Season's Greetings
Dec 20, 2005 On behalf of the Sydney Cedars Committee and players, we would like to thank you for supporting us and making 2005 a success on and off the court for the club.
We wish you safe and happy holidays, and all the best for 2006. Here's to making it an even bigger and better year!!!
Day 7 - Sunday, Sept. 11. Game 5 vs. Al Intilak Anfeh @ Halat
Oct 26, 2005 A few guys went to a resort in Byblos to enjoy the huge swimming pool... Edi had a 'connection' there to get us in. As it turns out most of the pool patrons were actually visitors. We then had a look around the markets and had lunch there.
After a snooze back at the hotel, the we got together for a team meeting at 9pm before heading off to what shaped up to be our toughest test to date against the Champions of Lebanon, Al Intilak Anfeh.
The atmosphere was incredible, with an air of expectation from the big crowd, anticipating a heavyweight clash between their local champion and the undefeated visitors. As it turned out, the spectacular opening ceremony, which included fireworks, dances from the local kids, speeches from distinguished guests, and even the lighting of a torch lasted longer than the match.
The visitors failed to deliver, after losing in 3 closely contested sets. It was definitely the game that got away, but was certainly within our grasp. Unfortunately, sometimes you only get one shot at it.
Cedars on top of the Hill
Aug 30, 2005 The Sydney Cedars defended their SVL title on Sunday with an emphatic 3-0 win over Baulkham Hills Volleyball (BHV), giving Joe Haddad his ninth-consecutive SVL title as head coach. This is a testament to his ability in piecing together championship-quality teams year after year, and keeping them together.
Whilst putting up a good fight in their debut finals appearance, the Cedars had too many weapons across the floor for BHV.
Both teams were desperate to stamp their authority early in the final, trading blows point for point. Then just as they did in the semi's, the Cedars' tall-timber dominated the net with some crushing blocks. Middle blockers, Tim Welsh and Nathan Lovett did most of the damage, taking the Cedars to a comfortable lead.
Things were looking good until the Cedars reached 23 points, when aggressive, flat, float serves from BHV setter, Sebastian Bibring, won a succession of points and prevented the reigning champions from using their full attack to close out the set. The Cedars eventually held on and took the early ascendency.
The second set proved much more of a battle from the start. BHV had set point in their sites, holding a 20-15 lead after a mid-set capitulation by the Cedars. After a couple of time-outs and a brief cameo appearance by veteran Edi Vukosa and youngster, James Meredith, the Cedars managed to claw their way back and close out the second set.
When the Cedars attack was in full flight, it proved too much for the BHV block. At key stages, Cedars setter, Gavin Leung orchestrated second-ball attacks, leaving Aleks Jelicic with no block on several occasions, reminiscent of the Stork/Kiraly combination of the 80's (ha, ha).
The experienced middle attack once again proved to be a handful, either making kills or keeping the BHV middle blockers at bay. The BHV outside blockers also tried to help out with stopping the Cedars middle attack. This enticed Leung to give Marcelo Grego fast sets to the right side with no blockers in sight.
Even at 2-0 down, the BHV cheer squad was still vocal in supporting their team and the Cedars were wary of their fighting spirit, which has won them so many matches during the regular season. This was spoken about in the Cedars camp at the change of ends, which made the players determined not to give their opponents a sniff of hope in the third – and they didn’t.
Tom Giese put in another solid passing performance as he has done all season. With his uncanny ability of hitting through blocks, and his newfound skill of read-blocking, Giese has proven to be the most improved player of the team, having stepped up as a starter this season.
A lot of credit must go to Andrew Simos who has worked hard with Tom on technical aspects of his game, along with Tom’s willingness to continually learn his craft – even at his age!
Also, apart from his on-court contributions, Edi Vukosa has made a big difference to the Cedars pre-season regime, introducing a greater emphasis on physical fitness. He has also shared the training responsibilities with Andrew Simos, proving to be a great combination for the benefit of the team's performances.
Credit must also go to the bench players, who have contributed a lot in the Cedars’ successful season. George Atrache, Brian Jo, James Meredith, Tony Saad have stepped up at different stages throughout the year when called upon and didn’t disappoint. Also a notable absentee from the final, Pedrag Savic, who has been a revelation this year, after a decade away from the game.
Let's hope this team can stay together for a few more years to reach it's full potential and see the juniors mature as players.
