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January 23, 2012
Olympian puts on volleyball clinic in Suwanee
Even just watching Kerri Walsh Jennings do something simple like coach and instruct at a girls volleyball clinic, there is no mistaking her work ethic.
That's one main reason she is a two-time Olympic gold medalist in search of her third later this summer at the 2012 Olympics in London.
But along with that drive and determination that makes her so successful in volleyball comes a passion and focus in life that sets her aside from others.
And on this particular Friday night at the Suwanee Sports Academy, Walsh Jennings worked with 65 girls ages 10 to 18 who also share her love of volleyball at the Kerri Walsh Indoor Volleyball Clinic presented by Invincible Volleyball.
"We've been doing these clinics for about two years now and we are living a dream," Walsh Jennings said. "My husband (professional volleyball player Casey Jennings) and I, we love this sport so much and this sport has given us so much. So we want to go and share our secrets and talk about volleyball around the country. We have learned so many of life's most beautiful lessons because of this sport."
Walsh Jennings captured gold with Misty May-Treanor in beach volleyball at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, and again in 2008 in Beijing, China.But that hasn't stopped a world-class athlete from being down-to-earth and a role model for others, including the girls who came to this clinic for a chance to learn about volleyball and life.
Two-time Olympic beach volleyball gold medalist Kerri Walsh hosts a clinic for local players at the Suwanee Sports Academy. Walsh and her partner Misty May won both the 2004 and 2008 gold medals and are considered the greatest beach volleyball team of all time.
"It is really fun to get in front of these girls and say everything's going to be all right," Walsh Jennings said. "Keep fighting, don't worry about getting frustrated, push through it and it's going to be OK. Keep working."
Walsh Jennings, along with a dozen coaches and staff, worked the girls through three hours of volleyball drills. But the positive influence that Walsh Jennings provided through her presence as well as her instructions were just as good as the gold in Athens and Beijing.
"My mom works here (at the Suwanee Sports Academy) and she told me about the clinic," North Gwinnett High School junior Miller Howard said. "And when I found out Kerri Walsh (Jennings) was coming, that was exciting. I've been playing volleyball for as long as I can remember, so this was a good opportunity to meet and learn from someone like her."
The clinic has been touring since late November and will conclude tomorrow in Mobile, Ala. Walsh Jennings is ready to deliver some great volleyball tips and a strong message, which captured the attention of everyone in attendance."It's a honor to be here," Dacula freshman Sada Leconte said. "I've already learned a lot and it's exciting to be around Kerri Walsh (Jennings).
Walsh Jennings has also set up the Chase the Stars Foundation to support the notion that every child should have the opportunity to chase their dream.
Founded in 2004, the foundation has high-quality programs and events that directly improve the well-being, health and quality of children's lives.
But on this night in Suwanee, everyone was here to learn from a pro -- both on and off the court. Or, in the case of Walsh Jennings, on and off the sand.
I've been playing volleyball for four years and there's a lot of good instruction," North Gwinnett eighth-grader Sydney Lee said. "And it's good because Kerri Walsh (Jennings) is out there with us. She has a lot to tell us."
Source: Gwinnett Daily Post
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January 22, 2012
Bayside Academy to host Invincible Volleyball Tour, Olympic gold medalist on Sunday
Gold-medal Olympian Kerri Walsh Jennings and the Invincible Volleyball Tour is holding a volleyball clinic for players ages 10-adult at Bayside Academy from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 22.
"Kerri Walsh’s organization actually contacted me to see if we could get her down here," Mobile-area volleyball club coach Nicole Keshock said. "I used to be the coach at the University of South Alabama, but I run this club, Mobile Storm Volleyball Club, which is the largest youth volleyball club in the region with over 180 members. Ann Schilling at Bayside has an amazing facility with four courts there and Ann runs the Eastern Shore Volleyball Club so we are co-hosting it with our two clubs."
The cost is $125 per person and participation will be limited.
"To register go to www.invinciblevolleyball.com," Keshock said. "It says Mobile, Ala., and it’s easy once you get on the website. On the website there is a medical form they need to bring, so they will be able to print that off.
"They will put a limit on it (registration). The system won’t allow more than they can handle, but it is not at the limit yet," she said late last week.
For more information, call coach Keshock at 251-709-9943.
"She has two gold medals and that was the last two Olympic seasons along with her partner, Misty May-Treanor," Keshock said. "This year is an Olympic year. This is called the Invincible Tour and she is getting ready for this year’s Olympics.
"She will do an autograph session at the end and allow photographs, as well."
Source: Alabama.com
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January 17, 2012
Kerri Walsh Volleyball Clinic at Virginia Beach Volleyball Academy
Virginia Beach Volleyball Academy is proud to announce that 2-Time Olympic Volleyball Gold Medalist, Kerri Walsh, will be conducting a 3 hour clinic at the Virginia Beach Field House, instructed by Kerri Walsh herself. Kerri will interact and help each participant during the 3 hour clinic. There will also be photo and autograph opportunities at the end for each participant. Come out and train with one of the greatest volleyball players in the world! Make sure to supply your t-shirt size. Clinic t-shirt provided. Space is limited.
January 19, 2012 from 6pm-9pm
Ages 10-18
Register Now!! Space is Limited
Kerri Walsh captured gold medals in the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics. A graduate of Stanford University where she became only the second player in NCAA history to receive First-Team All-American honors all four seasons. Kerri is considered to be one of the best all-around players in collegiate history. She currently resides in Hermosa Beach, California with her husband Casey Jennings, one of the top men’s volleyball players on Tour. She will be competing in the 2012 Olympic Games in London to bring back a third gold medal!
