Sharks show promise with epic opening game!

The Sharks finally kicked off the 2015/16 season in the first week of October travelling to Brighton to face Brighton Freedom, one of the top teams in the league last year. Unlike last year were there was lots of scrambling to pull together six players, this year they went with a full complement of seven, ready and raring to go.

Lining up with Dominic & Eber through the middle, captain Tim setting, Mark opposite and Vlad and Kishan power hitting through the outside they started slowly in the first set. 13:17 down at the first time out they pulled it back to 23:23 on the back of quality serving from Mark & Vlad and won 27:25


Second set started with Jin in for Mark and was another slow start giving Freedom another head start 4:11 but again pulling back to 23:23 before losing 23:25. 


Third set was a better start with Mark back in, Eber connecting on a couple of quick sets and Vlad dumping behind the blocks. Sharks pulled out to 10:4 before the tables were turned as they got stuck on a couple of troublesome serve receives losing 20:25. 


Fourth set was with Jin again. This time serves were swapped backwards and forwards, but some great play including the longest rally of the match with great cover on both sides. Sharks pulled ahead in the final stages, Tim targeting the sidelines with his serves to win 25:20. 


Final set and again the Sharks were slow to start 6:1 down at the first time out. They pulled it back to 10:10 with Eber dominating the net but got stuck on a serve rotation again losing 11:15. 

Whatever the result, they managed to maintain a higher standard for longer and put together some great passages of play. Just need to be quicker out of the blocks.........

Another 5 setter for Demons - against Dolphins1 this time!

The fact of being an underdog changes people in ways that we often fail to appreciate. It opens doors and creates opportunities and enlightens and permits things that might otherwise have seemed unthinkable.

-Malcolm Gladwell

can we dig it? yes we can!

As you may now gather, it is an all too familiar site, the Demons playing a team who seem by default and record, much better on paper, but what we sometimes lack in winning, we gain momentum from, and deliver in true fighting spirit!

opening with a strong attacking 6, team talk and coaching had been focused on dominating the block, and winning on accuracy of serve. no doubt the training sessions had paid off, with an unquestionable high standard of defence in place. ( thanks Mark..) excellent coaching from Sandrine, and versatility from all the squad. several position changes meant options for tactical play could be tried out.

last season brought close matches between the Demons and the Dolphins, and this one was no exception.

matched for skill, and effort the demons took them to the fifth set, pulling back on several occasions to prove our worth, and narrowly missing out on the win.

the best is yet to come. bring it on!

MVP and bake off champion this week is Jojo who found and used the most awesome serve on the night!

p.s hope joey's knee gest better soon after her surgery; fantastic to have her supporting, along with the other Worthing players; cheers guys we appreciate your support!!!

and i will leave you with this..joke of the day;

The trouble with jogging is that by the time you realize you’re not in shape for it, it’s too far to walk back...

ttfn

debs

Titanic 5 setters between Demons and Pirates

first match of the season;

well here it was. the start of the new season, and pirates were looking pretty darn good in the warm up.

After some last minute coaching tips from Mark, and some cheeky comments from Mickey, I felt ready to coach the Demons, and get the match started!

With a fab debut from Aggi, and a sparkling return from mummy Dorothe, the team set out to play as the underdogs, and ready to take some whoop ass... but No, I say! we are winners, and if I am goddam well gonna look silly on the side of the court shouting like a crazed northern bird, then at least I want to do it triumphant in a first win of the season!!

and my girls, they only went and pulled it out the bag and smashed it!!!  Boom!  get in!

MVP and bake of winner of the week went to Rika!

an finally; joke of the day;

“I was playing chess with my friend, and he said, ‘Let’s make this more interesting.’  So we stopped playing chess.”

—Matt Kirshen

debs,

August update!

Ok - so I said the next monthly update would be September, but you are getting a bonus August email as well, you lucky things.  As always I've kept it short!

While the weather hasn't always been ideal, the hard-core beach regulars are still making the most of the sand courts on both a Tuesday (Worthing) and Wednesday (Sussex Volleyball Association).  If you haven't been yet then the 25th August is the day to try it - sun (hopefully), drinks, BBQ and an out of the hat competition….what more could you ask for. 

It was a fantastic turn out from Worthing at the SVA sand competition with Mexican Dream defending their title for the second time (a big thank you to Sandrine and Mark for "volunteering" and doing a great job organising it).  There has also been a strong presence at other tournaments with Damo, Paulina and Marco winning the triples, Worthing Baa Baa's winning Men's Div1 at Ashcome and a number of other teams/players from Worthing doing well!  There is already talk of entering teams into Bath and Sandbanks next year!

Fee's

A quick reminder - this is the last month at the old monthly instalment rate and from 1st September local league fee's go up to £15 per month as agreed at the AGM.  You will need to advise your bank of the change or amend it yourself via on-line or telephone banking (by 31st August).  Richard will be monitoring the September bank statement closely, please make this transition easy for him by setting this up promptly.  This fee covers hall hire for games and training, courses for officials and coaches, curry and awards at the AGM, sand court hire, affiliation with Volleyball England and SVA,  player registration with SVA as well as equipment (balls, posts and nets etc.).  This still represents great value for money compared to other clubs and sports. 

Fixtures and the New Season

The coaches will be getting together in early September to sort out the teams to try and balance squad numbers and introduce new players.  If you are playing this season and can't make training in the first week of training (I know some people will be on holiday), can you let me or your coach know.  This will help us get the numbers and balance of the teams right for the season.

