Poole Thumpers (1978)
In June, Wessex Volleyball Club will be celebrating their 50th anniversary, having been formed in 1976 – under the name of Poole Thumpers – by Geoff Allen with a junior girls’ team that he was coaching. A boys’ team soon followed and the junior sections have formed the basis of the Club ever since. The Club subsequently entered Men’s and Ladies teams in the National Volleyball League and both, with Geoff as coach, worked their way up their respective leagues into the top national volleyball divisions. Geoff is still integral to the Club, as board member and a hugely experienced coach.
Over the years, Wessex have won 2 English National Cup Senior titles, numerous SWVA titles and over 40 National Junior Championships including an unparalleled ‘Grand Slam’, winning all of the National Junior Championships for U16 and U18 boys and girls in the same year. Many Wessex players have achieved representative honours with indoor and beach volleyball, playing for South West England, England Cadets, England Juniors and the England and Great Britain senior teams, including 3 players who competed in the London 2012 Olympic Games and 2 in the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Poole Thumpers (1978)
Throughout their existence, Wessex have been an active supporter of the SWVA and has participated in many of its competitions, including as recently as the 2025-26 season with its ladies’ team finishing second in the Premier Division. They still cater for indoor and beach volleyball for beginners to Internationals from school year 7 upwards. The Wessex club has been one of the top all-round volleyball clubs in England across its 50 years. The junior section of the Club provides opportunities for young people between the ages of 7 and 18 years to receive coaching and competition in events ranging from local mini volleyball tournaments to National Cup. All coaching is by qualified coaches who are trained and have been screened for their suitability for working with young people. For adult members there are opportunities for all levels to compete in the National Volleyball League, SWVA League and local Poole & District League.
The celebratory event is planned for 6 June and the Club is looking to welcome past and present members and friends in volleyball to reunite and share memories and experiences.
Wessex can be contacted via email at 50th@wessexvolleyball.com or at info@wessexvolleyball.com for general enquiries.
Anthony Roberts antsports@hotmail.co.uk