Kerri will work with each participant during the 3 hour clinic and there will be an opportunity for photos and autographs will be at the end of the clinic. The clinic costs $100 and space is limited, you can find the registration link HERE.Source: Macaroni Kid
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January 17, 2012
Gold medalist Kerri Walsh highlights volleyball clinic
The Invincible Volleyball Clinic’s “The Road to Gold 2012” tour, held Monday at K2 Volleyball Club, ignited different reactions amongst the participants — shock, awe, excitement and a litany of other emotions. After all, it isn’t every day that a young athlete has the chance to learn from a two-time Olympic gold medalist like Kerri Walsh.
This is the third year that Walsh has headlined the clinic, and although she is now 33 and a mother of two, she is as passionate as ever for the sport that made her famous.
“I love beach volleyball,” she said. “I have a wonderful life. I am living my dream. My office is the beach. I have the freedom to set my own schedule, and it is really nice to be able to do that when you have kids.”
The freedom off the court also translates to freedom on the court. “Beach volleyball is a beautiful sport,” Walsh said. “It is you and your partner against two other people. You can’t hide your weaknesses (like in regular volleyball). You are out in the open, and the strengths and weaknesses are exposed.”
Walsh likes to focus her clinics on the basics and then allow participants to move on from there.
“I try to emphasize the fundamentals,” Walsh said. “If you don’t know the ABC’s, you can’t learn the XYZ’s. We then focus on core skills and try to master that.”
K2 Volleyball Club co-director Christine Hames was impressed with Walsh’s approach.
“Kerri Walsh is a very sweet person,” Hames said. “She was full of energy, and the kids loved her and the clinic.”
Hames believes the magic of the clinic experience will hit home for the participants later this year.
“I think the kids will fully appreciate their experience at the clinic when they see Kerri Walsh at the 2012 Olympics in London,” Hames said.
“They will think ‘she was in our gym and gave us a high-five’, then they will understand that they had a (special experience) at the clinic.”
Frances Harrison, 13, of Knoxville, has played volleyball for four years. Harrison said she will never forget being a part of the Invincible Volleyball Clinic.
“It was one of the best experiences of my life,” she said. “I learned so much in so little time. Kerri Walsh has so much experience and truly loves the sport. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anybody put as much heart into volleyball as she has.”
Walsh and her beach volleyball partner, Misty May-Treanor, are ready to hit the road this spring that will lead to the coup de-grace this summer in London. The duo has won gold twice at the Olympics and will have all of the beach volleyball teams gunning for them. Walsh is not worried, but looking forward to it.
“We like having targets on our backs,” she said.
Walsh said she is often motivated by the support she receives from fans.
“It may seem cheesy, but I like it when fans follow me on Twitter and Facebook,” Walsh said. “It is a real motivator when I am sent message from a fan that is giving me (encouragement). It makes me work that much harder. I would like to encourage fans to follow me (through those outlets).”
Source: The Daily Times
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January 16, 2012
Olympian Kerri Walsh will highlight volleyball clinic
The beach is coming to Blount County.
Beach volleyball sensation Kerri Walsh, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, will highlight the Invincible Volleyball Clinic’s “The Road to Gold 2012” tour Monday at the new K2 Volleyball Club, located at 2639 Topside Road, Louisville, 37777.
Two clinics for ages 7-18 will be available. Walsh and her husband, Olympic athlete Casey Jennings, will be in charge of the clinics. The first clinic will be held at 3 p.m., and the second will be held at 6 p.m. The cost for participation is $125 per person. Registration will remain open until the day of the event, or until space is sold out.
There are only 60 spots available per clinic.
“We are very excited about having an Olympian at the club,” K2 Volleyball Club co-director Christine Hames said.
“People in the surrounding Knoxville area are also enthusiastic about the event. Over 40 people have signed up so far, and the number is growing as the day of the (clinics draws closer).”
According to the Invincible Volleyball website at http://www.invinciblevolleyball.com , “the clinics (are) for local volleyball players and enthusiasts alike.”
The clinics will teach participants the fundamentals of volleyball, the merit of team values, and the importance of self confidence. The end result should be the overall improvement of volleyball skills.
“I love this sport so very much,” Walsh said. “Volleyball has blessed my life in a million ways and I would love to share some of those blessings and lessons with (others)! I hope to truly give (them) everything I can during the course of the clinics.
“(I want) to help (them) get closer to reaching (their) full potential. (I want) to share with (them) some tricks that I’ve learned along my journey that will hopefully help (them) on (their) journey.”
The K2 Volleyball Club has been in existence for three years, and moved to its current facility in Louisville a month ago.
“We were in a building off of Papermill,” Hames said.
“We moved the club to Louisville on Dec. 11. I run the club with my husband, Jason. We live in Blount County and it is great to have our facility here.”
The Invincible Volleyball clinics are a preview of things to come. The K2 Volleyball Club plans to have beach volleyball routinely available to residents of Blount County and the surrounding area.
“We are building beach volleyball courses,” Hames said. “We will have at least two courts up and ready by summer.”
For more information, go to http://www.invinciblevolleyball.com , or http://k2volleyball.com .