The fixtures coordinator has happily ensured we double headers for all our games, but if we need to rearrange any games as single headers, another team will be assigned to officiate.  Please work with your team secretaries to ensure your team provides enough officials and remember we must provide first and second ref's, two scorers and a minimum of 2 lines managed every match. To help it be another successful season we need everyone to take their turn officiating, please don't leave it to the same people each time.  If you aren't confidant in a role then speak to me and I can arrange for someone to coach you.  If anyone is interested in going on the new format one day officiating course then let me know.

Speaking of officiating - a reminder that the new net rule is being applied this year i.e. any net touch is a fault not just the white band at the top.

Key dates

Beach Competition and BBQ - August 25th

All Standing orders for local league should be amended to £15 - 31st August

Local League indoor training starts - 1st September

Local League games start 13th September

Please keep an eye on our web site and Facebook page/group for additional information, match reports and pictures.  Don't be shy….get involved, send any photo's, match reports and news to Andy or Dan to go on the website or post to the Facebook group! 

If you aren't a member yet, then the SVA have their own private Facebook Group, which they are using to share more information.

http://www.worthingvolleyballclub.blogspot.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/WorthingVolleyballClub?ref=ts&fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/groups/131892616993064/?ref=ts&fref=ts

Cheers

Dan

Worthing Ladies NVL AGM Awards

After an awesome season that saw our ladies crowned champions of NVL Div2 South it was time for some awards at last night's AGM.

- Chantelle picked up Player of the season.

- Dan picked up some beers and a new "Coach" hoodie.

- The team picked up individual league winners medals and the championship trophy.

- The great support the team have received was recognised with some "super fan" awards!

An awesome season and well done to all players, coach, session coach and supporters!

More Awards

Some more pictures from the AGM and this time it is a selection of the fun awards thanks to Dan.

- Andrew Crockett picked up the STIG award for his driving skills.

- Emma picked up the "Strop of the Year" award.

- Trees managed to steal Mark's "how to make friends and influence people" trophy or was it the "I don't like your face" award!

- Longest Rally went to Smack.

- Yours truly picked up Jurno of the year!

- Sabrina won the "cabbage" award.

- Sylvia picked up "coach" of the year!

- Sintija won a special "commitment" award along with a new disguise!

- Vlad picked up a special "Yorkie" award and "no Damo you cannot have any as they are for men only" (burn!)!!!!!

- Highlight of the evening was the I wish I was Matt Lay award.........and the winner is........

AGM Awards

So tonight we held our AGM which included our annual awards for player of the season, most improved players and numerous less serious awards. Vipers player of the season went to Damo Jets player of the season went to Maciek Sharks player of the season Kish Devils player of the season went to Mel Demons player for the season went to Juliette Angels player of the season went to Katie Ladies NVL player of the season went to Chantelle Lost improved player went to Dominic and Tanya Nigel's accolade went to Emma

   

 More pictures and news on the less serious awards including a new award for journalist of the year to follow!

Monthly Update From Dan.

Hey, So that's it for another season, hopefully you have all enjoyed it!! This is the last monthly update until the end of August/September and as an added bonus you'll now have a break from Teamer too! 

Angels in their first season have progressed quickly and surprised a number of teams, ensuring early on that they wouldn't be propping up the table. 

Demons last night played Teela and as always this went the full distance of five sets, with the winners taking fifth spot in the league. Unfortunately Demons couldn't quite get to the finish line first, but played some good volleyball and if they could have sided out a little earlier on a couple of rotations it would have been a different story. 

Devils finished their season away to Crawley ladies, missing Brinee and with an injured Sintija and Mel. By hustling hard, they managed to overturn a 2 set and 7-1 deficit in the third, to claim a 3-2 victory, thanks to help from Robyn, Illona and the welcome return after maternity leave of Em and Agi (they were loudly supported by Agi's mum and Amy). That means they win the league undefeated - Congratulations Devils! 

The Sharks took a little longer to get off the bottom of the table, but two victories late in the season were enough and for the first time in a few years Sharks have played the majority of games this year with a full Sharks squad or just one player helping out! Now they have worked out who is playing where and have a bit more structure to their play, hopefully they will be able to push on in Div2 next year. 

Jets last year took it to the final game of the season to ensure their survival in Div1, this year they have won or taken all their home games to 5 sets (except against Vipers) and early on won enough games to stay up, finishing the season with a comfortable 3-0 at home. 

Vipers after a slow start losing to Crawley and Brighton fought back and put themselves in a fantastic position where a win at home to Brighton would give them the League title on sets difference. It wasn't to be, even after a storming start to the game winning the first set, so they ended up second in a transitional year and will be looking to start next season strong! It was good to see Mark on court for the first time in a while even if he was looking a little nervous with his first serve 😉 

The Worthing Ladies National League team, have won back to back promotions, winning the Ladies South division 2 league, which means they'll be doing a little more travelling next year as they enter National League Div1 which covers the whole of England and Wales…..Boom!😈 

The plan for the next two weeks is… A mini tournament tomorrow, Tuesday 21st April if you can turn up between 6:45-7 to warm up and we'll start shortly after that! So fairish teams can be picked, can you let me know if you are planning to attend either via teamer or message me. Hope you've been nice to Andy, as he picks the teams and as we all know his team have won the last three tournaments - Just saying! 

