People with and without disability are coming together on the court at Lords Recreation Centre through a free sitting volleyball program delivered by Southern Cross Volleyball Club.
The Sitting Volleyball Come and Try Program gives newcomers the chance to discover the fast-paced and inclusive sport, with no previous volleyball experience required. Played on a smaller court with a lower net, sitting volleyball follows many of the same rules as standing volleyball, with players moving around the court while seated on the floor.
Southern Cross Volleyball Masters Vice President Mauro Vennitti said one of the strengths of the sport was the opportunity for people of different abilities to play together.
“The good thing about sitting volleyball is once everyone gets on the ground, and you sit on the floor, everyone's at the same level,” Mauro said.
The program is supported by a $2200 City of Subiaco Community Development Grant, contributing towards court hire, coaching, and equipment. Mauro said the funding had enabled Southern Cross Volleyball to offer the program for free.
Among those taking to the court at Lords is Brad Barclay, who has played volleyball for more than 30 years and is now a middle blocker for the Australian men's sitting volleyball team. Brad said sitting volleyball could accommodate a wide range of players, including people with disability and those who may find traditional standing volleyball difficult.
City of Subiaco Mayor David McMullen said the program shows how community-led initiatives create opportunities to participate and connect.
“Through our Community Development Grants, the City is proud to support local organisations with ideas that help more people participate in community life and feel that they belong.
“At Lords, expect to see people trying sitting volleyball for the first time alongside experienced players who have competed at national and international levels.
The format allows anyone to come along and give it a go,” he said.
Free sitting volleyball sessions are currently running at Lords Recreation Centre on Mondays from 6.45pm to 8.45pm until 30 November.
No experience is necessary. Participants must be able to sit upright on the floor without assistance.
Visit the Southern Cross Volleyball website to find out more and register.
The City's Community Development Grants support community organisations and individuals to deliver projects and initiatives that benefit the local community.