VakifBank makes history by offering unique experience to fans with visual impairments

In addition to their competitive achievements, VakifBank carry out significant social responsibility projects off the court too. The elite Turkish team has launched another world-first project with its ‘Volleyball for everyone’ approach. Earlier this week, the Yellow-and-Blacks, in collaboration with BlindLook Turkey, provided a volleyball experience for 10 sports fans with visual impairments. 

Hosted by VakifBank Vice-President Ferkan Merdan, the guests toured the museum, touched and learned about the trophies and medals, and afterwards moved to the main hall to feel and experience the net, the ball, and the court. The guests had the opportunity to meet Banu Can Schürmann, Giovanni Guidetti, captain Zehra Güneş, Cansu Özbay, and the assistant coaches and eventually watched the CEV Champions League match with Calcit KAMNIK from the stands reserved for them. The fans with visual impairments received descriptive commentary through headsets, thereby enjoying an unforgettable volleyball experience.

With this project, a first in the sport of Volleyball, people with visual impairments shared in all the excitement of the game. The guests, who were told all the action of the match from the beginning to the end, had a night to remember. They also listened to the tactics given to the players by head coach Giovanni Guidetti during the breaks. A microphone was given to VakifBank assistant coach Saim Pekkan, who turned up the volume during the breaks and this way the tactics and excitement were conveyed to those listening from the stands. 

Taking lessons from the project, VakifBank Sports Club Vice-President Ferkan Merdan said: “At VakifBank, we prioritise taking innovative and exemplary steps toward accessibility and inclusivity, not just on the field but throughout all areas of society. With our ‘Volleyball for everyone’ approach, we aimed to raise awareness and provide visually impaired fans with an opportunity to experience the match atmosphere. We have made a world-wide first for our guests to feel the excitement of Volleyball, to fully experience the dynamism of the game and the VakifBank spirit. Their enthusiasm remains an inspiring memory for us, and as VakifBank, we will continue to work on projects that break down barriers and make sports accessible to all.”