Finally it’s the AGM (in case you hadn't heard!) on the 28th April, it's looking like there's going to be a big turn out, which is a really positive sign that everyone has enjoyed the year and like the format of the AGM, either that or you all want to join the committee! 7:15 -7:30 Meet in the bar at the John Seldon 20:00 Food will be ready 20:30/21:00ish the AGM will start For those of you that aren't local/haven't been before here's the address; The John Selden, Half Moon Lane, Worthing BN13 2EN After that its's beach and tournaments all the way through to the end of August! There's no teamer for beach, we have the courts every week and we'll make teams up on the night. Although you might want to check the Facebook page/group if the weather isn't so great before heading down! Catch you then Dan

That's the way we like it!

Worthing ladies volleyball have won NVL Div2 South by beating Bath 3-1. An awesome result with Emma having to replace an injured Brinee and go on to pick up MVP in her first game back! That's back to back promotions as champions for the Worthing ladies volleyball team who only formed last season. Great support today and all season at home and away games from family and friends. Winning the league has been down to the players and people that support them on and off the court including those that played today and throughout the season. Everyone has played a part including those that have missed the second half of the season through injury, but still come along to support their team. Well done to Dan who has been their coach from the start and for Mark who has given up his time to coach them at excellent training sessions all year. Special thanks to Emma who was the driving force to start the NVL journey and it was fitting that she completed her come back to take MVP in her first match back. We all hope Brinee recovers quickly from her injury and good luck in your final match when you can all relax and play as champions. Well done to all. Awesome result and what a season.

Devils beat EG2

Devils played EG2 at Michael's Hall (really nice venue, although rather too hot, must be used to the Arctic conditions of WHS). Em and Agi were our dynamic middle pairing, Chantelle and Katie Lay through the outside and Mel and Robyn were setter and opposite, with Brinee on baby sitting duties with young Dylan, for the first two sets. The first set started pretty evenly with both teams getting used to the limited serving space, and probing for weaknesses. The turning point was Em's serve at 8-8 to give Worthing a strong lead 18-8, with Chantelle and Agi hitting well front court and Katie, Robyn and Em covering well and getting good passes in, which meant we could open the middle. EG fought back with the traditional Vanya specials and some nice hitting by Cate! The second set stayed close throughout with Devils just winning 25-21 although Katie stepped up in this set, getting further out on her approach and mixed her hitting up with power hits to line and cross court with the odd tip thrown in to keep EG on their toes! You could tell Agi was back as we had missed the footvolley in her absence! Chantelle took over the entertainment of Dylan in the third set, so Em moved to the outside. The early points were traded with mother and daughter Hands working well together and picking up points. As always Brinee did well with a massive block and clever hitting around EG's block. Another run of points off the Churcher serve closed out the match with a mix of deep serves to one and five and cheeky shorts. Unfortunately Em couldn't have the MVP as she was playing up, but Chantelle was a deserved second option and Vanya for the serving, cover and nice setting got it for EG. Match report from Dan and check out the Video from Andy. http://youtu.be/PVdzfvO3WxI

Men's National League Volleyball....

Calling all Sussex men volleyballers!

Who would be interested in playing mens National League Volleyball in Sussex?

The Sussex Dolphins folded last season despite the huge efforts from their coach Mark Byerley to keep things going, but the SVA want to test whether there are enough players to restart a team in Sussex?

It is too late to enter a team next season, but if there is enough interest we could organise friendlies and enter a team the following year?

BUT without volunteers to pick up the essential coaching, secretary and treasurer roles nothing will happen! Are you interested in playing and or picking up any of the essential organisational roles?

This will be an agenda item at next month's SVA AGM, but it would be good to get an early view on interest before then, so please let me have your thoughts and I can share them with the committee before the AGM.

Please can you share this email with all of your men's teams?

      Cheers

          Andy

Devils win the league again!

Devils win the league with a 3-2 win against a stronger than usual Freedom team with some great play.., Andreea put in a good performance in her first game for the club and all the players stepping up did fantastically well, with solid serving and defence! Em (not bad for her first game back after five months and a baby) and captain Brinee lead the charge with the power hitting, although everyone had a go! It was a shame time ran out when they were losing in the fourth as they were coming back.. It would have been interesting to see how that set turned out! Also a shame for Pirates as they were looking good and had earnt the 2-1 lead battling through out! Congratulations to the Devils in a season that has seen them supplement a strong core of regular Devils with guest appearances from the Demons and Angels. Well done to Dan for his coaching and organisational skills and another awesome result for the club. Focus now moves to our Ladies NVL team that have a crucial fixture next week. Please try and make it along to give them the support they deserve trying to secure back to back promotions!

Vipers win 3-1 against Crawley to keep title hopes alive!

Vipers played high flying Crawley at the High School in a key game to influence where the title will end up! A strong start for the Vipers saw them take a close first set 26-24 with good hitting from Derek, good back court cover and blocking. An equally close second set ended 25-18 thanks to a strong run of serves at the business end of the set. Vipers needed to win by at least 3-1 to start the last game of the season against Brighton Jag's only needing to win, a Crawley win would see them crowned as champions and a 3-2 win by Vipers would mean they needed to beat Jag's 3-0. The third set was close again, but this time Crawley held their nerve to close it out 22-25! So all to play for in Set 4 and the same pattern continued with both teams trading points! A strong serve run from Crawley saw them serving for the set at 23-24, but the Vipers kept cool and turned it around to win 26-24 and need to win against Jag's to take the title in one of the closest finishes for a long time. Great officiating from Richard and Zuz, good support for both teams and a very high standard of play on a very competitive evening of volleyball. Derek picked up MVP for Vipers and the Crawley captain picked it up for Crawley.

epic 5 setter!

The last National League weekend for 2014 and for a change Worthing were at home against Devon and Reading. Unfortunately the Devon game was cancelled as they had a number of players at South West training.