Gulf Air On-Board
Aug 5, 2005 Gulf Air has signed on as a sponsor of the Sydney Cedars. Within it's 50 year history, Gulf Air has become the national carrier of Bahrain, Abu Dhabi (UAE), and Oman - ranging from small-scale commuter service to major international airline. However, be it five or 50 destinations, seven seater planes or state-of-the-art passenger jets, two things have remained constant - their commitment to the latest aviation technology and an adherence to traditional hospitality.
Day 1 - Monday, Sept. 5
Oct 26, 2005 Coming from the cold of winter in Sydney, and after about 20 hours of travelling via Singapore and Bahrain, it was a great feeling to finally arrive in Beirut and be greeted with a beautiful sunny 32-degree day. The guys took full advantage by going straight to the beach located down the road from our hotel. It was small beach that charged a few dollars for entry, which is standard at most beaches in Lebanon.
Our first training that night was a great idea, to get rid of our 'travel legs' and blow off the cobwebs, after doing nothing physical during the long flight. We were supposed to have an outdoor training venue to get used to the conditions, but we ended up indoors - with no air-conditioning. Needless to say we had a good sweat. To make things worse Micah rolled his ankle near the end of training after his foot landed on the net support. It left the camp in a sombre mood, considering this was only day one! Micah was out of commission for the first two games, but came back in a big way.
Our spirits were lifted that night though with a dinner to welcome the team at the Manuelle restaurant, which overlooks the Mediterranean.
Day 5 - Friday, Sept. 9. Game 3 vs. US Embassy Sports Club @ US Embassy
Oct 26, 2005 After a late night and a tough 5-set victory, the guys enjoyed a well deserved sleep-in. We then headed off to do some shopping for souvenirs in the city - namely jewellery shopping for wives and girlfriends!
In the late afternoon, we headed off to the US Embassy to play against our host team. The game was like going to an invite-only party - where you're the entertainment. The crowd was small, but very distinguished - including the Australian Ambassador Stephanie Shwabsky, Australian Consulate General Tony Barlow, US Ambassador Mr Feltman, and Gulf-Air representatives.
Security was very tight as expected, taking about 45 minutes for us to actually walk through the gates - only to enter the court which has imposing watchtowers looking down on it with soldiers standing guard. It was quite an experience to play in such surroundings.
The game itself was tough also. We won in 4 very tough sets, with some pretty good hitters on their team.
Day 3 - Saturday, Sept. 7
Oct 26, 2005 Met with the Lebanese Minister for Sport, Mr Ahmad Fatfat in his Beirut office. Had a photo taken with the Minister, along with the General Manager of Ministry of Sport in Lebanon, Mr Zeid Khyami, which appeared in the newspapers.
It was then off for a drive up the mountains to visit the Barouk Cedars National Forest. We were lucky enough to be guided through the forest by Mr Osmat Kerbage and General Makhle who provided an insight into the forestation and conservation of one of their national treasures - the Cedar tree.
Another great lunch was had up in the mountains, and then it was time to head back for a light training session outdoors in Safra.
The team was then invited to dinner at the Army Officers Club, hosted by the Army Volleyball Club officials.
Mate against Mate in SVL Final
Aug 26, 2005 Cedars v Baulkham Hills (SVL Final)
This time last year, Robert Gaspersic and Sebastian Bibring were helping the Cedars win their 8th consecutive SVL title. This year, they will be trying to stop them winning their ninth.
As central figures of the newly-formed Baulkham Hills Volleyball Club, they have done an admirable job in leading their team to the Final in their debut season. With a 3-2 victory in their semi-final against the top of the table, Sydney North, they have proven that this young team can fight when under pressure. The recruitment of a couple of SVL veterans in Frank Uso and Sean Paki also hasn't done them any harm.
The 2005 SVL Final shapes up to be an interesting battle between the babies of the League and the well-established statesmen. Only time will tell if youthful exuberance can overcome experience.
Come to Sydney Olympic Park Sports Hall this Sunday, August 28 to see for yourself. Action starts at 2pm.
Day 8 - Monday, Sept. 12. Game 6 vs. Nejmeh Sarafand @ Jinsnaya
Oct 26, 2005 The guys had a free day, lunch at our hotel before jumping in the bus for a 2-hour trip to Jinsnaya, the venue for our final game of the tour against the Champion team of the South - Nejmeh Sarafand. Along the way we stopped off at the Australian Lebanese House, where food and drinks were put on for us.
