Essex Rebels volleyball players travel to South Korea tournament

Two volleyball players from Essex University’s Essex Rebels helped the senior men’s side battle bravely against top sides USA, Australia, and Vietnam to secure third place in the South Korea-hosted International College Tournament.

After winning two out of three of their group games Thomas Jefferson, 20, and Thomas Shatimehin,19, took on eventually winners South Korea in a televised semi-final.

Sadly, they fell at the final hurdle, but the players have vowed to build on the “dream come true”.

Jump - Essex Rebels volleyball player Thomas Shatimehin in action (Image: Essex University)

The performance athlete scholars were overseas for ten days and are back on home soil training for next season – which kicks off on Thursday.

Sports Performance and Coaching student Thomas Jefferson said he was proud of the team for accomplishing lots in a short space of time.

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He added: “The highlight of the trip was that we finished third and the squad was able to experience a completely new brand of volleyball one which we will take inspiration from.

“The Asian volleyball style of volleyball is one of speed and flare and at times in the tournament was quite overwhelming for us however, if harnessed could become an exciting development into our game.

“We look forward to future opportunities to play internationally and hope that this event will become a reoccurring trip and next year we aim for gold.”

High five - England volleyballers celebrating in South Korea (Image: Essex University)

His thoughts were echoed by fellow sports performance and coaching student Thomas Shatimehin, who said: “Playing for the England national volleyball team was a true honour and a dream come true.

“The journey to South Korea was filled with memorable moments and experiences.

“From competing at a level playing for Essex Rebels to representing my country on the international stage, getting to watch the South Korean national team was amazing.”

Both players are studying through the university’s sports scholarship programme, which supports athletes through their studies and helps them fulfil their potential.

Performance sport manager Susy Davies said the university is “immensely proud” of their students’ achievements.

“It is a testament to the work that they put in throughout the season, striving for excellence,” she added.