Mel was missing, lapping up the sun shine in Thailand and with the trio of pregnant/new mums out we were down to Cait and Brinee through the middle, Chantelle and Trees outside and Sintija and Paulina opposite and setter.  The good new was Tracy's shoulder was on the mend and she was able to play giving us options and cover and we had a great crowd making plenty of noise...would you expect anything else with Latvians, Craig and Em all in the mix! 

The first set started well with the team's trading points and for a change Worthing started brightly with Cait making a big stuff block and Trees mixing dumps into the hole and a couple of big hits. Although the cover started a little slow it picked up as the set went on and the energy was high on court with Paulina mixing the sets well, utilising all the options and linking with Brinee to run a quick attack through the middle.  Strong serving from Brinee at 9-9 gave Worthing a lead of 5 points and with good balls in and strong attacks Worthing sided out first time consecutively 5 times to go 21-15 up.  A lapse in concentration let Reading back into the game and they were serving at 22-24 when they served into the net following a time out to give Worthing the lead.

Set two started with the same 6 starting for Worthing.  Reading started strong with a good serve from their number 8 causing issues with the experienced Worthing serve receive.  A change in receive personnel and a time out didn't help but a cheeky second ball over from Paulina disrupted Readings rhythm and although it was scrambled back it was a free ball and Sintija put a screamer down the line that Reading couldn't touch, bringing the score to 3-7.  Reading were playing well hitting the line through opposite and their libero was picking up hits Worthing were celebrating taking them to 13-7. Tree's consistent serving picked up 6 points to bring Worthing back into the game, helped by a strong front court of Brinee, Sintija and Chantelle to take it to 14-12. Points were again traded until at 19-21 up Chantelle hot two clean winners down the line to give Worthing the momentum to finish 25-19!

In the third set Tracy came on for Paulina making her debut for Worthing.  A good start gave Worthing a 4-2 lead but again got stuck on a service rotation and letting Reading go 4-8 up and heads dropped.  Reading stepped up their game hitting and serving well stray first balls and a lack of communication meant Tracy was being dragged all over the court and at 9-20 it was looking very flat on court. A late rally inspired by Tracy getting a clean second all over into the hole and setting intelligently saw Worthing get 9 points to Readings 5 and go into the fourth set keen to finish the game.

The set started well with Tracy finding Chantelle and Sintija and getting a nice run of points. The number 7 serve from Reading again caused problems, earning 8points and with the first ball again deteriorating Paulina came on to set at 6-11. A spirited fight back saw Worthing closing the gap all the time and got to 18-18 when again the number 7 picked up 4 points and while every point was chased down the set finished 23-25.

Set 5 this years speciality and Worthing were keen to start well with lots of noise from the crowd and everyone wanting to get on court and finish strong. Unfortunately so were Reading and with the number 7 serving well and 10 hitting line through opposite reading were 4-0 up a time out broke that serve but Reading had the momentum and were 8-2 up at the change of ends. When they picked up a yellow for time wasting as they stopped for drinks. Worthing kept scrapping for points and again Cait pulled off a stuff block though middle but at 14-9 things were not looking good! Happily Chantelle was serving who has saved the team a number of times keeping her head under pressure and brought us back to 14-13 when Reading asked for a time out having already had two that set. A red card gave Worthing a point and it was now a battle of wills after two hours of volleyball who would break first? Reading came straight back with a big hit but served out, this happened three times 17-17 but Worthing couldn't capitalise on the mistakes. 18-17 to Reading and it looked all over a big hit between the block Sintija couldn't make it and Chantelle missed it! But it landed on her foot! Sintija dived to retrieve the ball bashing her head and seeing stars but got it up and the ball was put away to level the scores again! Paulina set out to Trees at 2 who killed it and needing one point the ball this time went to Brinee who did the same! 21-19 and another five setter lasting over 2 hours!

MVP Chantelle, but everyone played out of their skins!  Best post match tea yet topped off by an amazing cake! 

A big thank you to the supporters and even more so to Kish, Matt and Alessandra for officiating!

Sharks 2014/15

The Sharks are the Mens third Team playing in Division two, they have a number of players new to volleyball this year and a few more experienced players (mainly poached from rival teams EG and Brighton!)!  All of them are characters on and off the court!

Back Row: Jin, Dominic, Eber, Vlad (the barbarian)

Front Row: Kish, (Sandrine the Coach), Mark, Tim (Captain)

Angels continue to improve.

Angels welcomed high flying Crawley to the High school for the return league match. Angels started poorly playing with out confidence and struggled to get started in the first set. Strong words from the coach and all of a sudden the Angels started to call for the ball and generate some momentum. Good blocking from Tanya through the middle, better hitting and improved back court coverage and all of a sudden Crawley were struggling. Great team spirit saw the Angels take Crawley to the wire, but experience saw them through to take the second set. Angels played well in the third set, but Crawley's experience and strong middle resulted in a 3-0 win for them, but Angels did not disgrace themselves and continue to improve with every game. Tanya picked up MVP for the Angels and they have one match let against Demons.

The very first SHARKS match report! By Dominic

Almost a whole season has passed without a specific match report for the Sharks. However Sunday was significant as there was a whole squad, including a substitute, and a coach! Sharks were at home to Brighton Freedom, who were third in the league. (but with games in hand to go top -ed)

Sharks started with Captain Tim setting, Mark opposite, Dominic & Eber through the middle and Kishan and Jin on the outside. Sharks started well and pushed Brighton all the way through the first set however, when it got to 20 all, Brighton managed to open a small gap to get the first set. At this point Vlad remembered there was a game on and appeared in time to play though 4 for parts of the second & third sets!

