That Volleyball Guy – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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Think of the athlete who never stops showing up. That’s Anne Jarvis—England captain, Hall of Famer, and the nation’s most capped volleyball player—whose story blends grit, curiosity, and a fierce love for the team game. We trace her path from a sport-filled childhood to the senior squad at 18, where pressure drills, tough camps, and diverse coaching styles forged a competitor who prized precision as much as power. Anne explains how being coachable, filtering feedback, and learning to play smart compensated for not being the tallest on court, and why an elite hitter is only as good as the pass and set that come before it.

Travel shaped her game and worldview: a week-long Spring Cup that mixed high-level matches with cultural immersion, a packed Turkish arena so loud she had to watch the ref’s hand to serve, and a lost-baggage saga that ended with borrowed knee pads and a win-at-all-costs mindset. She shares favorite matchups, the thrill of facing Japan, and the joy of helping Ashcombe turn close calls into championships while mentoring juniors to read, pass, and serve under pressure.

At the heart of our conversation is access. Volleyball is a beautiful sport with real costs: hall time, travel, international commitments. That’s why we announce the Anne Jarvis Hardship Fund, a collaboration with Volleyball England and the Volleyball England Foundation to keep talent pathways open to committed athletes who need financial support. Anne’s vision is direct and hopeful: more matches for national teams, stronger club competition, and deeper investment in coaching education to raise standards across the country.

Join us for a rich look at performance, culture, and community from someone who lived it at the highest level. If you believe talent shouldn’t depend on money—and that smarter coaching and more competitive fixtures can change everything—hit play, subscribe, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, I’m joined by Nick Heckford, a man whose passion for volleyball and refereeing has carried him on an incredible journey from local courts in Poole, Dorset, all the way to the biggest stages in the sport. At the time of recording, Nick was speaking to me from the Philippines at three o’clock in the morning, where he was working as a Challenge Referee at the Men’s World Championships — a true sign of his dedication to the game.

Nick’s story began when his wife encouraged him to give volleyball a try. What started as a bit of fun quickly turned into a fascination with the rule book, a whistle, and a new role in the sport. Within just seven years, Nick progressed from refereeing in local leagues to becoming an international referee, officiating at the Olympic Games, the World League, the VNL, and the World Championships. It’s a journey that reflects not just opportunity, but a mindset rooted in growth, learning, and an enduring love for the game.

In our conversation, Nick reflects on what it takes to referee at the very highest level and why he treats every single match as a chance to learn something new, regardless of whether it’s a local league game or the Olympic stage. We also explore his work as the lead of the Officials Working Group, where he is shaping the future of refereeing in the UK, and his deep commitment to raising standards across every level of the game.

Nick also gives us fascinating insights into the recent changes to the rules, sharing what they mean for the sport and offering his vision for “smooth refereeing” — a philosophy that prioritises letting the game flow, creating longer rallies, and making volleyball even more exciting for players and spectators alike.

As always, the episode is packed with reflections, stories, and insights, before we wrap things up with a fun game of This or That. This is a conversation that captures not only the journey of one of the UK’s most respected referees, but also the passion and vision that continue to shape the sport today.

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This is Part Two of The Heritage Show, a special episode of That Volleyball Guy created in partnership with Volleyball England to honour the people, places, and pivotal moments that have shaped the sport in this country.

In this second half of our conversation, I’m once again joined by Volleyball England legend Richard Callicott, picking up from where we left off in Part One.

Richard shares his powerful reflections on being part of London 2012, the impact of the Olympic experience, and the legacy it left behind — not just for volleyball, but for British sport as a whole.

We speak openly about the ongoing funding challenges volleyball faces and the uphill battles that continue behind the scenes to grow and sustain the sport.

Richard also talks about his instrumental role in bringing beach volleyball to the Commonwealth Games, a major achievement that put the sport on a new international stage.

We revisit the historic Sandwell Grass Tournament, which at its height welcomed a record-breaking 420 teams, earning a Guinness World Record and becoming one of the most iconic events in UK volleyball history.

To round things off, Richard shares his thoughts on where the sport is today and his hopes for the future of volleyball in England.

It’s a conversation full of insight, honesty and passion from someone who’s had a lasting impact on the game. I could have talked to Richard for hours — and even then, there’s still more we didn’t cover.

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, in proud partnership with Volleyball England, we sit down with two incredible champions of the sport: Deb and Bob Pickens. Originally from the USA, Deb and Bob moved to the UK over 40 years ago and what was meant to be a two-year stay turned into a lifelong commitment to developing volleyball in the South East and beyond.

