by Grace Knight
Bond University volleyballers took the competition by surprise when they won the 2023 Intervarsity Sport Bowl tournament on Saturday.
Held at Griffith University, the tournament brought together universities across Queensland and Northern NSW for a day of intense sporting action.
Led by captain Sam Wadley, the Bond volleyball team advanced through the tournament undefeated.
In their final against Griffith, Bond managed to take the victory 3-2.
With only six players on their team, Bond had no room for error in terms of injuries or substitutions.
Unlike their competitors who boasted larger rosters and coaches, the Bond volleyballers won the tournament with nothing but their humble attitude and fun-loving approach.
Nevertheless, their passion for the sport and genuine camaraderie proved to be their secret weapon in becoming the unassuming champions.
“We were probably the less organised bunch,” admitted captain Wadley.
“Everyone else had back-up players so we really didn’t expect to make finals, let alone win.
“We really just went into the tournament keen to play together and have a good time.”
Alongside Wadley, Bond’s team consisted of Long Cheuk, Hendrik Mueller, Mika Turunen, Noah Rohozinski and Ruben Geldenhuys.
While Bond’s team had varying levels of playing experience, ranging from club to social volleyball, they shared a united goal of having a fun day on the court.
Captain Wadley was one of the competitors with more extensive playing experience.
Before beginning his Doctor of Physiotherapy at Bond, Sam played both school and then club volleyball in Brisbane.
Now in his final year of studies, he aspires to work as a physiotherapist in a private sports-related clinic, combining his passion for sport and his desire to help others with their physical wellbeing.