Representing New Zealand
Beach volleyball has taken a young Taranaki athlete around the world. Since 2015, Keegan Joe has been competing in Championships such as the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires and the Under 19 Beach Volleyball World Championships in China.
“I applied for the grant for my son, Keegan. It is very expensive to compete at this level and brings many challenges. We have spent in excess of $40k for Keegan’s sports trips over the years,” Antony Joe said.
“We are so grateful for the opportunities Keegan has had to compete on the world stage at all the major youth events against many international teams. These trips also bring friendships, life experiences and opportunities to develop as a person.”
Toi Foundation provided a grant of $1,500 to assist with the costs of Keegan’s trip to Florida for the Indoor Volleyball Championships in 2019.
“If we had to spend the time raising funds, he might have missed out on this enormous opportunity. The grant meant that he could concentrate on his studies and training rather than spending his time fundraising. He could achieve his academic as well as sporting goals, while living a balanced life as a teenager.”
“This is all thanks to the support and help he had from organisations like the Toi Foundation, Sport Taranaki Future Champions and the Cameron Clow trust who support young athletes to follow their dreams.”
Keegan is still actively competing, recently winning the Taranaki 2 Star Beach volleyball event in November 2021 and the Otago 2 Star event.
“He hopes to give back with coaching and mentoring the next group of beach volleyball athletes and helping them on their exciting journey," said Antony.
“In Taranaki, we are very fortunate to have great facilities and opportunities to help support young athletes reach their goals. The opportunities provided help them reach their potential and not miss out on following all their endeavors, both sporting and education wise.”