VB Soul Magazine—Vol.1 No1 by The NVL

PREMIER ISSUE!

Volume 1, Number 1 • Fall 2014

HERE TO STAY The NVL is Redefining The Massive Potential of Beach Volleyball

ALSO INSIDE: NVL’s Groundbreaking Beach Volleyball Academy Junior Beach National Championship Global Challenge Results Day in the Life of a Pro

TOUR REPORTS: Canadians Play Texas Hold’em Acing It in Atlanta Wet ‘n’ Wild in Ohio Racing to a Title at the Milwaukee Mile

PLAYER PROFILES:

DREW MALLIN:

His Unwaivering Passion For The Game

KAROLINA SOWALA: A Dominating Force On Tour This Season

FALL 2014 • $4.95 US • $6.95 CAN

FEATURED FRAME NVL Champion Austin Rester enjoys going through the tunnel of young fans on his way to center court before the finals.

Table of Contents THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Volume 1, Number 1 • Fall 2014

www.TheNVL.com

Publisher’s Letter

In The Sand

Welcome to VB Soul Magazine.

A message from NVL’s Co-Founder Molly Menard.

NVL News

Juniors Report

Interview: Danalee Corso

Profile: Karolina Sowala

Catch up on the latest in NVL and beach volleyball trends.

The NVL interviews two of the youngest rising stars in beach volleyball.

Head Sand Coach Danalee Corso talks about what she looks for in an athlete and building FSU into one of NCAA’s top programs.

#1 Player Karolina “Kaya” Sowala has found The NVL to be a great platform to showcase her talents.

Tour Report: Texas

Profile: Drew Mallin

Tour Report: Atlanta

Tour Report: Ohio

NVL kicks off 2014 with a new Saturday Night Lights format.

Drew Mallin talks about his decision to play on the NVL tour and his dedication to the sport.

NVL partners with Sinjin Smith to host the first-ever pro beach volleyball tournament at LakePoint Sporting Community.

Returning to The Beach Waterpark to serve up beach volleyball, waterslides, and more. THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Tour Report: Milwaukee

NVL Club Med Academy

Top 16 NVL Teams

NVL introduces beach volleyball to motorsports fans at the historic Milwaukee Mile race track

Quickly becoming the hub for sand volleyball in the U.S.

Check out the players dominating the 2014 season

On The Cover Superstar Karolina “Kaya” Sowala takes the volleyball world by storm. Photo: Marc Serota, for the NVL

22 VB Soul Magazine

PUBLISHER’S DESK PRE MIE R ISSUE!

HERE TO STAY The NVL is Rede fining The Massive Potential of Beach Volleyball

The Official Publication of the National Volleyball League

Volume 1, Number 1 • Fall 2014

Volume One, Number 1 • Fall 2014

ALSO INSID E:

NVL’s Groundbreaking Beach Volleyball Academy

Junior Beach National Championship Global Challenge Results Day in the Life of a Pro

TOUR REPO RTS:

Welcome To

Canadians Play Texas Hold’em Acing It in Atlan ta Wet ‘n’ Wild in Ohio Racing to a Title at the Milwaukee Mile PLAYER PROFILES:

DREW MALLIN:

His Unwaivering Passion For The Game

KAROLINA SOWALA:

A Dominating Force On Tour This Season FALL 2014 • $4.95 US • $6.95 CAN

VB Soul Magazine

elcome to VB Soul, the official NVL magazine. This is an exciting step forward for me personally as it has long been a dream of mine to publish a volleyball magazine in support of the sport and the NVL mission. As a former professional player for 18 years, when I retired from competition, I formed the NVL in 2010 as a way to give something back to the sport and culture I had enjoyed so much. Being able to provide stories and news that players and fans want to see has long been part of that vision and seeing it finally come to fruition is extremely gratifying. VB Soul will tell the story of the NVL from a player’s perspective. It will explain and cover the inner workings of the league as we continue to build an organization that is sustainable and exciting to be a part of, whether you’re 4

VB Soul Magazine

a professional star, an aspiring up-andcomer, a recreational player or an eager young participant just starting out. VB Soul will have something for all players of all ages. Our amazing athletes will be sharing their experience and expertise in these pages, giving readers insider information and tips about the road to success through nutrition, training, technique and more. From its inception four years ago, I realized it was going to take a lot of hard work to make NVL a name everyone would recognize and embrace. The league had to be a platform for growing the sport at every level. With the NVL professional tour, we knew we could utilize our athletes’ talents to maximize exposure and leverage it to build our grassroots programs. The connection with fans has always been the strength of our Volleyball Vacations fantasy camp trips around the world. On these vacations, top players from the past and present spend a week at a beautiful resort location with fans from around the world. This connection translates to the courts at NVL events, as hundreds of fans not only cheer for their pro athlete friends but typically host them while they are competing in their home towns. The NVL’s PlayFIT Foundation was created in 2010 to grow the game around the U.S. NVL players travel across the country to coach free clinics to children from underserved communities and introduce these young kids to the game we all love. Sports equipment is donated for the kids to continue being

PUBLISHER Albert “AL-B” Hannemannn

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beth Miller / PRO Sports Communications bmiller@prosportscomm.com

ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Mark Hancock / SDA Creative, Inc. markh@sdacreative.com

SALES & MARKETING Brian Polark brian@thenvl.com

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Marc Serota marcserota@aol.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Todd Fox todd@theblueridgecanopyadventure.com Josh Churbz jchurbz@gmail.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS Daryl Rodriguez daryl@thenvl.com

DESIGN SERVICES SDA Creative, Inc. www.sdacreative.com

VB Soul Magazine is published by the National Volleyball League. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Address all correspondence to the National Volleyball League, 3074 NW Stoney Creek Avenue, Jensen Beach, FL 34957. THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF THE

THE COLOR YOU CRAVETHE PROTECTION YOU NEED速

PUBLISHER’S DESK

“I feel very fortunate to be able to follow my dream and create something very special that players, fans, and sponsors have embraced while building the culture of beach volleyball.”

