Volleyball women’s training base in city assured ahead of 2012 Olympics

The Great Britain women’s volleyball team, which already trains in the city, has now been provided with the accommodation, hospitality, training facilities and medical support they need to train for the Games.

Head coach Audrey Cooper said: “Sheffield is such a great city with sporting facilities which really are second to none, and we are thrilled that the team can stay and train here.

“We know we’ll have the very best chance of success at London 2012 with the preparation and fantastic backing we have here.”

Following the reduction in British Volleyball’s funding, the women’s training facility was in danger of shutting down in Sheffield.

Despite having their Olympic places confirmed by the British Olympic Association earlier this year, this would have left their plans to compete in jeopardy.

Coun Helen Mirfin-Boukouris, Sheffield Council’s cabinet member for business, said: “We were determined to do everything in our power to keep the GB Women’s Volleyball team in Sheffield, and I am very happy that we’ve been successful.

“Sheffield Council is absolutely committed to bringing every possible benefit to the city in the lead- up to the London 2012 Olympic Games, and this is another great example of Sheffield’s outstanding sporting facilities and generous community delivering results.”

Facilities used by the team will include the English Institute of Sport, Claremont Hospital and All Saints’ School.