NSW Phoenix Stars Jake & Pascal Return to the South Coast for Super League 2025!

Volleyball NSW is proud to spotlight two of our NSW Phoenix athletes—Jake Lewkowicz and Pascal Eckermann—as they prepare to take the court in front of their home crowd on the South Coast this weekend.

The upcoming Australian Volleyball Super League match between NSW Phoenix and Adelaide Storm marks a special moment for these two standout players, both of whom have deep roots in the Illawarra and South Coast volleyball communities.

Jake Lewkowicz: Setter, Leader, Local Champion

Jake Lewkowicz is a seasoned setter who has been a key figure in NSW volleyball for years. After moving to Wollongong in 2019, Jake quickly became a central part of the Illawarra Volleyball Association (IVA), where he found not just a team, but a family.

“Playing in front of a NSW home crowd is already such a privilege, and getting the chance to do it right here in my home region of the Illawarra makes it even more exciting,” Jake shared. “I’m honoured to be part of such a huge moment for regional volleyball.”- Jake Lewkowicz

Jake’s standout memory from the region? The 2022 SVL season, where IVA clinched their first-ever Premier Division title, ending UTS’s decade-long reign. It was a landmark victory for regional volleyball and a testament to the talent emerging from outside the metro centres.

“It was a huge moment for regional volleyball competing against the top Sydney clubs, and an incredible experience to be a part of.”- Jake Lewkowicz

Jake’s journey has been shaped by the support of the South Coast community, which welcomed him with open arms and helped him grow both on and off the court.

“The Illawarra and South Coast volleyball communities are truly all about the love of the game and making everyone feel welcome.”- Jake Lewkowicz

Pascal Eckermann: Universal Player, Community Builder

Pascal Eckermann plays as a Middle Blocker for the NSW Phoenix—bringing versatility and power to the Phoenix lineup. His volleyball journey has been deeply intertwined with the Illawarra Volleyball Club, which he credits as a cornerstone of his personal and athletic development.

“The club has provided me with a strong sense of community and purpose. Through IVA, I’ve formed many of my closest friendships and grown both as a volleyball player and as a person.”- Pascal Eckermann

Pascal is passionate about growing the sport locally and nationally, and sees this match as a chance to inspire the next generation.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to show the highest level of competition volleyball available in Australia to our local community. It’s a sport I truly love and want to see grow.” - Pascal Eckermann

His advice to young athletes?

“Give it a go and don’t be discouraged by the initial learning curve. Volleyball is special—it demands teamwork and individual skill, and becomes increasingly enjoyable as you improve.” - Pascal Eckermann

A Homecoming for the South Coast

This weekend’s match is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of the South Coast’s vibrant volleyball community and the pathways that have helped athletes like Jake and Pascal rise to the national stage.

NSW Phoenix vs Adelaide Storm

🏐 Womens Match 2pm

🏐 Mens Match 3:30pm

📍 Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre

📅 Date: 11th Oct 2025

🎟️ Tickets

Come down and support your local heroes as NSW Phoenix brings elite volleyball action to the South Coast. Let’s pack the stands and show the nation what regional volleyball is all about!