Volleyball’s place in Anguilla’s sports culture started with the presence of the British Paratroopers. History indicates the first league was coined the “Army league” and it was operational from 1969-1971. It was evident the sport had taken root as a national league was conceived in 1972. Since then volleyball has grown reaching a crescendo during the late 1980”s and early 1990’s. During that golden era, teams were operational from many villages throughout the island. The male teams included the Adventurers, the Burners, the Guerillas, Potentials, Tornados, Gannynipers, the Free Birds, Society Crush and the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School Spartans. The female teams included the Hooters, Lighters, Adventurers, Spikas, Challengers, Potentials, Lady Spartans and Jets. While all teams enjoyed the support of the general public, passions were at their highest when “Society Crush” of Stoney Ground and the “Free Birds” of North Hill, tangled on the court. This caused the entire island to become polarized. Each encounter was a five set thriller, steeped in punishing spikes, lots of trick plays and solid defense.

Fans literally rotated with their teams on opposite sides of the court to lend them their support. As a point was scored the supporting fans erupted in thunderous cheers, while opposing fans only sighed in dismay. The eventual winner of the championship witnessed a reaction from fans that was similar to that of the South American football fans. Unfortunately the passage of hurricane Luis (1995) cooled the energy of volleyball as the court used was severely damaged.

After repairs games resumed but the intensity was lost. The hosting of two regional events (1998, 2004 formerly OECS, now ECVA male and female senior tournaments) reinvigorated the appeal of the game. Despite this, Anguilla’s participation in senior ECVA tournaments and World cup qualifiers has met with limited success. While neither the male nor female teams have advanced beyond the first round, several players are ranked amongst the best in terms of blockers, setters, scorers, and defensive players. Presently a new approach is being pursued where the focus is placed on youth and junior teams to facilitate the growth of volleyball in Anguilla. Anguilla’s love for volleyball is strong, it is hope within due time, She will be ranked amongst the power houses of the ECVA and the wider Caribbean.