Ashcombe and its tournament celebrate 50 years

Back in 1976, Freda, a PE teacher at Ashcombe School, founded the eponymous club that started as a school-based initiative but has grown into one of the most respected volleyball clubs in England. 

Indeed, the women's team won the NVL Division 1 (now Super League) title three times – 1987, 1999 and 2000 – while the current team secured promotion from Division 3 to Division 2 via the play-offs at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. 

The Ashcombe Volleyball Tournament, meanwhile, has become a firm fixture with many clubs in the summer calendar. 

It mixes friendly competition with accompanying social activities that has ensured its enduring popularity. 

Giving a speech at the 50th anniversary tournament, South East Region President, active Volleyball England referee and Ashcombe Chair, Dr Zuzana Resetarova, said: “As we celebrate 50 incredible years of Ashcombe Volleyball Club, it is only fitting that we take a moment to recognise the person whose vision, dedication, and passion made all of this possible – Freda Bussey. 

“Founding a club is only the beginning of the story. Many people start things. Very few dedicate decades of their lives to nurturing, growing and sustaining them. Freda didn't just create a volleyball club; she built a community. 

“Over the last five decades, thousands of players have walked through the doors of Ashcombe. Many arrived as nervous beginners. Some became county players, national league competitors, coaches, referees, volunteers, and lifelong ambassadors for the sport. 

“Behind so many of those journeys was Freda's encouragement, guidance and unwavering belief in people.” 

Volleyball England would like to congratulate Ashcombe and Freda on the 50th anniversaries – here’s to the next 50 years!