Press Releases Page 2

EDVA Division One

With Taunton's going down 2-3 against Wanderers this week, the Division one title has now become a two horse race between Kirton and Torexe Buzzards. At the other end of the table, Torexe Hawks closed the gap to within four points to seventh placed team Exeter University after they were awards the points over Kings Otters.

WVC Wanderers v Volleyball Taunton 1 

High intensity game from the start, Taunton kept the pressure on throughout and the match which could have gone either way. A stormer of a match for Simon Glossop, who was making his return to the league. Powerful hitting by Taunton's Jurek Jankowski, with referee's player of the match going to Tim Clarke for Wanderers. Final Results 3- 2 ( 25 - 21, 11 - 25, 22 - 25, 25 - 21, 15 - 11). 

EDVA Division 2

Exeter University 2 finished their 2007/08 season by moving into top place in Division Two of the EDVA, following a 5-0 win over Vikings. 

Torexe Falcon v Vikings

Both teams started strongly and the first three sets were very closely contended with excellent defensive play and some long rallies. Torexe edged out the first set only for Vikings to counter with a two point lead in the second and they seemed to have the third under control as well until the very end of the set when Torexe Falcons pulled ahead again thanks to some good hitting by Jimmy May and Ali West.

Vikings changed around the line up in the fourth set, but Falcons put them under immediate pressure with a run of great serving by David Wong, followed shortly after by Ali West who served 10 consecutive points. Vikings rallied towards the end of the set, but it was too late to overcome the lead Falcons had built up. The 5th set was a much closer contest, the key difference being some strong serving from Jimmy May to give it to Falcons. Overall a great closely fought match with player of the match going to Nichole Daub from Vikings for her all round solid defensive play and good serving. Final Result 4-1 (25 - 19, 23 - 25, 25 - 21, 25 - 11, 15 - 11)

Player of the Match Award

The two most valuable players in the EDVA league at the moment, with three nominations each, is Kirton's Andy Nicks and Irene Bucelli from the Exeter University. 

Andy Nicks, currently topping Division One nominations.

Irene Bucelli, Division Two's most nominated player so far.

A total of 57 players have picked up a Player of the Match nomination so far this year, after each match the match official nominates a player based on the following criteria:

a) Personal playing performance, consistent display of technical and tactical ability throughout the match.  
b) Contribution to the team's performance through encouragement and support of team mates.  
c) Adherence to the rules of the game and the spirit of fair play.  
d) Acceptance of the referees' decisions.

EDVA Division Two

Exeter University 2 move within one point of Division Two leaders Birdmen and a good match against third from bottom team Vikings next week could see the team topping the table for the first time this year. But it's unlikely they will remain in top spot, the Birdmen have three games in hand and are still unbeaten this year.

Torexe Condors are having an end of season rally and picked up some useful bonus points against Taunton, helped by Andrew Wagner who has picked up the Play of the Match award in his last two outings. One more win and a couple of bonus points from their last three matches, could see them move up the table from their current bottom place.

The Torexe Condors team for the 2007/08 indoor season
Back Row (L-R): Andrew Wagner, John Brewer, Alan Harris-Reid, Amber Rickard, Jayne Thirkill, Jess Webber
Front Row (L-R): Kiran Guppy, Helen Sargent, Christy Richard

Volleyball Taunton 2 v Torexe Condors 

Both teams started off slowly, Taunton took the lead and pulled off the first three sets. The next two sets saw Taunton having to play catch up. Good serving by Torexe No. 7 Andrew Wagner, which helped Torexe take the final two sets. Player of the match went to Torexe No. 7 Andrew Wagner. 

Torexe Falcons v Exeter University 2 

The lengthy opening 3 points contested, typified the closeness of the first two sets. Falcons raised their game and finally took the first set 25 - 23. A similar battle ensued for the second with Uni winning 25 - 23. Although the third went to the students 25 - 16, apart from a couple of mini serving runs, the set was well contested. The 4th set was another monumental battle, which eventually went to the Uni 25 - 21. Playing with six perhaps took its toll in the final set as Uni pulled away from 10 - 7 to win comfortable 15 - 7. It was a great game to have played in. 

WVC Lions v Exeter University 2 

Although the score line shows a fairly comprehensive domination of four out of five sets in the Uni's favour, Lions did show some good passages of play. They couldn't however put a consistent run together and conceded numerous consecutive points on the Uni's serve. Lions did nearly take the final set, finally going down by just two points. Player of the match went to Mariagrazia Imperiale from Exeter University. 

EDVA Division One

As the indoor league moves into the final third of the season, teams are now playing some of their best volleyball to date. Division one team Kirton, kept their title bid alive with a wins against the Hawks and Torexe Buzzards. Exeter University and Kings are both collecting match and bonus points and moving away from the relegation zone. As well as their first lose, last weeks league leaders Torexe Buzzards are failing to collect the bonus points, the title race is still on and looks like being decided on dropped bonus points.

Kings v. Exeter University

A very close match between two evenly matched teams who both fined themselves in the lower third of the league table. The match was finely balanced on a knife edge but was ultimately decided on a substitution error. At one set each, the third was everything to play for and at 11-10, Kings made a change to their line up but the substitute took the wrong court position. The error was not picked up until their next service rotation, resulting in a two point penalty, Kings did not fully recover from the mishap and went on to lose the set by just two points 23-25. Although Kings took the fourth set 25-22, making it two set all, the match was out of time and the University took the match 2-3.