Source: The Daily Times
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January 14, 2012
Kerri Walsh to Offer Local Volleyball Clinic!
What a fun opportunity for young volleyball players! On January 19, 2012, 2-Time Olympic Volleyball Gold Medalist, Kerri Walsh, will instruct a 3 hour volleyball clinic at the Virginia Beach Field House for youth ages 10-18.
Kerri will work with each participant during the 3 hour clinic and there will be an opportunity for photos and autographs will be at the end of the clinic. The clinic costs $100 and space is limited, you can find the registration link HERE
Source: My Active Child
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January 11, 2012
Kerri Walsh Indoor Volleyball Clinic
Come join 2x Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings and FIVB/AVP Champion Casey Jennings at Come join 2x Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings and FIVB/AVP Champion Casey Jennings at the Kerri Walsh Indoor Volleyball Clinic at Hoopspresented by INVINCIBLE Volleyball Clinics. The cost for the clinic is $125/athlete. All players welcome, ages 10-13 & 14-18. MORE INFO
What: Kerri Walsh Indoor Volleyball Clinic
Location: Hoops, Louisville, KY
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, 5 pm – 8 pm (3 Hours of Skills & Drills)
Cost: $125/athlete
Phone: 775-247-4473
Email: info@invinciblevolleyball.com
Web site: www.invinciblevolleyball.com
REGISTER NOWSource: Hoops Louisville
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December 11, 2011
Kerri Walsh Volleyball Clinic at the Greensboro Sportsplex January 18
We are proud to announce that the Greensboro Sportsplex and Sportsplex Volleyball Club will be hosting 2-time Olympic Beach Volleyball Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh and her husband, professional beach player Casey Jennings as they bring their Invincible Volleyball Clinics to Greensboro!
These two Invincible Clinics will be held at the Greensboro Sportsplex on Wednesday, January 18th from 5:00 - 8:00 PM and Thursday, January 19th from 5:00 - 8:00 PM. These clinics are separate from one another. Each clinic is open to 100 athletes only.
I have attached the event flier [CLICK HERE] to this email and will pass it out at tomorrow's SVC practice.
I have yet to email any other clubs about this opportunity, and the members of SVC and PVC are the first getting this flier. I will email out the flier to other clubs throughout the region later this evening, thus giving our club families about 6 hours advanced-notice to register for this event if you wish.
We will continue to try to bring in great clinicians to work with the volleyball community here in Greensboro and North Carolina, and Kerri Walsh joins other Olympians and Gold Medalists Misty May, Butch May, Charlene Whitted, and Pat Powers, to bring their clinics to the Greensboro Sportsplex. I hope that most of you will take advantage by participating in the clinic with Kerri Walsh and Casey Jennings.
SVC realizes that the Thursday, January 19th clinic does conflict with the SVC practice from 6:00 - 8:30 PM. Right now SVC will not hold practice on January 19th, and we are looking at our facility calendar for possible make-up nights, and will keep everyone posted.
Registration can be done at the Invincible Volleyball Clinics website, www.invinciblevolleyball.com.
Thanks, and please remember, you are getting a six-hour head start to take advantage of early registration before I pass this on to the volleyball-public.
Source: Greensboro Sportsplex
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December 11, 2011
Kerri Walsh visits Performance Volleyball Academy in Olathe, KS
Kerri Walsh visits PVA on December 3rd. Admission was a cash or food donation to Harvesters. $100 was raised and 300 pounds of food were donated. Great day!
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December 2, 2011
Kerri Walsh juggles parenthood, rehab, Olympic hopes
Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor will travel to London for the Olympics next summer in search of a record third beach volleyball gold medal. Since the 2008 Beijing Games, Walsh, 33, had two children and underwent September rotator cuff surgery. She tells USA TODAY's Robert Klemko about the chip on her shoulder.
Q: Misty has more than twice as many Twitter followers as you. What's up with that?
A: I need to get on Dancing with the Stars (laughs)! Misty has taken the bull by the horns and she's killing it in social media. I'm definitely figuring it out and being pulled in a lot of directions so its challenging. I just need her to share the love! We need to do The Amazing Race together. I just can't swim with sharks or jump out of planes. Other than that, I can do it.
Q: What do you think when people say you're the best volleyball team of all time?A: I love it, and I just want to keep proving it. I want it to be undisputed.
Q: Your sons are two and one years old. Is it challenging being a mom while prepping for the Olympics?
A: It's the most beautiful challenge I've ever faced. Before I had children, obviously I was able to focus solely on being a good wife, a good person and a great player. Now my primary focus is on the children. So my time allotted to volleyball has been reduced significantly. With that I've become more focused and more balanced.
Q: Are you still favorites?
A: In my head we are. Right now we're the No. 2 team in the world so, no, we're not the favorites. There are plenty of tournaments before the olympics that we're hoping to secure the No. 1 seed. So I hope to talk to you in June as the No. 1 seed.
Q: How many shoulder surgeries have you had?
A: This is my fourth shoulder surgery. I tore my rotator cuff. I just whiffed at a ball, which I shouldn't be doing in the first place. My doctor did an amazing job and I'm working really hard on physical therapy. It's my fourth shoulder surgery. I'm determined to have it be my last, because it's going to make me indestructible.
Q: What's left to prove?
A: I think that we need to prove that we're the best right now. That's huge because since 2008 the competition has gotten better. Beijing was so four years ago, and we want to be great now. We're capable of it. We have to get healthy and get strong and get our mojo back. Taking two years off certainly affects your rythym.
