Bermuda will be represented by two teams at the Nike Florida Holiday Challenge volleyball tournament this weekend in Daytona Beach.

Both teams, competing under the Paradise Hitters Volleyball Club banner in the 15 and under as well as 17-and-under divisions, have been training intensively since September.

Participation of the two sides marks the first overseas tournament of the 2025-26 season, which the Bermuda Volleyball Association believes sets the tone for an exciting year ahead.

Gary LeBlanc, the indoor national team committee chairman, is convinced that the dedication and hard work have prepared the teams for this important milestone, which will serve as a key benchmark to assess progress and readiness for upcoming tournaments at home and abroad in 2026.

“This is a smaller tournament, but is always a great way to test our teams in a highly competitive environment,” LeBlanc said.

“We are very excited to see how they do. The Bermuda Volleyball Association extends its gratitude to JVC Tournaments and all sponsors for their ongoing support, which makes these opportunities possible.”

Sean Tucker, the under-15 head coach, is backing the players to continue from where they left when they were in the under-14 category.

“Our under-15 girls have worked hard all season to earn the opportunity to compete internationally in Daytona this weekend,” Tucker said.

“Coming off last year’s strong performance in the under-14 category, where they won the silver bracket in Boston, this team have shown remarkable dedication and growth.

“Moving up to the under-15 this year,we have many of the same talent as last year. But with some new faces, it brings new ways to uplift this team.

“We’re proud to represent our community again and excited to see how they perform on a bigger stage.”

The 17-and-under team have been described as well seasoned, with an average of five years in the programme and several players earning spots on the senior women’s national team.

Mike Gazzard, the coach, spoke of how the team have been gearing up for the tournament.

“Our under-17 girls have been working incredibly hard in preparation for the Nike Florida Holiday Challenge in Daytona Beach,” he said.

“With a roster of ten athletes, co-captains Hailey Trott and Tatiana Sousa along with court captain Olivia Gazzard leading the way, the team have been training twice a week and competing in the women’s Winter League to raise their level of play.

“This event is a valuable opportunity for our players to test themselves against strong, seasoned US club teams and we’re excited to see them rise to the challenge.

“A huge thank-you to the Bermuda Volleyball Association and our sponsors for their continued support; it truly makes opportunities like this possible.”