School Games 2016 – Day ONE
The first day of the games can be encapulated in one word and that’s excitement.
The teams travelled via plane from Edinburgh and Glasgow respectively to the Athletes village at Loughborough University, the excitement in buzz of chatter amoungst the players and the coaches was palpable.
It is a fantastic sight to see the young talent travelling together, kitted out and representing Scottish Volleyball with such enthusiasm.
In a slight change to the schedule from previous years, Scotland West boys and Scotland East girls had the opportunity to play their first game on arrival day.
The West boys who travelled with an exciting young team, however a very inexperienced team,opened against Wales. It was clear to see the nerves from both teams, however, it was our young lads who settled their nerves quicker and took control of the game. The coaching staff of Tom Rooney, Bill Stobie, Lewis McMilllan and Andy Fleming have had a challenge during the summer with only 3 members of last year’s Silver medaling team eligible, however, a great team spirit took the boys to comfortable 25-17, 25-17 win, well done to all!
The East girls had a tough first fixture going up against England Juniors, but that didn’t phase the girls as they came firing out the blocks in the first set taking it 25-18.
The match was a great showcase of cadet level volleyball and the Scots were playing some impressive stuff, however, their English counterparts up their serving and our girls struggled from then on to side-out, losing in the end 1-2, but so many positives to take from the match!
The day was completed with the opening ceremony which featured inspirational speeches from the likes of Max Whitlock, GB gymnastics Gold Medal winner.
This is just the start of the big weekend but it’s safe to say that the athletes and coach alike are savouring everyone moment so far at the 2016 School Games.
Follow the progress via School Games direct video link for the matches – www.2016schoolgames.com/watchlive
Or via SVA media:
Graeme Spowart
Club & Participation Officer