Kings Otters v. Torexe Buzzards 

Both sides started enthusiastically and Kings, despite not having their strongest team out, managed to hold their own, only just missing out. Buzzards took control in the 2nd and 3rd sets, as Kings heads went down and could not maintain their initial attack. However, the 4th set saw a more determined, calm Kings team come out fighting and after a tense battle, Kings managed to sneak a set. With a renewed spirit, Kings started the 5th set in the same way and lead at the half way point. They managed to maintain the lead, eventually winning the final set. Tony Dowling was player of the match. 

Kirton Revolution v. Torexe Hawks 

Kirton warmed up for their top of the table clash next week with a home game against Torexe Hawks. This resulted in a 5 - 0 win for the Revolution but it was not always as comfortable as the score line suggests. Kirton were without their regular powerhouse through the middle, John Sweeney, 6' 4". New boy Phil Gillard, 6' 2½", was more than up for the task of filling the considerable shoes and had a great game on debut.

Canadian Alves, 5' 9", sat out the first set to cast a keen eye over the oppo and would have seen some good hitting from a few players on their side. The first set went the way of Kirton 25 - 18. 

Prior to the commencement of the 2nd set a change was made, the introduction of Alves saw Kirton change from playing Andy Nicks, as the lone setter to a 2 setter system. Andy stepping in and doing a good job replacing Dan Eynon, as the main setter. Although he was clearly no specialist in that position his efforts did not go un-rewarded picking up yet another ' home ' man of the match. 

The 5th set saw Kirton get off to a slow start with the Hawks soaring of in to an early lead. By the change of ends though Kirton had managed to just about poke their noses in front, which is where they stayed for the remainder of the set, eventually taking it 15 - 10. All in all a good fun game with both sets of teams giving all of their players a run out and played mostly in the right spirit. Fingers are crossed for more of the same in the big game next Sunday. 

Torexe Eagles v. Exeter University 

A very closely fought game, with Eagles just edging the 1st set, they could not tame a very lively Uni team. With the Uni taking the 5th deciding set to take a deserved win. Player of the match Addison Tailford from Exeter University 

EDVA & Exeter University V Guernsey U18

EDVA Mixed Youth Team	Guernsey Mixed Team	Exeter University

On Saturday the 2nd Feb, we hosted an international youth meeting, when we welcomed the Guernsey U18 mixed team to Exeter. The Exeter & District Volleyball Association arranged for two teams to represent the association, the EDVA Mixed Youth team and Exeter University.

Match action from Saturdays EDVA v Guernsey Match at the Riverside LC

The match fixtures were part of Guernsey's 2008 Southwest tour, they are the current Inter Insulars champions and will be looking to retain the title against Jersey next month. Being a mixed match, the net is set at the men's height and no more than three males are allowed on court at anyone one time, each match was the best of five sets. Slideshow and Match Photos are now available on line via the above Press Menu.

Match action from Saturdays Exeter University v Guernsey Match at the Riverside LC

Match Results: 

EDVA Mixed Youth Team v Guernsey U18 Mixed: 3 - 0 (25-21, 25-12, 25-19)

Exeter University v Guernsey U18 Mixed: 3 - 1 (25-20, 22-25, 25-7, 25-11)

Representing the EDVA: 

Sophie Batho - Captain (Torexe), Simon Oldfield (Torexe), Elliot Weeks (Torexe), Rachel Sidwell (Taunton), Jess Webber (Torexe), Kieran Guppy (Torexe), Natalie Smith (Devon Women), Corinne Jeffries (Devon Women) & Matthew Rowles (Torexe).

Representing the Exeter University:

Chris Jordan - Captain, Iain Bruce, Eugen Wingerter (Ger), Mariagrazia Imperiale (Ita), Lucy Clarkson, Chiara Floriani (Ita), Steven Milne.

Representing Guernsey:

Paul Cave, Nick Gaudion, Shaun Lindfield, James Grundy, Gemma Nicole, Emily Kimber & Jenifer Lindfield

Match Referees: Rachel Swindell, Phil Batho, Maria Trylska
Match Officials: Nikki Batho, Dave Gibbs.

For more details on the fixture, please see the Match Program

EDVA Division One

Just when Division One was beginning to splitting into a top, middle and lower group of teams, a number of new signings have thrown the event wide open again. Taunton's bid for the title is now back on track after signing Jurek Jankowski from National League Division One team Polonia. Jurek is one of the top player - coaches in the country and has already picked up a player of the match award for his new team. 

The introduction of Adrian Krasnopolski and Grezegorz Skiepko to Torexe Hawks, has added much needed blocking and hitting power to the outfit. The Hawks had already stated to pick up match bonus points and the weekends win against the Eagles has seen the team move out of the relegation zone for the first time this season.

Wanderers v Kirton

Kirton move back to top spot with a 4-1 win over fourth place Wanderers, a closely fought match with excellent hitting from both side, but it was the errors that Wanderers made that made the difference between the two teams, giving Kirton the advantage and eventually the match. Result: 1 : 4 (26 - 28, 20 - 25, 25 - 17, 15 - 25, 11 - 15).

Torexe Eagles v. Torexe Hawks 

An extremely close match with several sets going beyond 25 points all played at an amazing pace, the Eagles struggled to cope with Hawks strong serving and hitting during the first half of the match but the Eagles pulled back to take last 2 sets. Result: 2 : 3 (24 - 26, 20 - 25, 25 - 27, 25 - 22, 15 - 10).