Above: AL-B poses with all the winners of the Texas junior championship event. Right: Daughter Maia made dad proud with a thrilling come from behind win to take the 14U title at the inaugural Junior Global Challenge.

active and college scholarships are awarded to help these student athletes continue their academic dreams. This year, as we’re firmly established, we launched the NVL&ROX Beach Series to help grow the sport at the junior and amateur levels. Adding yet another element to our program, we partnered with Club Med to create the NVL Club Med Academy in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. It is the only beach volleyball academy in the US and only all-inclusive resort in North America. Young athletes have the opportunity to go to school and be simultaneously immersed in an all-encompassing training program with top coaches, trainers, sport psychologists with the focus on developing these young athletes to find their full potential on and off the courts. This year we introduced “Saturday Night Lights,” a competition format that has been part of my longtime vision to connect professionals and fans, while adding the element of music to the volleyball lifestyle. Moving men’s and women’s finals to Saturday Night, we created a unique experience to allow everyone to enjoy the final competitions and have the opportunity to stick around for a fun beach party with live music while interacting with their favorite pro players. Californian Kelley 6

VB Soul Magazine

James, a talented musician with deep roots in beach and volleyball culture, became the official “voice of the NVL” and wrote the league’s official theme song “Champion” which has become very popular with fans. Admittedly, it has been a challenging, daunting and sometimes almost overwhelming summer. We not only blazed new trails with our platform and programs, we signed up over 5,000 juniors in a three-month period, ensuring a bright future for the growth of the sport for years to come. Of course, my family and I have a deep personal

interest in making sure that happens. My own 13-year-old daughter, Maia, is a promising young player that is attending the NVL Club Med Academy and I want to do everything I can to see to it that there is a clear path for her, and other young athletes like her, that ultimately leads to a professional career in the sport just like the one I myself enjoyed. I’m honored and blown away by all the support I’ve had throughout my career and now in this exciting adventure with the NVL. I feel very fortunate to be able to follow my dream and create something very special that players, fans, and sponsors have embraced while building the culture of beach volleyball. Nothing makes me more proud then to be able to build this for the players by the players and offer a league where they can follow their dreams and compete at every level. And as that kind of good news happens, you’ll be reading about it here, in the pages of VB Soul. Meantime, enjoy—and Grow the Game!

Albert “AL-B” Hannemannn NVL Co-founder & CEO

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

The Soul Of Beach Vol eyball

PROFESSIONAL

BEACH SCHEDULE

2014

MAY 22ND – 24TH

Dallas, TX (SNL Format)

JUNE 12TH – 14TH

Atlanta, GA (SNL Format)

JULY 10TH – 12TH

Cincinnati, OH (SNL Format)

AUGUST 15TH – 17TH

Milwaukee, WI

SEPTEMBER 19TH – 21ST

Hermosa Beach, CA

OCTOBER 3RD – 4TH

Port St Lucie, FL

La Playa Volley Ranch Beach Club

LakePoint Sporting Community

The Beach Waterpark

Milwaukee Indyfest

Hermosa Beach Pier

Club Med Sandpiper Bay

www.theNVL.com

IN THE SAND

How Does Volleyball Drive YOU?

am so excited to present to you the inaugural issue of VB Soul! If you are reading this, I know we have one thing in common... our love of volleyball! Beach volleyball is a passionate and addicting sport that drives us all to want more. We are excited to tell the story about volleyball from a player’s perspective as the NVL was built by players for all players. This has been such an amazing journey for me, ever since I left the corporate world to pursue my dream of creating a sustainable tour where we can help to develop the sport at every level and grow the game like it has never been done before. Through all of the highs and lows, volleyball has been the constant force in my life. It drives me to better everyday — to be the best player I can be, and to create a tour that allows everyone to follow their heart and play for the pure love of the game. I am so thankful for what this sport has done for me. I want to hear from you! How does volleyball drive you? How does it get you through the tough days and how does it make you a better person? Hit me on my Twitter account and let me know how volleyball drives you: @menardbeachvb Thanks again for your support and for believing in what we have built here at the NVL.

“We are excited to tell the story about Molly Menard NVL Co-founder and CFO

VB Soul Magazine

volleyball from a player’s perspective as the NVL was built by players for all players.” THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

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TRENDING NEWS NVL’s Molly Menard Talks With espnW About Her Role as Player and Executive In a June 2014 interview, espnW examined Molly Menard’s unique dual role as both a professional beach volleyball player and CFO of the NVL noting that it’s one she’s wholly qualified for. Menard is a former University of Wisconsin-Eau Clare standout and gets to scratch her competitive itch in NVL tournaments, while also putting to good use her business acumen, gained from years working in private equity.

fter working for her family business, Menard’s, the home-improvement retailer founded by her father, Menard moved to Indianapolis to work for a private equity fund for four years but still dreamed of playing volleyball professionally. “I realized I really missed it,” she said. “So I started playing in a rec league. And sort of serendipitously and fortuitously, I ended up meeting my current business partner, AL-B, [Albert Hannemannn] when he came to do a kids clinic at the courts I always played at.” Hannemannn, an 18-year veteran beach player, was in the initial stages of founding a new professional beach volleyball league after the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) went bankrupt in 2010. “We started talking and he told me about how he wanted to change the sport and create a league for

the players, by the players, and fill in where the AVP had just left a giant, giant hole,” Menard said. “I think he knew I was somebody passionate enough to do this,” Menard explained. “Like any entrepreneurs you have to be a little bit crazy to go 120% into something that has the potential to fail. He knew that I was willing to work hard at it and fill in the spots that he wasn’t able to. He’s great at the sales and the marketing piece, but I have the experience in private equity to mold the business plan and put the financial models together to make it successful.” With practices four days a week and one day a week for tournament play or heavy scrimmaging, Menard is often found taking conference calls while stretching on a yoga mat to make both roles work. “It’s basically like having two full time jobs,” she said. (Menard is still on the Board of Directors

Meet the ‘Voice of the NVL’: Recording Artist Kelley James 10

VB Soul Magazine

and the Investment Committee for Menard’s, so let’s make it three jobs.) “You have to be really good at time management.” Four years after the NVL began, Menard is working toward better balance — and the league is close to finding balance as well. “We’re really excited to finally break even this year,” Menard said. “The big goal is to be profitable and find the support all around that we can be sustainable for the next 20-30 years. We don’t want to be something that loses a ton of money, gets bankrupt and then gets bought.

It’s kind of a vicious cycle that is attached to other leagues. We just wanna build the sport and make sure our tour is never put in a position where it all of a sudden folds.” The NVL is focused on the growth of volleyball at the youth, high school and college levels. By building an infrastructure and a pipeline for young players, allowing NVL pros to play in tournaments outside the league and offering them coaching opportunities within it, the NVL hopes to create long-term sustainability.

rock music at NVL events across the country. “As someone who grew up around the beach, I love the sport and lifestyle of beach volleyball and love what the NVL is doing to bring fans the best of both,” said James. “I wanted to capture the spirit of the game in the league’s official song and help spread this culture through the partnership of music and sports.” Drawing from rock, pop, and the beachside vibes of his home state of California, James seamlessly combines acoustic guitar melodies with freestyle vocal riffs to create a signature sound that fans and fol-

uilding on the NVL’s new tagline, The Soul of Beach Volleyball, the league wanted to take an extra step and provide fans with another way to connect with the sport and beach lifestyle. The NVL teamed up with Southern California singer/songwriter Kelley James to be the official “voice” of the league. A diverse artist known for his clever freestyle lyrics, James wrote a theme song for the NVL called ‘Champion’ which embodies the beach culture and the players’ passion for the game. James performs the theme song and his mash-up sound of pop, hip-hop, reggae, and

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Day In The Life Of A Pro:

