At 2011 year’s outset, many wondered whether the pro beach volleyball would survive – in the wake of the once-dominating AVP tour’s bankruptcy filing in October, 2010. 
With numerous retiring athletes bowing-out due to this upheaval, coupled with the uncertainty about what pro events would be held, the hopes for an exciting beach volley ball season were clouded.
Still, as is typical in a pre-Olympics year, interest and energy once more have kept this sport alive – a comfort for the financially struggling players, the upstart tour organizers, and the dubious, yet die-hard fans.
Let’s take a look at the top memorable stories for 2011...
Beach Volleyball Trials are Ditched – USA Volleyball threw in the towel to host an Olympics Trials, a fan-friendly event that would have attracted millions of fans to the sport in the exciting run-up to the London Olympics.
Misty and Kerri Reunite – Just before this season started, the two connected, and agreed to pursue yet another gold together. While their comeback campaign had its ups and downs, they still are strong bets for the London podium.
USA Volleyball Stretches its Wings – The spartan staff within USAV’s Beach Volleyball unit sought to play a more prominent role in this sport this year. With the backing of the USAV CEO Doug Beal, the small team pursued several initiatives with the goals of better supporting and promoting the sport, at all levels.
Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame – Interest in this sport, both domestically and internationally, was stoked as soon as plans were announced to hold a combined Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame ceremony, and museum fundraiser in November.
USA USA USA! – Three top American men’s pairings, all contending for just two team spots at the London Olympics, enjoyed the podium limelight at a FIVB event in Quebec City, Canada in July.
Player Injuries – Beach volleyball is considered a relatively safe sport- after all, how much damage can you do while falling in soft sand? This year, May-Treanor, Walsh, Rogers, and Dalhausser each sustained either knee or shoulder injuries – some of which required surgery at season’s end.
Players Keep Sport Alive – Last but not least are the athletes. Despite the exodus of a several prominent players who retired in the off-season, over a hundred returned to the sport they love.
source: examiner.com