Exeter University v. WVC Wanderers 

Exeter University went down fighting to WVC Wanderers. In a match that went right to the final set, the boisterous chanting of the Exeter Uni team wasn’t enough to secure victory. Four close sets led into a final set showdown where Exeter Uni just couldn’t find the finishing ball. The play from both sides was magical at times whilst other points went unchallenged due to some poor serving from Exeter Uni. The victors battled hard and perhaps on balance deserved their victory with some precise setting and accurate finishing. But a much improved Exeter Uni team will take confidence from their performance and will no doubt feel that the win that has so far evaded them is just around the corner. Result 2 : 3 (14 - 25, 25 - 15, 25 - 23, 20 - 25, 7 - 15).

In Division 2, second place Torexe Falcons hopes of catching the leads took a knock, when they lost their second match of the season to Volleyball Taunton in a closely fought match. The late starting Exeter University team have finally got their season underway with three matches and three excellent wins this week, they jump two places up the table to sixth.

Volleyball Taunton 2 v. Torexe Falcons 

Taunton started the match calm and confident, winning the first two sets but Torexe fought back in the third set, putting on a strong performance to take the set. The fourth set was a hard set with both sides scoring some good points, Taunton picked up this set. Fifth set was well earnt by Torexe who played the better volleyball. Overall a good match played by all. Player of the match went to Borgusz Bancki from Taunton. Result 3 : 2 (25 - 15, 25 - 19, 13 - 25, 25 - 18, 9 - 15).

Division Two Team: Exeter University 2
Back Row (L-R): Ben Haller, Chris Jordan, Matt Cole, Stephen Milne
Front Row (L-R): Kelly Telfer, Lucy Clarkson, Irene Bucelli, Mariagrazia Imperiale

Exeter University 2 v. WVC Lions 

After not training together as a team before, Exeter University 2 played very well against WVC Lions. During the whole game both teams played skillfully, however with Exeter University holding a constant lead. The first set ended with Exeter claiming 25 points to 16. With the second set WVC Lions played much better as a team, with the set ending 25:19 to Ex. By the third set, Ex had fully established themselves as a team and played to their strengths, using excellent sets from Maria-Grazia and Chris Jordan's middle hits, beating Lions 25:11. Once the match had been won Exeter relaxed and the pace of the match slowed. Excellently placed hits and tips from WVC Lions brought them close to winning, but lost in the final few points 21:25. After this scare, Exeter brought their pace up once again and completed the set 15:5. Therefore finishing the match 5:0 to Exeter University 2, with Exeter's Ben Haller winning Player of the Match. Result 5 : 0 (25 - 16, 25 - 19, 25 - 11, 25 - 2,1 15 - 5).

Volleyball Taunton 2 v. Exeter University 2 

Having played just 2 days earlier in a close match against top of the table Birdmen, Taunton did not live up to expectations against bottom of the table University 2. Although winning the first set relatively easily 25-13, Taunton just seemed to get tired, whereas the University just got better and better. The University reversed the scores in the second set winning 13-25. From then on, although scoring points regularly, Taunton’s undoing was lapses of concentration resulting in the away team scoring many consecutive points in all the remaining sets. Final score was 1 : 4 (25-13, 13-25, 17-25, 16-25, 8-15). Player of the match went to Taunton's Claire Pinney

[Press Report sent to the Express & Echo & Somerset County Gazette 06/02/2008]

Torexe Buzzards v. Taunton 

Buzzard's out side hitter, Shams Mahyav hitting past the Taunton block in Sundays match at the Exeter Riverside LC.

Tough Week for the University

It's going to be a tough week for the University, as well a busy mid week EDVA league program, which will see the division two team playing on consecutive nights, Tuesday & Wednesday, the division one team is also in action on Thursday evening. 

The weekend is also full, with the mixed team taking part in the international meeting against Guernsey on Saturday ( 2nd February 12:00 to 14:00) and a Women's BUSA round on Sunday.

Exeter & District Youth Team

The Exeter & District Mixed Youth Team had it's one and only practices session last Saturday, before next weeks international match against Guernsey (Saturday 2nd February 10:00 to 12:00). With players coming from clubs based in Exeter, Taunton & Totnes, the main aim of the session was to get the team familiar with each other and to work on a basic match plan. Many thanks to Torexe VC who supplied the opposition and the teams equipment for the practice. 

Torexe Falcons v. Torexe Condors 

Kieran Guppy (No. 7) hitting for the Condors with David Wong (No. 6) and James May (No. 8) blocking for the Falcons.

In Division Two it was great to see nine players rotated for Condors. The first set was dominated by Falcons 25-4, second set was the same 25-9. In the third set Falcons made a slight change in rotation but outcome the same 25-8. A combination of coaching, a good six and Falcons reorganising their team saw a much closer game 25-19. Reverting back to normal Falcons won the last 15-5. The team applied themselves very well and Condors benefited from the coaching and improved as the match went on. Neil Cox picked up player of the match on his debut game for Condors, providing a good block and hitting through the middle. Final Result: 5-0 (25 - 4, 25 - 9, 25 - 8, 25 - 19, 15 - 5) 

Torexe Hawks v. Torexe Eagles 

In Division One, Torexe Eagles kicked of the new year, looking to pick up some much needed point against the Hawks and the Buzzards. Excellent court coverage, and strong serving from the Eagles player of the match Phil Batho, saw them take the first set easily in their inter club match with the Hawks . A much improved performance in the next two sets from the Hawks, with excellent all round play from Jacky Pike saw the Eagles under pressure at times, but still taking both sets (25-16) . With some strong hitting from Simon Oldfield and Hawks unable to make good use of the ball received off service, the Eagles cruised home to a comfortable, well deserved win . Final Result 0-5 (11 - 25, 16 - 25, 16 - 25, 16 - 25, 7 - 15) 

Torexe Eagles v. Torexe Buzzards 

For the first time this season, the Buzzards put out their first choice team, much to the misfortune of the Eagle. The Eagles struggled from the onset with service receive and the Buzzards superior height put paid to any defence that Eagles tried to put up. Final Result 0-5 (16 - 25, 8 - 25, 14 - 25, 14 - 25, 4 - 15). Despite the lose, the win against the Hawks see the team move up to forth in the league.