Sharks managed to put some good sequences of play together with strong blocking at the net. Brighton managed to pick out some of the gaps in back court and create enough of a gap to win 3-0. Sharks have one more game this seasons to try and finish sixth in the league. Hopefully the team will be able to stay together and build on this year's experience  to finish nearer the top next season.

Vipers beat Scorpions to keep pressure on Crawley

Vipers played Scorpions for the second week in a row with the same 3-0 result to keep the pressure on Crawley who remain favourites to win the league. Vipers have just Crawley and Brighton Jag's to play, but wins against both teams would result in the committee having to get calculators out to see who wins on sets difference! It was a good performance against scorpions who battled hard against a very determined Vipers team. Damo picked up MVP with strong hitting including some combination attacks which saw Scorpions struggle to determine where the hits were coming from. Next game is at home on Easter Sunday against favourites Crawley, but you just never know what might happen is the Vipers can get out a full squad!

Worthing Club AGM

Hello, So we are in the final few weeks of the season….five weeks and 12 fixtures to go across all 6 local league teams and just the two games National League! We are now starting to make a few arrangements for the AGM, the details are below… Annual General Meeting We will be holding the Worthing Volleyball Club AGM on Tuesday 28th April . It will follow the format of previous years. Venue - John Selden pub, Half Moon Lane, BN13 2HN 19:30 - Meet in the bar for a drink 20:00 - There will be a choice of two curries (which is free for all paid up members or an alternative for those that aren't keen on curry) 20:30/21:00 - The AGM will be held, were we report on this year and consider arrangements for next year (League entries, subscriptions etc.) The meeting will include various awards for the year, some serious and some just for fun. The agenda is below, if you would like to cover any additional topics please let me know. Agenda Chairman's Address Secretaries Report Treasurers Report League Entries Election of Officers Membership fees Summer arrangements AOB Awards To help ensure we order enough food and can start thinking about next year can you let me know 1) Whether or not you will be attending the AGM 2) Would you like a curry or alternative 3) Currently are you planning on playing in the indoor league next season (September 2015 - April 2016) Communications The hits and interaction via the Facebook page have been good this year and most teams use either Facebook messager groups or Whatsapp to organise, which seems to be working well alongside the website and Teamer. Following feedback last year we introduced the monthly email update. Can you let me know if you've found it useful, if there is anything else that should be included or if there is too much already (I do tend tmble on), If anyone has any suggestions for improving our communications or any any other aspects of the Club please let me know.

Results Update

A quick update on Sunday's games as follows:-

Jets missed Dan's organisational skills and managed to turn up late for their match against Brighton Jags and with the home team applying the letter of the law they started the game 2-0 down! A good performance without a warm up saw them get to 17 points before losing 3-0. MVP was Matt Lay.

Angels played Demons with a new setter and a spirited performance saw them score at least 18 points in each set. They are improving with every match and now have enough players to mix things up despite missing both Emma and Amy.

Vipers played a scratch Storrington team who battled hard, but finally a closed out a tighter third set to take the game 3-0 and move ever closer to the final two games of the season against Crawley and Brighton Jaguars which will decide a very close season. Crawley remain firm favourites for the title having only lost one match (to the Jets) and Brighton Jag's have only lost two games (both against Crawley), but Vipers have to play them both. Wins for the Vipers against Storrington, Crawley and Brighton Jag's would mean getting out the calculators to see who would win on sets difference etc, but there is a long way to go before we need to worry about that!

Worthing ladies NVL team won one and lost one at the weekend, but winning the league is still in their own hands and they just need to win the last two games to secure back to back championships and promotions! Keep an eye on our Facebook site for match reports from Dan.

If anyone wants to provide more details on any of these games or indeed any others before the end of the season you only need to email ,me the report and any pictures and I will get them loaded!

Monthly Update From Dan

Hey,

So that’s another month of games done, which leaves one and a half to go! The Vipers are maintaining pressure at the top of the Men’s division 1, but dropped a costly set to EG1.  The crunch games to Crawley and Brighton are timed nicely for an explosive title run in, in April.  That leaves just two games in March, home and away to Scorpions.  Jets also have two games this month Eastbourne and EG, a win here will put them safely mid table which isn't bad in their second season with the big boys…of course EG1 at home with Bon back in the fold won’t be easy….as Vipers found out!  Sharks have the freshly signed Mark, who will be playing in a more natural position for him this week after making his debute through the middle!

Over to the ladies and Demons had a great game against EG2, but have Dolphins1, EG1 and an improving Angels to play this month… I know a certain coach who would love to be back in time to play in that game!  Andy has gone from struggling to get a team together for the Angels to a wealth of options…it’ll take a while to bed everyone in, but it certainly looked promising in spells on Sunday!  Devils look forward to the EG game this month,  its always good to play against your national league teamies. Unfortunately Tracy is out with a broken foot), hope it's mending quickly!  The girls also have some key fixtures National League with games against Richmond, Plymouth and title rivals New Forest!

Vipers beat East Grinstead 3-1

A full squad except for Matt Lay travelled away to East Grinstead. The Vipers always manage to struggle in this fixture and last year got away with day light robbery in a very close 3-2 win.

True to form the Vipers struggled to get going against a very spirited EG Mens team who never gave up chasing every ball down and made far fewer mistakes than Vipers. The first set went to EG and it was clear Worthing would have to get their act together if they were going to win the match. A much better start from the Vipers saw them take an early lead in the second set, but again EG refused to lie down and clawed back to level things half way through the set. But Vipers started to cut out the first pass and hitting mistakes to close out the set comfortably.

