In a significant move for the future of the sport, Volleyball Australia has announced its academy selections for 2024. This year, a total of thirty athletes from across Australia have been selected to join the Australian Volleyball Academy (AVA), a prestigious program designed for the development of both beach and indoor volleyball talents.

The AVA, which operates under the auspices of the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, plays a crucial role in Volleyball Australia’s National Development Program. It provides a specialized training environment where athletes can hone their skills and prepare for the next steps in their careers. This holistic approach to development not only focuses on enhancing technical skills but also emphasizes personal growth, preparing athletes for success both on and off the court.

The selection process for the AVA is quite rigorous, incorporating various criteria. Athletes are chosen based on their performance and potential for future international success. This includes reviewing performances of Australian Junior and Youth Team athletes in Asian and World Championship events, talent identification at various Australian Volleyball and Beach Volleyball events, and recommendations from state coaches, among other factors.

This year’s intake is notable for its balanced representation, with an equal number of athletes across the programs. The men’s program will see six new athletes join eight returning members, while the women’s program will comprise ten new athletes alongside five from the previous year, forming a strong team of fifteen.

Paul Smith, the National Pathways Manager and AVA Program Director, has expressed his excitement and confidence in the selected athletes. He emphasizes the Academy’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of achieving excellence in both beach and indoor volleyball.

Volleyball Australia extends its congratulations to the selected athletes, signaling a positive outlook for the future of volleyball in Australia.