Quicksets with Kenzie: Tips for Beach Volleyball

"People think we have coasted the last four years. We fought, we had a lot of battles. ... We've always had to battle." --Kerri Walsh, Olympic Gold Medalist

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Summer is coming soon and with it warmer temperatures. Beach volleyball season is approaching.



The following is a list of tips suggested my beach volleyball coach Stu Waite.

Only put the ball over on two if: (a) there is no other choice, (b) your partner cannot get up in time to hit and tells you to put the ball over, (c) there is a big opening, or (d) the first pass is right on the net and you can hit. Don't sway while waiting for the serve. Get the sand off the ball during warm-up hitting. Play deep and think short. Verbally communicate all the time (i.e. "I've got middle," "nice set," "one more point and switch"). Get low on defense. Don't miss two serves in a row. Scout other teams and serve to the one who can't hit or can't pass. Check the wind. If you have a choice, take the wind in your face rather than the serve. Land on two feet after a hit.. Be sure all the players are ready before a serve. In a match, you get two one-minute time outs. Use them when you're five points behind or the other team is catching up. Check the court for rocks, glass, and shells before the game. Error long instead of short on serves. Use a variety of serves (i.e. sky ball, hard overhand, float, jump). Keep your passes and sets lower in windy conditions. Good luck in the upcoming beach season!!! And remember, hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard. Kenzie Aries