Volleyball New Zealand’s U18 Men’s Beach Volleyball team are in their final preparation phase ahead of the U18 World Championships in The Hague, Netherlands from 2 to 13 July.

The team is made up of Kyson Norton from Harbour and Cruize Satiu from Bay of Plenty, with U18 Men’s Beach Volleyball Coach Luis Paulo leading the campaign.

New Zealand has been awarded a wildcard entry into the event, providing the team with an important opportunity to compete at world level.

The original qualification pathway through the Asian Championships in Uzbekistan was not able to be completed due to external circumstances related to conflict and war in the region. The wildcard entry has ensured the team can still progress onto the international stage and continue its development pathway.

Coach Luis Paulo said the opportunity reflects both the progress of the programme and the belief in the athletes within the system.

“It’s a great opportunity for the programme and for these athletes. It shows there is belief in what we are building. Even though we did not complete the original qualification event, this still gives the team a chance to compete at world level and continue developing,” Paulo said.

The team is now in a three week preparation block leading into departure. Athletes are training on the beach three to four times per week, with the group coming together on Wednesdays and weekends due to distance between training locations. This period is focused on building cohesion, consistency and game understanding ahead of competition.

Paulo said the preparation phase is an important part of bringing the team together, with the athletes continuing on as they have throughout the season, maintaining their regular training structure and build-up into international competition.

There is also the possibility of competing in a one day tournament in the Netherlands prior to the World Championships, which would provide valuable match preparation and exposure to local conditions.

Once in The Hague, the New Zealand pair will enter the qualification round and will need to win through to progress into the main draw of the tournament.

The U18 Men’s programme continues to grow, with a strong emphasis on athlete development and international exposure. The selection reflects the depth within the wider training group and the competitive environment that continues to drive standards within the programme.

The team will complete their final preparation block before departing New Zealand to represent Aotearoa at the U18 World Championships.

Article added: Friday 12 June 2026