Phoenix Head Coach Chris Todd Helps Aussies Secure Gold In Solomon Islands! 

The Oceania Zonal Volleyball Association (OZVA), in collaboration with the FIVB and Olympic Solidarity, proudly hosted the U18 Beach Volleyball Championships in Honiara, Solomon Islands, from 6–9 April 2025. This landmark event was delivered through the Olympic Solidarity Youth Athlete Development Programme, aimed at giving young athletes greater exposure to elite-level competition while helping grow the sport of beach volleyball across Oceania.

The tournament brought together 12 men’s and 7 women’s teams from across the region, with countries including Guam, Palau, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Australia, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea. The event served as a showcase for the next generation of beach volleyball talent in the Pacific.

Among the coaches and support staff was Phoenix Head Coach Chris Todd, who played a key role in guiding Australia’s U18 teams to impressive results. Under his leadership, the Australian men’s team claimed the gold medal, while the women’s team secured silver — a proud achievement for both teams.

Reflecting on the experience, Todd shared:

"It’s been an incredible trip — not only for the volleyball, but also for the chance to experience a completely different culture. Our teams played some outstanding volleyball, despite the hot and humid conditions, and it was amazing to see the local support grow throughout the week. The people here have been warm and welcoming, and our athletes have represented Australia with pride."

We look forward to welcoming Chris Todd back to Australia as he transitions straight into the indoor season, with our youth and junior programs kicking off soon.