Former Italy international, Federica Tonon, has been appointed as the new national beach volleyball coach in Vanuatu as the country chases an historic Olympic qualification.
Vanuatu's new senior national beach volleyball coach Federica Tonon with members of the national squad. Photo: VVF courtesy of Nix Jaques
Tonon has signed a 12-month contract and replaces Michel Bargmann, who returned to Germany last April following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The national team continued to train throughout 2020 with just local and in-house coaching support before the Vanuatu Volleyball Federation was able to finally secure the appointment of Tonon late last year, with the support of the FIVB as a part of its coaching support program for national teams.
Coronavirus restrictions in both Europe and Vanuatu delayed the Italian's move to the South Pacific. She arrived in Vanuatu in early March and was released from hotel quarantine last week.
Tonon had been involved in coaching for 20 years and was also the team manager for the Italian Junior Indoor volleyball team and captain of the National Snow volleyball team.
With key international tournaments pencilled in for June, she was fully aware that preparation time was limited.
"We don't have too much time left to prepare (so) we need to plan well these months with a meticulous preparation," she said.
"I'm extremely excited about working with the girls and I'm thrilled with the idea that from these small islands, we can stand up in the world and make an impact for the younger generation of Vanuatu."
Vanuatu celebrate advancing to the final of the Continental Cup in Mount Maunganui. Photo: NZ Volleyball / Julie Maree Photography
Vanuatu Volleyball Federation President, Debbie Masauvakalo, was pleased Tonon had arrived in time to lead the team through a busy schedule.
"We're very pleased to welcome Federica. She has a strong volleyball and coaching background and will bring a fresh perspective to the program in preparation for the upcoming competitions.
"It's been a hard year for both the team and all of Vanuatu, despite not actually having Covid here, and having the girls get back on the court representing the nation will hopefully bring some much-needed joy."
Vanuatu's number one priority was the final qualifier for Tokyo Olympics, which was meant to take place last year, following their victory in the Oceania women's regional qualifier in New Zealand.