Student athlete graduates from club captain to Essex Rebels head coach

An international athlete who began his volleyball career as a University of Essex undergraduate has graduated from club captain to become the new Head Coach of the Rebels.

Scotland stalwart Euan Fraser, 24, will lead the men’s team after playing professionally overseas and captaining the Essex Rebels for four seasons.

Euan, who has run out for his nation 25 times – including four as captain, has built an impressive sporting CV since joining Essex as a Sport and Exercise Science undergraduate in 2019.

It’s a remarkable story of progression through the full Essex pathway, reflecting both his dedication and the development opportunities within the University of Essex and Rebels programme.

Whilst studying for a Masters in Sport and Exercise Psychology and Management he grew from student athlete into a team leader.

His experience extends beyond the UK, having played professionally in Belgium, where he gained invaluable international experience at a high level of competition.

At the Rebels, Euan has been recognised as Super League Player of the Month, selected twice for the Super League Team of the Month, and recently led the student Blades side to victory as the 2025 BUCS National Champion, having also been a three-time BUCS national finalist.

Now, Euan takes the next step in his volleyball journey as he transitions into coaching, stepping into the role of Head Coach while continuing to contribute on court as a player-coach for the Essex Rebels Men’s Volleyball team.

He said: “It’s a huge honour to be stepping into this new role with the Rebels.

“This programme has been a huge part of my life and I am excited to have a similar positive impact on the next generation of athletes and lead this team to new heights”

Diana Voynova, General Manager of the Essex Rebels, shared her excitement for Euan’s appointment:

“We’re absolutely delighted to have Euan stepping into the role of Head Coach.

“His experience as a player and his understanding of the programme make him the perfect person to guide the team through this next phase.

We’re very excited to see what the future holds under his leadership.”

Euan’s appointment comes after Daryl Tay was appointed during the off-season and was set to replace long-term Head Coach Alex Porter.

After some further reflection, Daryl decided that the role wasn’t the right opportunity for him.

The Rebels thank Daryl for his professionalism during the process and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.