St Rita’s College secured a break through win at the Australian Volleyball Schools Championships

St Rita’s College secured a break through win at last month’s Australian Volleyball Schools Championships. The college’s Division 3 team, made up of mainly year 11 and 10 students, secured St Rita’s first ever national title.

St Rita’s College secured a break through win at last month’s Australian Volleyball Schools Championships.

The college’s Division 3 team, made up of mainly year 11 and 10 students, secured St Rita’s first ever national title.

Coach David Crook said the medal capped arguably the most satisfying period of his coaching career which stretched back 40 years.

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“I have been playing volleyball since 1971 and coaching on and off for 40 years, and these are the most enjoyable group of girls I have ever coached,’’ Crook said.

The St Rita's College volleyball team which won the Division 3 All Schools national championship.

He said aside from being naturally talented, their “desire to have fun’’ while remaining focused on improving was the group’s outstanding trait.

Crook said whatever he asked for, the answer was yes. “They were prepared to train more than any other girls I have ever had.’’ he said, while praising the players adaptability.

He said the team entering the nationals match hardened after training and playing against men at his Brisbane Volleyball Club.

“That forced them to maximise their height, which is important in volleyball,’’ Crook said.

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He said now the side had broken through for an inaugural national title, the aim was to qualify for Division 1 in 2020 – and then win another medal.

Crook said the girls did not expect to win a medal this time, so they had nothing to fear by aiming for Division 1 excellence.

“They now know what it is like to be there, so lets go for the top division this year,’’ Crook said.

He said the win proved to the St Rita’s community and beyond that St Rita’s could be a force in volleyball.

The team: Molly Edwards (capt), Josie Kirby, Libby Logan, Bella Cuddihy, Lauren Birthisel, Libby Kirby, Leilah Ayache, Zoe Stanford, Gabi Green.