Deb reflects on her NCAA playing days at the University of Missouri and shares the story of how she met Bob, before the pair made the leap across the pond. We dive into Deb’s early days as a PE teacher and explore the cultural differences between the US and UK when it comes to sport and coaching.

From coaching at ACS International School in Cobham to becoming deeply embedded in local and regional volleyball, their passion for grassroots development shines through. We explore how that passion led to the creation of VBDC camps, which have grown into a well-respected hub for junior talent, offering a range of opportunities for both elite and emerging young athletes.

Deb and Bob reflect on working with coaches from around the world, their evolving approach to performance coaching, and the joy of watching players grow. To round off the episode, we dig into some of the current challenges facing junior development in the UK and hear their thoughts on what needs to change to move things forward.

This one is full of heart, wisdom and decades of experience. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of our game.

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It’s the ultimate volleyball showdown! In this special edition Timeout episode, I'm joined by fellow Volleyball England commentator and Super League fanatic Michael Hanson-Morris as we preview the much-anticipated Final 4 Weekend of the Dynamik Men’s Super League and Maaree Women’s Super League, taking place 5–6 April at Crystal Palace.

We dive into the drama of the regular season, break down the semi-final matchups, and make our bold predictions for who’s making the finals. Expect plenty of volleyball geekery as Michael brings the stats, insight, and passion you’d expect from someone who’s followed the league all season long and been right there on the mic for Super League Live.

🔥 Will Essex Rebels Men go better than last year’s 4th place finish?
 🔥 Can Malory Eagles (men and women) bring the title home for the first time in years?
🔥 Is a shock result on the cards?

We also highlight the two massive semi-final matchups that are 1-1 in the regular season:

• Essex Rebels vs. SideOut Polonia (Women)
• London Giants vs. Malory Eagles (Men)

🎟️ Tickets are still available via the Volleyball England website – don’t miss out on the biggest weekend in English volleyball!

 📺 Can’t make it? Catch all the action on the Volleyball England YouTube livestream.

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In this episode of Super League Time-Out, I break down all the action from this weekend's matches across the Maaree Women’s Super League and Dynamik Men’s Super League!

Joining me this week are three American athletes from the Essex Rebels Women’s team—Thea, Chelsea, and Alexis—as they discuss their win over UON, reflect on their season so far, and share how they’re preparing for their Final Four semi-final against Team Sideout.

Elsewhere in the Maaree Women’s Super League, the final relegation spot has been confirmed—Cambridge ARU’s time in the top flight comes to an end, while Darkstar Derbyshire secures a playoff place.

Over in the Dynamik Men’s Super League, despite a loss to UON, Essex Rebels clinch the regular season title with a win over Essex Blaze, setting up a Final Four semi-final against Newcastle Knights. Meanwhile, Essex Blaze join IBB Polonia and Stockport in relegation after Richmond picked up a crucial point to secure 7th place and a playoff spot.

Tune in now for all the latest on the Super League, and don’t forget—Final Four is happening on 5th & 6th April at Crystal Palace Sports Centre! Get your tickets now at the Volleyball England website.

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Welcome to the very first episode of The Heritage Show, a special series in partnership with Volleyball England, dedicated to sharing the stories of key figures who have shaped the sport and given so much to its growth. Through these conversations, we celebrate the legacy of volleyball in England, highlighting the pioneers, visionaries, and unsung heroes who have made a lasting impact.

In this first episode, I’m joined by Richard Callicott OBE, a name synonymous with volleyball leadership in England. As the former Chair of Volleyball England and President of the British Volleyball Federation, Richard has also played influential roles within the FIVB and British Paralympics.

In this first part of our two-part conversation, Richard takes us back to his early days in volleyball—how he introduced the sport to the West Midlands at a time when there were no sports halls, and how he helped develop clubs and associations to ensure volleyball was accessible to all. His passion and drive led him to take on key roles, from International Secretary to Auditor for the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), always pushing the sport forward.

Richard is a true volleyball visionary, and his influence extends far beyond England. He played a vital role in supporting the London 2012 Olympic mission, advocating for British teams across all three disciplines of the sport. His journey is one of dedication, innovation, and leadership—one that every volleyball fan will love hearing about.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Richard shares more about his leadership in the British Volleyball Federation, his experiences from London 2012, how he helped bring beach volleyball to the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, and his role in founding the Sandwell Volleyball Tournament. We’ll also reflect on some of the incredible people he’s worked with throughout his journey.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of England’s most dedicated volleyball figures!

