Hermitage Volleyball Club Bulletins

Mens 1 secure victory in first league game of the season

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:04:21 GMT

5 set thriller secures first league win of the season

Tuesday 7th October saw Hermitage M1 welcome Boston VC for the first league game of the season in the East Midlands Regional League. The team has a balance of fresh faces and experienced players carrying confidence from last season where back-to-back championships was narrowly missed.

The first set saw a balanced contest, with an improved Boston side staying very consistent and providing threat through the outside to just edge the set 26-24, in large parts due to their impressive serving pressure. Hermitage were able to push back in the second set in what stayed a close contest, tying the match with a 25-22 win. Boston were able to turn the screw in the 3rd set with an organised block and continued pressure through the outside hits, taking a confident 2-1 set lead winning 25-19. Hermitage were again able to regroup and vary their attacks to keep the Boston defence guessing taking the 4th set 25-19. A 5 set thriller to kick the league off!

A tight and cagey 5th set (as always!) saw Hermitage with a narrow 8-7 lead at the turn, before Elliot was able to string a short run of serves together to create some breathing space for the home side, before a Boston missed serve at 12-14 secure the narrowest of wins for us to start the season on the perfect note. Well done to the lads!

Hermitage MVP - King, T

Boston MVP - Barrass, D

- written by satisfied MVP, Tom

U18 boys go undefeated

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:25:12 GMT

The boys go 3 for 3 in the first round of Volleyball England's Grand Prix series

Photo credit - Keira Campbell

The U18 boys got their competitive season underway on Saturday 4th October in Coventry, playing against Bristol, Bromsgrove, and Riga. The first game of the day saw a hotly contested competition against Bristol, seeing our boys come from a set down and showing remarkable grit when behind 13-9 in the 3rd set to secure a outstanding 19-17 victory - thanks in no small part to clutch serving run from Amaan.

The next 2 matches were a little more straightforward for the team, beating both Bromsgrove and Riga 2-0 to close out a solid victory in the pool. The team stayed (mostly!) disciplined and consistent to secure the wins. A huge congratulations to the lads and especially to those playing in some of their first competitive games, holding their own brilliantly at a good level.

- written by Jacob Freeman, U18s coach

BBC Radio Leicester Give It A Go Weekend

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:42:09 GMT

We're taking part in the BBC Radio Leicester Give It A Go Weekend

Do you know anyone who wants to try volleyball? If so, we have the perfect event for them to join!

HVC are taking part in the BBC Radio Leicester 'Give it a go weekend' by running a free session for beginners aged 14+ on Sunday 28 July '24 3.30-5.30pm

Ask them to message us to book a spot by emailing hermitagevb@gmail.com

You can also check out bbc.co.uk/radioleicester for details on all the sports offering similar around the county!

Hermitage U18 Boys Grand Prix 2

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 18:56:21 GMT

Hermitage U18 Boys Grand Prix 2

A squad of nine went to Coventry today to take on Wombourne, Wapping Wildcats, and London Lynx over in Coventry. A late change in schedule as a result of late trains coming up from London meant that after refereeing a game, we took on Wombourne first, right after they’d come off of a 3 set game. As expected, they made a stronger start, with a run of serves pinning us back, with Wombourne taking advantage of our rocky start and winning all of the first 6 points, and forcing me into an early timeout. However, it was all upwards from there as outsides Howard and Jake varied their attacks superbly, as well as Maks playing well through opposite and won us some early points, and serving had some much needed consistency. After forcing them into a couple of timeouts we then got the pass accurate enough to access our middles and Rory found Mackie and Niam well. We made far less mistakes over the course of the set, and came out deservedly on top taking a 1-0 lead.

The second set saw Dhilan enter as oppo but we once again gave them a pretty easy head start, this time a 5-0 advantage. This time, however we couldn’t recover it as well as we did, as we outplayed them in spells but some of their stronger players coming on meant that they were winning points rather than forcing our errors, and that made their lead unassailable, as they kept their nose ahead right until the end winning that one by 7. That’s without the 5 bonus points that they should have got for hitting Jake in the head.

That meant a deciding set, and we reverted to the side that won the first. Some great back court work, committing for every ball early on meant that the set started neck a neck, with Wombourne taking a small lead into the end swap. A couple of strong serves extended their lead before we got right back into it, but it just wasn’t quite enough as they came out with a 15-11 win. Tough one to take, but a strong performance and so much to be proud of.

