Star players from VTV Binh Dien Long An, including Thanh Thuy, Kim Thoa, and Khanh Dang, may miss the 2025 FIVB Women's Club World Championship as they are expected to represent Vietnam in the pursuit of a historic gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand.

After finishing as runners-up in the 2025 Asian Women’s Club Championship, VTV Binh Dien Long An earned the right to represent Vietnam at the prestigious global tournament. For Thanh Thuy and her teammates, this achievement marks a proud milestone, as the World Club Championship gathers the best women’s volleyball clubs from around the world.

However, a scheduling conflict now puts these players at the center of controversy. The World Club Championship is slated for December 8-14, 2025, while the SEA Games will take place from December 9-20. With several VTV Binh Dien Long An players also listed on the national team roster, it is unlikely they will be allowed to play in both competitions.

According to a representative of the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VVF), the top goal for women’s volleyball in 2025 is the SEA Games gold medal - a title Vietnam has long aspired to but repeatedly fallen short of due to Thailand’s dominance. However, recent progress by Vietnam’s women's team has narrowed the gap, fueling greater confidence in competing head-to-head with the regional powerhouse.

To mount a serious bid for gold, the national team will need its strongest possible lineup. That makes it highly unlikely that the VVF or head coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet will agree to release Thanh Thuy, Kim Thoa, or Khanh Dang for club duty during the World Championship.

The decision has sparked debate across Vietnamese volleyball forums. Some argue that SEA Games are held biennially, and despite improvements, Vietnam is still unlikely to defeat Thailand. They suggest the national team could call up players from other clubs and let VTV Binh Dien Long An field its stars on the world stage.

Others disagree, saying the club would likely be outmatched at the World Championship and should instead give younger players or foreign recruits the opportunity, while the core athletes focus on winning a historic SEA Games gold.

Some have proposed a compromise: allowing the players to compete at the World Championship and return in time for the SEA Games semifinals - should Vietnam qualify. However, this is viewed as logistically and physically impractical due to travel fatigue and limited training time.

Despite the divided opinions, the final decision rests with the Vietnam Volleyball Federation and coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet. Both are unlikely to release top players for club play during this crucial national campaign. In fact, the federation has issued strict new policies for 2025, warning of severe disciplinary action for athletes who refuse national team duties.

Dai Nam