IT is safe to say that after their undefeated title-winning campaign on debut, Jersey Women’s Volleyball have not missed a beat.
“The results speak for themselves” with three wins from three to kick off their Hampshire Volleyball Association Ladies’ League defence, not dropping a single set against Solent Phoenix, University of Southampton 1 and University of Southampton 2.
Jersey coach Ed Parslow was full of praise for his side, especially given the fresh faces in the camp. “What a three games to kick the season off,” he said joyfully. “The ladies played incredibly well throughout and the quality of their volleyball was really high.
“Even with a few new players that are still developing, they really kept their composure and held their nerve.
“We knew our standard was high in training, but to bring that to game day is difficult and they managed that brilliantly.
“There’s a real buzz around the sport in Jersey that is continuing to grow.
“It’s contagious and there is extra enthusiasm now we can get away to compete.
“Hopefully we can get to the point in the coming years where we’re able to take across multiple teams, or invite sides to Jersey to share the fun and create a competitive atmosphere.
“It’s an exciting journey we are on, and everyone is embracing it.”
Jersey began their weekend, with a pair of 25-10 set wins over Solent Phoenix, to quickly put aside any potential early season rust.
With momentum in their favour, they followed that up with another straight sets win over University of Southampton 1, this time 25-16 and 25-17.
Up last was University of Southampton 2 where they enjoyed their most comprehensive win in two sets, 25-6 and 25-9.
One of the more experienced members of the team and a key figurehead of Jersey Women’s Volleyball is Andreea Gabriela, who waxed lyrical about the newcomers.
“The new girls integrated seamlessly into the team,” she said.
“They found the experience amazing, as everyone supported each other, making the atmosphere welcoming and fun.
“Our team’s chemistry was remarkable. The way we communicated and moved on court felt natural and effortless. Everyone contributed, creating a strong, unified presence.
“Starting with such a strong statement with three wins feels incredible.
“It’s a reflection of our dedication, determination, and the great synergy among the players.
“We’re thrilled and motivated for what’s next.”
Both Parslow and Gabriela stressed the importance of fresh faces ahead of the new campaign, creating competition for places and aiding with the team’s preparation in training.
It is safe to say the newcomers acquitted themselves admirably under the pressure of competing off-Island.
One of those making their debut was Kaja Jankowska.
“It was my first time going with Jersey to the Hampshire League and it couldn’t have been a better introduction,” she said.
“I felt we really gelled as a team and got to know each other a lot better.
“Especially in the last game, we all played excellent volleyball while having fun.
“I’m so excited to play with the team again.”
Despite feeling some initial nerves, fellow débutante Nyaradzo Muzira credited the senior heads for their guidance.
She added: “Everyone took charge of their individual roles within the team and the veteran players were encouraging.
“It made it easy to adapt to the atmosphere and feel equally confident to execute my role. After the first few points the initial nervousness was forgotten.”
Jersey’s women return to action on 9 March for matches against Portsmouth Phoenix, Hits and Giggles and Roke Ladies.
JVA Women’s squad: Andreea Gabriela, Micaela Camara, Ania Rowsell, Fiene Roberts, Nyaradzo Muzira, Kaja Jankowska, Kiera Melville, Beth Bell
Results
Jersey 2-0 Solent Phoenix (25‑10 25‑10)
Jersey 2-0 University of Southampton 1 (25‑16 25‑17)
Jersey 2-0 University of Southampton 2 (25‑6 25‑9)