Another strong start to the third set until Damo managed to slip and slightly turn his ankle attempting a back court hit and EG started to sense they may have a good chance to take another set. Some improved hitting from Matt and a better first pass enabled Andy to open up the middle with Andrew and Nigel taking full advantage. The Vipers closed out the third set and started to find their groove in the fourth. EG refused to lay down and their setter continued to be a thorn in the Vipers side with the occasional second touch dump and hit.

Be now Vipers had cut out their serving errors and built a large lead that they never looked like losing.

So a close and hard fought 3-1 win against an improving EG who should start to record more wins if they carry on working hard. MVP went to Andy probably for the court distance covered in the early sets until the Vipers pass improved later on, but must have been pushed hard by both Vipers middles and Derek through opposite.

Vipers Vrs Jets The Rematch

The Vipers Vrs Jets rematch started with Matt Lay stepping in as setter for the Jets as Martin was late due to work. Vipers were without Nigel and so Mickey stepped in through the middle.

An even contest at the start of the set, but Vipers started to impose themselves with big hits from Damo and Matt Smith and they took the first set to 14.

With Martin back for the second the Jets relaxed too much and found themselves 8-0 down. But a good comeback due to better back court cover and improved blocking saw them start to chip away at the Vipers lead. The Jets threatened to get inside Damo's head, but he started to vary his hits and the Vipers closed out the second set with a few points to spare.

A close start to the third set saw Mark replace Mickey through the middle and Derek started to find his range. The Vipers closed out a key 3-0 win, but the Jets played well with good back court cover from Marlon, middle hitting from both Josh and Ninah. The Jets are safe this season and still expect them to surprise a few more teams if they can field their strongest team.

Vipers MVP went to, Derek and for Jets it was Marlon.

Monthly Report From Dan

So we're already at the end of January and the league tables are starting to take shape.  Vipers are still challenging for the title, but have a lot of work to do to make up lost ground to both Brighton Jaguars and Crawley who have both only lost one game. Jets have continued their promising start to the season and with a couple more wins should guarantee div1 volleyball next year, rather than leaving it to the final game of the season like last year!   The Sharks have pushed most teams all the way with a lot of five setters, but haven't managed to win that crucial final set....yet!

The ladies played a few more games in the first half of the season and Angels are starting to gel, although they miss Em on court, they have still picked up some good wins and are getting their heads around the positions.  Demons with a number of new players and missing some experienced ones (Dorothee and Lorna) have a few games in jand and with a couple of wins could still match last years impressive position.  Devils are currently top, but still have to play Dolphins and Crawley away and EG1 at home, so lots of good volleyball to come!

National league the Ladies are traveling to Manchester today for the Quarter finals of the National Cup to play Salford a strong Super8 team and have some tough games in the League to play still including Bath and New Forest!  There is no training for the next couple of weeks, its back on 25th February at the High School (20:00 - 22:00).

Doubles and triples
Emma and Carl will be a little too pre-occupied to run the doubles and triples tournament on 2nd and 3rd May this year. Is there anyone keen to step up and give it a go? All profits go towards keeping the club membership fees at £10 per month. Speak to Andy, Em or me if you are interested ASAP!

Key dates
Tuesday 3rd March - no training, there will be a social instead (probably curry and maybe bowling look out for more details nearer the time) 

Tuesday 28th April - Free curry, AGM and awards (again details will be sent out nearer the time - save the date!)

If anyone has any ideas for awards this year (serious or comedy) then please let me know!

Saturday 16th May - SEVA Men’s

Sunday 17th May - SEVA  Ladies

Who Fancies A Beer and a Curry!

No training on the 3rd March as the sports hall is unavailable. Alternative plan is drinks and a curry. Meeting at the Rose and Crown at 19:00 and then wandering over to the Chilcha at 20:00.

Everyone is welcome - if you could let Dan know if you can make it , he will make the necessary reservations!

Scratch Jets Team Lose 3-0 To Crawley

Jets played away against Crawley without regular setter Martin, Magic, Luis or Dan! Andy stepped in to set and Kishan played up from the Sharks which meant Matt opposite, Josh and Ninah through the middle and Marlon through the outside.

Crawley started strong and the Jets struggled to find a decent first pass without Libero, Dan, who was with the Devils. Better play in the middle of the set, by too many service errors and simple mistakes meant Crawley won the set with comparative  ease.

A better second set as the team started to gel and put a better block up with Josh finding his range through the middle. But Crawley won the set and the Jets regrouped for the third.

A much better performance in the third set with Ninah and Kish hitting well and Marlon starting to find holes in the Crawley defence. Jets took the set to 27-25 with good hitting from Matt including the odd backcourt attack and had Crawley worried for a while. Josh picked up a deserved MVP as the Jets strongest hitter, but good performances from all considering the many changes and missing players.

Vipers Beat East Grinstead 3-0

Viper played East Grinstead (EG) at the High School with Derek making his first appearance through opposite after last weeks friendly against Eastbourne. Along with Derek the Vipers had Nigel and Andrew through the middle, Andy setting with  Damo through the outside along with Matt Smith after a week away skiing. With Matt Lay unavailable we had the injured Mickey and Mark on the bench with Richard playing as Libero.

EG fielded a stronger team than last weeks fixture against the Jets and they started stronger than Vipers taking an early lead. It took a while for the Vipers to get up to speed with the new line up, but a series of big blocks and Damo consistently finding a hole with a roll shot to the middle of EG's court they clawed back in time to win the first set. In the second set Matt stated to find his range and Derek make some key blocks along with great middle hitting from Nigel and Andrew. The second set went to an improving Vipers and they carried the momentum in to the third.

