By Emmy-Lou Mills
THE 2025 King’s Birthday Long Weekend saw volleyball royalty descend upon Bendigo for the annual Country Championships – and the South Gippsland Volleyball Club certainly made its mark, claiming gold, grit, and glory across the courts.
With four teams, electric energy and a sea of supporters, South Gippsland Volleyball Club brought home medals, memories, and momentum. The only thing stronger than the spikes? The community spirit.
Division 2 Women – Crowned Champions
Led by Captain Jessica Sanders, the Division 2 Women’s team – coached by Jenny Damon, supported by statistician and referee Dave Fuller, and managed by Emmy-Lou Mills – stormed through the tournament with fire and finesse.
Saturday saw a nail-biting five-set classic against neighbours Latrobe Valley: 3–2 victory 25:18, 20:25, 25:27, 25:23, 15:11.
Sunday’s pool matches were strong and strategic – dropping only five sets across the entire tournament and securing top ranking heading into finals.
Monday’s semi-final clash against regional rivals Bairnsdale brought a dominant 3–1 win 25:17, 11:25, 25:14, 25:12.
And in the grand final showdown, South Gippy served up a clinical 3–0 victory against a hard-working Sunraysia team: 25:15, 25:16, 25:12.
“We had an experienced and well-balanced team, with a mix of seasoned players and exciting juniors. It’s an incredible time for our club – the depth of talent is something to be proud of,” said Captain Jessica Sanders.
From spectacular spikes to cool-headed defence and rally-ripping teamwork, this was a tournament of true champions.
Division 2 Men – Fighting finishers
Coached by Chris Axford, assisted by Michael Axford, and captained by Justin Hibma, the Div 2 Men fought through a tough draw with resilience and pride. They secured fifth place overall, with a key victory against Bairnsdale as a tournament highlight.
Division 3 Women – Bronze bravery
Coach Mindy Hams, Manager Shelley Churchill, and Captain Tamara Miller led a largely junior-based squad with grace and guts. Their efforts landed them in the bronze medal match, where they were ultimately defeated by a strong Bendigo side: 21:25, 15:25, 10:25. Each match showed their growth, grit and commitment to building future firepower.
Division 3 Men – Courageous contenders
Guided by Coach Mark de Guzman, Assistant Coach Tamara Miller, and Captain Brock Churchill, the Div 3 Men showcased true South Gippy spirit. With two juniors making their Country Champs debut, they placed third in their pool and fell just short in a gutsy crossover battle against Bendigo: 29–31, 25–20, 18–25, 23–25. Finishing fifth overall, their energy and effort left an impact.
All Star 7’s – South Gippy shines bright
Special mention to our club’s talent was recognised across the board, with several players named to the prestigious All Star 7s:
Division 2 Women: Natasha Hibma, Jessica Sanders
Division 2 Men: Nicholas Dunkling, Dane Krackowizer (Libero)
Division 3 Women: Liselott Webster, • Lorraine Tangpos (Libero)
Shout-out to these standouts – you did the club proud! Watch out 2026… we’re coming for you.
