Portsmouth Phoenix Volleyball Club crowned club of the year for sport and community impact at the Volleyball England Awards
Portsmouth Phoenix Volleyball Club, a programme delivered by Portsmouth Phoenix CIC, is celebrating national recognition after being named Club of the Year at the 2026 Volleyball England Annual Awards Ceremony in Loughborough.
The prestigious award recognises the club’s outstanding contribution to volleyball development, youth engagement, community participation, and the creation of opportunities for people across Portsmouth to become more active, connected, and involved in sport.
Portsmouth Phoenix CIC was established with a mission to use sport and physical activity to improve health, well-being, inclusion, and community cohesion. Through volleyball, basketball, and open fitness sessions, the organisation provides accessible opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to participate in regular physical activity while building confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.
As one of the CIC’s flagship programmes, Portsmouth Phoenix Volleyball Club has grown into a thriving community hub. The club runs men’s and women’s teams competing at the regional level, while its Under-16 and Under-18 boys’ and girls’ teams compete nationally, proudly representing Portsmouth across England.
While competitive success has played an important role in the club’s development, leaders at Portsmouth Phoenix CIC believe the award reflects something even more significant: the positive impact sport can have on individuals, families, and communities.
Club Secretary Franck M. said: "We are incredibly proud to receive this award from Volleyball England. It reflects the dedication of our coaches, volunteers, players, parents, and supporters who work tirelessly to create opportunities for people in our community. This recognition highlights the power of sport to bring people together, support young people, and improve wellbeing across Portsmouth."
A major part of Portsmouth Phoenix CIC’s success has been its commitment to working alongside local schools and education providers. Through partnerships with Priory School, Miltoncross Academy, Castle View Academy, and City of Portsmouth College, the organisation has introduced hundreds of young people to volleyball and created development pathways that support both personal growth and sporting achievement.
The organisation is now looking to expand these partnerships further. It welcomes discussions with additional schools, colleges, community groups, and organisations across Portsmouth and Hampshire that share its vision of increasing participation in sport, supporting physical and mental wellbeing, and creating positive opportunities for residents.
Club Chair Willard-Hans said: "This award is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with Portsmouth Phoenix Volleyball Club and Portsmouth Phoenix CIC. We are passionate about making sport accessible to all and creating environments where people feel welcome, supported, and inspired to achieve their potential. Whether someone joins us to compete, improve their fitness, make friends, or gain confidence, we want them to feel part of a positive community."
The organisation is also inviting local businesses and partners to support its community programmes through sponsorship and collaboration opportunities.
By continuing to invest in grassroots sport and community wellbeing, Portsmouth Phoenix CIC hopes to build on this national recognition and create even more opportunities for residents to stay active, develop new skills, and strengthen connections within their community.
For more information about joining a session, becoming a volunteer, developing a school partnership, or supporting community initiatives, contact via [email protected], https://portsmouthphoenixvolleyballclub.com/, or through its social media channels (@portsmouthphoenix_vc).