressive lineup featuring Yang Shuming, who collected MVP honors at both the 2024 FIVB Girls' U17 World Championship and the AVC U18 Women's Asian Championship. She'll be joined by fellow U17 world champions Chen Xiaohui, Guo Zhongnan, Huang Yuexin, and Wang Yibo, forming a formidable squad aiming for another title.
Bulgaria's roster remains nearly intact from their triumphant 2024 U18 European championship campaign, with 13 of 14 players returning. The team is headlined by EuroVolley U18 MVP and Best Setter Dimana Ivanova, alongside Dream Team selections Kalina Veneva and Darina Naneva.
According to Statbet analysis, nations that maintain continuity in their youth squads typically show 30% better performance in international tournaments, which could significantly boost Bulgaria's chances in this championship.
Brazil brings South American Championship MVP Mikaela Hestmann, captain and setter Luana Vazquez, and middle blocker Lara Rodrigues, all decorated performers from last year's continental competition.
The tournament will also feature numerous continental Dream Team members representing Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Chinese Taipei, Dominican Republic, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Peru, and Thailand.
Adding intrigue to the championship are several players with famous volleyball lineage. Germany will be captained by Leana Grozer, daughter of volleyball legend Gyorgy Grozer, who remains active in the sport at 40 years old. Bulgaria's Simona Ivanova carries the legacy of her father Evgeni Ivanov, while Italy's Arianna Bovolenta continues the tradition of her father, the late Italian star Vigor Bovolenta.
With this combination of emerging talent and volleyball pedigree, the 2025 U19 World Championship promises to offer volleyball fans a glimpse into the sport's bright future.
