Elijah serves as an integral committee member at Creadaptic Volleyball Club, infusing his diverse sporting background into every aspect of his involvement.
His athletic journey started at the age of 6 with rugby and karate. In karate, he made a mark by clinching 1st place in the Queensland State Championship and setting the record for the fastest TKO, as well as 1st place at the Australian Championship and securing a spot in the national team. While competing in the Oceania Championships in Thailand, he achieved 3rd place, narrowly missing out on a victory against the world champion from Japan. Representing Australia again in the 2018 World Cup, he attained 7th place.
In rugby, he dedicated 8 years to the Beenleigh Lions before joining South Coast Rugby League from 2015 to 2019. His transition from league to rugby union saw him excel as a Firsts XV member in years 10, 11, and 12, culminating in the honour of captaining the team in his final year. In 2022, he extended his career by representing New Zealand in Oceania Pasifika, securing a 2nd place finish after a closely contested match against Fiji.
Volleyball entered his life in year 7 at Canterbury College, driven mostly by the fact that he had to participate in three sports per year to meet his scholarship conditions. Despite being primarily known as a rugby player, he quickly adapted to volleyball, eventually becoming the official setter of the team in year 8. Progressing to the Firsts XI, he led the team to an undefeated TAS season, with notable achievements in Honours State Champs and the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup.
He currently coaches the year 9 rugby and volleyball teams at Canterbury College, alongside his coaching responsibilities at the club. Additionally, he's embarked on a new role at the Gold Coast Titans as a Player, Culture, and Supporters Coordinator. This position comprises of organising all aspects of player logistics within the club, including flights, player acquisitions, support personnel for interchange, and overseeing family patrol initiatives.
As he continues to juggle coaching duties, representing CVC, and now navigating the dynamic world of the Gold Coast Titans, his journey in sports keeps evolving into new and exciting chapters. From his early days as a karate star to dominating rugby fields, and unexpectedly finding his groove in volleyball, the thrill of competition remains as exhilarating as ever for him.
Whether he's strategising on the sidelines, orchestrating player movements, or inspiring the next generation of athletes, one thing is for sure - he's always ready to tackle whatever challenge comes his way, with a grin and a spirit of a champion.
In his spare time, Elijah enjoys spending time with friends and family.
