A special event dedicated to excellence, hard work, and the values of sport and education took place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Polymidia Lyceum, where the SAFEBULKERS AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2026 were held. The event was organized by Lemesos Volleyball with the support of Safe Bulkers.

The main objective of the event was to recognize and reward athletes who successfully combined their sporting commitments with outstanding academic performance, serving as role models for the younger generation.

During the ceremony, 21 Excellence Awards, with a total value of €10,500, generously sponsored by Safe Bulkers, were presented to athletes of Lemesos Volleyball who achieved an overall academic grade of 19 or higher.

The event was honored by the presence of Polys Hadjioannou, Chief Executive Officer of Safe Bulkers; Andreas Theodorou, Mayor of Polymidia; Dr. Costas Constantinou, President of the Cyprus Volleyball Federation; Costas Papacostas, President of the Cyprus Olympians Association and Special Advisor on Sports Affairs to the President of the Republic; Damianos Hadjidamianou, Honorary President of the Cyprus Volleyball Federation; Vasilis Vasileiou, President of the Polymidia School Board; and Maria Polydorou, Principal of Polymidia Lyceum, along with representatives from local government, sports, education, and the business community.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening was the recognition of athletes who secured athletic scholarships at universities in the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting the ability of sport to create new opportunities and pathways for young people.

Athletes representing Cyprus in the National Volleyball Teams were also honored, while a special distinction was awarded to Andri Iordanous in recognition of her 15 years of service with the Cyprus Women’s National Team and 12 consecutive years as Team Captain.

Lemesos Volleyball also celebrated the club’s significant sporting achievements during the season. The Women’s Team secured 3rd place in the National Championship and participated in the MEVZA Championship Final Four, while the U18, U16, and U14 teams all finished as runners-up in their respective Cyprus Championships.

In their addresses, the speakers emphasized the importance of combining sport and education, as well as the need to support the younger generation through initiatives that reward effort, consistency, commitment, and excellence.

Lemesos Volleyball extends its sincere gratitude to Safe Bulkers and personally to Mr. Polys Hadjioannou for their invaluable support and long-standing investment in young people. The club also thanks all sponsors, supporters, parents, coaches, and volunteers who contribute daily to its growth and development.

The SAFEBULKERS AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2026 demonstrated that true success is built through hard work, discipline, dedication, and a constant commitment to improvement—both on and off the court.