Q: Will you change anything up? Any new routines or gear for this Olympics?
A: Yes. Oakley has been working on some awesome eyewear. Partnering up with them has been huge. When I started I didn't wear any sunglasses. It was something I had to get used to over time. I have a couple more wrinkles than I should because I wasn't wearing my shades then. You live and you learn.
The exciting thing is, all of my sponsors — Oakley, Kellogg's, Wilson, Visa — help fund my dream. Without them I'd have to have a 9-5 job and there's no way I could be an Olympian. Also, with Oakley's USA Signature Series, a part of the revenue goes to the U.S.O.C. That's essential to us. We're one of the only countries that does not have government funding for our Olympic teams, so we couldn't kick butt without the fans' help.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 2016?
A: I'll be 38 and winning gold in Rio (laughs)!
Q: So you'll definitely be there?
A: I will be significantly older then, hopefully I'll have another child or two, and who knows how that will change plans.
Q: How will the result of these Olympics affect your decision?
A: You know, I don't know. It's not really about results. It's about feeling. If my heart is in it, I'm going to go for it. I plan on winning in London, but win or lose, we'll see where my heart stands.
Source: USA Today
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December 1, 2011
Kerri Walsh 2011 FIVB Outstanding Blocker and Most Inspirational
Beach Volleyball
Four U.S. beach volleyball players were among those honored with international awards for their outstanding play in international tour events in 2011 by the FIVB, the sport's international governing body. For the women, Kerri Walsh earned her fifth award as Outstanding Blocker and was also voter Most Inspirational. Misty May-Treanor, Walsh's longtime partner, was awarded Best Defensive Player. April Ross took the honors for Best Hitter and Best Server. For the men, Phil Dalhausser was named the Best Setter for the third year in a row.
Source: Sports Illustrated
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November 30, 2011
The 25 Sexiest Female Athletes to Watch for in 2012
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November 22, 2011
US Olympic hopefuls already shooting NBC promos
Kerri Walsh’s cheeks were cramping from smiling so much.The beach volleyball star was one of about 100 American athletes who each spent a hectic day at a West Hollywood studio last week shooting NBC Olympic promos and interviews for everything from the local TV news to “Access Hollywood.”
This is the third straight games for which the network has hosted a one-stop shopping of shoots with the U.S. Olympic Committee. This one — leading up to next summer’s London Games — was bigger and busier than the sessions before Beijing and Vancouver. After the Comcast merger became official earlier this year, the company added more channels and platforms, including E! Entertainment. The growing popularity of social media also filled the athletes’ itineraries last Tuesday through Saturday.
“It’s quite a little factory,” said NBCU Television Group chief marketing officer John Miller.
Gymnast Jordyn Wieber, the world all-around champion, started her day there Wednesday at 8 a.m. and didn’t wrap up until 6:30 p.m. She got her hair and makeup done, then her 16 stops included the company’s regional sports networks, “NBC Nightly News,” USOC marketing campaigns and doing flips with other gymnasts in front of a green screen.
The one frequent question over the course of the day that stumped the 16-year-old: What’s your hidden talent?
“I couldn’t think of one,” she said with a laugh.
Athletes also bring childhood photos and home videos to be scanned in. The invitees included established stars such as Nastia Liukin, Hope Solo, Ryan Lochte, Allyson Felix and Maya Moore. The list also featured gold medal contenders in sports like archery, fencing and judo.
Some of the clips may not be broadcast on TV between now and July, but there’s plenty of space for them online, Miller said.
Walsh and beach volleyball teammate Misty May-Treanor, who won gold at the last two Summer Games, did an interview for E! with Bruce Jenner, who was an Olympic decathlon great before he was a reality star. Walsh doesn’t plan to watch it when it airs, though, preferring to avoid catching herself on TV.
“But I’ll hear all about it from my family,” she said.
Many of these athletes have yet to actually qualify for the Olympics. Eleven women’s gymnasts attended, and there are only five spots on the team.
“That’s definitely a little bit weird,” said Wieber, a devoted E! fan.
Source: NBC Sports
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November 20, 2011
INVINCIBLE VOLLEYBALL CLINICS: 'ROAD TO THE GOLD 2012'
INVINCIBLE, is a dedicated volleyball organization- whose mission is to encourage and promote health and fitness while providing a positive environment for young athletes to challenge themselves mentally and physically.
Two-Time Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings and husband, one of the best players in the World, Casey Jennings are traveling around the country to host a series of clinics for local volleyball players and enthusiasts alike.
Sign up now to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to learn from two of the world’s best athletes before they begin their quest to London to win gold in the 2012 Olympic Games! Kerri and Casey have not only competed against the best, they have also learned from the best – let them show you their secrets to success!
A perfect way to start the New Year! Ideal for club teams, school teams, and any groups, or individuals interested in being the best they can be! Clinics for ages 10 to 13 & ages 14 to adult!
In these 3 hour clinics, participants will receive autographed items and sponsored handouts from Kerri & Casey.
Go to Invincible Volleyball to register for an upcoming clinic.
See you soon!
Source: Invicible Volleyball
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November 16, 2011
Beach volleyball star Walsh eager to add third Olympic gold
By
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh is 33 years old now and the mother of two, but the beach volleyball star has no plans to slow down.She's not only focused on picking up a third Olympic gold medal in London next year, but is even looking ahead to Brazil in 2016.