Strong hitting from EG was tamed by even better blocking from Andrew and Nigel and the Viper's closed out a competitive game 3-0.

MVP went to Damo and the Vipers look forward to the return fixture against EG in a few weeks time.

Jets beat EG and Vipers Struggle To Win 3-2 Against Eastbourne

Vipers played Eastbourne at the High School on Sunday after the Jets beat East Grinstead with a very strong 3-0 performance.

The Jets had a full squad for the first time in months with Luis back from his travels. They started with Magic opposite and Matt through the outside after his strong performance there against the Vipers last week (well for the first set anyway!). A much improved first pass meant Martin was able to open up the middle and Josh took full advantage with one of his best performances this season so far. Ninah continues to improve through the middle and is starting to nail a few blocks and quick attacks. A solid block and hitting through opposite from Magic, mobile coverage back court from Dan and the strong outside hitting options from Marlon and Luis mean the Jets have options and when they pull together are a force to be reckoned with.

Strong serving and varied attacks orchestrated by Martin meant the Jets never looked in danger of losing a set and they finished 3-0 winners. Retaining their first division status last season was the first time any "second" team has managed to stay in the top tier of Sussex volleyball and this win should assure first Division status for next season so they can now relax and see how far up the table they can finish. 

The Vipers game moved to a friendly as Eastbourne could only manage to bring 5 players and consequently they really struggled to find the motivation to take the game seriously. Josh helped out Eastbourne who started strongly taking an early lead which they never looked in danger of losing. The first and second sets went to Eastbourne against a very flat and lack lustre Vipers team who looked like they would rather be down the pub!

Strong words from the coach and determined efforts from their setter saw them sneak the third set before they gradually started to wake up! A close fourth set went to the Vipers before they finally moved through the gears to secure a relatively easy final set win.

A good performance from Eastbourne and especially Josh who showed the Vipers no mercy! Good character from the Vipers after a very poor start, but five sets can only help new Viper Derek find his range through the outside and settle in to the service receive.

Thanks to all who stayed to officiate and play on a night where some had travelled to and from Manchester.

Angels Secure 3-0 Win

Angels traveled to East Grinstead to play their second team with the help of Trees and Mel. A good start from the Angels saw them take a 10-6 lead before a fire alarm resulted in a long delay and a chance for the girls to check out the local firemen!
The delay suited East Grinstead who restarted stronger than the Angels who struggled to get going, however a strong serving run from Amy saw then take control and win the first set.
The second set saw both teams trade points with neither team able to build a lead until the end of the set when the Angels edged ahead to make it 2-0. It was good to see the Angels win a tight set and the turning point was a long rally that saw Tanya make the recovery of the match when it looked like they were going to lose a very keenly contested point.
East Grinstead have a young team, but show improvement each time we see them and should eventually turn in to a very good team if they stick together and keep developing. Serving was always a struggle for the younger EG players, but by the third set they were  starting to play with more composure and the Angels had to work hard in back court to pick up their hits and dumps.
This set went to the wire with Angels again managing to hold their nerve to win 3-0. Special thanks to Mel and Trees who helped us out after a marathon weekend of volleyball.
This was a good performance from the Angels with strong hitting and back court coverage from Katie, great serving and variety of hits from Amy, some good blocking from Tanya and middle hitting from Aly.
Birthday girl Aly got the MVP vote from EG and all returned to Worthing with our first win in a while!

Angels play Teela

Angels travelled away to play Teela without Tanya and Sylwia so were pleased to welcome Joey and Trees to help us out.

A slow start in the first set as everyone got used to playing with each other, but a late rally saw them narrowly lose to 23 points. Great court coverage from Joey, an improving first pass and good serving saw the Angels remain competitive in a close second set that went to their experienced opponents.

Despite a run of losses against strong opposition the Angels continue to play with great team spirit, but Teela ran out 3-0 winners. Some great blocking and finding the corners with her hits saw Aly pick up MVP and the afternoon ended with cakes from Katie! Four games in two weeks and the Angels are looking forward to a break and a chance to regroup before their next game away to East Grinstead on the 2nd of Feb.

To see how the Angels are improving take a look at the latest video highlights from their match against Eastbourne http://youtu.be/4BE0GeA6PjQ

Angels out score Eastbourne, but lose 3-1

Angels headed to Eastbourne on a stormy night on the back of two tough games against Dolphins hoping to turn good performances in to a win.

The first set was tight with the Angels building an early lead only to let it slip when things got close at the business end of the set. The second set followed a similar format despite the Angels still not hitting their best form and again they lost by a couple of points. The third set started and all of a sudden the Angels lifted their performance with improved calling, better serving and lots more noise. The best set of the season so far saw them take it 25-10. Eastbourne responded well in the fourth set and again, with things tight, the Angels went quiet and started to lose focus resulting in a 3-1 loss. Over the four sets the Angels scored more points and just need to forget the score and play the same great volleyball through out the set and the wins will start to come.

Katie secured her second MVP in a row, but there were more than a few other strong candidates.

Dolphins against Angels Part2

The same Angels team faced Dolphins for the second time in a week, but this time played much better and nearly took a set.

Having played earlier in the week and being helped out by Sandrine again they started well with more teamwork from the start. The first set ended 16-25 and the Angels carried their improved confidence in to the second set. Good court coverage and an improved first pass enabled Sandrine to spread the set and all of a sudden Dolphins were under pressure. They were not helped be the odd rotation errors, but some great rallies and team spirit could not beat a more experienced Dolphins team and a close set ended 24-26.