CHARA HARRIS M

y days of volleyball started indoor during 7th grade. It was just another sport that my friends were playing that I never knew would become such a big part of my life. I played volleyball at Grand Valley State University, where I helped lead my team to three Elite Eight appearances and earned three consecutive years of All-Region and First Team Academic All-American Honors. Upon graduating with a degree in education and a BA in Biology and French, I moved to Florida and began my career as a Biology teacher. It wasn’t until 2006 that my husband encouraged and brought me out to the beach that I made the transition from indoor to outdoor. After a few years of playing on the local tours in Florida, I took my first stab at qualifying for the AVP, before the NVL came into existence. The rest is history. I have been playing professional beach volleyball while teaching ever since and loving every minute of it, well almost every minute of it! Like every other athlete, I play because I love to compete and I love the game. Plus, it is a great way to stay in shape, travel, and meet great people but it’s never easy. Although it may look like we have our cake and eat it too, it is work. 5:30 am: A typical day starts at 5:30 am with me playing Hawaiian or easy-going music from Pandora to help set an attitude of gratitude and peace while I make kale smoothies, take my multivitamin,

lowers have grown to recognize and love. Most recently, James released his newest full-length album The Pattern Transcending which debuted in October of 2013 and reached the top 20 on the iTunes Singer/ Songwriter charts. With a career spanning five years, three albums, and multiple international tours, he has proven himself as an accomplished artist both in-studio and on the road. www.kelleyjames.com Twitter: @YourBoyKJ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ kelleyjames

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

and eat a breakfast that will get me through to lunch. Eggs, avocado, banana & peanut butter, protein smoothies, and a secret ricotta mixture are among my favorite breakfast items (not all together of course). 7:15 am – 2:45 pm: I leave to go teach high school students a subject that most kids dislike! 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm: After school finishes, another set of chores and responsibilities begin. On the way home from work, I stop at either Trader Joe’s, Costco or Publix to pick up whatever I need for dinner and for lunches the following day. 3:30 pm: When I get home, I walk and run my dog and cat; yes, the cat walks and runs. 4:15 pm: Then, I work out in the weight room and/or training for volleyball at the beach. I try to lift three times a week and change the style of lifting based on the time of year and type of volleyball training I am doing. This helps me also to not get bored with lifting weights. On days that I train for volleyball, I try and recommend primarily working on passing and setting towards the beginning of the week and transition into game-like scenarios as the week progresses. At the end of practices or whenever I can fit it in, I try to do sprints and plyometrics twice a week to keep my fast twitch

Chara (center) joined the rare elite class of champions last year when she won the NVL Ohio Midwest Championships.

muscles working and because I love the way I feel when I am done with an intense work-out. 7:00 pm: Upon returning home, my husband and I will cook a meal that consists mostly of lean protein and lots of vegetables. The darker green veggies are our favorites and the healthiest, but variety is key. We try to make enough to have leftovers for lunch the next day. Then, we try to clean up the mess we just made in the kitchen, and I finish any lesson planning or grading papers that need to be done. Bedtime varies based on how long dinner and lesson planning takes, but I try to wrap things up by 10:30 or 11pm. The most challenging part of the day is making quality time for my husband and reading a little from an inspirational or motivational book, like “Train Your Brain, Engage Your Heart, Transform Your Life” by Amit Sood, without falling asleep first. It never seems like there is enough time, and when I finally stop at the

end of day I am often out of gas. However, it is essential to make time for those we love! There you have it; a day in the life of Chara Harris!

Kale Smoothie

Recipe for 2 people/glasses:

Put the following in a Magic Bullet or high speed blender until smooth: 2 giant handfuls of kale (without the stalk) or green or your choice (spinach, power greens…) 1 small granny smith apple cut and cored (leave skin on for fiber and nutrients but wash outside before cutting) 1 kiwi with ends trimmed (leave most of the skin on, don’t want the tough parts on the ends) 1-2 cups of water (until a thicker juice consistency that you like and prefer) Optional: 4-5 slices of cucumber Optional: 2 Tablespoons of orange juice to make it sweeter Optional: 1/4 of a banana to make it creamier and sweeter Optional: Part of an avocado to make it creamier and to get the Omega fatty acids Note: Feel free to experiment with different veggies and fruits to meet your palate

Champion (NVL Theme Song) Everyone’s got a shot at greatness, no contracts holding back Built by the players for all players, keep the game we love intact This is the soul of beach, the life that we believe So go and grab a seat to watch the magic of your team You know it when the red, white and blue comes to town Good vibes raining down, listen to the crowd The game we play is the game we grow and know And we’ll achieve what we want to be Number one to me is every dream The time has come I’m a champion Winning any way I can Better believe it all

I’m that and more Victory is the only plan Oh yeah, I’m a champion Oh yeah, I’m gonna leave it all in the sand Rockets rain from the sky, I dig down deep in my heart Do or don’t there is no try, be the role don’t play the part Many days I’ve strayed away from the place where greatness is made Thought I’d find it, in time, but got lost and realized it’s in my mind And sometimes I need a second to step back Under the lights, all of the eyes, a deep breath Focus my energy to the task at hand Come with me and experience the sand

VB Soul Magazine

NVL JUNIOR NEWS

Junior Profiles W

e asked a couple of our top junior players to weigh in on a few questions pertaining to the progress and development of their skillset for sand volleyball, and where they intend to go with it. Here’s what they had to say…

Jillienne Cangelosi 1. When did you start playing volleyball? And how did you get interested in the sport or did someone inspire you to start playing? Jillienne Cangelosi: I started playing volleyball when I was 8 years old. I am now 14 and have been playing beach for six years. Watching my sister, Jordan, play volleyball inspired me to start playing. When I started playing indoor, I wanted to be a setter because you always got to touch the ball! When I started playing beach my partner and I had to play in 16U because there weren’t any kids my age playing. We would always lose in the finals because we were so little and tired. We finally started winning tournaments the next year! I stopped playing indoor club last year and am focusing on training beach year round. I love beach because it is much more laid back, also because you have to push yourself to cover a lot more court. But one of my favorite things about beach is that you don’t have to be the hardest hitter or tallest player, you just have to love the game and use a lot of strategy. Clay Messenger: I started playing indoor volleyball in 6th grade. My older brother, Tyler, also played when he was in middle school and I always went to watch him so I knew I would want to play when I got into middle school. In 8th grade, when middle school volleyball season was wrapping up, I knew I wanted to continue to play when I went to high school, and unfortunately, our county

VB Soul Magazine

does not have a boys volleyball program in high school, so I joined a volleyball club called Jacksonville Junior Volleyball Association. It was that Spring that my indoor coach, Rob Holley, introduced us to beach volleyball. I knew then that BV would be a lifetime sport for me.

2. What do you like about indoor and beach? Do you play both? CM: One of the things I really like about beach volleyball is that since I live in Florida, it is a year-round sport for me. December through February are a little cooler and not as many tournaments are going on, but I still play with friends during those months. However, March through November there is a tournament every weekend somewhere in the state of Florida. Another thing I like about BV is that you only have your partner and yourself on the court, so there is a lot less room for error. As a defender, I love digging the ball and knowing I have control of that play. As for indoor, I’m an Outside, so when I go back indoor, I can jump so much higher and move much faster on the court because of my training on the beach.

