Rio de Janeiro, August 6, 2016 – After months of renovation, the Volleyball House opened its doors on Friday for business. In addition to providing a lasting legacy for the school’s 600 students, its teachers and employees, the house is an important development in the culture of volleyball.
US beach volleyball legend, Randy Stokles who visited the house on Saturday, gave his seal of approval for this important ‘hub’ for the volleyball community during the Games. “The FIVB Volleyball House is incredible!” said Stokles. “What an opportunity for all the players and national federations and everyone that is involved with volleyball.” During the Games the Volleyball House will be an important centre for players and other members of the community to meet, exchange ideas and build up an international community.
Friday’s opening ceremony also hosted a few of the children who will benefit from all the work that has been done on their school.
But who was the man whose name was given to the school? And how did the school come to be built on some of the prime locations of Rio de Janeiro?
Theodoric Cicero Ferreira Penna was born in Belem on 6 December 1856. He moved to Rio de Janeiro to complete his studies at the city's Medical School and after graduating moved permamently in the 'Cidade Maravilhosa' where he acquired several properties and became well-known and admired for his compassionate nature and care of children while exercising his profession.
After his death on 6 December 1920, Dr Cicero Penna left his estate to his descendants and to charities, including his mansion on Copacabana's iconic Avenida Atlantica donated to the Prefecture of what was then the Federal District of Rio. This property was converted to house the Municipal School which now bears the good doctor's name.
The school nowadays includes a Kindergarten and Primary School, in addition to offering classes for youth and adults.
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