Unbeaten volleyball side could win national award

The history-making Essex Blades team could win the national award on 17 July

University students who went unbeaten during a title-winning volleyball season have been nominated for a national award.

Essex Blades were crowned champions in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) national championship south.

The University of Essex-based side won all 10 of their matches, a feat that put them in the running for the BUCS Team of the Year award.

Head coach Alex Chinery said: "It's a fantastic achievement, reflecting the effort of everyone involved this season."

Essex Blades were one of six teams in the national south division

The volleyball team was the first in the university's history to win the title without losing a game.

They competed against sides from London, Bournemouth, Cambridge and Bristol.

Mr Chinery said he was "incredibly proud" that the team had been shortlisted, and the winner would be announced at an awards evening on 17 July.

"It wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of all the athletes and support staff who make this the best place to play volleyball in the country," he added.