Volleyball wins again

Team Northumbria's women's volleyball team have been named the best sports team in Britain by British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS).

The first team, known as The Invincibles, won the award after an unprecedented season in which they won every game and the BUCS championship.

Head Of Sport Colin Stromsoy picked up the award on behalf of the team at the 2013 BUCS Awards Dinner and paid tribute to coach Dave Goodchild’s undefeated stars and reigning BUCS champions.

“It’s wonderful that a most magnificent squad has been acknowledged as the best in Britain,” said Colin.

“I’m very proud of the job Dave and his players have done this year, and to win every BUCS game across the season is a phenomenal achievement.

“In a very short space of time volleyball has been established as a key sport at Northumbria University and that’s down to the incredible work ethic of Dave and his players.

“The women beat off some stiff competition on what was a very strong shortlist but I think the best team won!”

Northumbria women’s volleyball firsts were shortlisted alongside Durham University’s all-conquering men’s Rugby Union firsts and Nottingham Trent University’s highly-rated men’s table tennis firsts, but were hot favourites after a fabulous season of success.

Outside of BUCS the majority of the women’s team were part of the national league squad that picked up the Super 8s treble – lifting the regular season title, playoff crown and National Cup.

It is hoped a number of Northumbria’s stars will be celebrating their success at Sunday’s 21st Annual Tynemouth Beach Volleyball Tournament.

The four-player mixed event – featuring a Northumbria staff team led by Stromsoy – starts at 10am and supporters are welcome.