21/05/2026
Volleyball Australia is saddened by the passing of international referee Mariko Satomi (JPN) while attending the World Pro Beach Tour in Nuvali (PHL).
Mariko was a valued member of the international volleyball community and a great friend to many Australian referees.
Her passion, dedication, and contribution to our sport touched many people across the volleyball family.
Satomi began her refereeing career over two decades ago when she attended the Songkhla 2004 Beach Volleyball International Referee Course and was soon nominated as an international referee in 2006.
A dedicated career spanning many years, Satomi officiated at the sportโs most prestigious events.
Her elite experience included the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Furthermore, she served at five FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships, including The Hague 2015, Vienna 2017, Hamburg 2019, Rome 2022, and Tlaxcala 2023.
On behalf of the Australian volleyball community, Volleyball Australia extends its deepest condolences to Mariko Satomiโs family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.