Another good team performance in the third was not enough to prevent Dolphins winning the set 15-25.

Better discipline, an improved first pass, great teamwork, strong blocking and great hitting from an improving Angels team resulted in a very good performance which they now need to repeat on Wednesday when the are away to Eastbourne.

Katie picked up MVP.

Angels play Dolphins1

The Angels started the new year with a tough away fixture against Dolphins1 without the steadying on court influence of Emma who moved to the sidelines in a coaching role.

The Angels struggled to get going in the first set as the Dolphins built up a big lead. Once they started to relax, get a good pass in to the setter and put Dolphins under some kind of pressure the points started to come and they managed to score 16 points.

The second set again started very poorly, but things did not improve and the set was lost with very little fight.

In the third set things improved and with much better court coverage, calling and improved team work they reached 15 points before the much more experienced Dolphins closed out a 3-0 victory.

A chance to improve things and carry forward some momentum on Sunday when they host Dolphins again at the High school.

MVP went to Sylwia in her new team shirt!

New year - Same old Worthing....mammoth 5 setter

It was a disjointed warm up due to Dulwich not being there.  Worthing warmed up as usual not knowing to expect them imminently or if they wouldn't be there at all. Happily they arrived and while all the players were there and on court for the match start time as they weren't in kit and warmed up properly the officials agreed to start the match 20 mins later.  The Worthing team was pretty much the same team that played Dulwich away on the first game of the season (Em, Brinee, Chantelle, Trees, Sintija, Mel and Tracy) with Em and bump sitting this one out and Gem stepping in (thanks Gem and hope Todd didn't miss his feed!) and Tracy being available to play this time rather than being bench personnel. 

Once the match started Worthing came out strong not wanting to give Dulwich a two set lead like last time! Brinee had her serving shoes on or Asic Gel Sensi 5's, as they are otherwise known!  Serving 8 points, mixing her classic power float with a sneaky short to keep the opposition on their toes.  This took Worthing to 11-3 and they never looked liked losing from here.  Gemma got in on the serving action with a nice run of 6 points.  The consistent strong serving from Worthing stopped the middle being opened up by Dulwich and with good first balls in both Mel and Tracy had fun picking their sets and seeing the power hits picking up points. The set finished 25-16.

The second set start the same way, but this time Dulwich rallied early and levelled the scores 6-6 before a spell of strong serving in conjunction with a wobble with Worthing's serve receive saw 6 points dropped in one serve receive 8-16 Dulwich. Chantelle's serving backed by a strong front court of the Farley's gave Worthing a glimmer of hope and when Brinee stuffed blocked a massive hit at 11-16 you could see the spring in Worthing's step was back.  Again the new serving trainers continued to work their magic and Brinee got Worthing 4 points and a little closer 15-17.  Then the cripple stepped up to serve a combination of good serves, and great cover back court from Trees with power hits from Brinee front court and Chantelle mixing clever cuts with rolls into the corner meant that Worthing levelled the scores and then pushed on to take a marginal lead 23-21.  The calm head of Sintija saw the set out with a strong serve into the corner and a shank into the wall meant Worthing won 25-23.

In the third set the teams traded points with either team getting more than two points ahead of the other, both teams stepped up their game and the standard of hitting and cover back court lead to some great rallies.  At 16-18 Dulwich's setter served and with a strong front court they made the points they needed, while Brinee made a great pick up back court covering the tip to four the power hit that followed to five got them the point and the next couple taking Tuskers to 22-16 and in the end the set 25-19.

A strong start from Dulwich/a poor start from Worthing in the fourth again saw the basic communication lapse and the whole team looked nervous on court and not at all like the un-defeated leaders and champions of the five setter that they are!!  For periods they played well with Trees using the angles well and Brinee dominating the net.  Sintija as always made so much noise my throat was sore in sympathy, as well as picking off some big points at stages of the game. Chantelle and Gemma quietly got on with business, covering and blocking well and both Tracy and Mel used the pass in wisely with Tracy picking up points with a cheeky second ball over but in the end Dulwich earnt the set 25-15.

So we entered Worthing's 2014-15 trademark, the lottery of the fifth set!  Dulwich again started well and before Worthing got going it was 2-6 to Dulwich.  At 7-10 down Sintija fires in an ace and on her second serve while the number 2 player tried to avoid it, the ball dipped and caught her full in the face... happily she bounced straight back and was good to carry on! So was Sintija and the next ball went to the same area and brought the score to 11-11 and then it was 13-13! Dulwich won the point and served for the game and a text book pass and set from Brinee and Mel meant all the hard work was done and Trees didn't miss her line putting away a screamer.  Strangely enough the next two sets went her way and so did the final two points! 16-14 Worthing! 

A great result for the first game of the new year and especially as there hasn't been any training for a month or so! A tough first game in a while for Gemma and also for Tracy who's slowly getting back her match fittness after being out for most of the season. It was also good to see Brinee working so hard back court and getting consistent good balls in to the setter and covering the tip to 4!  A massive thank you to the supporters, I don't think we would have got through the fifth set as winners with out you! It was great to see a few of the EG crew as well as Dom, Robyn (their mum) and Katy, along with the regular Latvian's, Farley's and Chantelle's mum and Craig the ever present!

Also a special thanks to Kish, Em, Kathy, Amelia, Nigel and Elise for officiating! 

Devon up next in a couple of weeks!!