Bittersweet finish for promising duo Bunton and Harsum at CEV U20 European Championships 2026

The duo put in some excellent performances during qualifying and in the main draw to work their way through to the Round of 24 stage in Italy. 

They were eventually beaten by Latvian duo Andrejevs and Druska, but managed to take a set off the eventual champions, Kjemperud and Ringoen of Norway, who were also victors at July's NEVZA Youth Championships 2026 in Bridlington.  

"We had an amazing time being able to represent England together," said Lewis. 

"In terms of results we wanted to get further, but we are not disappointed as coming from the qualifier we had to play eight games in total and in doing that we beat some difficult teams.  

"In some games we played some very good volleyball... for example we took a set off the team that won the tournament and I think I have learnt that we can compete at that high level we just need to get more consistent at it." 

The women's pairing of Charlotte Anderton and Jennifer Rates were also in action in the qualifiers, but were forced to bow out early after the former suffered suspected concussion. 

Next up, Stuart Perry and Theo Plaza will represent England in the CEV U20 European Championships 2026 in Spain, with qualifying starting on Wednesday.