Walsh is using a break from the beach to do some promoting for the indoor game. She was in Austin on Tuesday on behalf of the NCAA Div. I women's volleyball championship, which will be held in San Antonio's Alamodome Dec. 15-17.
The lanky Walsh is a little over 6 feet, 2 inches, maybe 6-3 in the red, size-12 Chuck Taylor sneakers she sported Tuesday. If not for a shoulder injury, she and long-time partner Misty May-Treanor likely would have been competing this week at the final event of the FIVB Tour in Thailand .
Although she's best known as a star of the beach game, Walsh also was a right-side hitter for Stanford's national championship teams in 1996 and 1997 and was a member of the U.S. Olympic team that finished fourth in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Up to that point, Walsh had rarely played on the beach . In Sydney, however, her parents and those of Misty May-Treanor huddled and came up with the idea of the two teaming up.
She had to adjust to springing out of the sand instead of jumping off the gym floor and adapt to the varying conditions outdoors.
"The wind is now my friend. It used to be my mortal enemy," Walsh said.
Walsh and May-Treanor, who's married to Texas Rangers backup catcher Matt Treanor, have won about every imaginable.
This June, Walsh and May-Treanor were playing in the world championships in Rome when, in a quarterfinal match, Walsh took a swing at a ball and said it felt like her arm just kept going.
"I saw stars. I panicked. It was scary," she said.
Although she had suffered a torn rotator cuff and even a had a piece of bone break off, Walsh and May-Treanor managed to make it to the final before losing. They even played some tournaments after that until Walsh finally had surgery Sept. 13.
Walsh has been married to volleyball player Casey Jennings since 2005 and they have two boys, Sundance, 1, and Joey, 2.
Walsh expects to be healthy when the beach volleyball competition resumes in the spring and is aiming to be on one of the two U.S. teams in the London Olympics next year.
"I want to win very, very badly. I feel like we're capable," she said, adding that it would be extra inspiration go win as a working mother.
She said after the Olympics, she would like to have another child, but that she wouldn't rule out shooting for the 2016 Games.
As for a more immediate goal she said, "If I could help San Antonio break the attendance record, I'd be very proud," Walsh said.
San Antonio would like to top the 17,430 fans that Omaha drew in 2008 for a NCAA semifinal between Nebraska and Penn State.
Source: Statesman
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November 15, 2011
Kerri Walsh Teaches a Clinic at Metro
Memphis Metro JVC, Inc. stands by its name of being the best by bringing in the best. Metro is proud to announce professional volleyball player and 2-time Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh will be coming to Memphis Metro.
Kerri Walsh is currently in training for the 2012 Olympic Summer Games in London. She will take time out of her
busy schedule to come train and inspire our talented, young players. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that you do not want to miss. It’s not every day that an athlete of this caliber comes walking into your very own gym. This is your chance to be trained by one of the two the best female volleyball players in the world and got encouragement from a great female athlete. At the end of the clinic Olympian gold medalist will sign memorabilia, takes pictures with the participants and shares her tips about game.There will be three clinics on December 10, 2011:
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM (age 8-13)
12:30 PM - 3:00 PM (age 14-18)
4:00 PM - 6:30 PM (age 14-18)The clinic fee is $125/player. Registration is open at www.championshipvb.com under Camps & Clinics link.
Short info about Kerri Walsh:
Kerri Walsh-Jennings along with beach partner Mist May-Treanor were gold medalist at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, and again in 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing! Not only did they come out with gold, they went undefeated in both summer games not dropping a single game, extending their unbeaten streak to 108 matches!! They will look to improve on that Olympic record in the 2012 Summer Games in London. Together, they have been called the best beach volleyball team of all time!
After high school, Kerri Walsh-Jennings went on the play for the University of Stanford. Kerri helped her team to back-to-back National Titles in 1996 &1997, and earned final 4 MVP honors in 1996. Kerri was a 4 time 1st team All-American and earned Co-National player of the Year in 1999.
Currently Kerri Walsh-Jennings plays professional beach volleyball on the US AVP Tour and Internationally on the FIVB world tour.Source: Memphis Volleyball
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November 12, 2011
Two-time Olympian Kerri Walsh inspires St. Francis students
Dream big. Work hard."That's the message," said two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Kerri Walsh at St. Francis Central Coast Catholic High School on Thursday. "You have to have the courage to dream big, and if you put your heart and soul into something, it's possible."
Walsh, who spent some of her childhood in Scotts Valley, has the chops to back up the inspiring message.
She was a star athlete at both Archbishop Mitty in San Jose and Stanford, winning state and national recognition. She participated in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney as a member of the U.S. Women's Volleyball team, which finished fourth. She then switched to beach volleyball, and with partner Misty May-Treanor grabbed gold in Athens and again in 2008 in Beijing. In 2003, 2005 and 2007, the partners picked up world championships.
Thursday, she told St. Francis students that she wasn't a "natural student" but that she "busted her butt in the classroom" to succeed at Stanford. She said she worked just as hard on the court.
And, at 33, the mother of two small boys - Joseph, 2, and Sundance, 1, - is not letting up. Keeping fit is her full-time job, she said, describing a regimen that includes 9-5 days of Pilates, weight-training and cardio. When she lifted her arms above her head to show how rehabilitation was paying off after shoulder surgery in September, the students cheered.
