VISION
The Excellence: Elite Volleyball Program (EVP) aims to develop high-performance athletes through a holistic approach, fostering exceptional skills, strong character, and elite habits. Our program nurtures talented students to excel on the court, grow personally, and prepare for success beyond school.
Through challenging training, collaborative teamwork, and dynamic competition, students build not only volleyball expertise but also life skills, leadership, and resilience that support academic, vocational, and personal growth. EVP empowers young athletes to become well-rounded individuals, thriving both in sport and in life.
VALUES
Elite Character – We nurture honesty, respect, and inclusivity. Students learn to lead by example, make ethical choices, and positively influence others on and off the field.
Elite Competitor – We encourage excellence in both academics and sport. Students develop resilience, embrace challenges, and strive for continuous improvement.
Elite Commitment – We support long-term dedication. Students balance training, study, and wellbeing while building sustainable habits for lifelong success.
Culture & Character - We build team culture where athletes support and elevate each other while developing the integrity, resilience, and leadership that define elite character both on and off the court
Growth & Excellence - Athletes embrace challenges as opportunities, learning that excellence is built through commitment to continuous improvement in skill, mindset, and effort
Complete Development - Beyond volleyball skills, we develop mental resilience, nutritional knowledge, tactical awareness, and emotional intelligence, creating sustainable, long-term excellence in competition and preparation for life beyond sport.
PATHWAYS
A comprehensive volleyball development pathway from Year 7-12, combining high-level coaching, structured training, competitive opportunities, and holistic athlete education.
Daily curriculum classes (7-12), extra-curricular training, strength and conditioning, performance seminars, and senior athlete mentorship, all designed to develop well-rounded individuals who excel in volleyball and beyond.
Elite Coaching & Development - Access to school, state, and Olympic-level coaches. Strength and conditioning programs. Position-specific training.
Competition & Exposure - Multiple school sport events annually. Two national-level competitions per year. Direct connections to QLD Volleyball and QAS programs. Talent identification and representative pathways.
Personal Growth - Leadership and performance seminars. Nutrition education. Goal setting and feedback systems. Senior athlete mentorship. University scholarship pathway support
APPLY
Prospective students entering Year 7 can apply for the Excellence: Elite Volleyball Program by completing and submitting an Application Form
Students will also be required to attend Trials.
Trials for 2027 will commence in Term 3.
Trial Date: TBC
Time: TBC
Location: The Gap SHS Sports Hall (R Block – see map attached)
What to Wear: School sports uniform
What to Bring: Water bottle and court shoes
Trial Format
Student check-in (name badge provided and photo taken for identification).
Welcome and overview of the session.
Rotations through a circuit of activities, including:
Height and jump measurements
3.0.3 agility speed test
Fundamental volleyball skills (setting, spiking, serving)
Wrap-up and short information session.
Q&A opportunity for parents.
Resources
Students may wish to review some key volleyball skill demonstrations ahead of the trial:
Next Steps
Following the trial, results will be reviewed, and information regarding outcomes will be sent to students as soon as possible.
We look forward to welcoming students and families back for this important stage in the EVP selection process. If you have any further questions, please contact the school directly.
Come and Try Day
TGSHS Elite Volleyball Program holds Come and Try Days during the year.
Register Here
High School Transfers
coming soon.
Register Here
Partners
TGSHS EVP provides athletes with the opportunity to play both beach and indoor volleyball (competing at a state and national level) and has close working links with the following community partners:
You can learn about TGSHS Volleyball pathways from Year 5 below.
Expert Staff
Nicole Laird - Project Manager
Nicole joins us with a wealth of volleyball experience, including an under 23 World Junior Champion and Rio 2016 Olympian.
"I began playing volleyball on the sands of Manly Beach. My junior years were spent learning both disciplines of the game, where I had the opportunity to represent Australia at a junior and senior level in indoor volleyball.
I specialised in beach volleyball at the age of 18, where I went on to become an under-23 World Junior Champion and a Rio 2016 Olympian. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to represent Australia for over 14 years, where I have won medals at an Asian tour and World tour level consistently."
Andrew Maclean - Head of Player Development
As the Head of Player Development, Mr Maclean will focus on player recruitment, induction, development, accountability, term reviews, play goals and stats, conditioning, psychology and nutrition.
"I am a passionate and dedicated volleyball coach with over 15 years of experience in coaching athletes of all levels. I believe in fostering a culture of hard work, discipline, and strategy implementation. I emphasize the importance of technical proficiency, strategic thinking, and mental resilience in achieving success. My coaching approach is characterized by innovation, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I stay abreast of the latest developments in volleyball strategies, training methodologies, and sports psychology to ensure that my players receive the best possible guidance. I place great emphasis on creating a positive and supportive environment where players can thrive and realize their full potential."
Jarrod Henry - Head of Coach Development
Mr Henry will focus on coaching, recruitment, development, induction, accountability, training and PD and the 'staff as partners' program.
"With a decade of coaching experience across junior and senior teams, I bring a blend of playing and mentoring experience to the volleyball arena.
A former Queensland representative player, I dedicated over 10 years to Norths Volleyball Club as a player, coach and committee member. As a coach, my passion for the game is evident in my commitment to student development, watching them evolve into successful athletes. I blend technical expertise with a focus on teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship, aiming to inspire the next generation both on and off the court."Facilities
At The Gap State High School, our sports hall stands as a testament to our commitment to providing top-notch facilities for our students. Built in 2014, it boasts four international standard indoor courts, ensuring that our athletes have the perfect environment to hone their skills and compete at their best.
Within the hall, we've incorporated a dedicated classroom, recognising the importance of balancing academics with athletics. This allows our students to seamlessly transition from the classroom to the court without missing a beat, fostering a holistic approach to their development.
Furthermore, our purpose-built gym provides a space for students to focus on their fitness and strength training, enhancing their performance both on and off the field. And with a convenient kiosk on-site, everyone can stay fueled and refreshed during weekend practices and events.
Contact Details
If you would like further details about the Honours program please contact:
Curriculum enquiries:
Dave Moran - Head of Physical Education
Email: dmora13@eq.edu.au
General enquiries:
Nicole Laird - Project Manager Elite Volleyball Program
Email: nlair5@eq.edu.au