We had to pick ourselves up right away though, as we took on the newly arrived Wildcats side. They were a big team, capable of some big kills, but it was our mistakes that cost us the first set. Serving became inconsistent, and a few solid serves hit our pass for 6, meaning our hitters couldn’t quite find their rhythms. Heads began to drop with the score feeling impossible to catch, and changes were made but it wasn’t quite enough Safe to say the opener was disappointing, and the score line reflected that.

There was certainly improvement in the second, however and we matched the eventual pool winners point for point for at least the first half, finally getting off to a good start in a set. We couldn’t quite get a solid run of serves together, and they did, making the difference in that one. A lot of positive from that second set with a big improvement in the second set though, with credit to Jayden and the rest of the back court who had adapted well to a different system, with the outsides stepping up well to the 5 role and Jayden as Libero doing brilliantly in 6.

The final game was against London Lynx, who had just pushed Wildcats to a 3rd set, as well as earlier coming out on top versus Wombourne, so we knew another tough game was ahead of us. Jake and Kingston started as outsides and both put in good performances, as we took an early, albeit small lead. Dhilan returned as oppo and served well, and Rory continued to gain consistency as setter, despite not having much experience playing there. However, Lynx had a lot of quality, as we knew and fought back, and didn’t give away much at all, using our block a couple of times and burying a few big kills. They took the first.

The second saw a couple of changes, as Howard and Maks returned, as Jayden, Rory, Jake, Mackie and Niam continued their roles. We had a lot of fight in this one, knowing it could be our last, playing to keep our hope for a win today alive. A couple big kills from Mackie kept their middles guessing and swung some momentum our way, and Niam caused them just as many problems, scoring a couple himself. Our hard work just didn’t quite pay off though, with a late timeout not getting us back in it like I’d hoped, and we fell to a 6 point cushion.

Overall, there was some seriously good stuff in there, and not getting in the win column today stung for the guys. The level that we hit deserved it without a doubt, but we went through phases where we didn’t hit those levels, and that was what ultimately cost us today. Having said that, was once again proud of the lads and proud of the fight they showed, even if it didn’t generate those results we hoped for. Big thanks to Rory for the reffing help, and Jake for coming along to help me. We’ll go again in early March, our last chance for the season.

Hermitage U18 boys GP1

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 16:49:42 GMT

Grand Prix 1 - Report

Saturday saw us make the journey up to Black Country as we made our first ever appearance in the junior Grand Prix series, heading straight into tier 1. After a late change in schedule, we took on Black Country in game number one. We’d already identified this as our toughest game, with them finishing 7th in the country last season, and being a newly formed national league side, missing just a couple of those players. Huge serves from BC meant they pulled away in the first set, giving them a comfortable win without allowing us to get into the game. Some change came in into the second set, introducing some new players, and this saw us improve. We went toe to toe with them for a good duration, but Black Country eventually pulled away towards the end, making the score line look good in their favour, although we already saw improvements in the team.

After a chance to watch our next opposition, we then took on Cherwell, having regrouped from our first defeat. Cherwell were another top side, including having England players in their side, but some much improved defence, continued consistency from Arjun as the setter and playing smart attacks meant we matched them, but were narrowly edged out in the end. Those players that started the first set left Bruce and I little choice but to keep it the same for the beginning of the second set, knowing we were capable levelling the game. Again, despite this much improved performance from the first game, Cherwell again prevailed, with us seriously unfortunate not to be heading to a deciding set.

The final game was against a side who had also fallen to both BC and Cherwell in Bristol, with another chance to get in the sets and wins column. A different side started this one, with a ten player squad allowing for plenty of change and rest when needed, or emergency nose bleed cover when an outside has been hit in the face. Those players that came in started well and showed that they wanted their place in the side, and did well to maintain the level of performance that we’d had throughout the previous game. However, Bristol proved slightly too strong in the first set, and prevailed without being squeezed too tightly, to eventually take the first one. The second set saw a very strong start with us steaming into an early lead, and forcing an early timeout to be called. Bristol then picked up and pushed back against us, cutting that lead right down despite our level staying high. A decent run of serves mid way through meant that changes were made, as Bristol took their first lead of the set. They kept this narrow lead as time began to run out for us to win this illustrious set and keep ourselves in it, and despite one last push towards the end, it wasn’t quite enough.

