Doubles and Triples - Not Entered Yet?

It is not too late to enter the Worthing Volleyball Club Men’s and Women’s Doubles Mixed Triples being held on Saturday 4th May and Sunday 5th May 2013.

This great event is run by Worthing Volleyball club and we need you the players at Worthing to support it!

We need your support to help set up the courts on the Friday evening before, but why not enter a team and then you can support the club ensuring the day runs smoothly?

We have not had many teams enter from Worthing so far, but with entries closing on the 19th of April you are not too late.

It you want to know more about the tournament speak to Damo, Emma or any of the committee, but please do your bit to support the club!

Beach Courts Booked From 21st of May

On another very cold weekend summer feels a long way off, but we will be heading back outside after the SVA cup day on the 19th of May! Training will move to the Worthing Sand Courts from Tuesday the 21st of May and we have them booked from 18:30 - 20:30 throughout the summer.

Looking forward to some great weather this year and more opportunities to get the BBQ going more than we did last year!

Worthing Vipers Win Mens Division 1 (just)

Congratulations to the Vipers for winning Men's Division 1 for the first time in two seasons.

After beating Eastbourne 3-1 on Monday, and assuming Horsham win their remaining games 3-0, the Vipers and Horsham will have the same points total and sets difference, however Vipers have a better "sets for" total which sees them win the league!

A very close finish in a very competitive season with Adur, Horsham and Vipers all fighting for the top spot, but a well deserved title for the Vipers after a long hard fought campaign.

Devils lose to Dolphins 1 but win the league

The Devils lost to Dolphins1 by 3-1, but still managed to secure the Ladies league title.

The first set was very close and one of the early rallies must be a contender for the longest one ever! With both teams determined not to lose the opening set, great back court coverage and blocking it was clear we were in for a long night.

The Devils won a close first set, however Dolphins responded strongly and closed out an even closer second set. Both teams continued to served very well, but Dolphins started to find holes in the Devils defence to take the next 2 sets and the match 3-1.

The good news is that with both Dolphins and the Devils having both only lost one game (to each other) the league title went to sets difference which results in the Devils retaining the league title that they won last year.

Congratulations to the Devils.

Jets sneak past Kings2

Our last away game of the season started like most of our away games with Josh and I standing in the cold making increasingly frantic calls to each other to see if Kishy was on his way, followed by bombing it up the motorway in a car kept at Mauritius temperatures, skidding into the car park and legging it on to court just as captains were called!  With Hastings having the men's Division Two league title in the bag and us already having second place all tied up, our coach and our setter decided that playing for Vipers in their title decider against Eastbourne was an acceptable excuse for bunking off.  This meant Wilko stepped into his favourite position of setter, with Iain as opposite.  Matt and Josh played through the middle and Kish and Dom were the outside hitters with Dan as libero, and Bernard on the bench. We made an inauspicious start to the first set losing the first six points while the team got used to a different setter, when we finally won the serve and moved off that rotation Iain decided anything they could do so could he and Jets took the next six points with no reply. Josh served next for us and also had a strong run of serves with Matt Lay and Dom front court and hitting well we got our noses in front and stayed there.

OK on to set two and Bernard was on for Kish.  Dom decided to get in on the strong serving action and helped Jets get off to a 8-0 lead with help from Josh and Bernard teaming up well to make some strong blocks and powerful attacks.  Matt Wilkes was starting to find his range and mixed the sets up and the whole team were hitting well. Josh nearly took someone's head off and after that we cruised to a 25-12 victory and were starting to think about an early finish and something to eat.

So we were 2-0 up, who needed Andy and Martin? In set three Kish was back on for Bernard and a little complacency started to creep in, the back court cover was a little slower and we weren't finding 2 with our first ball.  Everyone then stepped up and we were all trying too hard to make the killer hit. Kish had one of his moments of madness deciding to spike their serve and was astounded when the referee gave the point to Kings! We were drifting 16-23 down when Matt Lay decided that he still wanted to make the Market Diner and creamed a ball that Kings didn't get anywhere near and then proceed to serve to get us back to 23 all, with a little help from Dom front court . It wasn't to be and in spite of all the momentum being with Jets, Kings defence held strong and they clawed over the line to win 26-24.

Jets always struggle in the third set so no one was too concerned we'd take it in the fourth set, no worries.  Kish and Bernard changed again and off we went.  This time both teams were a little cagey and we traded points throughout the whole game.  Wilko surprised everyone including himself with some great smashes helping us to get to 22-22, but Kings defence was again very mobile and they were picking up balls we thought were dead.  Again they just finished the set winners 25-23.

