BEAUFORT: Sabah's men's volleyball team ended a 31-year wait for a national title after emerging champions at the 66th Datuk Bandar Johor Bahru Cup during the Malaysia Volleyball Championship held at Larkin Arena, Johor Bahru.
The historic triumph saw the Sabah men's team bring home the prestigious trophy, marking a significant achievement for volleyball in the State and ending more than three decades of waiting for national glory.
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Beaufort District Council Executive Officer Mohd Ainol Md Dun described the victory as a collective achievement belonging to the entire volleyball fraternity and a reflection of the unity of Sabahans across the State.
Speaking on Wednesday, he said the success was not the accomplishment of any individual but the result of the combined efforts of players, coaches, administrators, supporters and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to develop the sport.
“This is an extremely proud achievement and will serve as a catalyst for more outstanding successes in the future,” he said.
Mohd Ainol, who played a leading role in guiding the Sabah Rhino team, also acknowledged the contributions of the management team, coaching staff and members of the Beaufort Volleyball Association (BVA), as well as all those who offered prayers and unwavering support throughout the campaign.
He said the national title demonstrated the squad's high level of commitment, discipline and exceptional quality of play in representing Sabah on the national stage.
“This remarkable achievement at national level proves the team's strong commitment and extraordinary standard of performance in bringing honour and recognition to Sabah,” he said.
The Beaufort Volleyball Association, which served as the official management body for the team, expressed its deepest gratitude to all parties who played a vital role in the championship-winning campaign.
Mohd Ainol said the association was particularly thankful for the trust and opportunity given to BVA to manage and lead the State's main squad throughout the national championship in Johor Bahru.
He also extended special appreciation to the Sabah Volleyball Association (Sava) and its President, Abdul Manan Indanan, for their confidence and strong support in entrusting BVA with the responsibility of managing the team.
In addition, he commended volleyball enthusiasts, coaches and organisers throughout Sabah who have consistently nurtured and developed talent from grassroots level to elite competition.
He paid tribute to Sabahans residing in Johor who turned out in large numbers at Larkin Arena, creating a vibrant atmosphere and providing continuous encouragement that inspired the players throughout the tournament.
Mohd Ainol also conveyed his appreciation to Beaufort District Officer Mohd Nazri Ajun, who serves as adviser to the volleyball association, for his support, including assistance in the provision of training facilities.
The championship victory is expected to boost the profile of volleyball in Sabah and inspire a new generation of players to pursue excellence in the sport, while reaffirming the State's growing reputation as a force in Malaysian volleyball.
