AFTER their historic debut season, the Jersey Women’s Volleyball team return to Hampshire this weekend for their second edition in the HVA league.
The men kicked off Jersey’s Hampshire season last weekend with style, recording two wins and a lone defeat.
This weekend, however, last season’s undefeated title-winning women return, looking to continue their meteoric rise.
Andreea Gabriela, a pivotal player in the JVA women’s line up, said: “All of us are so thrilled about our games in Hampshire this week.
“After winning the league last year, the excitement is through the roof, and we’re all eager to keep our winning streak going.
“This year, we have some amazing new players who weren’t with us last season, but as we continue to grow the sport, we always welcome new talent.
“All the players have shown their skills and strengths in practice, and we all agree they absolutely deserve to be here.
“We know repeating last year’s success won’t be easy, but we’re all excited for the challenge.
“It feels promising and we’re ready to tackle the pressure head-on.
“Our team spirit and preparation have us feeling optimistic about what’s ahead, and we owe a lot to the coaches who have again taken time to prepare us and get us here.”
Jersey will face several familiar faces this season, including Solent Phoenix’s, Winchester Ladies and their Channel Island rivals, Guernsey.
However, there are some new faces gracing the division, in Roke Ladies, Portsmouth Phoenix and current league leaders Southampton Academy.
The Caesareans’ opening round of fixtures will see them clash with Solent Phoenix’s first, followed by University of Southampton 1 and University of Southampton 2.
Solent have recorded just one win from their opening five matches, while the two university sides have had mixed starts to their own campaigns.
JVA coach Ed Parslow added: “It’s hard to put into words how excited this group are to return to Hampshire.
“Last season was so incredible and such a success. The girls are so hyped to continue that momentum.
“We have a fantastic crop of fresh faces in the squad this year and many of them will be playing this weekend.
“They have been with us for a few months now and have really earned their spot for this opening weekend.
“The members of the squad who played last year and experienced the league title and the SEVA (South East Volleyball Association) finals have been telling the new players all about it and the anticipation is through the roof.
“I can’t wait to see how they will get on, I know they will thrive under the pressure considering how well we did last season and we, as a club, are so proud of all their efforts. I know they will do us proud.”
JVA Women’s squad: Andreea Gabriela, Micaela Camara, Ania Rowsell, Fiene Roberts, Nyaradzo Muzira, Kaja Jankowska, Kiera Melville, Beth Bell
