Club Case Study: University of Southampton's new sitting volleyball offer

What began as a small idea through the HEVO programme has grown into a recognised and increasingly supported activity, highlighting the value of determination and inclusive sport development.

How it all began

Sitting Volleyball was introduced to the University through the HEVO programme as an opportunity to help the club expand and develop. As the sport is an adapted version of indoor volleyball, it is not only an opening for disabled students, but also for anyone to participate in.  

The university was unable to provide extra slots for sitting volleyball, but through individual members having gym memberships and sports passes it was possible to reserve unbooked sessions a week in advance to deliver ‘come and try’ sessions. Not long after the first session, the University became aware of the Student Sitting Cup competition and registered a team that went on to finish third overall. 

Following the competition, discussions took place with the University Sports Planner about the importance of providing an accessible and inclusive sporting offer. As a result, an official ‘come and try’ session took place on the 14th October 2026 and was an enormous success, with over 20 students participating.  

“The session was attended by the President and Vice President of Sports at the University, and they were both very supportive for the sessions to continue,” said Stanislaw Dunat from the University of Southampton Volleyball Club.

The sessions are being published across a variety of social platforms and within existing volleyball teams to increase awareness and attendance, with the main message focused on the competitive aspect of the sport and that this is the third best sitting volleyball university in England.

Future Impact

The long-term aim is to establish sitting volleyball as a sustainable part of the university’s sporting offer while continuing to strengthen relationships with local sitting volleyball clubs. By embedding the activity within club structures and committee responsibilities, the university hopes to ensure that opportunities remain available for future students. 

Stansilaw added: “I am going to make this a requirement of the committee role I am in and hopefully that will continue with this positive trend,” added  

The biggest takeaway

One of the biggest takeaways has been the importance of persistence. While university processes can sometimes limit progress, ongoing conversations with university staff generated interest in the initiative, resulting in a ‘come and try’ session that received positive engagement from both participants and university employees.

Advice from University of Southampton

Don’t be afraid to start small. Sitting volleyball can be introduced successfully without bespoke equipment by adapting existing resources and facilities. Connecting with local sitting volleyball clubs can also provide valuable support and knowledge. 

“I would also encourage others to enter the Uni competitions even if you may not be the best team, it is great fun and an excellent bonding opportunity,” said Stanislaw.

Photos by Emily Jeffrey

Contact for support

stasiudunat@gmail.com / iggyboo@sky.com

If you are interested in playing or getting involved in a sitting Volleyball Club in any capacity, please contact, in the first instance, Volleyball England's John Worrall via j.worrall@volleyballengland.org.