3. What is something that makes you unique or that you take pride in? JC: Something that makes me unique is that I’m only 14 and already playing Women’s Open. This has been my first season playing Women’s Open with my sister. By playing Open I have learned that being successful isn’t about winning games or tournaments, it’s more

“I would love to play in the NVL pro tour. My dream is to play internationally, go to the Olympics and bring home the Gold like Misty May.” —Jillienne Cangelosi about getting better as a player and a partner.

have an Official Homeless Pet Club called ‘PB & Jilli’.

Something else that makes me unique that is not volleyball related is that I am really involved in animal rescue. I volunteer at my local shelter and I foster dogs until they find homes. I really love pit bulls and

CM: I think something that makes me unique is my dedication to the sport and my work ethic. I know when I get out on the court that it is game time and nothing else matters. I take pride in the fact that I have

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Clay Messenger “I take pride in the fact that I have been able to grow tremendously in the sport already and I’m able to compete at higher levels than my age group.” —Clay Messenger play with, and what did you like best about the event?

been able to grow tremendously in the sport already and I’m able to compete at higher levels than my age group.

4. What kind of music do you like it or do you have a favorite song that fired you up before you play? JC: I like pop music and country, my sister and I always listen to pop music on the way to tournaments. My favorite song to get pumped up to is ‘Young Homie What You Trippin On’ by Chris Rene. It has a really good message. CM: From day to day I listen to pop and country, but when I am about to play out on the court, pop really pumps me up. Some of my favorite songs are Trumpets by Jason Derülo, Am I Wrong by Nico & Vinz, and I’m Ready by AJR.

5. Where has been your favorite place/tournament to play and why? JC: I don’t know that I have a favorite tournament or place to play.

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

I love to play anywhere, anytime! I like my local tournaments (FCVA) because I see all of my friends and grew up playing here. I loved playing in the NVL&ROX Global Challenge because it was my first junior tournament of the season, I got to play with an awesome new partner (Maia Hannemann) and we won the 14U division, and I won Queen of the Beach! I like playing in the Dig the Beach series because I know all of the crew and like hanging out with them. SSOVA in Clearwater this year is also special because it was the first time I played Women’s Open with my sister. CM: St. Augustine is my favorite place to play because it’s my hometown and whenever I play there all of my family and friends are able to come to support me and hang out.

6. Did you play in the NVL&ROX Beach Series Junior Championship Global Challenge at the NVL Club Med Academy in Florida? How did you do, who did you

JC: I did play in the NVL&ROX Global Challenge. I met my partner, Maia on Thursday night and we played one scrimmage game together. The next day we played really well together, we just clicked right away. After 8 games we came out of pool play ranked first, even though I pulled a muscle in my quad and Maia injured her back. The best part of the tournament was when we won the final point in the third set of the championship match! After fighting through the heat, injuries and fatigue, it was great to be named champions of the inaugural event that had so many tough teams attending. The whole experience was awesome staying at Club Med…the food was amazing! CM: Yes, I played with Noah Beane… We came in first place in the Boys 18U division. One of the best parts about the event was that I was able to attend the 4 day camp prior to the tournament at Club Med. I was coached by some great beach volleyball players/pros including Brooke Niles, Matt Heath, and Michelle Meyer. Also, another highlight was that on the last day of the tournament, I was able to scrimmage with Pro Player, Nick Lucena.

7. What are your aspirations for playing in college – what would be your top schools and why?

JC: I definitely want to play in college, but I’m not sure where yet. I would love to go to the University of Florida because I grew up in Gainesville and they have a new Forensic Veterinary Medicine program, but they don’t have a sand program yet. I am a freshman in high school so I am just starting to

look into sand programs and the academic programs they offer. CM: I would love to play in college! I hope by the time that I am in college they will have some beach teams. I would also want to play indoor if given the opportunity. I will be starting 10th grade this year, so I don’t know where yet, but I am definitely wanting to play.

8. Do you have dreams of being on the NVL Pro tour one day and playing in the Olympics?

JC: Yes! I would love to play in the NVL pro tour. My dream is to play internationally, go to the Olympics and bring home the Gold like Misty May. CM: Absolutely! That is definitely my goal! I believe if I work hard enough I will get there.

9. Any advice for other juniors looking to get into the sport?

JC: My advice to other juniors is to always push yourself. If you win your division all the time, go ahead and play up a division. If you play tougher opponents you might not win, but you will become a better player. You should also try to play with different partners. I have played with 19 different partners over 6 years. I always learn something new every time a play with someone new, even if it is just for one tournament. CM: Yes, I would tell them that it’s a really fun sport and if you want to start playing just grab some friends and go out and play. I would also let them know to help out their game, to watch videos and play up in divisions. VB Soul Magazine

INTERVIEW Seminoles’ Coach

Danalee Corso By Paul Holmes

Head coach of the women’s sand volleyball program for Florida State University, she is the first such full-time coach in the nation. And FSU is the first school to develop a full program, establishing it as an early dominant force in the collegiate game. Corso herself played on the pro beach tour for 11 years and coached at the professional level for six years. She was the head coach for the US Junior National Beach Team for boys and girls as well as one of the coaches of the Women’s US National Beach Team. With a résumé like that, we had to find out more from her.

Beach volleyball is growing fast with the addition of the collegiate game three years ago. How do you see the future unfolding and will we see more schools in landlocked states adding the sport? “I think typically what happens with the NCAA emergent sports is that once it becomes a championship sport, which is going to happen 2015-2016, everybody jumps aboard. So there’s going to be a flood of schools jumping in and that includes schools not on the coast. It’s a bit trickier in cold climates, but softball and baseball are played outside in cold climates so while there are challenges in those places it’s still definitely possible.” What sparked your interest in beach volleyball that lead to your desire to coach the game? “I started in Hawaii where I grew up. My sister was a top player there although I’d been playing tennis. I fell 14

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in love with volleyball because it’s a team sport, whereas tennis is more of a solo sport. I played indoor and sand in Hawaii and fell in love with them both. I played in college at Loyola Marymount and every summer I’d play beach. As an athlete, I loved to play both disciplines. Coaching began when I started out on the pro tour, right out of college, and I taught an adult recreational class in beach volleyball in 1994 and during my entire pro career I did that on the side as a way to make a little extra money. I enjoyed it and I enjoyed seeing people progress. It was easy for me and I thought I was good at it, but I never really thought I’d be a professional coach and definitely wasn’t thinking about being a college coach. I didn’t think a position like this would be available for years, and when it came up I was caught a little unawares because I didn’t realize how much gravitas FSU had in sports. It was my husband who told me what a powerhouse it is. As soon as I started interviewing here, I knew this is what I wanted to do and

where I wanted to be. I knew I could be successful here and it’s been proven because they’ve helped me do everything possible to support the program. It’s been a great move for us, my husband and best friend is my assistant coach and in fact we both applied for the job to try to maximize our chances. It feels very entrepreneurial because it is an emergent sport and we are developing not just a program but the sport. It’s interesting and very exciting.” What qualities and attributes do you look for in the the recruiting process? “Well, obviously, I’m looking for athletic ability, but we also we need people who have the resources to develop in sand during the offseason. Typically those are places that have sand volleyball junior programs or coastal areas, so that they have background and they’re not learning the sport when they come to our school. Then there’s the kind of personality we’re looking for: problem-solver, super-competitive, that kind of thing.” THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

