WHEN Alexei Khaidurov saw the email confirming his spot in Volleyball Victoria's under 14 team he felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.
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The 12-year-old is one of three Warrnambool players selected in Volleyball Victoria teams for the Australian Junior Volleyball Championships, which are set to be held in Bendigo in September.
Sisters Emma (under 16) and Hillary Hannagan (under 15) were also selected. It's the second state team selection for Hillary and third for Emma in 2021.
Emma was also picked in the School Sport Victoria under 16 side and the sisters were named in Volleyball Victoria's beach under 15 (Hillary) and 16 (Emma) teams in March.
Khaidurov said it felt good seeing his name on the under 14 team list.
"I found out on Tuesday. It was in an email that confirmed the teams," he said of how he found out.
"It felt like I achieved something. I've been playing volleyball for a couple of years not specifically to get into the state team but it's a good achievement."
The year six at St Joseph's Primary School student was introduced to the sport by his father Andrei, who has been playing it in Warrnambool for 20 years.
"I have played one season with him and we have been training together," he said of the experiences he has shared on court with his father.
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"We first started playing in the backyard and then moved to here (the Arc). It's fun and I enjoy the thrill of it."
Khaidurov, who plays in the middle like his father, said he had no big ambitions in the sport but was enjoying the chance to play for his state.
"(I'm looking forward to) playing with new people and mainly having fun (at the national championships)," he said.
"It (playing for Victoria) will help my confidence and make me more confident playing with different people and and in different areas."
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