Although a difficult day in terms of results, as a coach I was delighted with the performance levels by the end of the day. We were working for every ball and not letting things drop, setting well and attacking smartly. We competed superbly against teams that are older, taller, and more experienced than us, and had played together as a team much more than us. For a lot of the boys, this was their first time playing any kind of competitive volleyball and for all of them it was their first time in national junior club competition. Too many individual players to mention, but a big thank you to Bruce for all of his help, but regardless of result immensely proud of the performances the lads put in today. We’ll go again in early December, on a mission to turn those performances into wins on the board. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

September 2023 cancellations

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 15:25:14 GMT

September 2023 - Training cancellations

There will be no volleyball sessions running on Tuesday 5 Sept and Thursday 28 Sept (including the Junior session)

Enjoy your evenings off!!

End of season

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 20:01:56 GMT

2023 Awards night and AGM

It is that time of year again, our awards night and Annual General Meeting is approaching fast, so here is a date for the diary.

Awards night & AGM on Saturday 5th August - more details to follow but afternoon is the plan.

It's also time to reflect on the successes and recognise the achievements of our teammates. Please take a minute to cast your votes , and hold the date in your diaries

Votes close at the end of June.

See you there.

Training Cancellations - May & June

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:01:44 GMT

Upcoming cancellations

There will be no Hermitage Volleyball sessions on the following dates as the sports hall is being used for other events:

Thursday 4 May 2023

Tuesday 16 May 2023

Thursday 25 May 2023

Thursday 8 June 2023

Enjoy your nights off training!!

Regional Men 1 Match Report

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 16:01:56 GMT

Men's Regional 1 vs Lincoln Cannos (vol. 2)

Thursday 16/03 saw the first teams season restart after the break. The lads first game was against a strong Lincoln Cannons team who we had taken 6 sets off to nothing in the first half of the season, so expectations were set high. Our Sansei Mr King set up the squad which saw Lewis and Jake as outsides, Marcin and stent middles, Tom starting at oppo, Jacob setting and Ash as lib. The lads started off strong, Jacob got all attacking options firing within the first few points to gain a comfortable lead, until serving became a problem for the first team. With these mistakes Lincoln began to close the gap, however, the boys dug deep and hustled for every ball in an attempt to take points. Jake started firing 41’s shoots and used his full range of weapons, the middles were closing the blocks and cutting out any attacks and our lib was on fire making sure that he was getting to free balls to set up attacks. The first set was taken by hermitage!

Second set saw a change, Erick came on for Tom in a straight swap. This set however was a very different scenario to the first, half way through Lincoln brought on a substitute, who made a massive difference for Lincoln, our lads carried on hustling, Lewis was able to swing big and hard on a variety of sets that Jacob was offering, Jake was using pipe well and Erick had a solid service run which helped us claw back into the game. Erick was serving and his serve seemed to be a bit weaker than before which Marcin then intervened in pulling the net down to everyone’s amusement. Tied at 24 - 24 this was crunch time for the first team, with the intentions to not drop a set we dug deep and shut the set up 26-24.

The third and final set saw Tom start and Erick to take a breather, much like the first set, the first team got firing against a disheartened Lincoln team, balls were being hit and the overall spirit of the team was to be aggressive in attack and play. A ball was dumped by a Lincoln middle into the far left corner which saw Lewis scrambling to pick it up (would’ve been much easier if I had set myself properly) but this was the sort of play the boys were producing to win this game. It came down to the final few points with a lead of 22-17 the boys started hitting hard and down and we saw the third and final set out 25-18.

This keeps our unbeaten season alive and another 3-0 win against cannons who we go to play away on Sunday.

Massive thanks (sarcasm) to the Lincoln setter for nominating me (Lewis) mvp in which I fell to the ground in upset as match report writing is not my forte!

We move to Sunday where we look to come home with another 3-0 win!

Club announcement

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 13:58:46 GMT

Hermitage Volleyball Club confirm what everyone was thinking – we’re massive!

The end of the first month of the year also acts as the halfway point of the East Midlands Volleyball leagues, and with this season being a peculiar one it also marks the point all leagues split into new divisions. The top half of each league comes together to form a new 1 ^st division (and fight for the titles) while the bottom half of each league forms a new division 2.

The split makes for good looking through Hermitage tinted glasses, with all 3 regional teams earning their way into the first divisions ! The Women’s team and Men’s 1 team will be satisfied with their progress as they both aim for the summit, and the Men’s 2 team should be giving themselves a massive pat on the back – muscling their way into the top division despite being their first year in the regional competition ahead of many clubs 1 ^st teams.

Club chairman & author of this post Tom King said to himself in an interview: “everyone should be feeling pretty good that we’re on track at the halfway point. We’re well on course to be competing for titles (as we should be with both league runners up and the Let’s Get Moving Team of the Year in our ranks from last season). To have the Men’s 2 team also in the top division is a great achievement and demonstrates the work being put in by both the team and the coaches, they are continuing to grow and improve with every passing match and it sets a worrying precedent for the rest of the East Midlands ...in volleyball terms.”