“Well, obviously, I’m looking for athletic ability, but we also need people who have the resources to develop in sand during the offseason.” Which current players do you see having the most impact in the sport long-term and why? “Jace Pardon has been our top player for the past three years. She’s been All-American for the past two years and she’s playing on the junior national beach team. She took a silver medal at the World Championships under-21 this summer and is at the at World University Games as we speak. So she definitely has the athletic ability and the support to play on the pro tour, no doubt. Also we had an All-American indoor player, Fatma Yildirim, who just finished three seasons of sand volley-

ball with us, along with four seasons of indoor, and she went back to her country this summer and won every professional beach event in Turkey and was MVP each time. Nobody there even knew she played beach volleyball! We feel we have a program that will turn out professionals and I want people who have lofty goals, who want to play in the Olympics and want to play professionally, because that’s the currency we work with here.” During your own professional career, what location was your favorite place to play?

“Probably Gstaad, Switzerland. They have an amazing event there each year. It’s really first class. Gstaad is gorgeous in the summer, so green and so beautiful. But everywhere in Europe is great. I love it over there.” What did you think about your visit to Club Med and the new NVL Club Med Academy? “My family really enjoyed staying at Club Med during the Global Challenge event. They have created an amazing facility that is very unique in the United States. I am looking forward to going back.”

WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR AFFILIATES AND ATHLETES FOR A GREAT 2014 SEASON!

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PLAYER PROFILE

Kaya

“

”

Karolina Sowala By Paul Holmes

tatuesque and blond, Karolina Sowala fits the stereotype of a California beach girl, and if you knew she was a top-ranked NVL player, you might jump to the conclusion that she was from Hermosa Beach or Santa Monica. But you’d be wrong. Way wrong. “Kaya” as she’s known to her friends is from the historic city of Lodz in Poland and about 250 miles away from the nearest beach—on the Baltic Sea! So how does a 26-year-old woman from Poland become the top-rated female player in NVL rankings in America? “I came to the States four years ago,” she explains. “I finished my bachelor’s degree in Poland when I was 23, and I played FIVB [Fédération Internationale de Volleyball] for three years there and was on the Polish national team. It was my job, my whole life.” It may come as a surprise to many people in the U.S. that indoor volleyball is a big deal in Poland, but its national team is among the very best in the world and, says Sowala, “Beach volleyball is growing really fast. We had a men’s team at the Olympic Games in London in 2012 and we have a women’s team now also, but they’re still young and they need more time to grow.” It’s a long way from the cobblestone streets and grand old buildings THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Kaya was crowned the lone champion at last years Las Vegas “Best of the NVL” event proving that she is the #1 player on The NVL.

of Lodz to the shores of Crooked Lake and Babson Park, Florida, although that was the intercontinental leap Sowala took when she enrolled at Webber International University to pursue a Masters degree in Sports Business Management. But she brought her love of volleyball, and her game. “Before I came here I talked to the head coach at WIU,” she says. “I arrived on a Wednesday and the next Saturday I played my first tournament.” Of course, there were big adjust-

ments necessary for Sowala in moving to the U.S. “It was hard to deal with the change coming from Poland,” she says, “even things like the weather are so different. And the style of playing here is very different; it’s more strict or rigid over there. Here it’s more loose, people try different things, they adapt to play better together.” Sowala says it was almost natural that she’d become involved in sports in some capacity. Her father was a professional soccer player and she was a competitive swimmer for five years before finding her passion for volleyball. “I always had people around me to encourage me and show me how to do things,” she says. So how did she decide to study Sports Business Management? “I wanted to do something connected with sports, but not Physical Education or coaching,” she explains. “I thought the subject would be challenging. I’m almost done and I’m very happy. When I came here I didn’t even know if I could play volleyball here at the highest level, so it was great to have this chance with NVL. I played a qualifier in 2012 for AVP in Cincinnati, but the next year they wouldn’t let me play because I’m not a U.S. citizen and I’m here on a student visa. But then I found out about NVL VB Soul Magazine

KAROLINA “KAYA” SOWALA

“It was hard to deal with the change coming from Poland. Even things like the weather are so different.”

Clockwise from above: Always focused on the court, Sowala makes a perfect pass to Pri to set up the kill. Sowala digs deep to save the point at the Ohio Championships held in July. Sowala and Piantadosi-Lima get their first title of the 2014 season at the Texas Championships in May.

and they gave me an opportunity to play and that was a big thing for me.” That said, she still also plays college tournaments on her school’s team. “For the last three months I’ve been playing a tournament every weekend,” she adds. Sponsored by ROX Volleyball and provided with their “awesome bathing suits,” Sowala enjoys the company’s support with travel, hotels, and per THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

diems for tournaments. She also has a nutrition sponsor with Theresa Buede. “We started that partnership last year” she says, adding that Buede advises her on her diet and supplies her with vitamins and supplements. “I’m trying to eat healthier between tournaments so that when I play, I’m ready. I love food,” she adds, laughing, “and left to myself I’d eat everything. So now I’m trying to eat more greens and more vegetables and trying to avoid sweets and chocolate and things like that.” In NVL tournaments, Sowala partners with Brazil-born Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima, who honed her game on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Lima is some nine years older than Sowala and began playing as a 15-year-old, so she has a wealth of experience. “She’s a great partner and a great coach,” says Sowala. “I didn’t really have a coach when I first came here so when we started playing together she told me a lot of things and

changed my technique so we played better together. Sometimes she can be hard on me: she can be very demanding; she knows how she wants to make the game. But she’s awesome and we’re going to finish this season together and then talk about the future.” As far as training is concerned, Sowala says it’s all volleyball, all the time: “I practice on my own a little bit and of course I practice with my school team. But when school is out, I practice with three friends who are all men, so that’s helpful because the net is higher and they’re very competitive, so it’s good experience for me. I also spend as much time as I can with Priscilla so we can practice together.” Sowala says she has not yet decided what she will do after she finishes her degree. “I’m thinking about that over the next two or three months,” she says. “Because I’m on a student visa I can’t work permanently in the States but I can have one year to get some experience so I’ll be applying for some jobs for that, maybe as director of a sports club. Or I may go back to Europe and open my own club based on what they are doing here for kids. But I’m not sure. I’m just trying to find my way to what I want to do. Right now, I’m just staying focused on playing. Last season we finished second, so this year we want to win. That’s all I’m really thinking about right now.” VB Soul Magazine

Clockwise from above (this page): Priscilla “PRI” Lima (left) and Karolina “KAYA” Sowala (right) were all smiles going undefeated and winning their first tournament together. Dalida Vernier had many crowd pleasing digs. Dave Palm led the weekend in blocking but couldn’t slow down Canadian Sam Schachter in the finals.

