Thomas Vesty is a Year 13 Burnside High School student who has quickly risen through the ranks of both beach and indoor volleyball, drawing from a rich family legacy of volleyball excellence. His parents played for the NZ national team, and his sister currently competes in Division 1 volleyball at the University of Iowa. Thomas’s talent and dedication have led to his selection for the U19 World Beach Volleyball Champs in Shangluo, China, following a 5th place finish at the U19 Asian Beach Volleyball Champs in Thailand. His talent and work ethic have earned him two gold medals and MVP at the NZ Inter-Provincial Champs. This grant will facilitate his participation in the U19 World Beach Volleyball Champs, enhancing his international competition experience and volleyball networking opportunities. Thomas aims to reach the round of 16 at the upcoming tournament and aspires to play Division 1 volleyball in North America while continuing to represent NZ internationally.