22 Jul 2025

Rain can’t stop the party: Beach volleyball kicks off in style at Rhine-Ruhr 2025

DUISBURG - It wasn’t exactly beach weather at the Sportpark Duisburg – rain stopped play on several occasions and the venue was briefly evacuated due to a storm warning. But day one of the beach volleyball party at Rhine-Ruhr 2025 World University Games still got underway in style.

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There was a combination of monster blocks, pounding beats and cheerleaders, and fever pitch was reached as Germany’s women, Lea Kunst (GER) and Melanie Paul (GER), stepped out onto the sand to the rocking sounds of The Vengaboys, Vanilla Ice and the ‘Baby Shark’-Song.

“We’re very happy with our performance, but most of all with this amazing atmosphere,” Paul told the FISU Games News Service (FGNS) after Germany, who are among the favourites, beat Lebanon 2-0.

“We’re hoping the weather can be good now for the rest of the week. We went off and there was an intermission, which isn’t ideal, but it was well organised. We’re just happy we got to play today.

“It was very cool to have so many people here cheering for us, and for Lebanon too.”

Their opponents also enjoyed the ambience, despite the loss. “This is our first time at this level, and the German team is excellent, (they are) contenders to win the tournament, so we wish them luck,” said Mirna Cheikho (LBN).

“Most of all, we want to thank the fans. They were great. They cheered for us and were very nice, supportive and fun when we scored points, even though they are cheering for Germany.”

Germany loves the beach

The fans were certainly enjoying the Sportpark Duisburg, where you can wander between the volleyball and water polo events (and, later in the week, rowing).

Moderately drenched Brazilian fans, Wesley Luiz and Denilson Loureiro, persisted as they watched Maria Diaz and Maria Silva (BRA) overpower Spain.

“It is not Brazilian weather, but no problem,” said Luiz. “It’s always fun watching beach volleyball and these games have been brilliant so far.”

The sport is enjoying a moment in the host country. “Beach volleyball has become really popular over recent years, especially among young Germans,” said Jule Christiansen, who has volunteered at the event, travelling from the north of the country to see the games up close.

“There has been very good social media content from a German youth sports organisation named Spontent (@spontent_), and that has attracted a lot of people to watch. They do some great films. It is a sport that goes well with social media.

“I play volleyball as a hobby, and a lot of people play beach on the weekends when they can, so it’s fantastic to come and see this event.”

Beach volleyball continues at the Sportpark Duisburg on Tuesday. Tickets are available here.

FGNS vol+nm/cc/mb