Norrköping, Sweden – The sand sizzled, the serves flew, and the drama unfolded over three intense days as the Swedish Beach Volleyball Club Championships, now in its second edition, delivered an unforgettable spectacle. At the close of June, this highly anticipated event not only crowned national champions but also determined Sweden`s representatives for the prestigious CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2025.
Men`s Division: Slow Down Beachvolleyklubb Defends Its Throne
In the men`s category, the narrative was one of sustained dominance. Slow Down Beachvolleyklubb, already the defending champions, arrived in Norrköping with a clear intent: to reaffirm their supremacy. Their path to the final was hard-fought, leading to a much-anticipated clash against Gothenburg Beach Club, a formidable opponent boasting a deep roster of internationally experienced players and the largest beach volleyball club in Sweden. One might expect such a powerhouse club to roll over the competition, but the sand has a way of leveling the playing field.
The final was nothing short of epic, a testament to the competitive spirit of Swedish beach volleyball. After each club`s pairings secured a victory, the championship hinged on a nail-biting “golden set.” In this ultimate tie-breaker, Slow Down Beachvolleyklubb showcased remarkable composure, edging out Gothenburg BC with a decisive 15-13 score. This victory wasn`t just a repeat; it was a powerful statement, securing their second consecutive title and a coveted spot in the CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2025 preliminary phase. Clearly, slowing down is not an option when you`re at the top.
Women`s Division: Gothenburg Beach Club`s Ascendancy
The women`s final mirrored the men`s in its sheer dramatic flair, also culminating in a high-stakes “golden set.” This time, it was Gothenburg Beach Club that stood in the spotlight, aiming to dethrone the reigning champions, The Beach, a strong local club from Stockholm. The air was thick with anticipation, as both teams battled fiercely, demonstrating incredible skill, teamwork, and mental fortitude.
In a thrilling reversal of fortunes from the previous year, Gothenburg Beach Club proved to be the stronger force when it mattered most. They seized the golden set with a confident 15-11 victory, securing their first Swedish Club Championship title. This win marks a significant milestone for Gothenburg, not only claiming national glory but also earning them the right to represent Sweden in the upcoming CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2025. It seems their club`s sheer size finally translated into golden sand, a well-deserved triumph after a spectacular display of tenacity.
A Glimpse into the Future: European Ambitions
The significance of these championships extends far beyond national bragging rights. For both Slow Down Beachvolleyklubb and Gothenburg Beach Club, their victories unlock the gateway to international competition. The CEV Beach Volley European Cup offers an invaluable platform for these Swedish talents to test their mettle against Europe`s finest, gain crucial experience, and put Swedish beach volleyball firmly on the continental map.
The success of this second edition in Norrköping underscores the growing popularity and competitive depth of beach volleyball in Sweden. With packed stands and golden sets deciding the champions, the future of the sport looks brighter than ever. Fans can eagerly anticipate seeing these champions represent Sweden with pride and passion on the European stage next year.
Podium Finishers: A Celebration of Talent
Women
- 1. Gothenburg BC (Hulda Rudberg, Kaisa Wallin, Sara Malmström, Selma Robinson, Ellen Lindqvist)
- 2. The Beach (Linda Ericsson, Sanna Thurin, Sara Cavretti, Sofia Russo, Sofia Wahlén, Tina Thurin)
- 3. Kronan Volleyboll Klubb (Emilia Saxne, Sanna Madestam, Martha Edlund, Malin Hallin, Astrid Waldh)
- 3. The Beach 2 (Emilia Berg, Emmelie Viklund, Filippa Hansson, Joanna Saber, Katarina Anfelt, Lina Russo)
Men
- 1. Slow Down Beachvolleyklubb (Linus Isaksson, Theodor Grahn, Teddie Almblad Engvall, Fabian Isaksson, Axel Bondesson, Vincent Sundell)
- 2. Gothenburg BC (Alexander Annerstedt, Erik Bylund, Jakob Tegenrot, Martin Appelgren, Stefan Andreasson)
- 3. The Beach (Fabian Ramen, Markus Ohlsson, Rasmus Bodén, Manne Norman, Alfred Mjörnheim, Mårten Norman)
- 3. Sollentuna Volleyboll Klubb (Jakob Molin, Gustav Molin, Bruno Fridström, Leonel Penela, Alexander Ståhle, Oliver Saxlund)
The gripping action and vibrant atmosphere of the Swedish Beach Volleyball Club Championships were captured by photographer Johan Almblad.