It was a pleasure to play in Jinsnaya as the people of the town were so appreciative of the volleyball and so friendly towards us. We spent about 2 hours after the game talking with the locals and enjoying the great food they prepared, including Knafeh, which is a traditional Lebanese sweet.
We also won the game 3-0, but it was a fun game in a tight enclosure with spectators even sitting on the roof of the building attached to the court.
Thank you to Mr Hicham Nicholas, the President of Jinsnaya Volleyball Club, John Ibrahim who organised the event. Also a special mention to Mr Mustafa Harbi for his contributions to the sport of volleyball in the area.
Cedars send UTS back to school
Aug 22, 2005 Cedars 3-0 UTS (SVL Semi-Final)
It was evident right from the start the Cedars meant business yesterday in their quest for a ninth-straight SVL title. Before the warm-up balls were even packed away, the Cedars jumped out to a 6-1 lead in the first set of their semi final against UTS.
Tough serving by captain, Aleks Jelicic and an imposing block across the front row set the tone early. The Cedars' middle attack of Pedrag Savic and Tim Welsh also made their presence felt, seemingly taking the UTS middle blockers wherever they went. This left Marcelo Grego single blocks on the right side to fire at will - which he did.
The Cedars seemed to have used up too much petrol from the first set, with UTS taking an early lead in the second. More tough serving and a committed defensive effort lead by libero, Andrew Simos saw off the valiant challenge put up by the students.
The intensity shown by the Cedars yesterday was something that has been missing all year. It also signals the team's intent, not just to win - but to dominate at the business end of the season. Coach Joe Haddad was pleased with the performance of all his players, but has kept his eyes on the big prize. He will no doubt remind his chargers this week that there is still some work to be done.
The Cedars will now face Baulkham Hills in the Final, after they defeated first-placed Sydney North in their semi-final, 3-2.
All the action starts at 2pm, this Sunday August 28, at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Hall. Come and see the finale to what has been one of the closest SVL seasons ever!
SVL Semi-Showdown with UTS
Aug 16, 2005 This weekend's semi-final between the Cedars and UTS is shaping up to be the clash of the season. The ledger is squared at 1-1 this season - both matches going to five sets, with the eventual loser being 2 points away from winning the fifth set on both occasions. Apart from a spot in the final, both teams will be desperate to claim bragging rights for season 2005.
The surprise packet of 2005 has been Sydney North who have finished on top of the table after consistent good form throughout the season. They will face another surprise packet of the season, fourth-placed Baulkham Hills in the other Semi.
For a day of exciting semi-final action, come out to the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Hall at 1pm, this Sunday, August 21 and watch the best indoor volleyball in Sydney.
Lebanon 2005 - Tour Diary
Oct 26, 2005 Below is a daily account of our time in Lebanon. Hopefully, along with the photos in the Gallery, we can give you an idea of the amazing experiences this trip has given all the players.
Day 9 - Tuesday, Sept. 13
Oct 26, 2005 The guys enjoyed a free day either shopping or at the beach. Then it was off to our farewell dinner at the beautiful Merrylands Hotel, located in the mountains of Bikfaya. A big thank you must be extended to our hosts for the evening, Mr Emile and Mrs Najat Kortbawi for making it such an enjoyable night.
The next day we flew out - bidding Lebanon farewell...until next time.
Once again, thank you to the people of Lebanon who met along our travels for their generosity, kindness and friendship. We look forward to seeing you again!
Day 6 - Saturday, Sept. 10. Game 4 vs. Lebanese Army @ Safra
Oct 26, 2005 We visited the tomb of the recently deceased Saint Rafqa of Lebanon.
After a long bus ride up in the mountains, we were hosted to yet another huge banquet for lunch.
Game 4 was against the Lebanese Army Club, which we defeated in straight sets. A scrappy sort of match, which may have been due to spending so much time in the bus that day...no excuses though.
Good Start in 2005 for New-Look Cedars
Aug 5, 2005 With the departure of long-serving captain, Matthew Perry heading off to Singapore and starting outside hitter, Ibrahim taking a year off volleyball, 2005 was always going to prove to be a tough year for the Cedars. Introducing new players to the club & promoting Junior Cedars to the Senior team was always going to take some time for the revamped team to gel.