Volleyball Taunton 1 v. Torexe Hawks 

This match shows that all had a good Christmas as all had pretty heavy feet! Wonder why!? Some very good pick-ups from the opposite team. Player of the match went to Neill Bowler from Torexe Hawks. The win keeps Taunton just two points behind the league leaders but the Buzzards now have two games in hand.

Match action from Division 2, Wanderers Vikings (Light Blue) v Taunton 2 (Dark Blue)

Taunton's Dawn Atfield (No. 1) and Anne Frisch (No. 13) attempting to block Viking's player of the match Jodi Heale.

Some strong serving by player of the match Jodi Heale in the first set took Vikings to an early 10-0 lead which they managed to maintain throughout the rest of the game. Steady accurate passing enabled Vikings to take a comfortable 4 - 0 lead in the match until the determination of Taunton pulled off a close 16 -14 set in the 5th. Final Result 4 : 1 (25-10, 25-16, 25-15, 25-12, 14-16).

Torexe Falcons v Birdmen

At the top of the division, unbeaten Birdmen lined up against second place Torexe Falcons, the Falcons made the good start against the Birdmen and just edged them out to take the first set. However the Birdmen then rallied, settled into their game and Falcons allowed the low roof to disrupt them, making their game more tentative than normal. Strong serving and excellent hitting, especially from player of the match Lee Osbourne, allowed the Birdmen to control the rest of the game. The Birdmen remain in top spot and unbeaten but their 100% set record has now gone. Final Result: 1 : 4 (25-21, 15-25, 18-25, 19-25, 10-15). 

With the match between Denbury Eagles & WVC Lions being called off, due to a leaking roof, team places remains unchanged.

Torexe Hawks v Volleyball Taunton 1 

In Division One, Taunton 1 took on Torexe Hawks at the Riverside LC. This was a game of 5 sets and unfortunately Torexe Hawks didn't win any of them. The first set was hotly contested and Taunton just eased their way to victory. In set two, the Hawks international ingredients, with players from Hong Kong and Mauritius, failed to provide the recipe for success and Taunton resolutely maintained their advantage. They further pressed this home with an easy 25-12 win in set 3. Hawks summoned up their final reserves and launched a ferocious attack on the Taunton defence in a vain attempt to pull a set back. It just wasn't to be one of those days and Taunton just held on to win the match 5-0. Player of the match went to Taunton's Luc Lefebvre. Final Result 0 : 5 (20-25, 14-25, 12-25, 17-25, 14-16) 

Torexe Buzzards v. Torexe Eagles 

Current league leaders Torexe Buzzards started brightly against the Eagles and soon had the Eagles on the retreat. Some big hitting form Shams soon wrapped up the first set. Eagles fought back in the second and third sets with Simon Oldfield finding the gaps in the Buzzards defence, but Buzzards had the better finishing power and clinched these sets. Buzzards eased down in the final two sets but with player of the match Tom Mammola blocking and hitting powerfully, they wrapped the game up 5 : 0 (25-14, 25-18, 25-22, 25-20, 15-11). The win keeps the Buzzard at the top of the division, just one point ahead of Taunton 1.

Player of the Match award

We now have some clear leaders in this years "Player of the Match" award, one player from each match is nominated by the match official and is awarded to the player who has made a positive contribution to the match regardless of whether he/she is on the winning side. 

The award is evaluated as follows: 
a) Personal playing performance - this should be measured in terms of a consistent display of technical and tactical ability throughout the match. 
b) Contribution to the team's performance through encouragement and support of team mates. 
c) Adherence to the rules of the game and the spirit of fair play. 
d) Acceptance of the referees' decisions. 

Watch Set 1 from Volleyball Taunton v Kirton Revolution online

Click on the above links to view online or right click and download via the "Save Target As" option.

Exeter & District Mixed Youth v Guernsey Mixed U18

We have arranged for the above International Match be a played in Exeter on Saturday 2nd February (10.00am - 2.00pm Exeter Riverside LC) and I would like to invite all 16 to 20 years old players to joint the Exeter & District Volleyball Team. In addition to the match, there will be two-hour training session on Saturday the 26th January (2.00 - 4.00pm Exeter Riverside LC). If you are available and would like to take part, please complete the Players Entry Form and return ASAP.

Volleyball Taunton v Kirton Revolution

With two wins in a week, Kirton Revolution moved back to the top of Division One, just one point ahead of Torexe Buzzards who have a match in hand. Taunton drop to third and Wanderers move into fourth place, following their win over Torexe Eagles.

Wanderer v Torexe Eagles

A good strong start by home team Wanderers saw them win the first set comfortably but then falter in the 2nd. Eagles gave as good as they got, which led to a closely fought match, a two point win in the fourth set by the Eagles, put the match all square at two sets each. It was anyone's match but Wanderers managed to pull it out in the dying minutes and took the fifth set....yay! 

Player of the match was Wanderers Kirstin Morris, final Result: 3 : 2 (25-16, 19-25, 25-19, 23-25, 15-5).