It's been awhile since Jets have gone to five sets and no one wanted to be the one to tell Andy we had dropped points.  Without Martin there to look to in a tight corner everyone stepped up with great coverage and calling back court and everyone hitting well front court.  Matt Lay was looking for and finding the gaps with his tip and we took the final set 15-11!

Thanks to Steve (Dom's dad) for driving half our team to the game and being the lone voice of support for our longest game of the season, yes it was longer than the sharks game!  MVP went to Bernard for, I think the 8th time (Andy correct me if I'm wrong) it's lucky for him the MVP doesn't have to bake!  Unfortunately taking two and a half hours to play our game meant that we couldn't meet up with the Vipers at the Market Diner to celebrate them claiming the Men’s Division 1 title, but congratulations!

Sorry for another long match report we don't all have Debbie's talent for being funny and succinct!  Don't worry Andy and Martin will be back after Easter (I hope).

Vipers beat Eastbourne 3-1

Vipers beat Eastbourne 3-1 which we think should be enough to secure the league title!!

If Horsham win both of their matches 3-0 sets difference should be the same, but then it goes to sets for which should mean Vipers turn out winners.  I have checked the handbook many times and calculator has been working overtime, but I am also checking with the Div1 secretary.......

Watch this space for confirmation, but well played and should hopefully have a match report from our well deserved MVP Mark later this week.

Jets Beat Kings in 5 Set Match

Well done to the jets who beat Kings2 without Martin who was helping the Vipers beat Eastbourne  3-1.  Match report to hopefully follow from Dan.

Sharks lose to Hastings 3-1

Sharks had Matt and Dom helping them against the league leaders Hastings. With just six players they started with Tim and Paul setting,  Lars and Matt through the middle and Luis and Dom through the outside.

The first few points were hard fought, but Hastings built an early lead. The Sharks finished strong and carried the momentum through in to the second set which they started very well. They wrapped up a close set 26-24 winners thanks to great back court coverage and excellent blocking from Matt and Lars. Dom and Luis contributed with great hitting through the outside, but the third set went to Hastings to make it 2-1. The final set started close, but Hastings experience and desire to win showed though and they won the match 3-1. Tim picked up MVP, but it must have been a tough decision as they all played very well. Thanks to Trees for taking the following pictures.

Demons Take 2 Sets From Dolphins 1

Match report Demons vs Dolphins 1; the away game..grudge no, sweet moments..oh yes indeed...

March 2013

Ok, so it was a long warm up; but we like to forget those two first sets; this is where it all began;

Emma “ so girls, we need to win the league (Devils), any chance you can help?”

Team “ we would love to..lets see if we can play volleyball?”

Response...BOOM...two sets to us....SWEET!

Sabrina “ I am going to get real mad if we loose another 5th set close match”

Debs “ girls, I have to drive her home, I’m not sure I want to be with an angry Sabrina again...I have a family!”

Response...bish bash bosh, point for point, even stevens....OMG....sad faces, Sabrina receives quiche spiked with  valium, Debs bundles into the car, drops her off at home and scarpers quick fast....

Mickey; be proud.

Dorothe; thanks for the top nosh; for those interested; the Demons will be posting recipes for both sweet and savoury dishes on a weekly basis....

Devils; sorry, we tried, and thanks to Emma, we showed them that if the underdogs can take two sets, then the devils may just have a walk in the park.....

The Week Ahead

Wed 20 Mar: Demons away to Dolphin 1 at The Triangle, Burgess Hill at 8pm

Sun 24 Mar: Sharks v Hastings at WHS at 6pm

Devils v Adur Teela at WHS at 8pm

Mon 25 Mar:  Vipers away to Eastbourne at 7.15pm.  A 3-1 win would guarantee Vipers winning the league title.

Mon 25 Mar:  Jets away to Kings II at 8pm at East Grinstead

Tue 26 Mar:   A change from normal timing:

Mixed training from 6-7.30pm followed by

Devils v Dolphin 1 at 7.30pm

The School is refurbishing the Sports Hall floor during the Easter holidays so we won't be back in until Tue 16 Apr.

Keep checking your e-mails for possible match rearrangements.

