THE 2024 Volleyball Victoria Country Championships concluded on Monday, June 10, after a long weekend of exceptional full-format, five-set volleyball competition among the country Victoria volleyball associations. The event, hosted across three venues in the Latrobe Valley, saw a record number of entries with 43 teams battling it out across six divisions, making it one of the largest Country Champs in the modern era.
The Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium (GRISS), Latrobe Leisure Churchill, and Latrobe Leisure Morwell provided eight volleyball courts for the tournament, creating a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere over the King’s Birthday Long Weekend, from June 7 to 10, 2024.
South Gippsland Volleyball Club had a memorable championship, entering five teams and making history with their achievements:
• Women’s Division 2: 3rd – Bronze medallists. Coach: Jenny Damon.
• Men’s Division 2: 8th. Coach:
Michael (Herby) Axford. Manager: Michelle Axford.
• Men’s Division 3: 3rd – Bronze medallists. Coach: Tim Berger.
• Women’s Division 3: 1st – Gold medallists. Coach: Jessica Sanders. Manager: Dave Fuller.
• Women’s Division 3 (2): 7th. Coach: Mindy Hams. Manager: Anna Gloria. Referee: Paul Chalmers.
• Referee Encouragement Award to Michael (Herby) Axford.
This year’s championships also saw a remarkable level of participation from South Gippsland, with six family pairings (mother/daughter, father/son, and siblings) and 24 players making their debut at the Country Champs:
• Division 3 (1) Women: Five first timers
• Division 3 (2) Women: Eight first timers
• Division 3 Men: Seven first timers
• Division 2 Women: One first timer
• Division 2 Men: Three first timers
The Women’s Division 2 team clinched the bronze medal, with Andrea Axford being named MVP and included in the prestigious All-Star Sevens, alongside Alexandra Scott and Sarah Damon. The Men’s Division 3 team also secured a bronze medal, showcasing their determination and skill. The Women’s Division 3 team shone brightly, winning the gold medal match, with Charlotte Smith receiving MVP honours and a spot on the All-Star Sevens team.
The 2024 Country Champs was a weekend filled with competitive spirit, camaraderie, and outstanding achievements. It was a testament to the dedication and talent within the South Gippsland Volleyball Club. The club extends its gratitude to Volleyball Victoria and the Latrobe Valley Volleyball Association for organising such a fantastic event.
As the dust settles on this year’s championships, South Gippsland Volleyball Club is already looking forward to next year’s competition, eager to build on their success and continue their legacy. Go South’s!