"Push yourselves," Walsh urged the students. "Push yourselves every day."
Walsh, who is married to professional volleyball player Casey Jennings, said she's looking ahead to the next Olympics. "In 2012 we're going for three in a row in London," Walsh said. "I want it so bad."
Ninth-grader Megan Farley was among the crush of students surrounding Walsh as she signed autographs after the assembly. She called Walsh's talk "pretty awesome."
"It's inspirational," the 14-year-old said. "Anyone can make it if they try hard."
St. Francis Principal Keith Mathews was athletic director at Mitty when Walsh was a student.
"Kerri is such a charming and humble world-class athlete," he said. "She offers a lesson of family and faith."
Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel
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November 7, 2011
Q&A with volleyball star Kerri Walsh
Walsh wants to win another gold medal — for world's moms.
Olympic beach volleyball superstar Kerri Walsh visited San Antonio on Monday to help promote the upcoming NCAA Division I Volleyball Championships.
The semifinals and finals in the NCAA tournament will be held Dec. 15 and 17 at the Alamodome.
In an interview with Express-News staff writer Jerry Briggs, the two-time NCAA champion at Stanford talked about her life and her career going into the Olympics in London next summer.
How are you feeling physically right now going into the Olympic year?
I feel awesome. I had (shoulder) surgery a month and a half ago. So, that wasn't the most fun thing ever. But I'm rehabbing really well, and I'm ahead of schedule. Everything feels really good.
More importantly than physically, mentally, I'm feeling so good. I'm still hungry, and I'm still excited for next summer. I'm just constantly thinking about winning ... I'm über-motivated. So, it's really fun.
How is the shoulder feeling?
It's feeling awesome. I'm going to (physical) therapy right now. You know, it's a pain in the butt, obviously. I want to be completely free and healthy through everything. But this is going to make me so much stronger, so much better.
You'll be shooting for your fourth appearance in the Olympics and your third gold medal in beach volleyball. How does that feel?
To win a third gold medal in London (with partner Misty May-Treanor) would be a dream come true — especially now that I'm a mom. To win a gold medal as a mom, I feel like you deserve five gold medals for that.
All of a sudden, it becomes so much more challenging, you know, so I really want to do that. I want to do that for all the moms out there, and for myself, and in respect for my parents, who did such a great job raising me.
Both you and your husband, Casey Jennings, play beach volleyball. What's it been like with two small children (Joey, age 2, and Sundance, age 1)?
They know that we go to work and that our work is on the beach. But they don't understand the whole big picture yet.
They're so cute. It's so fun to bring 'em. They traveled the world with us this summer. It was the best summer of my life, having my whole family and chasing my dreams and our dreams for a family together, so it was fantastic.
What's it like to talk to a group of kids that look up to you. What do you get out of it?
I love it. I love everything about it ... I'm 32 years old now, but in a lot of ways I swear I feel like I'm 10 years old. And I'm learning so much every day. I love what I'm doing.
I love working hard. I feel like I did when I started playing the game, you know? I'm still as curious as I was.
So, standing in front of those kids reinforces everything I want to do in my life, and reinforces the way I want to live my life.
You know, I'm not perfect, obviously, and I'm grumpy, and I make bad decisions sometimes. But when I go in front of those kids, we don't talk about that. We talk about battling through challenges and never giving up. And having the courage to dream big and go after your dreams.
Source: MySA
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November 3, 2011
Olympic volleyball star holds youth clinic at MHS
Kerri Walsh shares her thoughts on volleyball and life with campers at a free youth volleyball clinic sponsored by the City of Malibu. Dick Dornan / TMT By Dick Dornan / Special to The Malibu Times
Two-time Olympic gold medal champion Kerri Walsh entertained a host of aspiring young volleyball players last Sunday at Malibu High School when she conducted a free youth volleyball clinic. Walsh shared her knowledge of volleyball and a few life lessons with the 63 kids who attended, ranging from ages eight to 14.
Walsh kicked off the clinic with three 15-minute sessions on the fundamentals of volleyball. With the assistance of coaches from the Westlake Volleyball Club, Walsh focused on the skill sets of setting, hitting, passing and serving.
“It was just so much fun to be with a professional,” said Grace Conway, 12. “I learned new stuff. I learned a different way of hitting. She taught us to hit like a bow and arrow.”
After the first hour of teaching, Walsh then spent 30 minutes answering questions and sharing her thoughts on life's lessons such as never giving up, no excuses, commitment, hard work and perseverance.
“It was really life-changing and it taught me how to play the game of volleyball, which I have never played before,” Noah Fortson, 13, said. “She taught me how to keep going even if you feel like you can't do it anymore. Never quit.”
The event was sponsored by the City of Malibu with help from the National Football League, which donated $50,000 to the city two years ago as part of its “NFL Play 60” program. The program is aimed at promoting the health of children by encouraging them to be active for at least 60 minutes per day. The city is using the money to promote youth sports in Malibu.
Walsh was invited by Amy Crittenden, recreation manager for the City of Malibu, and Katie Gallo, recreation coordinator. They partnered with the Westlake Volleyball Club to make the event happen. Bringing Walsh to town was quite special considering she is just beginning to train for the 2012 London Summer Olympics.
Walsh is one of the most decorated women volleyball players of her generation. She was a four-year, first-team All-American at Stanford University and was honored as the NCAA co- Player of the Year in 1999.
