James Kay joins Developing Beach Volleyroos
Volleyball Australia is excited to announce the final addition to the Men’s Developing Volleyroos Men’s Program for 2024 in up-and-coming Victorian athlete, James Kay.
Currently completing his Year 12 examinations at McKinnon Secondary College, Kay’s Volleyball talent is obvious in both beach and indoor contexts, with Kay fishing third with the Melbourne Vipers in the 2024 Mahindra Australian Super League Finals Series this past weekend.
After being named in the 2024 Indoor Junior National Squad following a taking part in the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour earlier this year, Kay has continued to flourish and will be a welcome addition to the program according to National Development Assistant Coach for Men’s Beach Volleyball, Joey Yigit.
“James is a well-rounded athlete that has always competed on both the floorboards and on the sand,” said Yigit.
“Both he and his family, and all communities he is a part of should be exceptionally proud that he has accepted a position within the Men’s Developing Beach Volleyroos program. His decision to relocate has demonstrated his belief in his ability on court and is a choice that demonstrates courage, persistence, and conviction. All qualities of athletes and people that perform at their best consistently.
“There is no perceived ceiling on what James can achieve, or the style in which he may do it, which is exciting for himself, the coaches, and our sport,” he said.
For Kay, the decision to join the Developing Beach Volleyroos is one that presents an array of opportunities.
“I have always loved both beach and indoor, but ultimately the opportunity to place no limitations on where I can get to in beach volleyball, being in control of my own destiny, with plenty of overseas opportunities, as well as the ability to train with such an elite squad every day were some of the key driving factors towards joining the Program,” said Kay.
“A big inspiration for me in recent times has been watching the Aussies at the Olympics – it’s given me inspiration to reach the highest level.
“I don’t want to place any limitations on where I can get to, with my dream being to ultimately help Australia to be one of the top beach volleyball nations in the world and win a gold medal at the Olympics.”
“I’ve seen some photos of the new SASI where the National Training Centre is based out of and it looks incredible. I can’t wait to train every day at this world leading facility alongside some of the best athletes and coaches in Australia.
“I would like to thank Volleyball Victoria, Melbourne Vipers, Monash University Volleyball Club, GMVA, VBVA and of course my school, McKinnon Secondary College for all the help they have provided me both on and off the court. I would not be in the fortunate position I am now without the support and guidance of the people involved in each of these groups. I would also like to thank my family as nothing I do would be possible without them.”