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TOURNAMENT REPORT

Canadians Play Texas Hold ’Em

he 2014 Pro Beach Tour kicked off in Coppell, Texas in May, with pros competing for a prize purse of $25,000. Canadians and 2014 Olympian Josh Binstock and Sam Schachter claimed their second consecutive title at the Texas Championships. Binstock and Schachter were the number two seed in the tournament defeating Drew Mallin and Dave Palm 21-17 and 21-19. The women’s crown went to Pri PiantadosiLima (BRA) and Karolina Sowala (POL). Third-seeded Piantadosi-Lima and Sowala defeated top seeds Jessica Stubinsky and Dalida Vernier 21-18 and 21-8. The three-day tournament was held at La Playa Volley Ranch Bea lex that features 24 sand courts and is the largest facility in the state. Pro, amateur and a sold out junior competition ran all weekend, along with a first-ever four-person costume challenge. Furthering the NVL’s mission of “Growing the Game,” the weekend concluded on Sunday with a clinic for kids hosted by the pros with an autograph session and BBQ. The tournament marked the debut of the NVL’s “Saturday Night Lights” format, featuring Saturday night finals followed by a beach party with live music from the official “Voice of the NVL,” Kelley James. A California native and a diverse musical artist, James signed a two-year contract with the league to perform at NVL events throughout the upcoming seasons and develop a theme song that embodies the beach culture and players’ passion for the game.

Clockwise from top (this page): Olympian Mark Williams joined wife Michelle in supporting and competing in The NVL. 2014 Collegiate Champion and Texas local Sophie Asprey made the locals proud with a strong finish in her pro debut. The Junior players were excited to play in the finals in front of big crowds on center court and live broadcasted to thousands of fans worldwide. Locals Carols Beltran and Bobby Jones get fired up after a big 5th place finish. 2014 Olympian Josh Binstock and partner Sam Schachter celebrate their victory with some junior players.

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PLAYER PROFILE

MAL

DREW Nobody should doubt Drew Mallin’s enthusiasm for his chosen sport. He peppers his conversation about it with words such as “passion,” “love” and “awesome.” Mallin has good reason to be so upbeat: at the recent Midwest Championships in Ohio, he and his partner, Dave Palm vindicated their second-seed status to reach the finals—a result which propelled them to the top of the NVL rankings. At 27 years old, from Boca Raton, Florida, Mallin is a lean 6’ 3” and 185 lbs. He first got into beach volleyball at Merritt Park when he was 18 after a little bit of experience playing indoor volleyball in high school. “I was never any good in high school because I was rather short,” he says. “Suddenly, when I was 18, I started growing and the game got way more fun!” Over the past five-plus years, Mallin has taken part in a broad range of tournaments and tours but recently made a commitment to make his mark primarily with the NVL. “I got into the AVP and I did sign a contract,” he explains, “but about a week before the first tournament I was to play in, I had a situation with AVP that required me to make a big decision. It turned out to be one of the better decisions I ever made in my life, and I switched to the NVL. Opportunity, finance, growing myself mentally and physically, and preparing myself for my beach volleyball future were all attractions for me,” he adds. “I think I can grow my game and my career better and more securely with the NVL.” That commitment, says Mallin, is all consuming. “Volleyball takes everything I have and I love it. I love it physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritu22

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LLIN

By Paul Holmes

Mallin and partner Dave Palm have reached the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s semi-finals in three of four NVL tournaments this season.

The PlayFIT Foundation’s mission is to enhance the lives of young people across the United States by teaching the importance of proper nutrition and physical fitness. PlayFIT’s team of professional athletes and health and nutrition experts will deliver this message through the use of sports and recreational activities like volleyball, as well as their personal experiences. PlayFIT will offer this program in under served communities giving kids the ability to increase their self-esteem and skill sets needed to create a better quality of life.

See how you can help grow the game! Check us out on facebook!

Donate now at https://playfit.webconnex.com/PlayFITdonations Find out more on www.thenvl.com/playfit-foundation/ PlayFit Foundation, Inc. (“PlayFIT”) is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation that has retained council to obtain tax exemption status as a public charity under section 501(c)3 of the federal tax code. Although approval cannot be guaranteed, contributions made to PlayFIT during the interim period while its application is pending but prior to receipt of an IRS Letter of Determination would qualify as tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law.

DREW MALLIN

“Volleyball takes everything I have and I love it—physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually.”

Above: Mallin goes up for the spike in his signature Superman shirt which makes an appearance at every tournament. Right: A young fan high-fives Mallin at the pro autograph session held on center court at the Ohio Championships.

ally. I love competing and meeting new people. I love the fact that I can’t do it on my own and that I am meeting people who are willing to help out. Complete strangers offer their homes to us, and it’s an amazing experience in life. Definitely one day I’ll be wanting to give back to other athletes who will be doing exactly what I’m doing now.” While Mallin has seen success on the sand and made a few thousand dollars in prize money, it is not yet enough to make a full-time living from the game. Mallin works as a volleyball coach and he has another gig at Brewzzy, a microbrewery and restaurant with two locations in South Florida. “So when I’m not playing volleyball,” Mallin jokes, “I’m a beer salesman!” That Mallin has a keen sense of humor is evident. Asked for something “unusual” about himself, he ponders for a moment and then quips, “Oh, I like to juice!”— before quickly adding that he doesn’t mean steroids. “I have a great little juicer and I like to throw all kinds of fruits and veggies in there and make delicious juices. I’m not a vegan or anything like that, but I definitely take into account my nutrition. I think that a good 90-percent of what can make an athlete succeed, look good, feel good, get all the body parts working together, is a good diet.” Mallin is deadly serious, though, about his diet and training and he takes pains to get good advice about both. THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

