VolleyBar34# : Thursday July 2, 2026

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With the rosters of almost all the top European clubs and the leagues we regularly cover now virtually complete, and with little transfer news to report, today we’re turning our attention to the 2026 CEV U22 European Championship, currently taking place in Albufeira, Portugal.
Both semifinals will be played tomorrow. At 4:00 PM, Israel, winners of Pool 1 after well-deserved straight-set victories over Ukraine and hosts Portugal, and a straight-set loss to Poland with several key players rested, will face the Czech Republic, runners-up in Pool 2. In the evening, Pool 2 winners France—who defeated the Czech Republic in five sets, Bulgaria 3-1, and eliminated Italy 3-2—will take on Poland.
The medal matches will be played on Saturday.

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In Italy, Acqua Sant’Anna has become the new main sponsor of Cuneo. The partnership brings one of Italy’s best-known brands into volleyball while supporting a club widely appreciated for its commitment to youth development.
Off the court, Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza announced that Ninesquared will become the club’s new technical sponsor from the 2026-27 season under a three-year agreement. The company, based in Riva del Garda, will supply match kits, training gear, and official apparel not only for the SuperLega and CEV Cup first team, but also for the club’s youth academy and sitting volleyball team.

More signings for newcomers Prata di Pordenone: Belgian middle blocker Wout d’Heer joins the club after five seasons in Italy’s top flight, during which he won a Serie A title, an Italian Cup, and an Italian Super Cup with Trento, before going on to play for Taranto and Civitanova.
“Every match and every point will be important. We’ll have to give more than 100% in every game,” he said in the club’s official statement.

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In Japan, Wolfdogs Nagoya have officially announced the signing of legendary French libero Jenia Grebennikov for the 2026-27 season.
Jenia Grebennikov’s first comments:
“I am incredibly proud and excited to become a member of Wolfdogs Nagoya starting next season.
I can’t wait to come to Japan and meet my new teammates, the coaching staff, and all the fans. First of all, I’d like to thank the club for giving me this opportunity and for believing in me. It’s a real honor to join such a fantastic organization.
I feel that the Japanese league continues to grow every year. The level of play keeps improving, the arenas are filled with passionate supporters, and the atmosphere throughout the league is outstanding. Wolfdogs Nagoya is one of Japan’s top clubs, so joining this team is a wonderful opportunity for me.
I’m also looking forward to growing as a player. Japanese volleyball is known for its speed, technical quality, intensity, excellent defensive play, and discipline. I’m convinced this experience will help me develop both on and off the court.
This will be my first season playing in Japan, and I’m really looking forward to discovering a new culture and a different style of volleyball. I’ve also heard many great things about the league from my French teammates who have already played here, which has made me even more excited about this new challenge.
I can’t wait to step onto the court and meet everyone in Nagoya. Let’s enjoy a great season together!” he said.

Wolfdogs Nagoya have also confirmed the signing of German middle blocker Anton Brehme, who said:
“I’m very excited and grateful to join Wolfdogs Nagoya for the upcoming season. It is a great honor to become part of such a professional organization with a strong tradition and passionate fans.
I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates, working hard every day, and giving my best to help the team achieve its goals. I can’t wait to experience volleyball in Japan and create great memories together.
To all the Wolfdogs fans, thank you for your support. I’m excited to play in front of you, and I will give everything I have on the court to make you proud and give you many reasons to celebrate.
Thank you to the club for this opportunity. I’m excited to start this new chapter, and I hope we will have a successful season together. See you soon!”

The same Japanese side have completed another major signing with the arrival of Czech outside hitter Donovan Dzavoronok.

“I’m very grateful to become part of the Wolfdogs family. It’s a great honor!
I’m excited to play alongside my new teammates and continue improving under the guidance of an outstanding coaching staff.
I can’t wait to play in front of the amazing Wolfdogs fans. See you soon!” are his first words with the colors of his new club.

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