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Roundnet, a dynamic and fast-paced sport, is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, with Australia becoming one of the latest countries to embrace this exciting game. This is evidenced by 3 Monash students who are heading to the World Championships to represent Australia commencing on August 29.
Often described as a mix between volleyball and downball, Roundnet is played by two teams of two players each. The objective is to spike a small ball onto a circular net in such a way that it bounces off and lands on the ground before the opposing team can return it. Players have up to three touches to achieve this, creating a game that is both strategic and highly energetic.
Originally known by the brand name Spikeball, Roundnet has evolved into a sport with a robust and enthusiastic community. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the minimal equipment required, making it accessible to a wide audience. The sport's rise in Australia can be attributed to its engaging nature and the increasing visibility of international competitions.
The pinnacle of the Roundnet calendar is the World Championships, and the 2024 edition promises to be a landmark event. Set to take place in London, this year's championships will feature a unique squad format. Both the Men's and Women's divisions will consist of five teams of two players each. Teams will compete in a series of matches against other countries, with the country winning the majority of the five games (three or more) emerging victorious in each matchup.
Over 35 countries are set to participate in this year's championships, competing in a single-elimination tournament bracket. The format ensures that every match is crucial, with no room for error. The competition will undoubtedly be fierce, as teams from around the globe vie for the coveted title of World Champion.
Australia's involvement in the 2024 World Championships marks a significant milestone in the sport's development in the country - with three Monash University students representing Australia in the Roundnet World championships. We were lucky enough to catch up with two athletes attending, Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Media student Hugo Ragg and Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering student Levi Geyer on their Roundnet experience thus far.
When did you start playing Spikeball/Roundnet?
Hugo: I started playing Roundnet in 2019 after coming across a highlight video on Instagram and purchasing a Spikeball set. I played casually for years, just on the beach with friends, until I found a tournament near me and signed up, that was in January 2023.
Levi: I started playing on the beach approximately 4 years ago however found out there were tournaments and started playing competitively at the end of 2021/ start of 2022.
Wonderful to hear! What drew you into playing Spikeball and what makes it unique from other sports?
Hugo: The thing about roundnet for me was how unique of a sport it is. The element of a 360 degree game with no boundaries other than the ground was really intriguing for me. It takes me back to schoolyard downball and learning the tactics and defensive strategies of such a different sport was really addictive for me. Also once I found the competitive side I fell in love with the community surrounding the sport. Everyone is so friendly and supportive whilst also competitive at the same time, a balance that can be hard to find in sport.
Levi: Initially really enjoyed playing on the beach and diving around with some friends. Once I started playing tournaments the competitive aspect definitely drew me in and being able to play with a mate and start to compete at a higher level was very fun. Roundnet is definitely a unique sport with no out of bounds and the ability to hit 360°. It requires high agility and quick thinking to compete competitively.
How interesting! What does it mean for you to qualify for the Roundnet World championships and how were you selected?
Hugo: Since I began Roundnet at the start of last year I’ve been competing in tournaments and training for hours every week striving to get better, so to have that effort recognised and be rewarded with the opportunity to travel internationally for Roundnet is something I'm really grateful for. I was selected by a committee from the Australian Roundnet Association, they determine who is best suited to represent Australia based on numerous factors such as national ranking, recent form, character of a player and player impact on the longevity of the sport within the local and national community. Your national ranking is based on ranking points which are obtained by competing in tournaments, the higher your placing the more points you get. I was chosen after the Australian Roundnet Tour Series concluded in late March, due to placing 3rd at nationals in the Open Division and securing the #6 spot in the national player rankings.
Levi: Being selected to travel to London for this world championships I was very excited. After being able to attend the first world champs in 2022 I feel I am coming into this one a lot more prepared and a better sense of the competition overseas. The selection process involves a committee considering a number of factors when putting the best team forward. A main component is performance at tournaments through the season in which points are gained. Some other factors include team chemistry and who is going to further the sport for Australia so it was a huge honour to be selected.
How do you balance Roundnet training and study?
Hugo: Roundnet training and study is continually a tough balance to find as I prefer to study after a day at work, a day of classes or on the weekends, which is also when my teammates are available for group training. I've had to compromise and find times to fit in study when I can, such as on the train or in between classes throughout the day. However I've noticed that being busier is actually really helpful for study as I have no later time to get things done - I have to do it straight away!
Levi: Managing study and training for Roundnet can definitely be difficult. I sometimes find myself when I should be studying but the pulling of training with some mates is too much. Roundnet can also be a good break to take in between studying. I can find myself going to practise some serving on my own for 20 minutes and then be able to actually come back and focus on my studies again.
What are you looking forward to at the Roundnet championships?
Hugo: There are so many things I'm looking forward to at Worlds. Firstly the opportunity to compete for Australia is paramount for me, and something I've always wanted to do. Whilst the Roundnet community is relatively small, it is also international. So to meet some of the key people in the scene is super exciting and to connect in the flesh will be great, especially as Australia is so far away from Europe and North America, where the majority of the Roundnet world resides. Additionally the experience of travelling with and being part of a team is something I've missed after I stopped playing basketball and footy in the past two years, so that bonding experience that comes with team sport is something I'm looking forward to.
Levi: I definitely look forward to competing against some of the best in the world and being to see where I am at as a player. The Roundnet community has a great culture so it's always a fun time getting to play and meet new people. I have managed to make some friends overseas whilst playing so getting to see them again and of course it's a great excuse to do some travel.
Finally, any future plans after Roundnet?
Hugo: I haven't looked far enough into the future to see any plans after Roundnet - I'm hoping to help grow Roundnet with the community up to the point where it is an Olympic sport one day. And then who knows, maybe compete at the Olympics if I'm good enough!
Levi: At the moment I'm enjoying the flexibility of uni life that gives me the opportunities to compete in Roundnet. I suspect I may struggle to find the time to practise consistently enough to compete at the highest level after uni. I have always enjoyed my sport though so I doubt I will ever stop playing Roundnet in some capacity.
Team Monash wishes both Monash students the best of luck at the Roundnet World Championships in London!