“I go to the gym a bunch and there’s a company here called Gravity & Oxygen and Paul Christopher, who runs it, is kind of like a personal trainer for me. I mean I do it myself, but if I have any questions or special needs, I talk to him. He’s helped me out with some decisions that have been awesome for my body and my career. I also have a coach, Mike Morales, who’d been with me a long time through some tough times and some good times, too. It’s a good professional relationship.” Another quality professional relationship is clear in his partnership with Dave Palm, with whom he’s been playing this season. Palm too has a sense of humor, describing himself in his NVL profile as: “Master in the art of napping. Competitive board game player. Lover of all dogs. And a serious addiction to pizza.” “Dave and I have known each other for a good little while,” says Mallin. “He lives in the same town as me, and we’ve been in the same training group now for about four years. So we train every week, three times a week, and we train in the offseason together. We’ve sacrificed a lot together, worked out a bunch of stuff and it’s a pretty cool partnership. Sure, we get on each other’s nerves

sometimes, but it’s pretty special, pretty awesome, we do well together.” So, when not competing or training or coaching, what does Mallin do for fun? “I play volleyball!” he says, chuckling. “I love being at the beach. And I like having down time at home. It’s a lot of stress, physically and mentally, playing competitive volleyball, and then there’s all the traveling, booking flights, getting to and from airports, staying in hotels and all of that. So, when I get some time at home I really love just being able to kick back, relax and recover. That’s important, too.” Still, Mallin is mindful that he has more to do in developing his career. “I’m not sponsored at the moment,” he admits. “That’s something I have to work on. I remember when AL-B was playing, he always looked like a NASCAR driver, with logos all over him! I’ve talked to him about my situation and he’s been giving me some pointers about what I need to do, how I have to present myself, basically talking to complete strangers and letting them know what I’m all about. It’s just a matter of getting out there and doing it.” Given Mallin’s obvious passion for the sport, that seems like something eminently achievable. VB Soul Magazine

TOURNAMENT REPORT

Acing It in Atlanta

aking home back-to-back titles, Canadians Josh Binstock and Sam Schachter and Pri Piantadosi-Lima (BRA) and Karolina Sowala (POL) were crowned winners at the NVL 2014 Atlanta Championships in June. Top seed Binstock and Schachter defeated seven-seed Travis Schoonover and Andrew Russell 21-18, 20-22, 15-11. Number two seed Piantadosi-Lima and Sowala defeated three-seeded Erin Gray and Heather Lowe 21-14, 21-17. The players competed for a $25,000 purse. The NVL brought the first-ever pro beach volleyball tournament to LakePoint Sporting Community, a premier sports destination just north of metro Atlanta. In a joint venture announced earlier this year, LakePoint Sporting Community partnered with Olympian, World Champion and Hall of Famer, Sinjin Smith and his company Rally Volleyball. The NVL tournament was held in conjunction with Atlanta-based Angry Dragon Volleyball, whose annual Dragon Slayer grass tournament was also held at the same venue. Over 500 grass teams enjoyed the NVL’s “Saturday Night Lights” championship matches and the official voice of the NVL, Kelley James, took the stage again for a Saturday Night Lights musical performance during a fun beach party on center court. Juniors played alongside the pros all weekend with Elle & Rylee McDaniel taking the 12U title, and Eden Landwemeyer

& Rachel Poovey winning the 14U title and winning open division bids to the NVL&ROX Beach Series Junior Championship Global Challenge at Club Med in Florida. Juniors and young fans also had an opportunity to meet their favorite pro players and get autographs, in addition to winning NVL, ROX Volleyball and Australian Gold giveaways.

Clockwise from above (this page): NVL Champion Heather Lowe was fired up and almost pulled off a big upset in the finals with partner Erin Gray. NVL Pros and the legendary Sinjin Smith celebrated and took pictures after every junior championship match that was broadcasted live on thenvl.com. The voice of The NVL Kelley James had the crowd rocking. AL-B with Hall of Fame Atlanta Braves coach Bobby Cox enjoyed the matches. Another happy fan with an autograph card full of NVL Pros signatures.

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Clockwise from above (this page): Erin Gray sneaks one past Kaya in the finals. Michelle Williams and Molly Menard finish with a strong 5th place finish. Andrew Russell and Travis Schoonover had the crowd fired up but barely fell short in their first final in a heart breaking 3rd game loss. Sam and Josh win back-to-back victories making the Canadians a dominant force on the tour this season. Victoria Altomara was a fluid defender and made it tough to side out against her all weekend.

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TOURNAMENT REPORT

Wet ‘n’ Wild in Ohio

urrounded by sand and waterslides, Americans Brooke Niles and Jessica Stubinski upset the defending women’s champions Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima (BRA) and Karolina Sowala (POL) to claim victory at the Midwest Championships in Cincinnati July 10-12 at The Beach Waterpark. Niles and Stubinski, the tournament’s three seed, treated the crowd to a thrilling final match and won 17-21, 21-19, 17-15. In men’s action, the ninth seeded pair of Matt Henderson (USA) & Piotr Marciniak (POL) claimed the men’s title, defeating second seeded Drew Mallin and Dave Palm 21-15, 21-15. Players competed for a $50,000 prize purse. On Saturday, several NVL players hosted the free NVL&ROX Beach Series Midwest PlayFit Junior Clinic where kids had an opportunity to get coached by the pros and get autographs from their favorite players. NVL partners, ROX Volleyball, Mikasa and Australian Gold, gave away cool items throughout the weekend including tote bags, sunglasses, ice/ hot packs, volleyballs, suntan lotion and more. After the men’s and women’s finals were over, players and fans took over for a volleyball game on center court, while Kelley James performed his acoustic guitar melodies and clever freestyle lyrics on stage. This was the second year the NVL hosted the Midwest Championships at The Beach Waterpark and saw an amazing crowd turnout. Fans—and even players!—enjoyed the chance to catch a few matches and then head over to the waterslides and wave pool to cool off.

Clockwise from top (this page): Matt Henderson hammered balls all weekend to his first victory. Between matches, KAYA enjoyed the great rides at The Beach Waterpark. Piotr and Matt celebrate after a decisive victory. Dave Palm barely snuck this hard hit past Piotr Marciniak in the finals.

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Clockwise from top (this page): Jessica Stubinski knew how to celebrate with partner Brooke Niles after game point for her first victory in what was the best match of the year. Dave Palm and the Pros took time in between matches to sign autographs for the fans. Chelsea Hayes got her best finish with a 3rd place and proved to everyone why she is the top rookie on the NVL tour this year.

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Clockwise from above (this page): Milwaukee champions Mike Placek, Pri Lima, Kaya Sowala, and Austin Rester dominated their competition. Austin Rester seemed to keep going up all weekend to an altitude rarely seen on the beach. The crowdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reaction to a great play in the finals. Chara Harris still looking to get into a final this year. Mike Placek earned his first title with solid passing and scrappy defense.

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TOURNAMENT REPORT

Racing to a Title at the Milwaukee Mile

s IndyCars zoomed by on the racetrack, NVL pro players battled it out on the infield to compete for a tournament win at the 2014 Milwaukee Championships. The NVL continued its founding tradition of partnering with existing lifestyle events to hold its 4th pro stop of the 2014 season at the ABC Supply Co. Inc. Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest. Seven-seed, Americans Mike Placek & Austin Rester claimed the men’s title in an upset over one-seed Drew Mallin and Dave Palm, 21-12, 21-14. One-seed Priscilla Piantadosi-Lima (BRA) & Karolina Sowala (POL) reclaimed their women’s title defeating threeseed Brooke Niles and Jessica Stubinski, 21-13, 21-11. Partnering with Milwaukee IndyFest and Andretti Sports Marketing presented an exciting opportunity for the NVL to bring beach volleyball to motor sports fans who may not

have been previously exposed to this exhilarating game. The weekend offered attendees a variety of fun activities, including high-level volleyball competition, a concert, sponsor giveaways and a junior’s clinic taught by NVL pros, which underscores the NVL mission of growing the sport at the grassroots level. The Milwaukee Championships were held from August 15 - 17 with the league’s top qualifying players competing for a $25,000 prize purse. The tournament qualifiers kicked off on Friday at New Berlin Ale House which features eight sand courts, and then moved to the historic Milwaukee Mile located on the grounds of the Wisconsin State Fair Park with matches played on Saturday and Sunday. Music artist Kelley James, the official voice of the NVL, took to the stage Saturday night performing his fun, freestyle melodies.

