The British Volleyball Federation (BVF) have been sitting down with our UK Sport funded beach athletes as part of our athlete spotlight series, looking at how they got into the sport and linking with our social impact agenda to highlight and encourage the positive work they are doing. We’ll discover more about these incredible individuals, and share their fascinating stories by finding out how they fell in love with volleyball, and what their aspirations are for the future.
Daisy Mumby
Daisy started playing volleyball when she was in school. One of the best parts of being a beach volleyball athlete, in her opinion, is that she can travel around the world doing what she loves. Phot credits: Steve Smith
Today we start with Daisy Mumby, a BVF funded athlete who represented England at the last edition of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022.
Daisy, how did you start playing volleyball?
I first started playing indoor volleyball in high school, along with every other sport that was offered at my school. I then joined a more competitive team at the University of Sussex, and it was during this time that I discovered my love for beach volleyball. During my MA year I started working at the local beach volleyball venue in Brighton (Yellowave) where I had more exposure to the sport.
What is the best part of beach volleyball for you?
I love how beach volleyball has given me the opportunity to travel to some incredible locations I would potentially otherwise not think of going to. Highlights for me have been playing against home teams on centre courts across the world. I have done this in Brazil, Spain, Greece, and Italy. It always creates such a cool buzz even if the majority of fans are rooting for your opponents. On the other hand, playing at the "Bellodrome" at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham with a packed stadium is an experience I will never forget - it was incredible to have such awesome support and to truly feel like a superstar
What would you say was the greatest challenge for you in your journey so far and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I have faced in my beach volleyball career so far was qualifying for the Commonwealth Games. The selection tournament was a very stressful feat, not to mention the fact that it really came down to a matter of a handful of points in the end. We were able to overcome this challenge through focus and belief in our system of play, and truly knowing that we could trust our abilities.
What is your dream both on and outside of beach volleyball?
The dream would be Olympic qualification - as it is with any athlete! Although I would love to just keep playing and pushing my level so I can be the best player I possibly can be.
We are curious and would like to know what’s your life like outside beach volleyball. Can you tell us more about it?
I work as a freelance video editor, mostly picking up jobs in the sports media industry. This has also given me great opportunities to travel while working on lots of different sports. I have also been invited to talk in schools to help to motivate children to start playing sport - this is something I would like to do more!
What really drives you or are you passionate about?
I advocate for equality and diversity and have a particular focus on feminism, trans rights and am a keen supporter of the BLM movement. I also have an interest in the environment and how we can work together to create a more sustainable and eco-conscious world.
Any fun/interesting facts about you, your family and friends?
My stepdad has just received a CBE in recognition of his contribution to Arts, Culture and Health.
What skills have you gained thanks to your sports career?
Over the years, sport has helped me boost my self-confidence both on and off the court. It has also helped me develop skills in leadership, how to deal with pressure, and tools I can use to help reframe the way I sometimes negatively view things.
Do you do any volunteer work in your free time?
I am a guest speaker for We Are Stronger charity, which is a charity that aims at preserving the mental health and well-being of people who have been or are being bullied or who are at risk of being bullied.
I have also raised money by running half marathons/marathons for:
Thank you Daisy for taking the time to talk to us and share more about what you do! It is great to hear about it.
Phot credit: Steve Smith