The numbers
The University of East London (UEL) has once again proven its prowess in sitting volleyball by retaining the Student Sitting Cup title, triumphing in all five of their matches during the tournament held in London. UEL’s remarkable performance included winning all four of their pool encounters without dropping a single set, culminating in a decisive victory against Loughborough Students in the final.
In the final match, played as a best of three sets, UEL emerged victorious with a score of 2-1. This victory not only highlights UEL’s dominance in the sport but also underscores their commitment to promoting sitting volleyball at the higher education level. “It was a fantastic day and a great event… a big thank you to everyone who took part,” said John Worrall, reflecting on the successful tournament.
Loughborough Students, despite their loss in the final, finished as runners-up in the pool stage after a competitive match against UEL. Southampton secured third place with a balanced 2-2 match record, showcasing their skill in the sport. The third/fourth place match was fiercely contested, with Southampton ultimately winning in three sets.
Local schools also participated in the event, engaging in have-a-go sessions that aimed to inspire the next generation of sitting volleyball players. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create more opportunities for students to engage in sitting volleyball at both higher and further education levels.
The Student Sitting Cup has become a significant event in the sitting volleyball calendar, offering a platform for universities to showcase their talent and commitment to inclusivity in sports. UEL’s clean sweep of victories, including their performance in the pool stages where they played timed games lasting 25 minutes each, demonstrates their strategic prowess and athleticism.
As the tournament concluded, observers noted the growing interest in sitting volleyball, particularly among students. The success of UEL may inspire other universities to invest in their sitting volleyball programs, potentially leading to increased participation and competition in future events.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the plans for next year’s tournament, but the enthusiasm generated by this year’s event suggests that the Student Sitting Cup will continue to grow in prominence and participation.