An already massive club continues to march onwards and upwards, great things await!

Men's Local vs Uni of Leicester 2

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:30:00 GMT

Match report

On Tuesday the 31st of January we saw our men’s local league team take on men’s local University of Leicester 2. Overall our team had regional 2 players and we were joined by local league player Jake and Max O. Our team had 5(!!) middle players, who would usually play that position, which meant that some players had to play out of position.

Going into the first set saw us take on an early lead being numerous points ahead. However, during the middle of the set, our team came under pressure with their serves, and lacking a libero left our two middles Max and Josh having to fill the gap for that position. Unfortunately this left our setter Ben with difficulties setting up attacks. After that we struggled to keep up the score and eventually lost the first set being a few points behind.

The 2nd set saw more of the same pressure on Ben with our receives, and their setter piled on the attacks with tips which sometimes came untouched before the ground. Fortunately our spikes from the outside and opposite were strong and we were scoring points as well as making them work for the rally. A hit from Elliot brought our spirits up, and our middle players were valid decoys, drawing in their middle blocker to allow for spikes from the outside to be made only contested by one block. Mistakes mostly occurred in the build up of play from difficult balls, this stopped our front line from getting started. A hit on an overpass from Max O was memorable, which saw us gain a point. Although they seemed to get the better of us and caused us to make errors with tricky hits. After all we lost the second set too. 2-0 Uni of Leics

The third and final set (we play 3 in local league) saw Cobby switching up our players and allowed Max R some time as setter, where he put up nice sets. Hermitage were trailing Uni of Leicester most of the time, and the hustle from Elliot was unmatched when he chased after a ball and brought it back into play excellently. (Against his former team no less)

Gary was also as reliable as ever throughout the game.

Unfortunately we were unable to capitalise on our successes and lost the final set too.

Which means we lost against Uni of Leics 2 (3-0)

I would say there would be one key takeaway from this match, more key training needed.

Men Regional 1 vs Lincoln Cannons

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:11:58 GMT

Match Report

The cold winter afternoon of Sunday 22nd January, saw us take on Lincoln for the 2nd time in a week, Thursday's 3-0 win still ringing in our ears as we stepped onto court for the 1st set.

A slightly slow start saw Lincoln pull out in front but great cover and serving saw us take the lead as service runs from Marcin and Jake put pressure on their receive and attack. After gaining the lead we never really looked back and fought back well after a few mistakes from serving & receiving took place. We powered through this dominating at the net and hitting well to take the set 25-19, Marcin and Lok hitting well through middle and opposite respectively. Some big side out points were well needed at times but the team delivered and kept cool under pressure.

The 2nd set saw a similar picture as we seemed to need the first few points to warm up, once we were up and firing on all cylinders there was no stopping our attacks, Jacob spreading the ball around well to keep their defence guessing and our hitters were able to hit space on the court for us to take the 2nd set 25-17. Personal highlight was one of the opposition players getting a ball in the face chasing an errant pass after a blistering 10 hit from Lok.

The 3rd set we started well with an early service run putting us into the lead, mid set saw possibly the best pickup and free ball over to take a point off an early celebrating Lincoln team, the ball dropping deep back court to our delight. Late on in the set Stent decided he was a setter and set 2 fantastic balls for Jake and Lewis to hit the floor with, a reverse to 4 after Jacob called help for Jake to power tip down into middle court and a pipe for Lewis to hit like he does best. Towards the end of this set saw a Lincoln service run from a new player to this set but after a few points lost we dusted ourselves off and got the sideout. The last few points of the set saw the biggest response to losing a point, as Jake was gifted a free net from a fantastic pass from Ashath and middle running well, which he was able to bounce off into the side wall from a C set. We ended the set with a sideout point off the block 25-18 to jubilant celebrations of an unbeatable first part of the season.

Overall we passed well with some great digs from Ash at libero, only putting Jacob under pressure at setter a few times as we mostly responded with a sideout point on the first try. Marcin and Stent running middle effectively and blocking well, and Lewis and Jake using a variety of hits, rolls and tips to keep the defence guessing. Onto the 2nd part of the season hopefully to keep the unbeaten run going!

