Volleyball Australia confirms U18 selections for inaugural Asian U18 Beach Volleyball Championships
Volleyball Australia has confirmed the athletes selected to represent Australia at the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) U18 Beach Volleyball Championships, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from 6–10 May 2026.
This event marks the first Asian Championship for the U18 age group, providing an important new international benchmark for emerging athletes across the region. For Australia, it is also a key part of the 2026 campaign, with the Asian Championships serving as a qualification pathway to the FIVB U18 Beach Volleyball World Championships later in the year.
Australian Teams
Men
- Ryan Edgar (QLD) / Thomas Turner (QLD)
- Lincoln Mowen (QLD) / Hudson Symes (QLD)
Women
- Ava Gaborit (SA) / Jorja Grocott (QLD)
- Ella McDonell (VIC) / Ellie Turner (SA)
Team staff
Coaches: Brianna Mears; Joey Yigit; Ruben Gale
Volleyball Australia Deputy National Performance Director Paul Smith said the inaugural event was a significant opportunity for the program and the athletes.
“This is the first time the AVC has staged an U18 Asian Championship, so it’s a significant milestone for the region and a great opportunity for our athletes to test themselves internationally,” Smith said. “Importantly, it’s also a qualification event for the U18 World Championships, so our teams will be competing with a clear objective. It’s a chance to perform under pressure, learn quickly, and build the experience required to be successful at the next level.”
Volleyball Australia congratulates all selected athletes and thanks the coaches and state programs supporting their preparation for international competition.
