In 2020 Wayne Fisher, a 30-year-old school teacher from Viani Bay in Cakaudrove, had an encounter with the police during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fisher and a group of boys were caught by police playing volleyball during a time when social activities were restricted due to the pandemic. Instead of being discouraged they turned adversity into opportunity and decided to form a club that would not only help them indulge in the sport they loved, but also help them act as role models for youths.
Thus, the Avengers Volleyball Club was born with a mission to rise above challenges and create positive impacts.
“There were people that tried to say things to discourage us from forming the club, but hats off to the boys for being there for each other from day one,” said Fisher.
Quickly integrating into the Suva Volleyball Association competition in 2020, the Avengers defied expectations by defeating favorites Police Blue and clinching the knockout title. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable winning streak that continues to this day.
The Avengers have maintained their dominance in subsequent seasons.
As the 2023 season kicked off, the Avengers showed no signs of slowing down. Not only did they secure another knockout victory, they have also defended the Challenge Cup for an impressive seven weeks in a row.
This consistent success speaks volumes about the team’s dedication, skill, and cohesion. Fisher said they were reaping the reward for being honest and dedicated.
“It’s a great feeling when you help people to be better at something and keeping them away from trouble.”
Beyond their local achievements, the club has significantly impacted the sport at the national level. To provide context, an astounding 80 per cent of the team earned spots in the Fiji national team trials.
And in the end four players, including club manager Fisher, were selected to represent the country at the recent South Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
Tito Mairewa, Peter Sorby and Joji Katia represented Fiji in indoor volleyball while Masi Valentine and Fisher represented the country in beach volleyball.
“It just shows the determination and hunger of these boys, they went for the trials and smashed it. All four of them were representing the country for the first time and they played like veterans,” said Fisher.
Fisher’s dual role as player and club manager adds a unique dynamic to the team’s success story. His leadership both on and off the court has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping the Avengers team into a formidable force in the volleyball community.
The Avengers’ journey exemplifies the transformative power of sports, turning setbacks into triumphs and adversity into opportunity.