Volleyball Taunton 2 v Birdmen 

A good win by the Birdmen, moves the team into top spot in Division Two, just ahead of the Falcons. Taunton 2 never got settled into the game, allowing the low ceiling to affect the game. A lot of good work and hard hitting by the Birdmen kept Taunton 2 under pressure. Points were lost on serving that would normally not have been a problem. A very positive attitude and team kept battling and are looking forward to the rematch with a change in tactics. Well done to the Birdmen for a well deserved 5 - 0 win. 

WVC Vikings v Torexe Falcons 

A excellent start by both teams led to a closely fought 1st set with Torexe Falcons just coming out on top, but finding themselves just piped at the post by Vikings in the 2nd set. The 3rd, 4th and 5th sets went to Torexe Falcons despite some great attacking play by Wanderers player of the match Mark Baker. Final Results 1 : 4 (22-25, 25-18, 14-2,5 16-25, 11-15) 

Kings Otters move up to fourth.

With two match fixtures in a week, maximum points would have taken the Otters to the top of Division One of the Exeter and District league, first up was an away match against the much improved Exeter University team. Kings struggled to get in to the match to start with but after some big hitting from the middle and the outside attackers they took the advantage. Exeter University played well as a team and put up a good fight. Kings Otters took the match 5-0 in the end, playing the better volleyball at the vital points. A great game from Nick Hannay saw him get a well deserved player of the match recognition. Final result 0 : 5 (17-25, 18-25, 17-25, 23-2, 7-15).

Back on their home court at Ottery St Mary, Kings made a good start against WVC Wanderers from Exeter, taking the first set 25-23 but lost the advantage in the second set, losing it by 10 points. Paul Dowling, who was carried off the court with an ankle injured during the Exeter University match, was brought back on court in set 3, to give his side a much needed boost. Kings rallied in the fourth set where it was neck and neck between the teams, but Kings couldn't quite finish the set as they had started and Wanderers took the final points and finished off the match with a four set win. Final result 1 : 4 (25-23, 15-25, 12-25, 20-25, 12-15). 

The win moves Wanderers to equal second place in the league, with Kings Otters just one point behind them in fourth.

Torexe Eagles v Volleyball Taunton 1 

Top of the table Taunton 1, arrived at this match with a strong side expecting another big win over the Eagles, but the Torexe side had other ideas knowing how poorly they played in their away fixture at Taunton. The 1st set was a nip and tuck affair with both sides putting together some really strong attack and defence moves, but the Eagles finished off the stronger team with middle players Paul Reed blocking well, and Drew Rawson getting in some great hits from hard working setter Nikki Batho winning 25 - 23.

Set 2 was almost the same as the 1st, Torexe kept on their strongest 6 players while the visitors made a change to bringing on Mark Jeffery, but apart from some tricky attack shots from the Taunton setter, the set went to the Eagles with a hard fought all round team performance, 25 - 21 to Torexe. In set 3, the Eagles came unstuck, bringing on two cold players from the bench and Taunton took full advantage taking it 25 - 13. Set 4 and Eagles captain Phil Batho and Drew Rawson came back on to steady the ship and nip the Taunton attack in the bud to win the set 25 - 17 and with it the match. In the final set after already securing the match, the Torexe side took their foot off the gas completely giving it to Taunton 15 - 7. Taunton are still the Division One leaders but have now lost twice, the Eagles move up to fifth.

It's a win and a lose for Taunton 2 in Division Two.

Volleyball Taunton 2 had their first win of the season last Sunday, and it was a convincing 5-0 defeat for an inexperienced, but up-and-coming Torexe Condors. Taunton were superior in most departments, and particularly noteworthy was the serving of Phil Payne and Ian Sidwell. Condors gave their best performance yet this season. They improved as the match went-on, and sets 4 and 5 could have gone either-way, but Taunton's greater height and better organisation proved to be a big advantage in the end.

Special mention must go to Taunton's player-of-the-match Dawn Atfield for her accurate ball-distribution, and to Condors' Andrew Wagner for his serving and hitting. Final Results 0 : 5 (15-25, 9-25, 16-25, 20-25, 13-15) 

However Torexe Falcons proved to be more than a match for Taunton, the Falcons made an excellent start with their strong serving dominating the first set. Taunton rallied strongly towards the end of the 2nd set, but it was too late to overcome the Falcons early lead. Taunton mixed it up in the 3rd set but to no avail, however they settled better in the 4th, matching Torexe point for point in the first half of the set until Torexe's serving again dominated play. The final set saw a repeat of the 4th with Taunton not able to hold on through the set. The more experienced Torexe Falcons came out on top with a 5:0 victory. Hard hitting and positive play from Taunton's Sarah Cooper earned her the player of the match.

WVC Vikings v Denbury Eagles 

After the frustration of their last fixture being postponed, due to a leaking roof, the Denbury Eagles were eager to get on court and spread their wings. The visitors to Channings Wood were WVC Vikings who like the eagles had made a solid start to the 2007-08 season. The Eagles made the better start in this match winning the first set 25 to 18.

The second set was a Monster! The Vikings bounced back with bullet serves from their number 68 Buddhka Weerasena and the set went point for point to the early twenty’s. The Eagles clawed their way to victory, 25 – 22, in what was a defining moment in the match. In the third set the Vikings seemed “punch drunk” and despite the efforts of Captain for the day Chris Outram the Eagles won 25 – 12.

In the Fourth set, with the match won, the Eagles introduced their sub, Tufial Akhtar. The Vikings, smelling blood, raised their game and began to pillage points from the Eagles. This is when the Eagles captain Mike “Hit Man” Hutton, in winning a vital point, lived up to his nick name. He “Hit” a table, the score board and the score keeper! Luckily only the table was broken. The set was eventually won by the Eagles 25 – 18.