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The Dynamik Men's and Maaree Women's Super League regular season is reaching its climax, and after a dramatic weekend with 12 matches played, the Final 4 teams are now confirmed.

This week, I’m joined by London Giants head coach Mihail Stoev and setter Seth Chen as we discuss their impressive run of six straight wins since Christmas, dropping just one set. They capped off the weekend with a dominant 3-0 win over fellow Final 4 team Newcastle Knights. Coach Stoev highlights the hard work and club support behind their rise, an incredible feat given they were new to the Super League this season after earning promotion from Division 1 last year. Seth also shares his thoughts on volleyball in England, comparing it to his experience playing professionally in Australia.

 The relegation battle has been just as intense. IBB Polonia and Stockport are now confirmed as the two relegated teams, with seven-time champions IBB Polonia set to play in Division 1 next season.

 In the Malory vs. University of Nottingham match, Malory’s opposite hitter Nathan Fullerton literally broke the floor. Tune in to hear what happened.

 Malory Eagles strengthened their top spot with back-to-back 3-0 wins. Meanwhile, Team Sideout Polonia and Essex Rebels, both Final 4 teams, faced off in a thriller, with Essex edging a 3-2 win after a 17-15 battle in the fifth set. Cambridge ARU and Darkstar Derbyshire are now level on points, fighting for the final playoff spot. Cambridge’s 3-0 win this weekend keeps them in the race for Super League survival.

 The Final 4 weekend at Crystal Palace Sports Centre promises to be a huge event. Tickets are available now on the Volleyball England website. Don't miss out.

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What. A. Weekend. The Super League is the most thrilling it’s been in years, with every match delivering drama, grit, and season-defining moments! With just weeks to go, the race for the Final 4 is on, and survival battles are heating up.

 💥 Maaree Women's Super League:

The East Midlands Darkstar Derbyshire squad is on fire! They stormed through the weekend with two crucial wins, including a nail-biting 3-2 victory over Leeds Gorse, lifting them out of the relegation zone. I'm joined this week by Olympian, coach, and former player Audrey Cooper, who breaks down how her team's mindset shift and sheer determination have powered their surge—winning 6 of their last 9 matches since Christmas!

Elsewhere, Malory claimed victory at the final Volleyball England Super League Live event, beating Essex Rebels 3-1. London Lionhearts secured the last spot in the Final 4, while Wessex, already relegated, grabbed their first win of the season against Cambridge ARU!

 🔥 Dynamik Men's Super League:

With Malory Eagles and Essex Rebels locked in for the Final 4, two spots remain up for grabs—and the competition is fierce! The showdown of the season saw Malory edge out Essex Rebels 3-2 in an absolute thriller between the top two teams! I break down the key moments, turning points, and what this result means for the playoffs.

Meanwhile, last year’s finalists Durham and IBB Polonia faced off, with Durham taking a 3-1 win—but both teams are in unfamiliar territory, fighting to avoid the drop. With no relegations confirmed yet, the final weeks will be a battle for survival, and even some of the league’s biggest names aren’t safe!

🎟️ Final 4 Tickets ON SALE NOW! 🎟️
Don’t miss out—April 5th & 6th at Crystal Palace! Get your tickets now on the Volleyball England website and witness the best of the best battle it out for the Super League crown!

Tune in for all the action, analysis, and insights—only on Super League Timeout!

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In this episode of That Volleyball Guy, I sit down with someone I’ve known for years—Sam Shenton, a man for whom volleyball truly is life. From his early days at Newcastle Staffs Volleyball Club to playing professionally in France, Sweden, and the Netherlands, Sam has experienced firsthand what it means to compete at the highest level. He opens up about his journey, sharing what life is really like as a pro player—the intense training, the shift in mindset when volleyball becomes a job, and the lessons he’s carried forward.

Now a head coach at Newcastle University and Newcastle Knights Super League men’s team, as well as coaching the women's Division 1 side, Sam has transitioned from player to mentor. He reveals how his own experiences in high-performance environments have shaped his coaching ethos, how he pushes his athletes to excel, and yes—we finally get to the bottom of why he insists on wearing shorts on the sideline!

This is a must-listen conversation for anyone interested in the realities of professional volleyball, the mindset required for success, and how elite-level experiences shape coaching philosophies. We finish, as always, with a fun game of This or That!

Sam is not only a volleyball good guy but also a deep thinker about the game, and his insights into high performance and player development make this an episode you won’t want to miss! 

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