Clockwise from above (this page): Eric Zahn crushing the ball past Ryan Vandenburg. Kaya Sowala and Molly Menard pose in front of an IndyCar on center court with champion IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe. Australian Gold Sun Care giving away sunblock at a center court promotion.

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THE FIRST EV NVL Opens The Only Beach Volleyball Academy

n September 2013, NVL partnered with Club Med Academies (CMA) to create the first-ever beach volleyball academy in the United States. The NVL Club Med Academy twelvecourt premium facility is located at Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie, Florida and hosts high performance training, seminars and accreditations, junior championships and showcase events, collegiate competitions, and NVL and international professional events. The facility is quickly becoming the hub for sand volleyball in the U.S. and a place where both domestic and international 32

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players can compete and train to be the best in the world. Athletes have access to all of Club Medâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amenities including nutritionists, trainers, coaches, sports psychologists and teachers for part and full time school. 18 year pro player and US Open Champion, AL-B Hannemannn, has worked with Club Med for over 20 years with his successful and popular Volleyball Vacations all over the world. Hannemannn founded the NVL in 2010 with a focus on developing athletes at all levels and providing a platform to showcase their talents and grow

the sport through camps and clinics across the country. The NVL Club Med Academy partnership is having a tremendous, positive impact on the sport by developing young volleyball athletes mentally and physically into the future stars of the sport. Hannemannn believes this will open up a lot of opportunities for young athletes to follow and achieve their dreams and find their full potential in becoming the best volleyball player they can possibly be. Club Med Vice President of Operations Kevin Batt said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We at Club Med feel that what Mr. Hannemannn THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Junior Champs Crowned at NVL&ROX Junior Beach National Championship Global Challenge

VER in the USA

and the National Volleyball League have created is a perfect fit for our brand and with their focus on the grassroots of the sport and particularly with the junior athletes this academy is going to be a huge success.” CMA creator and managing director, Greg Breunich, has over 30 years of experience and developed, managed, and operated IMG Academies and with his team have developed hundreds of champion athletes. Greg stated, “When I was approached by AL-B a few years ago he explained his vision to build a beach volleyball academy with us. With our THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

Above: Maia Hannemann and Jillienne Cangliosi came back and won an exciting match to capture the 14U final. Right: Another great rally in the 16U competition.

he NVL&ROX Junior Beach National Championship Global Challenge hosted 87 teams at the NVL Club Med Academy and Stuart Beach from August 4 - 10. The Junior Beach National Championship event offered bids to the NVL&ROX Beach Series affiliate partner’s events from the United States and internationally. College coaches from around the country came to watch the great competition all week and searched for potential players to strengthen their programs. Coach Rita Crockett from perennial powerhouse Florida International said, “We

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THE FIRST EVER already successful tennis, golf, triathlon, racing and fitness academies I knew we had a rare and special opportunity to introduce the first ever all inclusive beach volleyball facility. With what he has built with Volleyball Vacations and the NVL we couldn’t be happier to commit to this incredible project that is going to develop the next collegiate and professional stars of the sport.” The NVL&ROX Junior beach National Championship Global Challenge week kicked off with an exciting pro exhibition for juniors and their families featuring pro players Tarin Keith & Jules Ridley vs. Brooke Niles & Karolina Sowala. The opening ceremonies and beach BBQ were sponsored by the Treasure Coast Sports Commission. Pro sand and college coaches then led four days of training for juniors with a Friday evening seminar on rules, regulations and college preparation. NVL Club Med Academy coaches included: • Albert “AL-B” Hannemannn – Founder, The NVL and Club Med Academy Director • Karolina Sowala – #1 Ranked Professional Beach Volleyball Athlete • Michelle Meyer – University of Hawaii Sand Volleyball Coach • Matt Heath – Club Med Academy Assistant Coach • Brooke Niles – Professional Beach Volleyball Athlete • Tarin Keith – Professional Beach Volleyball Athlete • Amanda Youell – Professional Beach Volleyball Athlete Join The NVL in Port St. Lucie for the season ending Players Championships from October 3 – 4. The tournament will also feature Volleyfest where players of all ages from around the world will enjoy a weekend of free clinics and competitions. For more information go to www.clubmedacademies.com. 34

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were happy to support the NVL and love what they are building with the juniors. The competition from this event was incredible

and well represented by many top college programs. These kids have a bright future in beach volleyball.”

Another great hit that got the college coaches interested in the 18U final.

18U Girls champs: Ali Denny & Julia Lewkowicz

12U Girls champs: Marley Banton & Ashlyn Banton

16U Girls Champs- Ashley Robert & Alaina Thomas

18U Boys champs- Clay Messenger & Noah Beane

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

THE TOP

Here they are. The top eight teams on each side of the gender fence going into the Hermosa event. Get familiar with the fiercest competitors on the 2014 tour.

MEN

DAVE PALM & DREW MALLIN

SAM SCHACHTER & JOSH BINSTOCK

MATT HENDERSON & PIOTR MARCINIAK

AUSTIN RESTER & MIKE PLACEK

ANDREW RUSSELL & TRAVIS SCHOONOVER

TODD STRASSBERGER & ERIC ZAUN

MATT O’SULLIVAN & JEFF SAMUELS

DREW HAMILTON & DANIEL LINDSEY

KAROLINA SOWALA & PRISCILLA LIMA

BROOKE NILES & JESSICA STUBINSKI

CHARA HARRIS & KRISTEN BATT

ERIN GRAY & HEATHER LOWE

MICHELLE WILLIAMS & MOLLY MENARD

AURORA SKARRA-GALLAGHER & TARIN KEITH

JENN SNYDER & CHELSEA HAYES

ALICIA ZAMPARELLI-FLAVIA & LINDSEY FULLER

WOMEN

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE

VB Soul Magazine

The Name Behind the Game 2014 NVL SCHEDULE MAY 22nd – 24th

DALLAS, TX

JUNE 12th – 14th

ATLANTA, GA

JULY 10th – 12th

CINCINNATI, OH

AUGUST 15th – 17th

MILWAUKEE, WI

SEPTEMBER 19th – 21st HERMOSA BEACH, CA OCTOBER 3rd – 4th

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL

Mikasa Logo used with Vortex Logo Logos @ 50% SCALE

mikasasports.com

MIKASA + THE NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE