A former Llangattock resident has helped the UK claim an international title after winning the Nations Cup footvolley tournament in the USA.

Daine Morris and his playing partner Mikey Elias represented the UK at the four-day event in Ocean City, Maryland from July 30 to August 2, competing against national teams from the USA, Brazil, Spain, Argentina and Mexico.

The pair went on to win the tournament, adding to a successful year which has already seen them secure victories in European rounds of the sport.

Footvolley is a sport combining elements of football and beach volleyball. Players use their feet, head and body to return a football over a net, with hands and arms not allowed. Teams can use up to three touches before returning the ball. The sport originated in Brazil and has grown in popularity across Europe and worldwide.

Daine was born in Merthyr Tydfil and lived in Llangattock during the earlier part of his life before moving with his parents to Tenerife. He has now lived on the island for more than 20 years, although his grandmother still lives in Crickhowell and he returns to visit her several times a year, often between tournaments

Speaking to US local news station WMDT ahead of the competition, Daine encouraged people to come and watch the sport. “It doesn’t matter if you’ve never seen it before, come down to watch because it’s spectacular, even if you don’t understand the rules at the beginning you’ll enjoy it,” he said. “It’s a really spectacular sport.”

Reflecting on competing in Ocean City for the first time, he added: “It’s really amazing. It’s like something you see from the films - it’s really nice to be here.”

The Nations Cup featured international teams battling for the championship title, with the event free for spectators.