New rules, an exciting new format, unprecedented access and rapid-fire action will hit the courts in three states on Saturday when the Scape Australian Volleyball Super League gets underway.
Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth will host the opening round fixtures which feature re-matches of last year’s men’s semi-final and women’s bronze medal match.
Every match will be streamed live – see details below to find out where you can watch.
Queensland Pirates v Canberra Heat
Iona College, Lindum QLD
6:30pm AEST (Women followed by Men)
SBS On Demand
The Queensland Pirates, reigning champions of the Women’s Australian Volleyball League, are gearing up for an exciting start to their season as they prepare to face the Canberra Heat on home turf. The Pirates’ victory in 2022 sets the stage for a captivating clash against the Heat, who are determined to put up a fierce fight.
In 2022, the Pirates secured both clashes comfortably, establishing their dominance on the court. However, the Canberra Heat, led by the determined Georgia Niedermeier, are ready to present a formidable challenge and make life difficult for the defending champions.
In the men’s fixture, the Canberra Heat are eager to kick off 2023 with the same momentum that propelled them to victory last season, when they took out their first title since 2015.Over the past decade, the titles in the men’s division have been consistently claimed by Canberra and Queensland. The Heat notably halted the Pirates’ bid for a fifth consecutive crown in the 2022 semi-finals, marking a significant victory. The two teams had previously split their matches in the season, each securing one win.
Having recently come together in the Asian Club Championships in May, where they finished 12th, the Heat are poised to enter the league with renewed determination. Although this year’s squad features just five players who participated in the Bahrain tournament, the addition of home-grown Volleyroo James ‘Moose’ Weir promises to provide an additional boost to the Heat’s lineup.
As anticipation builds, all eyes are on the showdown between the Queensland Pirates and the Canberra Heat. The Pirates aim to defend their title with tenacity, while the Heat is set on continuing their upward trajectory. Enthusiasts and fans alike can anticipate an electrifying display of skill and strategy as these two volleyball powerhouses clash in pursuit of victory.
Click here for ticketing information.
Melbourne Vipers v Adelaide Storm
State Volleyball Centre, Dandenong VIC
6:30pm AEST / 6:00pm ACST (Women followed by Men)
Cluch TV
The Adelaide Storm women’s volleyball team is ready to unleash their determination as they seek redemption in the Scape Australian Volleyball Super League. The Storm’s quest begins in Melbourne on Saturday, facing off against their rivals, the Melbourne Vipers.
Last year’s clashes are etched in Adelaide Storm’s memory as they gear up to challenge the Melbourne Vipers. The Vipers secured victory in both round two clashes and snatched the bronze medal from the Storm on the Gold Coast.
Rochelle Sison-Lim leads the Vipers, bringing experience and leadership to their lineup, while Beth Carey captains the Adelaide Storm, igniting their drive for redemption. The Storm is geared up for a display of skill and unity in their pursuit of vengeance.
In the men’s division, the Adelaide Storm’s men’s team is fueled by unfinished business after their close 3:2 loss to the Canberra Heat in the 2022 final. Drawing motivation from their previous successes, they are ready to mount a comeback.
With former Olympian Nathan Roberts at the helm, the Storm seeks to leverage his expertise for victory. On the Vipers’ side, current Volleyroo Lorenzo Pope bolsters the Melbourne team’s lineup.
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Perth Steel v NSW Phoenix
Warwick Stadium, Perth WA
5:30pm AWST / 7:30pm AEST (Women followed by Men)
Cluch TV
The stage is set for an electrifying clash as the Perth Steel and NSW Phoenix prepare to face off in the upcoming women’s competition. With the memory of their impressive runner-up finish in 2022 still fresh, the Perth Steel are determined to make their mark and give the NSW Phoenix a run for their money in their upcoming showdown on home turf.
When the two sides met at the halfway point of last year’s rounds, both sides were sitting mid-table with three wins apiece. Perth claimed both round four matches, propelling them towards the top of the table and kickstarting a campaign that fell agonisingly short following a five-set loss in the final.
The upcoming match promises to be a nail-biting encounter as Perth Steel aims to harness their prior experience and solidify their position as a dominant force. On the flip side, NSW Phoenix is entering the competition with renewed vigour, bolstered by the presence of Volleyroos captain Mikaela Stevens. The hope is that her leadership and prowess will provide the much-needed boost to propel the Phoenix toward a strong start in the season.
In the men’s division, Perth Steel’s men’s team is gearing up to mirror their female counterparts’ success. Having secured victory in both matches against the NSW Phoenix last season, the men’s team is poised to continue their winning streak. The results from last year’s clashes acted as a catalyst for a remarkable journey to the finals, ultimately culminating in a well-deserved bronze medal.
As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on Phoenix outside hitter Ethan Garrett. Fresh from the Volleyroos Asian Challenge Cup campaign, Garrett returns with a wealth of international experience, ready to infuse his team with newfound energy and strategic insight. His dynamic presence on the court is sure to provide an edge to the NSW side and contribute to their pursuit of victory.
Click here for Membership information. Tickets available at the door.