She won national championships at Stanford in 1996 and 1997. After her successful collegiate career, Walsh took the Association of Volleyball Professional beach tour, or AVP, by storm. She is a two-time AVP Most Valuable Player (2003, 2004) and was part of a remarkable 89-match winning streak on the AVP circuit with partner Misty May-Treanor.
Walsh and May-Treanor's popularity skyrocketed when they won gold medals at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. They are currently the number one-ranked women's beach volleyball team in the world. Walsh and May-Treanor will defend their gold medal in August at the 2012 London Olympics.
Bryan Goff, owner of the Westlake Volleyball Club, said learning from a player of Walsh's stature was a treat for the kids.
“It was a great opportunity for not only Malibu but the local area to get a chance to see a world athlete up close,” Goff said. “To be able to learn from her and ask her questions is essentially for most kids a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Most kids don't get that anywhere in the world. It was special today.”
But Walsh, who stuck around afterward to sign autographs for each child, said she got as much out of the event as anyone.
“These days, selfishly, are fantastic,” Walsh said. “It fills my inspiration bank and gets me going.
“The kids were really enthusiastic and it was just so cool to have the City of Malibu get behind this event,” Walsh continued. “I always learn a lot from these things and I always come away really inspired and wanting to work harder. These are great kids who look to me as a role model, which is a very special responsibility.”
Gallo appreciated the life lessons Walsh taught to the assembled youth.
“She really stressed to be a good student-athlete, be a good person and not to compete against other people but to compete against yourself to be the best person you can be,” Gallo said.
Walsh concluded the clinic with a powerful message for everyone.
“Dream big and have courage to chase your dreams,” Walsh said.Source: Malibu Times
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November 3, 2011
Talk About Curing Autism hosts 5th annual Ante Up for Autism
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), a national non-profit organization that supports families touched by autism, will host the 5th Annual Ante Up for Autism Gala and Casino Night. Last year, more than 300 attendees and supporters of this star-studded fundraiser brought in $220,000 for TACA. The nonprofit organization dedicates its efforts to speeding up autism diagnosis and treatments, improving the quality of life and strengthening the autism community.
Patrick McIlvain, board member for TACA and vice president of sports marketing for Foothill Ranch-based Oakley, Inc., will be this year’s event chair. The Gala and Casino Night will be held on Saturday, Nov. 5 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa.
Celebrities, athletes, poker professionals and devoted sponsors will come to show their support of TACA. There will be live and silent auctions with donations from the sponsors, exciting casino action and a poker tournament and cocktails with lounge music to enjoy. The red carpet rolls out at 5:00 p.m. with a VIP reception, sponsors will begin the live auction at 7:00 p.m. and the much anticipated poker tournament will start at 8:00 p.m.
A few of the evening’s special guests include “CSI:NY” star AJ Buckley, singer Kate Voegele, musician Cisco Adler, and professional beach volleyball couple, Kerri Walsh and Casey Jennings.
“As a fifth year event, we have a strong group of supporters that attend year after year, but we are always inviting new attendance and support,” said Pat McIlvain, TACA’s Ante Up for Autism Event Chair. “This is a fun event and people don’t have to worry about being stuck at a table listening to long speeches. We are looking to engage, educate and have fun, with the goal of raising $250,000 that will go directly to TACA program support.”Source: OCMetro
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October 26, 2011
2011 Stanford Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Kerri Walsh
Stanford alum Kerri Walsh ('00) has seen success on the volleyball court at every level of the game. Whether indoors or on the beach, Walsh has shined. The Saratoga, Calif., native was the fourth four-time AVCA All-American in Stanford history, competing for the Cardinal from 1996-99. She helped guide Stanford to a pair of NCAA titles in 1996 and 1997, as well as three trips to the Final Four and four Pac-10 Conference championships.
Among her many individual accolades, Walsh began her career on The Farm as the 1996 Pac-10 Freshman of the Year and the NCAA Tournament MVP. Additionally, she was tabbed the Pac-10 Player of the Year twice and was named the Co-National Player of the Year in 1999.
Post Stanford, Walsh went on to play on the U.S. indoor team in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. She then made the move to the beach for the 2004 Games in Athlens and claimed the first U.S. gold medal in the history of the sport with partner Misty May-Treanor. The pair made a dominant run through the 2008 Games in Beijing to become the first beach team, men or women, to defend a gold medal.
GoStanford.com recently caught up with Walsh to get her thoughts on her selection to Stanford's Athletic Hall of Fame, her favorite memories from her playing days on The Farm and more.
What are your thoughts about being selected to Stanford's Athletic Hall of Fame?
It is obviously a huge honor. Not only do I feel honored to be nominated into the hall, but also to be inducted with such an accomplished group of people. They are a special group and they mean a lot to me.What does Stanford mean to you?
Stanford was my first dream come true! It set a standard in my life for how I wanted to go about things and excel in all that I do. In a nutshell - Stanford means excellence.You are being inducted into the Hall of Fame with your former coach, Don Shaw. What was it like playing for Coach Shaw at Stanford?
I loved playing for Don. He always told me three key things: prepare well, work hard, and give no excuses. I really came to appreciate that philosophy. He took a lot of pride in what he did and that rubbed off on his athletes. I will forever be grateful for those four years. Even now, I bring him on the court with me whenever possible.
You won NCAA Championships as a freshman and sophomore, how did the upperclassmen, such as Lisa Sharpley and Kristin Folkl, help you during those seasons?
