Meet The Team: Isabelle Tucker & Katie Keefe

In the run up to the Commonwealth Games this year, we want to shine a spotlight on the teams hoping to qualify.

We had a chat with Isabelle Tucker and Katie Keefe. These talented ladies are two of the top players in the country right now.

Isabelle Tucker

Factfile:

Position & Side: Defender/ Left side

Height: 5’9”

Date of Birth: 15/09/2004

Hometown: High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am 17 and have a younger sister, called Zoe, who plays volleyball too. Also, I am half British and half American.

When and how did you get into beach volleyball?

I started playing indoor volleyball when I was 9, but when I was 12 I tried beach to see if I enjoyed it as much as indoors. I did this by playing in the u14 and u16 Sandbanks national junior championships (in 2016)

Do you have any pre-game habits/rituals?

I usually listen to really loud, upbeat music before a match to get me pumped up and just before we share a banana (for luck!)

Of all the events you’ve played, is there a match or tournament that stands out in your mind? Why?

There have been so many memorable matches/tournaments, but the one that stands out the most has to be the Commonwealth Funding Trials. Not only because of its importance, but also as we were able to show that Katie and I remain competitive with the rest of the England Senior Players. It was a very emotional experience (in a good way of course!) 

Outside of beach volleyball, what do you do in your free time?

Other than spending most of my time at school (unfortunately), since I am in year 13, I enjoy spending time with my friends, listening to music and watching sports, like the Premier League.

Is there a coach or athlete that you look up to and why?

I wouldn’t say there is one specific coach or player: I look up to all my coaches so far as they have all acted as role models to me and inspired my love for the sport. However, if I had to pick a player, it would have to be Raisa Schoon as she is young, an excellent defender, reads the game well and is so fun to watch!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I will be finishing university in the US, and hope to play in the AVP/ FIVB Pro Tour

Is there any advice you would give to young players?

Don't be too hard on yourself and be patient when learning new skills!

Katie Keefe

Factfile:

Position & Side: Blocker, Right side

Height: 6ft

Date of Birth: 22/02/2003

Hometown: Richmond, London

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I’m 19 and from London. I have an older sister Anna. I am currently studying and playing in the US.

When and how did you get into beach volleyball?

I got into volleyball when I was 11, initially because of my sister; she tried out our local club Richmond and her and my parents convinced me to come along. While I wasn’t the biggest fan at first, it grew on me and I started playing both beach and indoor. I was lucky enough to be a part of the England program and through many really amazing coaches I was able to develop.

Do you have any pre-game habits/rituals?

I’m not very superstitious, I just like to make sure I’m in a good mindset and enjoying the whole process. Eating a banana is a definite power move for the team though.

Of all the events you’ve played, is there a match or tournament that stands out in your mind? Why?

The commonwealth funding competition was a big one for both of us, it had been tough to get properly ready due to the Covid restrictions but being able to close out that final match was a really big moment and I there were so many emotions it was really memorable.

Outside of beach volleyball, what do you do in your free time?

I currently live in Florida so I like to go to the beach whenever I can. I honestly don’t mind what I’m doing or where I’m going just as long as there are good people around me then I’m having fun.

Is there a coach or athlete that you look up to and why?

I look up to every coach and player that has helped me improve, however, I think I will join most beach athletes in the UK in saying that I look up to Denise Austin. I think she is such an amazing female role model and you can tell by the success of all the players that she has coached that she has such a massive impact on volleyball in the UK.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I want to have a degree and hopefully a masters too, have played 4 years in the NCAA and be playing at a high level. Also injury free as I’ve been working really hard to stay in a good place injury wise.

Is there any advice you would give to young players?

The advice I would give is to take every opportunity you get and go for It because you will end up with some amazing memories. Also don’t be afraid to get your ass kicked as it’s the part that will make you more motivated and help you improve.

Team Questions

Team fact file:

Club: Katie - Richmond / Isabelle - Oxford

Social media handles:

Instagram: katie__keefe / isabelletucker_

Describe your team in three words

Ambitious, Resilient, Optimistic

What would you say is your team’s super strength?

If we had to choose, it would probably be the element of unpredictability in our game

How long have you been playing together?

3 years.

What would it mean for you both to reach the Commonwealth Games?

Representing England at the Commonwealth Games would be amazing as we would have the chance to show that despite being young, we are capable too. It would reinforce that hard work pays off and would be very encouraging for the future of English Volleyball too :)

The Commonwealth Games Qualifier Tournament will commence on the 26th of May, and we can't wait to see how these talented ladies rock the court.