PROUD chairman Alex Porter has praised the energy, focus and work ethic of Tendring Volleyball Club's women's team after they were crowned Super League champions.

The side sealed top spot in the division - the cream of English volleyball - thanks to a 3-0 victory against London Orcas, on Saturday.

They now have an unassailable lead over second-placed Durham Palatinates.

And Porter says the accomplishment is the biggest in his club's 28-year history.

He also questions whether any other sports team from the district has ever achieved anything on the same scale.

"I'm so pleased for the girls and all the coaching staff," said Porter, the former Team GB captain who also managed Team GB at the 2012 European Championships.

"We spoke about our aspirations at the start of the season and the feeling from the outset was 'let's go for it'.

"We targeted top spot and said we shouldn't be scared of anyone.

"Instead, everyone else should be scared of us.

"The energy the girls have brought to the table has been amazing.

"We've got 14 players but only 12 can make the matchday roster, so it's been a real battle to make the squad and then the team. That competition has driven everyone on.

"Everyone has been so focused and worked extremely hard to make sure they achieve their goals."

All-conquering Tendring, who are rooted in Frinton but now play their home games at Essex University, have won 15 of their 16 Super League matches.

Their only defeat came early on against Durham.

"We've finished fifth for the last three years so to have won the championship is absolutely unreal," added Porter.

"Without any doubt, it's the biggest achievement in the 28-year history of Tendring Volleyball Club.

"It's massive and I'd seriously question whether any sports team from the district has ever achieved anything on this scale. Or even in Essex?

"The Super League is the biggest prize in women's volleyball - the equivalent of football's Premier League.

"That puts it in perspective and I can't praise the girls enough.

"Every time they step on a court, they aim to improve and get that little bit better.

"Everyone has bought into that mentality and they will keep striving for more.

"Now the aim will definitely be to win the league and cup next season."

Meanwhile, Tendring's men's team have two National League first division fixtures left - trips to Black Country on Saturday and Cardiff Celts on Sunday.

A 3-0 victory in either will be enough to ensure they also finish as champions.

Tendring's men team have also made it through to the National Shield final, to be played later in April.