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The Coast Storm volleyball club has wrapped up the season on a high, celebrating a string of strong performances and major milestones for the growing club.
The Coast Storm A team delivered an impressive finish, securing a place in Division 2 for next season. Coach Fiona Scrimshaw said the result capped off an exceptional debut year for the club.
“Earning promotion in our first season is something we’re extremely proud of. The club has really found its rhythm, and the feedback about our positive team culture has been fantastic,” she says.
Stephan Gailer, one of the A team’s middle blockers, says he was ready to give up the sport for good, however once the Hibiscus Coast club began, and local trainings became easier to get to, he was happily able to continue.
“We are fortunate to have a huge wealth of volleyball knowledge, experience and passion from the club organisers,” he says. The mixture of that strong leadership and the all talented up and comers has set the club up for a very bright future.
The A team’s coach, Michael Marshall says he is happy with how far the club has progressed over the year, and is proud to be part of the team’s first steps. “What a ride! Just a few months ago, Coast Storm A was in a qualifying round to get out of Division 4. Fast forward to the recent Club Champs, and this rookie team were challenging Division 1 Northern Zone teams for victories – an incredible leap in such a short time,” he says.
The B team also made its mark in Division 4, holding its own against tough competition with a younger lineup. Fiona says that the experience proved invaluable, and the club is confident the squad will be pushing for promotion to Division 3 next year.
James Bellingham has been both the B team’s coach and one of the players. Along with rejoicing the success of both of the boys’ teams, he hopes to see the girls’ teams take off in a similar fashion.
“A strong foundation has been laid this year with the successes of the boys teams, we are now on the map and looking forward to the girls’ team starting up in 2026, where girls can have the same opportunities and take their game to a higher level.”
Looking ahead, Coast Storm plans to launch a women’s team next season. While initial numbers were small, the club is confident its growing reputation and strong community spirit will draw more players to the court.
Fiona has been the driving force behind the club’s establishment and organisation, and along with the weekly social league, she has been nominated for Volleyball New Zealand’s He Hapori Toa Community Award. The award honours a Regional Association or club that has built strong community connections and shown sustainable growth. The recipient has responded to local needs, promoted inclusive participation, and strengthened their organisation through partnerships and strategic planning. The awards night will be held on Saturday, November 8.
Those keen to get involved or follow the club’s progress can find updates on the Coast Storm Facebook page.
