The iconic Canary Wharf skyline provided a stunning backdrop last weekend as some of the world’s best beach volleyball players gathered in London for the inaugural Queen & King of the Court (QKOTC) tournament. This exciting event, held from September 20 to 21, showcased both elite international talent and promising home-grown players, creating an electrifying atmosphere that celebrated the sport.
We caught up with Team Deep Dish players Issa Batrane and Freddie Bialokoz to get their insights on the tournament! Freddie and Issa kicked off their QKOTC journey in front of a packed audience, and the atmosphere was electric. The tournament featured a fast-paced knockout format with five duos playing simultaneously, creating an exhilarating vibe that kept the crowd on their toes.
"I think it’s the first time we’ve played an international tournament at home, and it was an incredible experience to play in front of so many familiar faces. Massive thanks to everyone who came out and supported us; you made it a success!”
Tell us a little bit about how you did!
Our start was a bit rocky; we needed to gain momentum early on, which meant we had to fight through the playoff round just to reach the semifinals. However, once we found our rhythm, we were able to advance to the final. Unfortunately, we struggled to find our groove in the final match and ended up placing fifth. While it wasn’t the result we hoped for, we learned a lot from the experience and are motivated to improve.
What was the most memorable moment or highlight of the tournament?
The highlight of the tournament for us was the overwhelming support we received from our friends, family, and fans. During Queen & King of the Court events, it’s usually tough to hear anything other than the music playing on the court. Yet, we were able to hear our supporters cheering, which was incredibly uplifting. Their energy truly made the event more memorable for us, and we’re so grateful for their presence.
What challenges did you face during the tournament?
We encountered a few challenges along the way. Our determination to compete as much as possible resulted in a long day — we started playing at 11 am and didn’t stop until the final at 5 pm! While it was exhausting, we were fortunate that the weather held up beautifully, allowing us to stay focused and energised throughout the day.
What’s next on your tournament schedule?
Looking ahead, Freddie has received a last-minute call-up to participate in the Queen & King of the Court tournament in Miami this weekend! After that, we have a busy schedule lined up, with three challenger tournaments in Southeast Asia planned for November. We’re eager to continue refining our skills and gaining experience on the international stage.
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