AVSC

Eliza Veale, Year 8, Ridgeway Campus 

My name is Eliza Veale and I went to the Gold Coast for the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup in December 2024. It was so rewarding and fun for me and my team and here is why. Throughout last year, we were looking forward to this competition, motivating us to improve. This program is so supportive and kind with amazing coaches who help you and aim for you to get better at volleyball. We prioritised teamwork, skill and having fun while we learnt how to communicate on court and work together. When joining volleyball at Ivanhoe, you make a commitment to the sport, by getting up early and training after school. This trip was one of the highlights of the year because it developed my independence, and we formed strong friendships throughout the competition. We got to live in an apartment with teammates, and make our own meals, practicing what it’s like to be responsible. It is such a great learning experience, and I enjoyed it very much. We played one or two games a day, allowing us to improve skills and be competitive but also spend time bonding as a volleyball community. My team came fourth on the ladder after a long week of competing, and although we are very proud of our efforts, we can’t wait to keep training this year and get even better.  

Lexie Martina, Year 8, Ridgeway Campus

The Volleyball Development Squad isn’t just a team, it’s a community. Even if you are starting your skills from the start, you'll notice the improvement straight away. On bad days, the support I receive from teammates and coaches always lifts me up and makes me feel better while playing the sport I love. 

Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to the Gold Coast for a volleyball school tournament. This unforgettable experience not only improved my volleyball skills but also strengthened the bond between my teammates with every game. I've made so many new memories by building new friendships on and off the court. 

A positive mindset is one of the key attributes to bring onto the court, so it’s always important to approach every match with a smile and hype. I’ve learned the importance of showing up with excitement and energy, no matter what.