In the final set the Eagles rested ref Julia Chiverton's man of the match Hugh “Boom Boom” Benjamin. The Vikings took advantage and won the last set 19 – 17 and were happy to board their longboat home with at least one point  Next up for the Denbury Eagles are WVC Lions on the 09/12/2007. 

Open Junior Training

Weekly junior training has now started at St Luke’s School on Tuesday’s afternoons, the session (mainly aimed at years 4, 5, and 6) is run between 4:30 and 5:30pm, open to any youngster who can get across town in time! Coaches are all from the EDVA league, contact Rachel Swindell if you need more details at Rachel.Swindell@Network100.co.uk

Junior training is also available at Richard Huish College in Taunton every Tuesday evening, 7 to 8pm. Contact Ian Sidwell for more info: IanSidwell@btinternet.com

[Press Report sent to the Express & Echo, Somerset County Gazette & Sidmouth Herald 28/11/2007]

Exeter University v Torexe Hawks

Three marathon sets at the start of this game gave Exeter University their first win of the season!! It was a great comeback after their loss against the Hawks at the start of the season. Exeter University displayed their best Volleyball yet to take the first 3 sets and secure the win. The whole game was played with great sportsmanship, with Torexe coming back to win the final set of the match. 

A great game from Scott Chester earned him player of the match, full Result 4:1 (25-22, 29-27, 25-20, 25-14, 10-15)

Torexe Falcons v Wanderer Lions Wanderers Lions were a bit overwhelmed in set one in their division two match against Torexe Falcons. Falcon’s, John Williams got his team off to a flying start with eleven unanswered servers, which the Lions never really recovered from. This was Lions first away match of the season and once they had got used to the court, they came out flying in the second set, taking the first five points. Unfortunately they could not keep this up and Falcons edged ahead and took the set. This scenario was repeated during the rest of the game until set five, where Lion’s produced their best volleyball of the day. Some excellent blocking by Pete Harding put the Falcons under pressure and Falcon’s out side hitter and man of the match John Williams was substituted back on to secure the win for Falcons. In the end a good 5-0 win for the Falcons, which moves them up to second place in the table with a game in hand over the leaders.

Pete Harding Lions

Exeter University v Torexe Eagles

Division One Match action: Exeter University 1 (Green) v Torexe Eagles (Blue & White) at the Exeter University Sports Hall.

A close match which Torexe Eagles eventually took 5-0 but only after an amazingly long first set which went to a 30-28 score line. Eagles move up two places to fifth in the division, while the Uni are still looking for their first win of the season, which won't be far away on to days performance. Man of the match was Ian Bruce from the University.

Open Junior Training

Weekly junior training has now started at St Luke’s School on Tuesday’s afternoons, a total of sixteen juniors attended this week, which is an excellent number to build on. Please pass the word around that there is a primary school session (mainly aimed at years 4, 5, and 6) which is between 4:30 and 5:30pm, open to any youngster who can get across town in time! Coaches are all from the EDVA league, contact Rachel Swindell if you need more details at Rachel.Swindell@Network100.co.uk

Junior training is also available at Richard Huish College in Taunton every Tuesday evening, 7 to 8pm. Contact Ian Sidwell for more info: IanSidwell@btinternet.com

Denbury Eagles v Taunton 2

After loosing their first game of the season Denbury Eagles needed to put in a big performance in their second fixture against Taunton 2. They certainly did with a comprehensive 5-0 victory. The first set went point for point up till the late teens. The Eagles then closed out the set 25 to 19 to go one set up. 

The second and third sets (Both 25-17 to the Eagles) became more exciting with players in both teams growing in confidence. None more than the Eagles No6, Davidson, the smallest man on court who out jumped Taunton 2`s No8, Coles the tallest man on court. The Eagles were certainly “soaring”. It was in the fourth and fifth sets (25-13 and 15-7 to the Eagles) that saw “Hit man” Hutton, the Eagles captain, earn his corn. Good organisation on double blocking and his trade mark “Dink shot” earning him the man of the match award from referee Julia Chiverton.

A solid win for Denbury eagles but it takes two teams, referee and a lot of other officials to make the game enjoyable. Many thanks to all those involved. I would like to finish with a big thank you to “Arsen” Barr, manager on the day. A win first time in charge – Well done. Next up for the Denbury Eagles are WVC Lions on the 18/11/2007.

[Press Report sent to the Express & Echo, 15/11/2007]

Unbeaten Buzzards Join the Race for the Title

Division One of the Exeter and District Volleyball league is beginning to take shape, the match to watch this weekend took place at the Exeter Riverside LC, where fourth place Torexe Buzzard took on second place Kirton Revolution. A win for Kirton would have seen them move to the top spot but the Buzzards had other ideas. Torexe started slowly and Kirton won the 1st set easily with a seven point advantage. Torexe fought back well in the second and started blocking out the big hits from Kirton and reversed the seven point score line, taking the set comfortably 25-18 and just got the best of the third set, taking it by just two points 25-23. It was back to the seven point difference again for the fourth set, Kirton played well with Torexe seeming to tire, however Torexe fought back at the end of the 5th set to win a very close game by just two points 16-14. Kirton remain in second place with the Buzzards down in fourth place but unbeaten and with matches in hand. 

Tom Mammola took the man of the match award for the Buzzards, Final score: 3 : 2 (18-25, 25-18, 25-23, 18-25, 16-14). 

