Each year we ask a number of our younger players to report back on their experiences in the SW. This years will be the 25th anniversary of the ELC event so we ask the 2019 Plymouth University girls for their comments.
Player 1.
Being allowed to play in the Exeter Ladies Challenge, gave our team a chance to practice and play together at the end of the season. The other teams at the tournament made it fun and challenging to play against them. Due to the wide variety of teams, there was a fun atmosphere throughout the whole day with teams supporting each other whilst playing against each other competitively. It was nice to see players from all ages playing together and to see the young and upcoming volleyball players of the south west playing volleyball at such a level. Also a huge congratulations to the boys from south west who won the tournament. They were to play against.
Player 2.
This was my first time participating in a volleyball tournament, exhausting yet thrilling, I really enjoyed the day and would definitely participate again. Playing timed games against players of all ages and abilities, from those local to the area to as far as Bristol, meant every game was different. One of the teams we competed against in the early stages were the tournament winners, South West boys. The game was very competitive and the timed element meant every point counted and added that extra pressure. And when you’re not playing, your team becomes a refereeing team, so there is no chance of getting bored across the day.
Player 3.
Standard of Exeter tournament was really good, all teams had good performance. Our team started off really well but eventually lost to the south west boys team, which went onto win. The day went smooth and was really well organized , everyone seemed to have fun and our team genuinely enjoyed playing together again against good teams.
Player 4.
We played a respectively right amount games for a days tournament and considering a team dropped out it still didn’t effect the days organisation. Each of our games were so close and the deserved winners of the day were South West boys which we had a very close game with. Furthermore, showing the high level of play by each team. A really enjoyable day, highly organised by Dave and Rachel held at Riverside leisure centre.
Summary:
The standard and organisation of the tournament is at a high standard with all teams being at a similar ability whilst most importantly having fun. The winners of the day SW boys under 15’s ended up at the top after a close finals with PMVC ladies but were the deserving winners in a nail biting finale. Big thanks to Dave and Rachel for a great fun filled day of volleyball that is inclusive for all abilities.
Karis Lang
