Behind the Scenes of the Gear Up Rise Up Project in the Philippines
- Sisi Chen
- Apr 5
- 2 min read
Volleyball has the power to connect people, transform lives, and create opportunities for communities around the world. With this vision in mind, Let’s Keep The Ball Flying (LKTBF) launched the Gear Up Rise Up project to revolutionise grassroots volleyball and make the sport accessible to underserved communities.
This documentary takes you behind the scenes of our journey in the Philippines, where passion, teamwork, and a shared love for volleyball came together to create something truly special.
A Team United by Passion
From professional volleyball players and Olympians to videographers and coaches, the Gear Up Rise Up team is a diverse group of individuals from different backgrounds, all united by their passion for volleyball.
The initiative, led by LKTBF founder Lesley de Jonge, brings together experts such as John Kessel (USA Volleyball), Malina Terrell (Pro Player & LKTBF Ambassador), and Kimberly Drewniok (Former Team Germany Player), alongside local talents and dedicated volunteers.
Bringing Volleyball to Rural Communities
In the heart of the Philippine mountains, local communities carved out flat spaces where children could play. With dedication and effort, our team set up multiple volleyball courts, proving that if you build it, they will come.
Seeing the excitement and joy in the children’s eyes as they touched a volleyball for the first time was an unforgettable experience.
The Power of Volleyball Education
One of the highlights of our journey was introducing innovative tournament formats such as the linear tournament and the circle tournament, designed by John Kessel.
These formats make organising matches easy while ensuring everyone gets a chance to play and develop their skills. Through structured learning and engaging activities, local coaches and children were empowered with tools to grow within the sport.
Capturing the Moments
Our incredible media team, led by Milad Payami, a two-time Olympic photographer, worked tirelessly behind the camera to document every special moment. From intense matches to heartfelt interactions, their work helps us share the power of volleyball with the world, inspiring others to join our mission.
The Meaning of This Philippines Journey
This project is about more than just volleyball. It’s about bringing joy, fostering connections, and empowering communities. As John Kessel beautifully put it, "We are helping kids love volleyball sooner, love it deeper, and equipping coaches to teach the sport in ways that make a lasting impact."
The Gear Up Rise Up journey is only just beginning. With continued support from our global volleyball family, we can bring the sport to even more communities in need. Together, we can keep the ball flying! Learn more at lktbf.org/guru.
Join The Guru Community
The Gear Up Rise Up (Guru) Toolkit is more than just a resource, it’s a movement. Designed to empower passionate volleyball coaches and community leaders, Guru helps those who feel unprepared and unsupported become confident, skilled mentors.
Through innovative training methods, accessible learning spaces, and a global network of like-minded change makers, Guru equips you with everything you need to build thriving volleyball communities and grow the game worldwide.
Ready to make an impact? Join the LKTBF community today and start your journey with the Guru Toolkit at lktbf.org/guru!
