Next up in our spotlight series is BVF funded athlete Anaya Evans, who has just completed her studies in the US. She represents England on the FIVB Beach Pro Tour together with Daisy Mumby. They made their debut as a pair in Dubai in October 2022.
When did you start playing volleyball?
I was first introduced to volleyball through Georgeham Primary school in North Devon, by my first coach Denise Austin. My introduction to volleyball was via Volleysport, which is a catch-throw version of the game. This was around the age of seven and I was just interested in doing as much sport as I could, I just happen to fall in love with volleyball. I also had influence from my home life as some of my family members had played or were playing volleyball too.
Anaya Evans
Some of my most cherished highlights are the people I have met and been privileged to create memories with all over the world.
What are your best highlights that volleyball has given you?
Volleyball has given me so many highlights over the years both on and off the court. Some of my most cherished highlights are the people I have met and been privileged to create memories with all over the world. The social connection in the sport is huge and I am so grateful to be a part of the volleyball community. An aspect of this highlight is sharing both the highs and lows with the people around me. This part of volleyball has helped me to form deeper relationships with my family and my friends. Another highlight has been understanding that life is to be enjoyed in the moment. It is a rollercoaster of success and learning, personal growth, friendships, family, and so much more. Appreciating life and enjoying the moment is the best highlight volleyball has given me.
Would you mind sharing what represented a challenge for you and how you have overcome it?
I think the biggest challenge for me is leaving the people I love to do what I love. Being blessed with friends around the world makes life so much better, but also makes it so much more difficult to say goodbye when I leave. Leaving my family is particularly hard, as I rarely get to see them. I overcome this challenge by being present and focusing on spending quality time with the people I love when I get to see them, even if it is briefly.
What are your aspirations in and outside of beach volleyball?
My overarching goal both as an athlete and outside of the sport is to be the best version of myself, so I can serve others and spread happiness. As an athlete I have many goals, the main one is to perform at my best more often than not whilst maintaining the best well-being possible. This is very much an internal, process goal. For external goals I would like to be an Olympic gold medallist, a consistent top 5 finisher on the world tour.
What’s your life like outside of beach volleyball training and competition?
Outside of my sport I love to stay busy by working, spending time with my family and friends, coaching when I can, and spending time outside. I love to hike and experience nature in all of its glory. I also love reading, and enjoy challenging and developing myself mentally as well as physically.
You are very ambitious, where does your drive come from?
What drives me, is me. It is the younger me who had so many dreams and goals, the me in ten years’ time doing even better than I am now. I am so grateful to have been surrounded by supportive, encouraging people that created an environment in which I could drive myself. I am passionate about excellence in every aspect of life. I am passionate about enjoying life and helping others to enjoy theirs too.
Are there any fun or interesting facts about you or your family/team?
My family is incredibly special. They are generous with their love and their time. They are all inspiring to me in their own way and I am so grateful to have them in my life.
What would you say are the skills you have gained by being an athlete?
I think some of the biggest skills being an athlete has given me are self- reflection, the ability to consistently develop positive habits, and management. I think these among so many others are one of the gifts of being an athlete. It has also taught me to cherish the moment, sport is so fun and so difficult, regardless of whether the experience was the outcome you wanted or not. So, love them while they are happening.
Are you doing any work with other organisations?
I have been honoured to work with a few amazing organisations over the years for various reasons. I would love to keep expanding my message and the message of the organisations I am associated with so please follow any of my social media platforms.
Aspire Drinks – Healthy Energy drink
Joolies Dates – Organic dates with sustainable packaging
MyEarthBreeze – Eco friendly Laundry Brand
LiquidIv – Hydration brand
Blenders eyewear – Sunglasses brand
Green Nut Butter – Superfood infused nut butter brand
BeachRat Designs – Sustainable clothing brand
Smyle – Ecofriendly Tooth care company
Clinuvel – Skincare brand
Suja – organic, non-GMO, cold pressed juices
Superhera -Sustainable sports apparel to give female athletes the freedom to perform
Grand Canyon University – the D1 school I attended and competed for
Legacy Performance Training – My performance training coach
Academy of Beach Sports – my first club
This is amazing, thank you Anaya for sharing some insights of your life with us at British Volleyball.