Women should be allowed to dress comfortably in the big scene!
The Issue
As a young Muslim woman with a passion for volleyball, the sport has always been an integral part of my life. I dream of playing in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), but I find myself at a crossroads, since the rules require me and many others like myself to compromise our values. The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) imposes strict rules on athletes' attire, particularly mandating tight clothing to prevent interference with the net and facilitate athletic movements. However, these regulations inadvertently exclude those of us who dress modestly in observance of our cultural or religious beliefs.
It is disheartening to realize that I might be unable to pursue my dream of competing at the highest levels simply because I am not willing to compromise on my values and dress in skin-tight apparel in front of millions of viewers. Imagine being forced to choose between your passion and your principles—a decision no athlete or individual should have to make.
I believe that slightly loose-fitting pants can be worn during matches without posing any risks to players' performance or safety. I have played volleyball in looser pants for years, without any issues, competing effectively and safely. I and the many hijabis playing volleyball with track or sweatpants or looser athletic wear in general are living proof that sport inclusivity is achievable without compromising performance.
The FIVB's current regulations do not reflect the diversity and inclusivity that volleyball should stand for. By allowing athletes to wear modest attire, such as slightly loose-fitting pants, we can broaden participation, bringing in diverse talent that represents the global nature of the sport. It’s time to modernize and humanize these outdated rules.
Let us urge the FIVB to amend their regulations and allow athletes to choose attire that aligns with their beliefs while still adhering to safety standards. By embracing diversity, the sport can inspire a new generation of players from all walks of life and faiths, making volleyball a truly universal game.
Sign this petition to encourage the FIVB to create a more inclusive environment where all women, irrespective of their religious or personal choices, can compete freely and fairly in the VNL.
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The Issue
As a young Muslim woman with a passion for volleyball, the sport has always been an integral part of my life. I dream of playing in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), but I find myself at a crossroads, since the rules require me and many others like myself to compromise our values. The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) imposes strict rules on athletes' attire, particularly mandating tight clothing to prevent interference with the net and facilitate athletic movements. However, these regulations inadvertently exclude those of us who dress modestly in observance of our cultural or religious beliefs.
It is disheartening to realize that I might be unable to pursue my dream of competing at the highest levels simply because I am not willing to compromise on my values and dress in skin-tight apparel in front of millions of viewers. Imagine being forced to choose between your passion and your principles—a decision no athlete or individual should have to make.
I believe that slightly loose-fitting pants can be worn during matches without posing any risks to players' performance or safety. I have played volleyball in looser pants for years, without any issues, competing effectively and safely. I and the many hijabis playing volleyball with track or sweatpants or looser athletic wear in general are living proof that sport inclusivity is achievable without compromising performance.
The FIVB's current regulations do not reflect the diversity and inclusivity that volleyball should stand for. By allowing athletes to wear modest attire, such as slightly loose-fitting pants, we can broaden participation, bringing in diverse talent that represents the global nature of the sport. It’s time to modernize and humanize these outdated rules.
Let us urge the FIVB to amend their regulations and allow athletes to choose attire that aligns with their beliefs while still adhering to safety standards. By embracing diversity, the sport can inspire a new generation of players from all walks of life and faiths, making volleyball a truly universal game.
Sign this petition to encourage the FIVB to create a more inclusive environment where all women, irrespective of their religious or personal choices, can compete freely and fairly in the VNL.
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Petition created on July 22, 2026