The upperclassmen during my first years were amazing. Not only were Lisa and Kristen amazing, but so were all of the upperclassmen. They taught me how to work hard while balancing school and volleyball. They basically taught me how to do things right. Lisa, to me is the best setter I have ever played for and probably the best setter in the world. I learned so much from her and enjoyed every minute of it. Kristen was such a phenomenal competitor and athlete. She was so physical and so sweet - I learned so much practicing with her and against her every day.Do you have a favorite memory during your time at Stanford, either on or off the court?
My favorite memory actually coincides with my least favorite. When all of my friends and family were out in Hawaii with us for my last game - we lost. Even though I lost my final game at Stanford the camaraderie, family and love we had on that squad was something special that I will always cherish.What were some of the traditions on the team when you played?
We had a pregame stomp in the locker room and a pregame bounce outside on the floor. The bounce on the court was my favorite ritual.You competed for the U.S. in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, what do you remember about those Games?
I remember being so honored to be there. The thing that stands out most to me was achieving my personal best as well as gathering with all the U.S. athletes to walk down the tunnel. I saw so many people that I had idolized for so long. Misty was my favorite of all time - I was so excited. After seeing all of the athletes I just thought to myself - We're here, let's do this!What was it like transitioning to beach volleyball? What were some of the challenges you faced?
The transition is crumbling to say the least. I came from a place where I was pretty comfortable and became a fish out of water. I came close to giving up my bikini, but my family pushed me through it. The sand, wind, sun - everything you don't have indoors. These things effect timing, touch, and the way you move. Having patience was also difficult. I hated being terrible, but it made me work really hard not to be. You have to start somewhere!You and your partner, Misty May-Treanor, became the first beach team to defend a gold medal. What was it like to defeat the top-seeded Chinese team in front of its home crowd?
It was amazing - exactly what you would expect. We were playing in front of over 10,000 people and the majority of them were Chinese fans. They were known as the second-best team in the world at the time. All of the pieces of this match were so fun. It was raining - dramatic. I wouldn't have asked for any different matchup. The top-seeded team on their home turf with so many teams behind them. It was truly incredible.What was it like competing against Shaquille O'Neal for his reality show Shaq Vs.? Were you surprised when he replaced his partner with your husband for the second set?
It was hilarious the entire time. It was really a special treat. He was such a trooper- he went out there and worked hard and it was extremely intimidating. As far as my husband, I was surprised but it was definitely really fun. It was fun to be on the opposite side of the net with Casey on TV. The whole situation was hilarious. I loved it, Casey loved it, but Misty and I won. I would do it again in a heartbeat - he was awesome.Where is home for you now, and how often do you make it back to Stanford?
My home is in Manhattan Beach with my family. I rarely, rarely get back to Stanford. I was there last spring for the first time in a couple of years which was incredible! I am really looking forward to the Hall of Fame weekend. I am also extremely excited for the Stanford-Oregon game, which might be the best college game of the year!Source: GoStanford.com
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October 12, 2011
Kellogg's Unveils Olympic Sponsorship Plans For 2012 Games
Kellogg, an official sponsor of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams, has unveiled the seven-member roster for Team Kellogg’s, a group of legends and hopefuls seeking to represent the U.S.at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Team Kellogg’s includes Juan Agudelo (soccer), Michael Landers (table tennis), Dwight Phillips (track and field), Summer Sanders (swimming legend), Rebecca Soni (swimming), Casey Tibbs (Paralympic track and field) and Kerri Walsh (beach volleyball, pictured).
Kellogg said that its 2012 sponsorship efforts would be the “most extensive Team USA Olympic-focused marketing campaign in the history of the company’s decades-long relationship with the USOC.”
Team Kellogg’s athletes will be featured in TV, print and online advertising, as well as on a variety of Kellogg’s product packaging and POP in retail locations.
Internet includes a dedicated site at Facebook where people can learn about each athlete and follow their journeys.
This past April, Kellogg’s signed a new sponsorship deal with the USOC through 2016 after ending its USOC alliance following the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Except for that period, Kellogg has been an official Olympics partner since 1976.
Kellogg said it chose to partner with these athletes “because they are proof that a great start to every day is a critical component to success. As part of the company’s U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Team sponsorship, Team Kellogg’s athletes will share their personal nutritional habits and their favorite breakfast routines.”
“We are proud to partner with U.S. athletes who believe – as we do – that the power of breakfast is crucial to a great start,” Brad Davidson, president of Kellogg North America, said in a statement. “Team Kellogg’s is an amazing group of athletes who remind fans everywhere that each day is filled with the potential to achieve your goals, both big and small, when you start it off right.”
Source: Big Lead Sports
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October 5, 2011
Family Photo: Kerri Walsh’s Gold Medal Guys
Daddy wins! Kerri Walsh poses with husband Casey Jennings and their boys Joseph Michael, 2, and Sundance Thomas, 16 months, after Jennings and Pedro Salgado claimed the men’s beach volleyball title Sunday at the Jose Cuervo Pro Beach Volleyball Series National Championships in Hermosa Beach, Calif. The Olympic gold medalist, 33, cheered on her man despite her recent shoulder surgery!
Source: People
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September 29, 2011
FREE Kerri Walsh Clinic, Sunday, October 30, Malibu High School, 2-4pm.
Send in the registration form NOW to reserve your spot as space is limited. Have Fun!
Source: Conejo Crush