Men Regional 1 vs Nottingham Rockets

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:01:40 GMT

Match Report

A big 11 man squad arrived for Thursday 12th January as men’s 1 took on a young Nottingham Rockets side. The opening set began with myself (Jacob) setting, captain Tom at opposite, Marcin and Stent through the middle and Lewis and Ashath as outsides. We took an early lead thanks to a strong start and an inexperienced rockets side easing to the game. We raced into a 5 point lead and never looked back, thanks to some strong attacks early on, particularly from Tom through 10 and 2, who I personally believe was robbed of MVP. Lewis, Marcin, Stent and Ashath all swung well, with consistent passing making Jacob’s job pretty easy, as we learned even in January it’s always beach season. Changes then came, as Erick replaced Tom, Jake replaced Lewis after a particularly dodgy jump serve, and James entered in place of Stent. The subs hit the ground running and attacked well, putting the pressure on Rockets. The gap grew and grew as the set went on, and we cruised to taking the first set 25-11.

The second set saw more changes, as we lined up with Jacob staying on as setter, Liam as opposite, James and Stent as middles and Lewis and Jake as outsides. Again, a strong start meant we had the momentum throughout, despite the young Rockets applying some pressure on serve, some nice side out volleyball meant we were in control. A highlight in this set came from Jake, as the ginger assassin buried 2 ‘41’ sets in consecutive points, as we continued to apply pressure. Changes came again, including el capitano in to set, and Fraser in through the middle. Tom was making good choices and bringing all of his hitting options in to the game, especially getting the middles going and generating some really nice attacks. Despite a run of serves from the Rockets threatening to get them back into the set, any hope of that was crushed and we pulled away to win that set comfortably, 25-15.

The final set was…shall we say experimental. Liam was setting with Jacob at opposite, Stent and Marcin were playing middle and Fraser and Ashath played outside. The phrase ‘more by luck than judgement’ springs to mind. A few runs of serves from Liam and Ashath meant that we started strong, and we raced ahead. Rockets grew into this one though, as they provided some fight of their own. We scrambled well to earn some scrappy points, as Liam picked his hitters out well. Changes then came, as Tom came on at middle, Lewis came on to set. Yes, Lewis to set. And James came on as outside, and I’m sure he enjoyed it more than Lewis enjoyed his passing. Lewis, to his credit, did set well, allowing James and Fraser to swing from the wing. Fraser’s run of serves towards the end put the set to bed, with Rockets struggling to apply pressure. The less said about Jacob’s jump serve attempt on set point the better, but eventually we closed out the third and final set 25-17.

Overall, a young opposition provided a different kind of challenge, and we came through it with flying colours, with the result never looking in doubt, and another 3-0 victory coming our way

Training updates

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 15:36:40 GMT

Upcoming weeks

Hello everyone, with the season calendar picking up for our various teams across the club, there are a couple of things to take note.

There is no training for next 2 Thursdays (12th and 19th) as there is an absolute shed load of matches in January!

Dont forget to sign up to help your team mates out. There are still spaces to get your volunteer fixtures out the way at the start of the year or even just to come down and watch near-pro level volleyball.

https://hermitagevolleyball.org/club-members

Keep an eye on the calendar and make sure you're talking to your team and know what fixtures are coming up home and away, it really is a busy month! Great opportunity to show the east mids that we are massive.

Match Report Men Regional 1

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 15:27:41 GMT

Men Regional 1 away at Ashfield Vipers

On Saturday January 7th, hermitage mens 1st team took on Ashfield Vipers away. The 1st team consisted of 7 members today. Jake, Stent, Tom, Jacob, Ashath, Erick and myself with a late arrival that we will speak on later…

The first set saw Ashath start as our libero, with Jake and Lewis as outsides, Jacob as the setter, our middles Stent and Erick and finally our captain fantastic Tom as opposite. The first challenge we found in this set was the venues roof was lower than something we had played in before, meaning that passes needed to be more controlled to prevent the ball from hitting the roof and costing points. During the first set the 1st team struggled to make a statement, it was a very even affair between both teams. As a unit it became clear early on that we needed to apply the correct amount of pressure to force the opposition team to make mistakes, this however was not the case. During this set Vipers found themselves going head to head with us, a mixture of hitting out and some weak roll shots found us challenging to win this set. Passes were clipping the low roof of the venue and it took our side some time to find the correct rhythm. A time out saw us leading 21-22, a few points lost due to the roof, others because and I quote ‘we played dog’ - Tom King, 2023. As a team we worked through as a unit and saw this set out for the win.