 

Elsewhere in the Division, the Eagles took on Kings Otters from Ottery St Mary, a really close fought match with long rally's resulting in the fifth set not being played through lack of time. Torexe could have won 4-1 but Kings served strongly in the 1st set to take the set. They pulled themselves together in the next three sets to take command. Player of the match went to Kings Paul Dowling. Final Result: 3 : 2 (22-25, 26-24, 25-20, 25-21, 0-15).

WVC Wanderers took all the points in their match against Torexe Hawks, a rusty start by Wanderers but they got into their groove and ended up with a comfortable 5-0 win. Mixing it up in the 5th set, Jason Hendy became setter and did well as air traffic controller for the remainder of the match. Player of the match was Wanderers Laura Wilson, with her lethal hitting and pin point accurate serving, mention must also go to Hawks outside hitter P Coolen, who pulled off some outstanding hits

Laura Wilson Wanderers VC

In Division Two, WVC Vikings extended their lead at the top of the table with a fine victory over Torexe Condors at Exeter School. A good battle with some strong positive serving from the Vikings team and Condors not getting the rub of the green in this match. Despite some fine hitting from player of the match Christy Rickard, Vikings came out on top 5-0. 

 

Denbury Eagles chalked up their first win of the season with a fine 5-0 win over Taunton 2 and move up to second in the Division Two.

[Press Report sent to the Express & Echo, 07/11/2007]

In Division One of the Exeter and District Volleyball League, Kings Otters from Ottery St Mary took on Torexe Eagles at Exeter, a really close fought match with long rally's resulting in the fifth set not being played through lack of time. Torexe could have won 4-1 but Kings served strongly in the 1st set to take the set. However it was not their day and the Eagles pulled themselves together in the next three sets to take command. Player of the match went to Kings Paul Dowling, Kings remain in fifth place in the league with one win and one lose. Final Result: 3 : 2 (22-25, 26-24, 25-20, 25-21, 0-15).

[Press Report sent to the Sidmouth Herald, 07/11/2007]

Kirton 4 - Wanderers 1

Kirton came out of the blocks flying in the first set. In large this was due to some good all round team play from Kirton. ' Seppo ' Alves was right on the money with his setting early doors providing some quality service to the middle hitters. Kirton then seemed to take their foot off the gas a little in the next couple of sets and boy did Wanderers make them pay for this. A far closer 2nd set saw Kirton just about get home thanks to Andy Nicks, who later went on to become the games MVP. His outside hitting was the important factor that kept Kirton ticking in that set and throughout the match, but only just.

Some fine cross court angled hitting from Wanderers stalwart Chris Cooper, and Kirton's inability to provide the setters a good first ball saw the Wanderers get due reward for their consistent play in the 3rd set taking it from the Revolution 25-19. Again the 4th set was a close encounter. For some reason Kirton were trying a few plays that they shouldn't have been, capped off with some expansive back court reverse setting from overseas player Vic Ives, which to be fair never really came off for him.

Both sides really battling hard to keep the ball alive and trying lots of variations to win the point, Revolution went on to take the hard fought 4th set by 3 points. With Kirton now having got the 3 sets required to win the match, new boy Paul Tearle was allowed the opportunity to unleash himself on to the court which in turn saw Canadian Alves bring himself off on to the bench. Kirton Revolution going on to win a comfortable 5th set and secure a 4 - 1 victory.

Division One Team Kirton Revolution
Back Row (L-R): Tadej Ladic, John Sweeney, Paul Goddard, Rob Newell
Front Row (L-R): Andy Nicks, Dan Eynon, Kyle Alves, Paul Tearle
Not pictured: Dave Manning, James Sweeney, Vic Ives, Matt Phillips

The win moves Kirton up to second place in Division One of the Exeter & District League, three points leaders Taunton 1 but with a game in hand. Elsewhere in the league, Taunton 2 took on Vikings from Exeter in Division two, Taunton started brightly, winning the first set comfortably, but then fell away in subsequent sets. Although on paper, the team was quite strong, they never gelled, and many points were lost through lack of communication.

Vikings deservedly won sets 2 to 4, being consistent, this was not the hard-hitting match seen last week at Richard Huish sports centre. Viking move up to second place in the Division, just one point behind Torexe Condors from Exeter.

Exeter University 1 start their division one volleyball season with two matches in quick succession, on Sunday they played Torexe Hawks at the Exeter Riverside and on Tuesday they travelled to Taunton for their match against Taunton 1.

The Exeter University 1 team for the 2007/08 indoor seasion
Back Row (L-R): Stephen Hilne, Eugen Wingerter
Middle Row (L-R): Chris Jordan, Nick Haninay, Scott Crampes, Addison Tailford
Front Row (L-R): Nicole Oblaith, Lucy Clarkson, Ash Mossadegh

The game between Exeter University and Torexe Hawks was exciting. Initially, Exeter University claimed the first set at 26:24. Hawks quickly picked the game up with a good display of skills and determination from each player. Team work was demonstrated throughout. Exeter University has also shown a good display of team work, however, being fairly new to each other at this early stage of the season did not bring them the success they had hoped for. Hawks took over the game and won it 4:1. Nicole Oblaith took the player of the match award for the University, with some excellent serving runs and good court coverage throughout the match. At Taunton the University went down 5-0 to the home team but gave Taunton a good run for their money during the fourth and fifty sets,  with only a couple of points in it, 25-21 & 15-13 respectively.

