Over the last two weeks Volleyball Ireland have been delivering a new 4v4 Participation Competition for post-primary schools. The Mini Volleyball format is played on a Badminton Court sized area and provides more touches, and more action for the players. The format is used as a transition from Spikeball to full 6v6 Volleyball.
The first event was held in Kilkenny’s Watershed arena with 28 teams and 164 Girls from across Ireland taking part, with representatives from Kerry, Galway, Kildare, Dublin, Kilkenny, Laois, Waterford and Clare. The programme is aimed at 1st and 2nd year Students.
The Boys event was held in the same venue yesterday (Nov 20) with 140 players from 22 teams enjoying a day of Volleyball action. The event included Colaiste Na Hinse of Bettystown, Co. Meath who have been inspired to play Volleyball after the hosting of the CEV Beach Volleyball Continental Cup in the village earlier this Summer.
Conor Flood, Volleyball Ireland Development Officer said, “The 4v4 Mini Volley programme is really to help players get used to playing Volleyball. Many players have come from Spikeball in Primary Schools and this format really helps them get used to the skills, rules and tactics of Volleyball. Some of these players would also be playing National Youth League Volleyball with clubs and you can really see the benefits of this format for developing their skill set. The emphasis is on keeping the ball in the air as much as possible with all players getting plenty of touches.”
The focus now turns to the Senior Cup with the final chalked in for December 12th in UCD.
