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Ruben Acosta HernandezVolleyball official, FIVB President (1984-2008)
Date of Birth: 04.04.1934
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Rubén Acosta Hernández: A Legend in the World of Volleyball
- Leadership in Mexican and International Volleyball
- Presidency of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)
- Development of Beach Volleyball and Commercial Tournaments
- Education and Honors
Rubén Acosta Hernández: A Legend in the World of Volleyball
Early Sports Career and Involvement in VolleyballRubén Acosta Hernández was an avid sportsman from a young age, excelling in volleyball, basketball, tennis, swimming, and golf. His passion for volleyball led him to become a volleyball coach from 1952 to 1955 and a volleyball referee from 1956 to 1963.
Leadership in Mexican and International Volleyball
In 1965, Acosta Hernández became president of the Mexican Volleyball Federation, a position he held until 1984. He also served as general secretary of the Mexican Sports Confederation from 1967 to 1969. Acosta Hernández played a key role in the organization of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics as a member of the organizing committee.
In 1969, he founded and became president of the North, Central American and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA), a position he held until 1984. He was instrumental in organizing and hosting the 1974 Men's and Women's Volleyball World Championships in Mexico.
Presidency of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)
Acosta Hernández was elected vice president of the FIVB in 1974. In 1984, at the FIVB Congress in Los Angeles, he became president. Acosta Hernández was re-elected to this position several times, serving until his retirement in 2008. Upon his departure, he was named Honorary President of the FIVB.
Under Acosta Hernández's leadership, the FIVB expanded from 156 to 219 member nations, becoming the largest international sports federation. He introduced significant rule changes to enhance the entertainment value and television appeal of volleyball, including the "tie-break" system, the "libero" defensive specialist, and others.
Development of Beach Volleyball and Commercial Tournaments
Acosta Hernández's efforts significantly contributed to the growth of beach volleyball, which was added to the Olympic program in 1996. He also initiated the creation of two major commercial tournaments for national teams: the Men's World League and the Women's Grand Prix.
Education and Honors
Acosta Hernández graduated from the law faculty of the National Autonomous University of Mexico in 1963. He holds doctorates in criminal law and pedagogy. He has authored numerous publications on sports organization and management.
Acosta Hernández received numerous awards and honors, including the French Legion of Honor (2001), the IOC Olympic Order (1988), and various orders and medals from countries and organizations around the world. He is also an honorary citizen of Hiroshima, Ivory Coast, and Atlanta.