The win move the Hawks up to forth place in Division One, elsewhere in the league, Division Two saw their first matches of the new season. In a very fast and exciting match, Torexe Falcons from Exeter carved out a win at Newton Abbot over Denbury Eagles. Strong serving from both sides, had the teams trading points but it was Torexe's greater experience and organisation that allowed them to clinch the match 3-2. (25-20, 25-20, 17-25, 25-21, 14-16) 

The New 2007/08 Season Kicks Off

The opening weekend of the 2007/08 season kicked off with plenty of action in Division One, where home advantage appeared to count for nothing. Torexe Hawks started the season with a home match against Kings from Otters St Mary, a great game enjoyed by all but Kings ran out 5-0 winners with Matt Dowling having an outstanding match for Kings.

At the Riverside Leisure Centre, Torexe Eagles took on this years pre-season favourites, Kirton Revolution, an excellent game with a good standard of all round volleyball. In the end it was the depth of the away team, Kirton, which made the difference, taking the match 5-0. Player of the match was Nikki Batho for the Eagles.

Match action from the Torexe Buzzards (black) v Torexe Hawks (blue/white) match at the Exeter Riverside LC on the 15/10/07
Drew Rawson (19) and Mark Shaddick (18) of Hawks, successfully blocking an attack from Torexe Buzzards.

The local derby match between Torexe Hawks v Torexe Buzzards produced another close match but the Hawks just couldn't finish the sets! Buzzards eventually taking the match 5-0, Player of the match Sophie Batho for the Hawks.

However the closest match of the opening weekend took place at Taunton, where Taunton 1 took on WVC Wanderers from Exeter. A match of 2 halves", or 2 and 3 fifths anyway, with Taunton winning the first two sets relatively comfortably, with late fight backs by Wanderers, then totally falling apart in the last 3 sets. Set 4 may have appeared closer, but again this was a late comeback, with the score once being 16-22 against Taunton! Person of match was K Morris, who was consistently impressive at setting. Final Score 2 : 3 to the visitors (25 - 23, 25 - 22, 16 - 25, 25 - 27, 7 - 15)

Torexe Buzzards have taken the initial top spot on the league table, click on the "Tables/Fixture" link above for the current league tables

[Press Report sent to the Express & Echo, 16/10/2007]

Taunton Volleyball 2007/08 Season Kicks Off

The opening weekend of the 2007/08 season kicked off with plenty of action in Division One, where home advantage appeared to count for nothing. The closest match of the weekend took place at Taunton, where Taunton 1 took on WVC Wanderers from Exeter. A match of 2 halves", or 2 and 3 fifths anyway, with Taunton winning the first two sets relatively comfortably, with late fight backs by Wanderers, then totally falling apart in the last 3 sets. Set 4 may have appeared closer, but again this was a late comeback, with the score once being 16-22 against Taunton! Person of match was K Morris, who was consistently impressive at setting. Final Score 2 : 3 to the visitors (25 - 23, 25 - 22, 16 - 25, 25 - 27, 7 - 15). 

[Press Report sent to the Somerset County Gazette, 16/10/2007]

Kings Otters Start Season with an away win.

The opening weekend of the 2007/08 volleyball season kicked off with Kings Otters from Ottery St Mary against Exeter Torexe Hawks, in Division One of the Exeter and District league. Kings got off to a good start and took the first tightly fought set by two clear points, the challenge from Hawks receded during the second and third sets but Hawks came back in the forth set and pushed Kings to a 27-25 score line, the relentless challenge continued during the fifth and final set but Kings hung on and finally took the match for an excellent 5-0 win. The final score was:  23-25, 11-25, 17-25, 26-28, 12-15 and the player of the match award went to Matt Dowling, who had an outstanding match for Kings.

[Press Report sent to the Sidmouth Herald, 16/10/2007]

EDVA sponsored Beach Nets 

Two public beach courts are now available on Exmouth beach, they have been provided with vandal resistant nets (heavy duty nets from Westcoast Netting) and are located between the lifeboat station and the sand dunes in the no swimming area of the beach.

The purchase of the nets have been sponsored by the EDVA and "Solar Safe", a Plymouth based firm that supports beach volleyball in various countries. The nets are free to use, just turn up (no booking required). They are for recreational use, the nets are not adjustable (fixed height) and you have to provide your own court lines.

The two courts have been organised by Jason Hendy of East Devon District Council and I understand that further beach developments are also planned for the area, including a set of beach showers.

[Printed in the Volleyball Newsletter, 29/08/2007 issue 219]

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Kirton Revolution - 2007 Exeter Coaver Open Champions Kirton Revolution from Crediton, were victorious at this summers Exeter Coaver Open, held Sunday 10th June in a gloriously sunny Exeter. All of their initial pool matches were won, sending them through at the top of the group. The competition stiffened up a little in the next round of 3 teams, with all teams playing each other twice. A couple of these matches were much closer affairs with the winning margin only 2 or 3 points. The final was played against P-Didn't-Y which was a team made up from Exeter Heat Juniors. Kirton came out of the traps flying, building up a lead from the word go which was not caught. Kirton's MVP for the tournament was 'Air ' Vic Ives who, in true style, performed at both ends of the spectrum this tournament with some powerful hitting and inspired, all be it a little unorthodox blocking. All of this lead to Kirton Revolution winning all 10 of their matches on the day. A fun day was had by all and Kirton wish to express their thanks to all involved in the organising and the running of the event and also a very special thanks to Henry's Bar in Exeter for the shirt sponsorship. Thanks Rob Newell RNewell@graphic.plc.uk [Printed in the Volleyball Newsletter, 23/06/2007 issue 215]

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