Eczacibasi Sports Club, a leading pioneer in women`s volleyball in Türkiye, recently inaugurated its new, modern sports hall in Kartal, a district known for its vibrant atmosphere. The cutting-edge facility boasts contemporary architecture and adheres to the highest international standards, setting a new benchmark for sports venues.
The grand opening ceremony was a significant event, drawing an esteemed list of dignitaries including Istanbul Deputy Governor Ünal Kılıçarslan, Turkish Volleyball Federation President Mehmet Akif Üstündağ, and Kartal Mayor Gökhan Yüksel. They were joined by numerous other influential officials from the global volleyball community and revered legends of the club. The celebration was marked by poignant moments that beautifully intertwined the club`s storied past with its ambitious vision for the future.
A New Chapter in a 60-Year Journey
Since its establishment in 1966, Eczacibasi Sports Club has been a guiding force in the development of Turkish women’s volleyball. The unveiling of the Kartal Sports Hall marks a pivotal new chapter in its illustrious 60-year history. This facility represents the club`s third major investment in infrastructure, following previous successful developments in Levent (1973) and Ayazağa (2001).
During the ceremony, the club`s legacy was beautifully showcased by captains from different eras – Aylin Üstündağ, Özlem Özçelik, and Simge Aköz – who, alongside young aspiring athletes, brought Eczacibasi`s unique volleyball heritage to the stage, symbolizing the transfer of tradition from generation to generation.
In his address, Club President Faruk Eczacibasi underscored the profound evolution of women’s volleyball, noting that it has transcended its origins as a mere sport to become a significant cultural movement.
Impressive 4,000-Seat Capacity
Constructed with remarkable efficiency in just 15 months, the Kartal Sports Hall boasts an expansive construction area of 25,000 m², encompassing a vast 7,820 m² dedicated to sports activities and a substantial 4,000-seat capacity for spectators. Built to comply with rigorous FIVB and CEV standards, the main court is complemented by three dedicated training halls, comfortable accommodation facilities for young athletes, and comprehensive fitness and physiotherapy areas.
This new hall is envisioned as more than just a sports center; with its high-definition cube screen, modern spectator stands, and an integrated in-house museum, it is positioned to become a vibrant cultural hub within the community.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 season, Eczacibasi Sports Club will proudly host all its national league and European matches at the newly opened Kartal Sports Hall. Furthermore, this state-of-the-art facility is set to become a permanent cornerstone for the sustained development and nurturing of the club`s promising young players.
