Premier Projects, the charity division of Premier Loto and Premier Bet, announced in December 2019 that they would rebuild the volleyball court at the Blantyre Youth Centre.

Now, after months of hard work, the court has officially opened with a grand ceremony attended by the Mr.Oliver Nakoma, Chairman of Malawi National Council of Sports Board Mr.Jameson Ndalama, Director of Sports in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, representatives of the Volleyball Association and local residents.

A spokesman for Premier Projects said: “Today is a momentous day for everyone involved in this renovation. Everyone associated with Premier Projects is extremely proud to hand the court over to the Blantyre Youth Centre and we’re excited to see it being used by the local community.”

Previously, the volleyball court had fallen into disrepair and was not fit to serve the needs of budding athletes. Premier Projects has now renovated every aspect of the court and there are high hopes the facility will generate future volleyball stars.

James Kaunda, Vice President of the Volleyball Association of Malawi, had previously said the rehabilitation of the court would inspire players and spectators to develop the sport in Malawi. This is a sentiment echoed by the developers.

“We believe the presentation of this volleyball court will play a crucial role in the development of volleyball in the region,” said Milos Jovanovic, Operations Manager of Premier Bet and Premier Loto.

“We hope to see future stars of Malawian sports practising on this court.”

The opening ceremony included a first match on the new court and speeches by prominent figures in Malawian sport. The court is now open for all residents to play on. Simply go to the Blantyre Youth Centre to enquire.

Premier Projects confirmed that they are working on similar jobs across Malawi and hinted that a development in Lilongwe could be next on the agenda.