Volleyball: Talented students to represent NZ

Otumoetai College's production line continues to churn out players, with seven volleyballers about to represent New Zealand at international competitions around the world.

Year 13 students Amy Hunter, Holly Boyle and Julia Hartley have all been selected for the New Zealand women's under-19 team to head to Thailand for the Asian Games in September.

Charlie Clague, also Year 13, has been picked for the New Zealand under-20 team to play in the Asian Games in Myanmar, also in September.

The first students heading away are Jack Boyle (Year 11) and Liam Whareaitu (Year 12). The boys are playing for the New Zealand under-17 boys' team at the Australian state championships in Melbourne at the end of June. Liam will captain the Kiwi team.

Liam Matheson (Year 13) is one half of the team representing New Zealand in Cyprus at the beginning of July at the world junior beach volleyball championships. Liam is partnered with Tauranga Boys' College's Brad Fullerton.

Early June saw the elite secondary schools transtasman tournament held in Christchurch. Abbie Meredith, Amy Hunter and Holly Boyle were selected in the North Island team that went on to win the tournament, with Holly as captain. All three girls were selected for the New Zealand test side, with Amy named most valuable player as New Zealand beat Australia 3-0.

Adam Morgan was selected to play in the North Island team which also went on to win the boys' series.

This impressive performance by these athletes leads perfectly into the upcoming United States volleyball high performance championships. Otumoetai College's senior A girls' and senior A boys' teams have been invited to compete in this prestigious event being held in Des Moines, Iowa.

The event is one of US volleyball's flagship events in which over 90 teams from various parts of the world compete. As well as being an incredible experience for athletes there are potential scholarship opportunities as well.

The teams leave on July 20 for 10 days.