The second set saw a much different story, the team had worked and sussed out the court and the roof issue, we took a comparable lead during this set and never looked back. Some big blocks, or should I say ROOFS from Stent and Erick saw us taking some well deserved points from some good rally’s. Jake as always was a reliable outside, hitting a range of shoots and ‘41’s’ to win us points. A couple of roll pipe and topspin aces from Lewis helped us to increase the lead even further. Big decision making in this set and composure from the team deciding when to kill a ball set by Jacob to when to pick out a spot on the court. Saw us see out the second set comfortably.

During the 3rd saw our overall squad number go from the original 7 up to 8. You may wonder why this was…

Our good friend Marcin had arrived to the venue ready to play the match, only issue being. He had arrived around an hour late and whilst the 3rd set was being played, with the score at the time being around 20 - 9 to us… there were calls for a substitution to be made to get Marcin in on for the last few points however this unfortunately didn’t happen and he had made the journey to watch around 4 points of volleyball to be played… as a summary of the 3rd set. Our first team found it comfortable, we took time with our hitting and passing and rarely made a mistake.

Overall mens 1st took the game 3-0. A good run up to the next few games that we have next week, time for a well deserved rest for the team ready to go again on Wednesday.

P.s thank you to Vipers for nominating me as MVP - Jacob, I am more than happy for you to take over match report duties.

Men Regional 1 vs Ashfield Vipers 2

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 22:30:17 GMT

Match report

Hermitage mens 1 took on a mixed Vipers side, with a balance of youth and experience, with 4 of the school’s teachers joining forces with 5 of their young players. The first set we started with Jake and Lewis outside, Marcin joining Stent as middles with the returning Tom at opposite and myself (Jacob) as setter. By some miracle we started with a streak of serves from myself, and cruised into an 8 point lead before Ashfield got going, as they struggled to get the side out they needed. This meant that we were always favourites for this set thanks to this early lead, and we played some of our best volleyball of the game, with a lot of strong attacks coming from Jake and Lewis through both 4 and pipe earning us points and allowing us to sustain our comfortable lead, including one of which as Lewis was picked out sensationally by an out of system set from Tom. Paired with some strong hitting from the captain, as well as use of Marcin and Stent where possible kept us in the lead, as we played arguably the strongest volleyball that we played in the game, and ended up taking victory 25-13.

The second set saw a much changed side come in, with Liam in to set for Jacob, Fraser replacing Stent through the middle, Ashath in for Jake outside, and Erick playing opposite giving Tom a breather. This changed side worked their way into this set, as Ashfield came out a much stronger side after they themselves had changed it up. A stronger end to the first set had seemed to give them a new confidence, playing at a much higher level than that which they began, and after an early side out and strong serve from Liam, Ashfield stormed into a 7-4 lead, before the gap began to narrow slightly, but Ashfield continued to lead for the majority of the set. However, some strong serving and a side that had warmed into the game a bit more, accompanied with some smart hitting from our outsides and opposite Erick, as well as Liam’s tips and middle attacks meant that we were avoiding their strongest passer much more, earning us some smart points meant that we had cut that lead by the end of the set and towards the end finally earned it for ourselves, and thanks to finishing so strongly we took victory, 25-18

The third set saw yet more changes, with Jacob returning to set in place of Liam, Lewis for Jake, and Stent back in for Marcin. We struggled to pull away, with some good stuff played at times but without the same consistency that saw us sail away with the first. Ashfield also sustained their play at a higher level, and while we picked up some points through strong attacks from Lewis, Ashath, and Erick we tried to use the middle a little more, reducing the pace slightly as Fraser and Stent got some success. However, Vipers worked hard and earned points off of some scrambles and some strong pick ups, and meant that they took a 16-14 lead midway through the set. At that point, captain Tom decided to change it up, coming on to set in place of Jacob, and Liam replaced Erick. This seemed to lift the team, although Ashfield continued to grind out points, and they pulled away slightly, with Lewis to serve on their set point, an unenviable task, but he got us right back into it before the Vipers finally got the point to win it, taking the set 25-21. Special mention to our non-existent number 3 for standing out in that set.

More changes were made for what turned out to be the final set, including Jacob and Jake returning, as the line up was similar to that of the first set. Both teams began going point for point, with some strong side out volleyball being played, and, although I never thought I’d see the day, a run of 10 (ish) serves from Jacob saw us pull away and take a 17-7 lead. Double figures for the first and last time ever. Shortly after that, Jacob’s set saw substitute Liam with the most glorious kill anybody has ever seen, absolutely hammering one down in front of 5, a true thing of beauty. Some strong passing, and blocking especially in this third set saw us keep our lead, including a couple of beautiful hits from Lewis through pipe and a nicely timed shoot through 4 meant that we eventually closed out the third set and the match, winning that one 25-15 and the game 3-1.

