Volleyball is spiking in popularity; and not just on beaches of California or on Olympic courts. Across UK universities, the sport’s mix of athleticism, teamwork, and high-energy fun is winning converts fast. At the University of Bristol, that momentum has landed squarely in the hands of its thriving Volleyball Society, a club that’s part competition, part camaraderie, and an all-around good atmosphere.
‘We’re a thriving, active community,’ said Sophia Lee-Baum, captain of the Women’s 1st team. ‘It’s for everyone.’ That openness defines the society. From total beginners to BUCS-level athletes, players find their place quickly. The club fields multiple men’s and women’s teams across divisions, including top squads competing in BUCS Premier South and development groups for those just learning to play.
‘There really is a level for everyone,’ Sophia explained. Weekly development sessions run at different times, making it easy to fit volleyball around studies and the social calendar. Wednesday home matches draw lively crowds, with members packing the sidelines to cheer their teammates on.
Interest in the sport at Bristol has soared in recent years, helped by its welcoming culture and international reach. ‘We’ve got players from all over the world,’ Sophia noted, describing a society that celebrates diversity both on and off the court. Growing demand even led to a brand-new fourth men’s team this season, proof that volleyball fever is spreading fast.
I decided to see what all the excitement was about and went along to one of the Development sessions myself. Everyone was incredibly friendly, especially the student-coaches, who were eager to share tips and help fine-tune technique. The energy was infectious, and even as a newcomer, it felt easy to get involved and improve with every rally.
Naturally, Bristol Volleyball doesn’t just shine under the lights of the Indoor Sports Centre. It’s also known for its socials, where post-match pints are taken every bit as seriously as a winning point. Wednesday nights start with a trip to the White Harte, and then out to a rotating line-up of Bristol clubs. The society’s legendary formals; Christmas, Valentine’s and Summer, add an extra layer of sparkle to the calendar.
And then there’s the highlight of the year: tour. Each spring, the club heads to Portugal for the Deep-Dish Beach Volleyball Tour, joining universities from across UK. ‘It’s a week of sun, sea and sand with some of your closest mates’ said Sophia. Her favourite memory? Reaching a mixed-fours final on Centre Court, surrounded by the cheers of the entire Bristol contingent.
Moments like that capture what makes this community special. Whether you’re diving for your first dig or hammering home a match-winning spike, the encouragement never wavers. The society’s mix of competitiveness and connection is its winning formula, one that keeps members returning season after season.
Moments like that capture what makes this community special. Whether you're diving for your first dig, or hammering home a match-winning spike, the encouragement never wavers.
So, what would Sophia say to anyone considering joining? ‘Just do it,’ she told me with a smile. ‘Everyone’s so welcoming.’
Volleyball at Bristol is more than a sport; it’s a team, a friendship network, and a midweek highlight rolled into one. If you’re looking to bump up your social life, set new goals, and spike stress right out of your system, the court is open. All that’s missing is you.
Featured Image: Instagram/ @uobvolleyball
Will you be giving volleyball a go?
