Wei Jizhong Chinese volleyball official Date of Birth: 12.11.1936 Country: China

1. Biographical Details
2. Early Life and Education
3. Administrative and Coaching Career
4. Asia Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Leadership
5. International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) President
6. Other Notable Positions
7. International Olympic Committee Membership
8. Retirement and Legacy

Biographical Details

Wei Jizhong, a prominent Chinese volleyball official, served as the President of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) from 2008 to 2012.

Early Life and Education

Wei's passion for volleyball began early in life. As a 16-year-old student, he joined junior teams in Shanghai's citywide volleyball competitions. In 1954, he enrolled at Nanjing University, where he actively participated in collegiate championships.

Administrative and Coaching Career

Upon graduating, Wei transitioned into sports administration and coaching. In 1986, he became the General Secretary of the Chinese Olympic Committee (NOC). He concurrently held positions as Vice-President of the Chinese Volleyball Association (1986-1997), Director of External Affairs for China's State General Administration of Sport (1988-1997), and President of the China Taekwondo Association.

Asia Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Leadership

Wei's involvement in volleyball leadership expanded internationally. From 1997 to 2001, he served as the Chairman of the AVC Marketing Committee. In 2001, he was elected President of the AVC at the 14th AVC Congress in Bangkok, Thailand.

International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) President

In 2008, Wei became President of the FIVB after a unanimous vote at the 31st FIVB Congress in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He succeeded Ruben Acosta Hernandez, who had led the organization for 24 years.

Other Notable Positions

In addition to his roles in volleyball, Wei was a member of the FIVB Legal Commission from 1982 and its Chairman from 1984. He also served as First Vice-President of the FIVB from 2002 onwards.

International Olympic Committee Membership

Wei's contributions to the Olympic Movement were recognized in 2008 when he was elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee.

Retirement and Legacy

In September 2012, Wei stepped down as President of FIVB and was elected as Honorary President. His leadership and commitment to volleyball has left a lasting impact on the sport worldwide.