Academy's strong start

THE ACADEMY of Beach Sports have started their maiden league season with two wins.

Following last term's third place in the South West Championships, the Academy have entered the South West Volleyball Association's Women's Division.

Their first two matches were played in Cardiff, against the hosts and Plymouth.

The Academy went two sets down in both games but battled back to win 3-2.

The team is made up of Petroc students and golden oldies who played for North Devon College more than 20 years ago.

International beach volleyball player Denise Austin is coaching the team, while the college's Ruth Lovell has put in a lot of hard work in organising training and matches.

The competition is the top women's volleyball league in the region and the winners will represent the South West in Volleyball England's Champions Trophy in May.

The Academy's next matches are against Torexe Topcats and Torexe Aces at Braunton Community College on Sunday (11am to 3pm).