By Susanne Scolt, Southern Gazette - HBF JUNIOR SPORTS HEROES NOMINEE
WITH the goal of playing in the European Volleyball League, these winter days are not deterring South Perth resident Nicholas Butler from hitting the nets.
Nicholas (15) will head to Melbourne next week to compete for the WA under-17 team at the 2012 Australian Junior Volleyball Championships.
“I started playing volleyball when I was 12. One of my school teachers thought I was tall and asked me to join in, and now I play all year round,” he said.
“I went to a day camp where I was helped by the coach for the AIS. It was really good because we learnt what they do at the AIS.
“I want to play in Europe and the Olympics in 2016 and 2020.”
Between training and game days, Nicholas said he does not have much free time for other hobbies.
“I play for my club and State as well as my school team, so most of my time is spent playing volleyball,” he said.
Nicholas’s dad Craig said his son just had a natural knack for the sport that you do not see often at such a young age.
“I used to play when I was younger so we used to have a hit around at home,” he said.
“Nicholas might be the youngest in his team – but he is also the tallest, so that gives him a big advantage.”
- The 2012 Australian Junior Volleyball Championships are being held in Melbourne from July 1-7.