Record entries for new-look junior Volleyball competitions in England
News
A record 290 teams from volleyball clubs and schools have entered Volleyball England’s refreshed junior competitions for 2022.
Capitalising on the junior volleyball surge experienced across the country, the new-look U15, U16 and U18 series have created a level of play that is ideal for new or inexperienced teams while also creating competitive playing opportunities for the country’s most talented junior athletes.
This has come about from moving from knock-out cup style competitions that could see teams play just one match into two tiers of Grand Prix-style events that will match teams against similar-level opposition throughout the season.
With 86 teams entering the U18 series, 77 sides the U16s and 127 teams the U15s, the 2022 Junior Grand Prix Series not only tops the number of entries from the last full season (112) but smashes the highest figure on record for national-level junior Volleyball competitions (210). In total, Volleyball England predict that some 2,500 youngsters will play across the series.
Rob Payne“With many junior clubs bursting at the seams with new players we were expecting a bumper year for junior competitions entries, but this exceeds all expectations. We are delighted this new format, which in Tier 2 is ideal for new and inexperienced players, has been so well received and look forward to delivering these competitions in the new year.”
Strategic Manager for An Ace Service, who oversees Volleyball England competitions