The annual Weymouth Invitational Volleyball Tournament proved to be the most successful ever. Held at Weymouth Sports Centre and hosted by Team Bath, 14 of England's top National League teams battled it out over a two-day competition. Initially divided into two qualifying groups of seven, the teams played one another with the top four from each group qualifying for the second day's knock-out stages. It was the first competitive outing for the New Forest Women's squad and it proved to be a valuable experience for all. The women were drawn against Guildford, Reading, South Hants, Brentwood 2, Polonia and Tonbridge. Every team in their pool had years of experience over our women, most of whom played in a division or 2 higher. However, it was fantastic to see how close we pushed all of our opponents and gained a wealth of match practice. The highlight of the tournament was giving NVL Division 1 outfit and eventual winners Polonia a real scare, as we nearly took a set off them after leading for the majority of the set. The women enjoyed a lot of volleyball over the weekend, however we were eventually sent packing by Cardiff Tigers in the quater finals of the shield.

A special mention to some very strong performances by Kirsty Fargher (Swing Hitter) and Charlie Morse (Setter) over the weekend and also too the clear MVP winner Jodi Jerram (Middle Hitter). Well done girls!

Next up for the women is a friendly series encounter against Newbury VC. The first leg see's us at home (The Romsey School, 8pm, Thurs 19th June) with the return leg scheduled for Sunday 29th June at Newbury. This will also double up as a friendly for our U16 Boys (National Finalists 2008) who will take on Newburys U17 Boys.

If you wish to come support then we'd love to see you at Romsey on the 19th!

Report by James Kemp (NFVC Women's Coach)