Overall, an opposition posed a different kind of challenge, and while there was elements that we can improve on as a side and work to be done, equally there was some strong elements and we closed out a solid victory, to end our games for the year, as we look ahead to playing this same Vipers side next, away on January 7th.

Thank you to Gary for reffing, Charlie for second reffing, and Dom and Lizzi for scoring.

Special mention to Bruce, to say thank you for coaching and more importantly thank you for roofing Jake playing 4 v 4 after the match, definitely my highlight of the night.

Men Regional 1 First match report

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 17:15:43 GMT

Men Regional 1 First Match Report

First set.

Just before the first set went underway the lads highlighted the oppositions most dangerous players and set out clear tactics and instructions on how to challenge that. Stepping on to the court we were unsure of how Darkstar would play in the match itself, going in blind we started off very strong, some pressure and consistent serves. Early doors Jacob and Jake came together to pull off as the team would call it ‘a dirty C’ which set the tone for the match. The match was at 6-4 to HVC, up steps Liam to serve, with some pressure serves and consistent serving, along with some great hustling from the lads and big kills and blocks we found ourselves up 19-4, this was a great benchmark to start the league season off. With some class setting from Jacob with a few shoots set to Jake, Lewis and some middle hits with James, we closed the set 25-6. Overall consistent passing from our Libero Ashath and the team this was a nice comfortable set.

Second set.

The team was unchanged for the second set with the intention to see out the game and stop any sort of a comeback from darkstar. Early doors Jacob got our middles James and Marcin going, along with our outsides Lewis and Jake and our opposite Liam. Some beautiful kills that hit the floor, and some absolute outrageous roll shots from our outsides we were again in a comfortable position. Pressure serving from Lewis and Jake using their topspin serves caused Darkstar some receiving concerns. Towards the end of the set darkstar play a tip and along comes Liam with the most outrageous pancake I’ve ever seen to keep us in the point! This set we lost a few more points to hits in the net (cheers Lewis) and serving mistakes. We saw out the second set 25-15.

Third set.

Third set our captain for the night Jake, swapped our two middles which saw James and Marcin take a breather to welcome on Stent and Fraser. Along with Liam taking a well earned rest for Erick to come on for oppo. This set saw a few funny moments then a few moments of magic from our setter Jacob and middle Fraser. We started neck and neck with darkstar to begin with, losing points on errors and mistakes, but the team switched back on. A middle was set to Fraser to achieve a back wall hit for Darkstar to have a bit of a cheer about… however, they were totally unaware of what was about to come for the match point. A ball was passed onto the net, Jacob managed to swivel and set a delicious middle (everyone was speechless) for Fraser to bury the ball on the oppositions side of the court winning us the match!

Overall a very solid and impressive start to the season for Hermitage 1sts! Fingers crossed I (Lewis) don’t have to write another match report. To the next MVP please make sure you remember what happened in the game… so you don’t have to ask the rest of the team like I did.

Set 1 - 25-6

Set 2 - 25-15

Set 3 - 25-12

December Cancellations

hermitagevb@gmail.com (Gary Cross) — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 15:12:41 GMT

December Cancellations

There will be no game night (or training) on Tuesday 6 December as the sport hall is being used for another event.

Naturally the Leisure Centre will be closed over the Christmas holidays and we will remind club members a little closer to the date when training is off!

Congratulations Women's Regional Team

hermitagevb@gmail.com (Gary Cross) — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 15:00:22 GMT

Hermitage Women's Regional Team short listed for Team of the year award!

A round of applause, please, for these superstars!

Hermitage Volleyball Club Women's Regional Team have been successfully short listed for the Team of the year award in the North West Leicestershire Let’s Get Moving Awards 2022 (formerly the Sport and Health Awards).

They are now invited to an award ceremony on the evening of Thursday 24 November at Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre where they will be keeping everything crossed for a first-place rosette in recognition for their achievements.

Congratulations from everyone at Hermitage Volleyball Club, in our eyes you are already winners!

November Cancellations

hermitagevb@gmail.com (Gary Cross) — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 14:32:28 GMT

Training cancellations in November 2022

There will be no volleyball training on 24 November due to the hall being used for Sports Awards ceremony.

Both Junior and Adult training is off.

New Club Kit

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 13:25:10 GMT

New club kit for the 2022-23 season!

Hermitage Volleyball Club is delighted to announce that the new club kit is now on the website available for purchase!

!! DO NOT ORDER SHIRTS WITHOUT CONFIRMING YOUR KIT NUMBER FIRST !!

