Volleyball a family affair for Lewie

1. How were you first introduced to Volleyball?

I was introduced to Volleyball by my father. My earliest memories are traveling up from Poole to London to watch him play for Aquila. There was a special camaraderie between that team and it’s probably got a lot to do with the reason I’m passionate about the sport. I then started playing for Wessex at 14 years old and I loved it. The sport runs in through my grandfather, my father, myself and my two brothers. So I can't really remember life without it.

2. What was the most difficult skill to master on court?

There are so many things to master and I don't think I have mastered one yet! I would say when I did play (which hasn’t been for a while) I would say separating the emotions the game. I would be tough on myself and it would divert my focus from what I was trying to achieve.

When I’m coaching something I’m always  trying to get better at is communicating effectively - ask the right questions and adapting my type of language and terminology to the person I am talking too. I find the joy of coaching is the impossible challenge of trying to master it and also finding something to improve one. When I am commentating I am trying to master the story behind the game, the players, the history and my voice - all tough things to master. 

3. What makes you most proud of our Volleyball Family?

The way volleyball is in this country, the sport is made up of lots of selfless volunteers and people who want to leave the sport in a better place than they found it. This makes me proud, people give years of time without asking for much in return. They are the backbone of the sport. 

4. What was your greatest Volleyball achievement?

My greatest volleyball achievement has been the opportunity that the sport has given me to travel the world, get outside my comfort zone and challenge myself in multiple different ways. I owe the sport and the people who have helped me a lot for that. If you are looking particular memories then coaching at the European Championships in Klagenfurt in 2015 and also commentating at the World Championships in Hamburg last summer.

5. What are you missing most during the lockdown?

I am missing my freedom. The chance to see family & friends, this time of year is usually my busiest time with coaching and commentary duties and I am missing it. There is  a much bigger picture though and peoples health is the priority.

6. What are you looking forward to most once the lockdown is over?

I am looking forward to driving down to Dorset to see my family and not taking the simple things in life for granted.