I'll be away from Wed 20 - Fri 22 Mar. No internet (yippee!) so just my mobile  07795 523467

Cheers

Nigel

Demons Vs Eastbourne; the home game.....

Demons lose a 5 set thriller - report from Debbie.

Sometimes by losing a battle you find a new way to win the war.
Donald trump http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/battle.html#D1gT1KwJ2moJMXmc.99

Peach, Sabrina, Dorothe, Abby, Aly, Smack, Lorna( plus one), Sandrine, I salute you my fellow team players.

Five sets.

Rocky road.

Blister on my left big toe.

Need I say more?

Bring on Wednesday;..... let the battle commence.

Men's and Women's Doubles Mixed Triples
Saturday 4th May 2013 Sunday 5th May 2013 

This is a Indoor tournament with beach rules applying (with a couple of slight differences!). Both the Doubles and Triples entries will be allocated into pools, with all teams in each pool playing each other once. Teams will then be sorted into upper, middle and lower pools for a second set of pool matches before play offs to determine the winners and the placings.
The aim to provide at least 6 matches for every team(depending on entry numbers). All matches will be timed,one set matches,with rally point scoring. All teams will share the officiating.
What standard is it suitable for?
The tournament is suitable for every standard of volleyball player, from National League division 1 to local league division 3. The nature of the first round split means that every team will play most of their games against teams of similar ability.
What sort of competition is it?
The tournament is suitable for every standard of volleyball, from National League division 1 through to local league division3. The nature of the first round split means that every team will play most of their games against teams of similar ability.
Where is it?
Southwick Leisure Centre,Old Barn Way, Southwick, West Sussex, BN42 4NT. A map can be sent before the tournament if required.
How do I enter?
You can enter a team for both the Doubles and Triples tournaments. Remember that Triples teams must have at least one woman player. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Please use the entry form. Submit via (i) the post, enclosing the entry fee, or (ii) email Damien Roberts (droberts@impulseleisure.co.uk) and send a cheque (payable to Worthing Volleyball Club) to 22, Mendip Road, Worthing BN13 2LP. Places will be allocated and confirmed via email when the entry fee has been received. Please note, entry fees are non-refundable
If you wish to submit multiple team entries, please provide separate Team Captain’s details for each team. The closing date for entries will be 19th April 2013. Programmes of play will be emailed before the day. Due to limited space for teams, all entries must be received and paid for prior the tournament.
Accommodation
Camping is available for an extra £5 per person, payable on the day. There are limited spaces available so book early. There will also be café and bar facilities open on site throughout the weekend and a BBQ on the Saturday night. For those less prepared to rough it, Brighton has plenty of B&Bs and Hotels at reasonable prices - see local web sites for details.

Timings
Men's & Ladies Doubles Saturday 9.00am -6.00pm
BBQ Saturday 7.00pm onwards
Mixed Triples Sunday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Entry forms can be obtained from Damien Roberts at the email address listed above.

Jets beat Llamedos 3-0

Jets had a full squad against Llamedos starting with Kishan and Iain through the outside, Josh and Dom through the middle and Matt Wilkes opposite Martin. After a slow start where both teams traded points the Jets opened up a healthy lead and closed out the first set.
The second set saw Matt Lay replace Dom through the middle and Bernard come on through the outside. Another slow start before they finally woke up following some good back court cover from Dan as Libero and good hitting from Matt and Josh through the middle.
The final set was a lot closer as Lllamedos built up a big early lead before the Jets first pass improved and Martin started to find both his outside and middle hitters. Still way to many serving errors from the Jets, but they did manage to close out the set for a 3-0 victory. Bernard managed to secure another MVP and thanks for the Demons that stayed on to ref the match.

Demons lose to Adur 3-0 Report from Debbie.

Demons Vs Adur, march 2013

Like a Trojan army in spirit, the demon ladies went out fighting set one, sorting out a great defensive, but forgetting that war requires an attack also to be utterly successful! After a stern talking to, it was time to put into action plan B; the attack! It was a strong few moments in set two, fuelled by the double French bake off wafting from the wings, and momentarily distracted by someone eating Chinese food...Sarah found her camp hand, Smack did her thing, and Abby attempting to return anything within her vicinity!

Sadly, by set three, confidence had fallen, balls were fallingand like beautiful angels falling, the demons sunk to an all time low, as had Abby who hit the deck with a clatter, and it was all over...

Luckily Lorna kept the pitch side fan club thriving ( go nigel!) and Sandrine produced the best cheese straws ( Oh yeah with bacon and mustard...) and special almond cake, so the team could go home happy!

