LONDON’S Olympic Games captured the hearts and minds of many across the summer, and it seems to have had a substantial effect on participation numbers for volleyball.
Club captain Ilya Burkov has been pleased with the enthusiasm for the sport of volleyball this time around.
“We have over 100 people signed up to join the club, making the fight for places extremely competitive,” she said.
“The great organisation from the volleyball club committee has made the abundance of participants at the trials possible.”
This is much contrast to last year as due to unforeseen complications they were unable to establish a team before the opening of the BUCS season.
The Athletics’ Union (AU) at the time were forced to cancel the club’s membership status within the AU due to their inability to field a team in the league.
But towards the end of the second academic term last year, a monumental effort from willing volleyball enthusiasts made it possible for two friendly matches to be organised, with Cardiff and Aberystwyth.
The club now has two teams of 13 players, which has made selection difficult for Burkov.
Due to the great interest the club have decided to run open sessions for all members, team or not, to play the game which takes place every Saturday afternoon at the sports hall on Sketty Lane from 2pm.
Burkov added: “This session is open to all, regardless of gender or ability and is seen as a fun way for students to get involved in volleyball.”
The session also acts as a test ground for future team players, with people who prove their ability going on to represent Swansea when Burkov believes that they are ready.
With the new clubs now fully integrated in to the Sport Swansea organisation, they will be in action at next year’s Welsh Varsity competition.
Comments