SPORTS HISTORY IN KLAGENFURT
KLAGENFURT, 26 September 2026. With a sporting and unifying message, the 3rd International Panathlon Alpe-Adria Sitting Volleyball Tournament was opened today at the Sportpark Klagenfurt. Teams from Austria, Italy, Slovenia and Croatia are turning Klagenfurt into an international meeting point for sitting volleyball this weekend.
Prof. Dr. Michael Ausserwinkler, President of Panathlon International – District Austria, spoke at the opening of a piece of sports history. He expressed pride in launching a new chapter of the international Alpe-Adria Tournament with its first-ever staging in Austria.
Regional Councillor Mag. Peter Reichmann, MBA, highlighted the special value of sport – especially where people with and without disabilities participate together. He wished the athletes and organizers a successful tournament and smooth proceedings.
Among the guests at the opening ceremony was former Carinthian Governor Dr. Peter 
Kaiser.
With the Panathlon anthem and the oath, the participants sent a message of fair play, respect and sporting unity across borders. At the conclusion of the official ceremony, the 3rd International Panathlon Alpe-Adria Sitting Volleyball Tournament was declared open – and the teams headed onto the court.
FOUR NATIONS – ONE COURT
The tournament brings together athletes from Austria, Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. In addition to the sporting competition, the focus is on inclusion, exchange and cross-border cooperation within the Alpe-Adria region.
Among those on the court for Austria is Behnoosh Behravan. The former Iranian national team player says she brings 17 years of national team experience and is competing for Austria in Klagenfurt for the third time. She also contributes her expertise as team coach.
“Sitting volleyball is a bridge for me – between cultures and between people with and without disabilities. Together with our team, we have already achieved a great deal on this path,” Behravan says.
TOURNAMENT CONTINUES ON SUNDAY
After the first rounds on Saturday, the international tournament will continue on Sunday, 27 September, from 09:30 to 14:00.
The sporting event is accompanied by an inclusive supporting programme for multiple generations. Visitors can try sitting volleyball themselves. For children, there is the SeeKids adventure area and activities offered by the Austrian Youth Red Cross.