Raiwai Volleyball is entering this year’s Vulaca Volleyball Championship with a legacy of community spirit and a strong focus on youth development. Founded in the 1990s by a group led by head coach Frances Lanyon, the club aimed to provide an engaging sporting alternative for young people in Raiwai, particularly during the off-season of rugby.
Over the years, what began as a grassroots movement has evolved into a vibrant volleyball culture that emphasizes participation and skill development within the community. Lanyon highlighted the club’s origins, stating, “We founded Raiwai Volleyball back in the 90s because of the growing number of kids in the area. We thought it would be a good alternative to keep youths involved in sports when rugby is in its off-season.”
This year’s championship has showcased the talents of Raiwai’s young athletes, predominantly among the women’s team, which has benefited from structured age-group competitions. Raiwai has committed itself to nurturing its players from a young age, with programs tailored for under-16, under-17, and under-19 categories.
Lanyon noted, “This year there are a lot of young players, especially in our women’s team. We’re trying to breed our own and develop them, and it has improved a lot since last year.” Despite their relative youth compared to other teams, the Raiwai women have demonstrated their competitiveness, achieving victories against more seasoned opponents over the two-day tournament. The squad includes players as young as Class Eight, showcasing the club’s dedication to fostering youthful talent.
Raiwai Volleyball is committed to increasing participation, currently boasting approximately 30 players in their weekly club competition. They are among the participants in this year’s Vulaca Volleyball Championship, which wraps up today, emphasizing the club’s mission to create pathways for young players while keeping community sports alive and thriving. The ongoing commitment of Raiwai Volleyball to its youth participants is a hopeful testament to the positive impact of community-driven sports initiatives.
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