What better way to end the year, than to announce we have a brand new Volleyball England Foundation Ambassador?!

We are so pleased to welcome Clayton Lucas to our Foundation Family.

Clayton recently agreed to become an ambassador for us, so we thought a little Q&A would give you all an insight into his incredible volleyball career so far.

Hi Clayton, and welcome to the team! Can you tell us a little bit about your background in volleyball?

“I began playing volleyball at 17 and quickly progressed.  Priory, Speedwell, Malory, England, Great Britain.  That was a long time ago! I finished playing at the highest level in 2003 and went into coaching.  I have coached men, women, junior boys and girls. My last coaching position was as assistant coach with the Men's national team. I work as a freelance sports commentator with volleyball and beach volleyball being the main sports. I have however been commentating handball for over 14 years and in addition to that I have commentated over 28 other sports since I started in 2003 at Eurosport”.

What has been a highlight of your volleyball career so far?

“Seeing players I have had the privilege to coach, go on and continue to enjoy their volleyball. Attending 3 Olympic Games, 2 Winter Olympic Games and a Pan American Games”.

Do you have any advice for anyone who may be thinking of starting volleyball?

“Do it!! What are you waiting for?! 

You may not be the best when you walk in the gym, but you will be better each time you walk out of it”.

What is your favourite thing about volleyball?

“The world wide family you become a part of.  I have friends across the globe whom I only ever see outside of the UK”.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

“I am the avatar used for the PS2's Summer Heat Beach Volleyball. Myself and Denise Austin donned black lycra and white dots in a studio in Cheltenham to make all the moves used in the game. My youngest son was born midway through filming and I left to be with my wife Vanessa and then came back the following day to complete filming. It turns out that you can unlock special characters in the game, one of whom is Maximillian Lucas!!!”.

Thank-you for your time, Clayton. It’s fantastic to have you on board!