Vipers win 3-0 away at Crawley

Vipers travelled to Crawley for their second to last match needing a convincing win to keep up the pressure at the top of the league. Injuries meant they were without Damo and Mickey, but were able to bring in Martin plus Juniors Matt Lay and Dom.

Mark played opposite Andy Lay with Martin and Jimmy through the outside and Andrew C and Nigel through the middle. The Vipers got off to a flying start taking the first set 25-7 and carried on in a similar vein in set 2 which allowed Mark to mix things up and give Matt and Dom court time.

The Vipers closed out the final set against an out of sorts Crawley team that struggled to find their form that pushed Vipers so close in the early season fixture at Worthing.

An early finish meant there was time to get to the pub.

Thanks again to our travelling support that helped us get over the finishing line and keep up the momentum as we head for our final match against Eastbourne later this month.

Worthing Doubles and Triples Tournament!!

Worthing VC will again be running the Doubles and Triples Tournament at Southwick on the weekend of Sat 4th and Sun 5th May.

Although Emma and Damian are the principal organisers they are looking for help to set up the courts on Fri 3rd and to give a little help with the running of the 2 days of action.

Ideally we want to see plenty of teams from Worthing entering the Doubles on Saturday and/or the Triples on Sunday. I played a few times in the past when younger and fitter ... it's really good fun for all standards of players. By entering and giving a bit of help you can help to make sure that the Club makes a profit (which will help to keep down the subs at a time of rapidly increasing costs).

Don't be shy! 
      Thanks Nigel

Jets Match Report from Dan

The Jets travelled to Lancing College with a full squad for our home game against an in form Panthers who are currently sitting third in the league.  Although missing our coach with some flimsy excuse Martin smoothly stepped into the role of Captain/Coach.

We started the first set with Josh and Dom through the middle, Iain and Kishan as the outside hitters and Matt Wilkes and Martin as Opposite and Setter.  After a great first serve and an early comedy moment on Wilko's second serve where he had to dive halfway across the court to reach his mis-thrown toss, the Jets settled quickly and with solid hitting and serving from everyone especially Iain. Thanks to the net being owned by the Jets it was very quiet back court, this along with a freezing hall lead to some sloppy first balls in from easy free balls which Martin made the most of and the set was quickly over.

Round two saw us continuing to follow Andy's cunning master plan bringing on Bernard for Iain and Matt Lay for Dom.  Again Jets started strongly with only one ball hitting the deck without a Worthing hand touching it. With better first balls in Martin was able to open up the middle and Jets were cruising to a comfortable lead 16ish - 4 thanks to Matt Lay setting the tone for the set early on through dominating the net and absolutely killing a couple of quick balls.  Martin then decided to see if we could finish without him, bringing Dom on to replace him and passing the setting duties to Wilko.  The end of the set was a little scrappy including a rotation fault by us which was quickly spotted by the eagle eyed Luis however with some good setting which Bernard used to find the gap down the line and Josh to create havoc though the middle Jets closed the second set. However Panthers noses were up after a strong finish going into the tricky third set.

Round Three saw us mix it up again with Iain playing Opposite (much to his delight as it meant he wouldn't be Liberoed off) and Dom came on for Josh.  With Panthers stepping it up and the Jets slipping into their traditional third setitus, finally the back court had more to do and woke up with strong covering of the block by Bernard we got it back to 19-19 and showed our desire to have a strong finish to the season and keep the pressure on Hastings by going on to win the set.  With tough games coming up against Llamados and Sharks it was great to see the Jets determination and focus to win in three sets.

A big thank you to the ever reliable Nigel and his team of glamorous officials (Luis, Jon, Amy and Mel along with some poor student Wilko press ganged into it).  It was also great to see the Vipers along with our missing coach come down and support us after their 3-0 victory over Storrington - Well done Guys! 

Vipers Beat Scorpions 3-0 and Jets Beat Panthers 3-0

A good night for Worthing Volleyball as both Vipers and Jets win 3-0.

Vipers played at a cold Lancing Leisure Centre and appeared to be heading for a relatively easy win until injury and a great fight back from Scorpions gave then a bit of a scare in the second set.

Jets played at an even colder Lancing College and secured a comfortable 3-0 win. Watch this space for more detailed report. Thanks to Luis, Jon, Amy, Mel and Nigel for officiating.