AVSC… Creating more than just a game

As the first games got underway for the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup tonight, there was something special unfolding on Court 8. 

The Open Boys Honours Division saw Brisbane’s Craigslea State High School take the court, with every athlete donning the jersey this week playing for more than just themselves. 

Earlier this year, one of their fellow teammates was diagnosed with cancer, which saw him miss extensive amounts of school, including limiting his involvement with the Open Boys Volleyball Team. 

However, his teammates weren’t going to leave him behind. The group rallied together to support their friend and teammate through this challenging period. 

Deciding to shave their heads and raise money to support those struggling with cancer, the team set a fundraising goal of $5000, however it didn’t take long for this number to be multiplied. 

The incredible support shown from the community saw the team’s efforts raise over $30,000 for families impacted by Childhood Cancer. 

Immensely proud of the strength and bravery shown by the team, is their coach Connor Rudder.

“I am completely lost for words when it comes to describing how proud I am of all the boys involved,” he said. 

“To watch how these incredibly brave, kind and mature young men have dealt with the trauma that would come with a close friend and teammate having cancer is amazing. 

“Then to go even one step further and show their love and support through shaving their own hair, has been very special to watch. 

“I can’t remember too many prouder moments of my career to be honest. “

Having been teammates since the beginning of the year, with some having taken the court together previously, it has been the off-court events of the year that have seen the team become even closer. 

“I definitely think this experience has brought everyone closer together, not just our immediate team but the program as a whole,” Rudder said.

“Our Year 11 Division 1 boys were also part of the fundraising, as were some of the other teachers and coaches in our program. 

“It is cliche to say but tough times definitely bring people closer together. 

“Moments like this are what make team sports so special. 

“As sad as the underlying situation is, to see the overwhelming support from the greater Craigslea Volleyball Academy and School as a whole has been incredible.

“This year we are playing a different brand of volleyball and I’m looking forward to seeing how we match up against the best schools in the country.”

Captain of the Craigslea team, Nicholas Rooke led the wave of support, alongside two of the student’s closest teammates and friends Ashton Angove and River Wyer. 

“The Hairless Heroes campaign has been nothing short of amazing,” Nicholas Rooke said. 

“To see all the boys getting around one another to support our teammate with his diagnosis, and showing he isn’t alone while he goes through this. 

“Proving that this isn’t just a school volleyball team but a brotherhood that we all can rely on.

“The support that was received from the community was also truly amazing, proving that the Craigslea Wolfpack is an evidently fitting name for the program.”

Be sure to keep an eye out for this inspiring group of volleyballers and their shaved heads this week as they look to make this week one to remember.