(This is done through the form on the Club Members page)

Ordering new kit is not a requirement for playing in matches, especially if you have bought one in the last year or so.

For all the back court gurus out there, the club will buy some libero tops for all to use - so while you'd be very welcome to get your own, if you really want, there's no necessity to.

Tom King.

HVC Celebrating 35 years!

hermitagevb@gmail.com (Gary Cross) — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 12:59:58 GMT

Hermitage Volleyball Club Celebrates 35 years!

To celebrate its 35 year legacy as a local volleyball club in Whitwick a special custom edition H.V.C. training shirt has been gifted to all club members!

What began as a few volleyball players forming a team in 1987 has become a 40 member strong club for both men and women also supporting a junior/beginners session in collaboration with the Whitwick & Coalville Leisure Centre in 2022.

The elements that have remained consistent throughout the club's 35 years is the passion for the sport and team spirit.

June Cancellation

Sat, 07 May 2022 15:24:29 GMT

There will be no volleyball training on Thursday 2nd June due to the bank holiday and the leisure centre closing early.

(Junior & Adult Session is off)

Awards night & AGM

Sat, 07 May 2022 15:12:05 GMT

Awards night & AGM

There is no training on Thursday 2nd June , so in it's place will be the club awards night & Annual General Meeting (Venue TBC).

In preparation for this, I would request all members click through to the survey below:

This short survey will allow you to recognise your teammates and nominate them for the various awards up for grabs. It will also allow us an indication of expected attendance on the evening.

Aside from this sur vey, there is also a short presentation below that outlines the club's committee structure. Please read through and have a think about whether you are interested in joining the committee in any capacity, as it is elected in during the AGM. I cannot stress enough the importance of an effective committee, so please get in touch to discuss and ask any questions.

If you are interested in any of the roles, I would encourage you to let me know prior to the AGM taking place to ensure a smooth meeting.

It is not often we get the chance to come together off the court - I would strongly encourage attending the evening (there will even be food!), complete your award nominations (encourage your teammates to do the same), and take some time to consider if the club committee is for you!

To m

So close at times but familiar problems

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 19:12:12 GMT

So close at times but familiar problems...

April Cancellations

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 08:42:16 GMT

Volleyball training cancellations in April

There will be no volleyball training on the following dates:

Junior Session: Thursday 14 April - Our coaching team are taking a well earned rest for Easter.

(Adult session is on)

Adult Session: Thursday 20 April - The sports hall is being set-up for a Darts Event the following day.

Hermitage Volleyball Club Bulletins

Mens 1 secure victory in first league game of the season

5 set thriller secures first league win of the season

U18 boys go undefeated

The boys go 3 for 3 in the first round of Volleyball England's Grand Prix series

BBC Radio Leicester Give It A Go Weekend

We're taking part in the BBC Radio Leicester Give It A Go Weekend

Hermitage U18 Boys Grand Prix 2

Hermitage U18 Boys Grand Prix 2

Hermitage U18 boys GP1

Grand Prix 1 - Report

September 2023 cancellations

September 2023 - Training cancellations

End of season

2023 Awards night and AGM

Training Cancellations - May & June

Upcoming cancellations

Regional Men 1 Match Report

Men's Regional 1 vs Lincoln Cannos (vol. 2)

Club announcement

Hermitage Volleyball Club confirm what everyone was thinking – we’re massive!

Men's Local vs Uni of Leicester 2

Match report

Men Regional 1 vs Lincoln Cannons

Match Report

Men Regional 1 vs Nottingham Rockets

Match Report

Training updates

Upcoming weeks

Match Report Men Regional 1

Men Regional 1 away at Ashfield Vipers

Men Regional 1 vs Ashfield Vipers 2

Match report

Men Regional 1 First match report

Men Regional 1 First Match Report

December Cancellations

December Cancellations

Congratulations Women's Regional Team

November Cancellations

Training cancellations in November 2022

New Club Kit

New club kit for the 2022-23 season!

HVC Celebrating 35 years!

Hermitage Volleyball Club Celebrates 35 years!

June Cancellation

Awards night & AGM

Awards night & AGM

So close at times but familiar problems

So close at times but familiar problems...

April Cancellations

Volleyball training cancellations in April

Men's Local Team Vs University Of Leicester

Another good win for the Men’s team!

Hermitage Mixed Team Vs Loughborough Panthers!

Mixed team still waiting for that elusive first win!

Website relaunch! (+action for ALL senior session members)

Website relaunch! (+action for ALL senior session members)