Beach volleyball could be local sport’s next big thing. That’s because there been such a big response to plans for a volleyball development program in the South West Sydney Academy of Sport (SWAAS).
The program won’t start until later this month, but there’s already talk that should it prove successful, beach volleyball will be next.
But first things first, and right now the focus is on the academy’s Phoenix development program in partnership with Volleyball NSW.
Former Volleyroo and current NSW coach Francis Uso will run the academy program.
The program will provide a pathway opportunity to the top for young volleyball athletes.
Academy CEO Gerry Knights, who has been a driving force in getting volleyball into the regional academies of sport, says there was such a large initial interest shown from South West Sydney volleyball athletes, the academy reached out to Volleyball NSW.
“The interest shown from the local volleyball community for a high performance pathway development program in our region was amazing,’’ Knights said.
“The academy was also spurred on by the interest shown by local schools.’’
The initial program will be 10 weeks of practical training and sports education sessions commencing in late July.
Volleyballers selected will get an early opportunity to represent the region at an inter-regional academy challenge in September.
Male and female athletes who live, attend school, or compete for a volleyball association within the council areas of Liverpool, Campbelltown, Camden, or Wollondilly, aged 12-18 years old, are invited to trial.
Academy staff have been finalising details for the volleyball development program, with nominations for an expected trial date on July 21 anticipated to be open shortly.
Further information on the volleyball program is available on the academy website, www.swsas.org.au.
