Record applications for 2022 AVA intake

Applications for the 2022 Australian Volleyball Academy (AVA) intake have now closed, with Volleyball Australia (VA) receiving over 150 applications, from every state and territory in Australia, and even some from overseas.

AVA Men’s Head Coach Brendan Garlick credits the high number of applications to the performance of the national team athletes at the Tokyo Olympic Games and other FIVB international events.

“To receive this number of applications, it shows the power and importance of the collective effort to achieve the sports high performance outcomes,” Garlick said.

“With our two outstanding Olympic silver medalists in Mariafe Artacho del Solar and Taliqua Clancy showcasing our sport across many forums, nationally and internationally, it comes as no surprise that in particular we have seen a steep rise in female applicants.

“Additionally, we are grateful for the state’s, and all of the network coaches’ efforts to inspire more athletes than ever before to apply,” he said.

AVA staff, coaches and State Pathways Managers are now reviewing all the applications and athletes will be notified of their application status in the coming weeks.

VA National Pathways Manager Paul Smith was thankful for the support of the AVA coaching team and support staff, and looks forward to welcoming the next intake to the AVA.

“We are looking forward to an arduous selection process before welcoming our new athletes in January 2022,” Smith said.

“Receiving a record number of applications this year is a reflection on the high performance environment our coaching team, operations and support staff have developed and continue to deliver on a daily basis.

“They do an amazing job creating an environment that fast-tracks developing volleyball talent onwards to beach volleyball and Volleyroos representation,” he said.

The AVA will also welcome dual Olympian David Beard to the coaching team in 2022. Click here to read the announcement.