Victorian Volleyball Junior Open

Over a month ago, those who partook in the volleyball co-curricular received an email with information on a state-wide volleyball competition. Those who volunteered for the Junior Open participated in five training sessions during their own lunchtimes. After thorough preparation, on Sunday 27th November, two teams departed from Bendigo for the 4-day competition - a Girls Under 15s, and a Boys Under 16s. 

Students stayed at Melbourne University's own University College - although, the teams didn’t have much downtime to stay and relax. When we did, however, time was spent playing pool, ping-pong, and watching movies.

Over the next four days, my personal team, the Girls' team, participated in 11 total games at MSAC - amongst which were some extremely challenging competitions, with a rewarding outcome of 3rd place in our division. The girls only lost a total of three games throughout.

The Males Under 16s matched our enthusiasm, competing in an age division years above their ordinary one (for the majority of their team members). They were not successful in their endeavors for the top three, however the success of their team is measured by the effort they put in, and in that measure - they received first place.

The games provided clear insight into the world of professional volleyball, a rewarding aspect of the competition. Spectating and reffing games gave our players as much awareness for strategies and gameplay as playing did. The skills we earned were incomparable to prior to the competition - we all came out as new players, with new strengths.

A big thank you to all staff who attended: Ms Speed, Miss Eenjes, Ms McDonald, Mrs Brewin and Mr Langan. 

I’d like to extend special thanks to Mrs Brewin, who due to her retirement, meant this was her last time coaching volleyball. With that, she did so successfully coaching a team into the top three. Thankyou Mrs Brewin!

Madeleine Ching (8 Frew)