Surprisingly, under the new captaincy of Aleksandar Jelicic, the Cedars got off to a flying start for season 2005, cleaning up in the pre-season tournaments.
Having been the bridesmaid the previous two years, the team finally broke the curse down in Wollongong with a tournament victory. This good form was then carried over to Newcastle. With a near faultless performance, the Cedars went through to the final undefeated before winning the final in straight sets. Both tournaments saw the team experiment with numerous line-up changes, which made the results very encouraging for the upcoming SVL season.
Day 2 - Tuesday, Sept. 6. Game 1 vs. "Combined North" @ Kouspa
Oct 26, 2005 A press conference was organised by the US Embassy Club at the Lebanon Press Club in Beirut. Both teams attended.
Whilst in Beirut, we paid a visit to one of our major sponsors, Gulf Air. We would like to thank Mr Yacoob Al-Hajiri, General Manager of Gulf Air in Lebanon for his time and support for the Cedars.
Also in Beirut is the Australian Embassy, where we met with the Australian Ambassador to Lebanon, Ms Stephanie Shwabsky and Consulate General, Mr Tony Barlow.
Our first game of the tour was high up in the hills of Kouspa, where we played an "All-Star team" comprising of the best players in the North. Being the first outdoor game ever at this level for the tour rookies, I think we were more nervous about the elements, rather than the game itself. There was the concrete playing surface, the low lights positioned just above the antennae from the setter's perspective, and most noticeably was the wind factor. A background in beach volleyball paid dividends in these conditions, especially playing up in the hills. There was definitely a 'good' and 'bad' end to play at, with both teams losing their first set at the 'bad' end.
It was pleasing to get through the first match with a victory under our belts, winning 3-1. It was our first taste of things to come.
Day 4 - Thursday, Sept. 8. Game 2 vs. Kalamoun @ Habbouche
Oct 26, 2005 The team was given the great honour of meeting the Catholic Maronite Patriarch of the Middle East & Antioch. Each team member was personally presented with a badge as a souvenir from the Patriarch. He was very generous with his time and seemed to very friendly. We had a picture taken with him that ended up in the newspapers. It was then off to see the Lady of Lebanon, which is located at the top of the mountain that overlooks our hotel.
Game 2 was in Habbouche - 2 and a half hour drive south, close to the Israeli border. The trip was broken up with a food stop at a kebab store on the street.
Once we arrived to the venue, it was crazy. People were everywhere and we had to be escorted to what appeared to be a teacher's lounge at the school.
This was by far the most memorable game of the tour in terms of atmosphere. Apart from a massive crowd of screaming locals sitting just two metres away from where you serve, they had a court announcer with the PA system turned up loud, commenting during and after every point for the entire 5 sets! It was impossible to hear the guy next to you on the court. Then during time-outs, loud music added to the mix. The fact that the match was so close and went the distance just fuelled the atmosphere into something never experienced back home.
We ended getting on top with a 3-2 victory, but it could have easily gone either way. By the end of it, we were all spent - nothing left in the tank. Although we did have enough energy to spend some time with the locals who offered us a midnight feed. They also presented us each with a special gift of chickpeas from the local area...a concern for customs, but much appreciated nonetheless. We would like to thank all the locals who made the event such a memorable one and also the Mayor, Club President, and Local Minister for attending the game.
Cedars arrive home safely from Lebanon tour
Oct 26, 2005 On behalf of the players, a big thank you to Joe Haddad for all of his hard work making this trip possible. He certainly made it an enjoyable & memorable experience for all of us. Thanks Joe!
Also, thank you to all the support crew, who were a great help and great company.
Check out some photos from the tour by clicking on the Gallery.
CONGRATULATIONS SYDNEY CEDARS......2005 SVL CHAMPIONS!!!
Aug 31, 2005 Sydney Cedars 3 - 0 Baulkham Hills Volleyball
Played on Sunday, 28th August 2005 @ Sydney Olympic Park Sports Hall
A Big Thanks to our Sponsors
Aug 5, 2005 The Sydney Cedars Sports Club would like to thank all of their sponsors for their continued support over the years. Bankstown Sports Club, Gulf Air, Arab Bank, Elgas, Unigas, Statewide Office Equipment, & Aleksandar Design Group have all been great contributors in making the Club a great success - not only on the volleyball court, but also in it's community activities. The Club sincerely wishes you all the very best. Here's to another successful year!