As tempting as it is to hole up in the TV room during Spring Break, there’s a degree of accomplishment and satisfaction that comes when one participates in outdoor activities.
Beach volleyball is a staple when it comes to sandy environments and warm weather. A lengthy trip to the beach is not necessary in order to participate in this pastime. UTRGV, Sonic Drive-Ins and several local parks have good-quality playing areas.
It is easy to be reluctant to play volleyball when one sees the over-6-foot-tall, high-protein diet specimens who usually rule the beach court. You don’t have to be a volleyball guru to have fun.
Eric Garcia, an avid player and UTRGV student, said the first thing one has to do is get used to moving and playing in sand.
“Getting used to the sand court is not as easy as playing on a normal gym floor,” he said.
Other than playing in the sand, beach volleyball also introduces conditions, such as wind and continuous sun exposure, which are not a part of its indoor counterpart.
On the technical side, competitive beach volleyball differs from indoor volleyball in several aspects:
–teams are made up of two players instead of six;
–victory is determined by the best of three sets;
–the first two sets are played to 21 points. If a third set is necessary, it is to be played to 15 points;
–the teams change sides every seven points;
–there’s no footwear in the sand;
–other than the ball and the net, all you need to play are swimming shorts for men and bikinis for women.
Apart from copious amounts of water, the Association of Volleyball Professionals, or AVP, also recommends sunblock and sunglasses.
For those who are hesitant to give the game a try, Martin Monreal, beach volleyball coordinator at Cascade Park in Brownsville, recommends getting acquainted with the rules and playing with familiar people.
“I would suggest to read up the basic rules,” Monreal said. “It’s really important to know the rules. Start off by going with your friends or family. Have a good time out at the beach.”
Beach volleyball requires its players to be constantly moving and jumping. These efforts, combined with the sand, do wonders for the physique.
Garcia said the most evident benefit that comes from the sport is the exercise.
Monreal also said that making an effort to play will have tangible benefits.
“In the end, beach volleyball will help you burn some calories and stay healthy,” he said.
There is a high chance that those going to the beach during Spring Break will see large numbers of individuals playing volleyball.
Monreal said the trend is showing that beach volleyball is gaining more momentum.
“The sport is growing fast,” he said. “It’s growing so much. People like it because it’s a no-contact sport. It’s fun. You socialize with different people while playing. It will keep growing.”
Beach volleyball is the perfect sport to pick up during this month or any other time of the year. It will be an opportunity to have fun and exercise simultaneously. Best of all, the soft sand will break your fall. Feel free to dive for it.
