If the results from Volleyball Horsham's round one of their new look A Grade competition is any indication, all teams are in for a big season.
The battle of the big hitters was the highlight match, with Shados Inala veteran Tim Popple going head to head with Jack Hannan's Volleyroos.
At 1-10 in the first set, Popple was wondering just how long the season was going to be, and when Volleyroos eventually took the set 25-22, some serious line-up changes were on the cards.
Popple was able to match young gun Caleb Smith on the big-hitting Hannan and the youngster didn't let him down, shutting Hannan out on a number of occasions.
Shados Inala taking the second set comfortably 25-17.
The third set went neck and neck until Smith managed to score three points on serve at 20-18, to allow Shados Inala to edge clear and win 23-18 when time elapsed.
New team to the competition, Von Steiger Bloods showed they will be comfortable at this level pushing Phantoms all the way.
Mark Block and Tom Roberts warmed to their tasks as the game rolled on, hitting big and blocking strongly.
They were well served by setter Tim Carter.
Tyler Puls and Will Saligari were consistent in attack for Phantoms and they will get stronger upon the return of key middle blocker Loucas Vettos.
The final game saw Heidelberg wipe the floor with a disappointing Raptors, who couldn't find any rhythm to their game despite the heroics of Aidan O'Connor.
Nathan Berry served strongly for Heidelberg and Lloyd Baker showed his maturity with some quick attack hitting not seen at this level for a long time.
Two new players to the competition in Heidelberg's Ryan Spruyt and Raptors Jack Lord were matched up on each other and didn't let their teammates down in their middle blocking roles and showed great promise.
B GRADE
Familiar faces Von Steiger Bloods, Waterhammers and Phantom Masters started their B Grade season with strong wins, while the new look Von Steiger Barbarians, with the experienced duo in Rod Kirkwood and Luke McCallum showed they will be the big improvers.
C GRADE
In C Grade the Bingo Biddies, with the returning Scott Robinson and Maggie Clarke, were big winners while younger teams in Murtoa Lizards and HTLC Raiders both scored good wins and will keep the older teams on their toes throughout the season.
JUNIORS
In the Juniors, the Murtoa Geckos, with Ellonia Barnett and Archie Gawith in form, showed they will be the team to beat, while HTLC Phantoms, with Olivia Heard on board, continued to show how much they have improved with a good win over HC Storm.
There are still opportunities for individuals who might like to play volleyball this season.
Anyone interested should message info@volleyballhorsham.com.au indicating their interest.
