why beach?
Why the founders chose beach volleyball
foundedrs, Emma Lapeyre and Joseph Rivas, two Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) Islander alumni met through their shared love of beach volleyball. What began as a college pastime turned into a lifelong bond both on and off the sand. Today, they’re not only partners in business but also proud parents to a young daughter. For Emma and Joseph, beach volleyball holds deep sentimental value. It brought them together, shaped their college experience, and inspired a vision to build something meaningful for their community. Having grown up in hometowns where access to beach volleyball was nonexistent, they know firsthand how many young athletes never get the chance to explore the sport. SpikeWave Beach Club was created to change that. Located in Corpus Christi, the club is committed to providing those opportunities locally, starting with a youth club for ages 13–18 and youth leagues for ages 10–12. Through SpikeWave, Emma and Joseph aim to grow the sport, build community, and create a space where kids can experience the same joy, connection, and growth that beach volleyball has brought to their own lives.
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Why young athletes should chose beach volleyball
Beach volleyball has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., especially at the collegiate level. Since becoming an NCAA championship sport in 2015, the number of college programs has grown from fewer than 20 to over 110 by 2024. With this growth has come a major increase in scholarship opportunities, making beach volleyball an appealing pathway for young athletes aiming to play at the next level.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing beach volleyball is that it offers a clearer path to scholarships compared to indoor. NCAA Division I programs are allowed six full athletic scholarships for beach volleyball, and because teams are small—typically just pairs—those scholarships go further. The field of athletes competing for beach scholarships is also smaller, meaning less competition overall. This gives beach players, especially those who start training early and specialize in the sport, a better chance of being noticed and recruited.
Many schools are still expanding their beach programs, opening up new opportunities each year. Some also allow athletes to play both beach and indoor, increasing exposure and potential for financial aid. On top of that, training in beach volleyball improves all-around skills, athleticism, and mental toughness—qualities that benefit athletes in both formats of the game.
For young players looking to stand out, earn scholarships, and compete at a high level, beach volleyball offers a growing and often more accessible route compared to the more saturated indoor volleyball landscape.
Beach volleyball is more than just a summer sport
Why Adults Should Play
Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball isn’t just for youth athletes—it’s a fantastic sport for adults of all ages and skill levels. One of the biggest benefits of playing beach volleyball as an adult is the low-impact nature of the sand surface. Compared to hard indoor courts or pavement, sand is much gentler on the joints, reducing stress on the knees, ankles, and back. This makes it a great option for people who want to stay active without risking as many impact-related injuries. The uneven surface also helps strengthen stabilizing muscles, improve balance, and support overall joint health and mobility.
Beyond the physical benefits, beach volleyball is known for its unique environment. It strikes the perfect balance between being laid-back and social, yet still competitive and challenging. Whether you're looking to get a workout in, fuel your competitive side, or just unwind after work, beach volleyball creates an atmosphere where people can connect, play hard, and have fun. Games are often played with music in the background, sunny skies overhead, and a welcoming community vibe—making it one of the most enjoyable and inclusive sports for adults.
Beach volleyball is also a great way to meet new people and build friendships. Whether you're joining a league, dropping in for casual games, or playing in local tournaments, you'll find a diverse group of players who share a love for the sport and the outdoors. It's a social, active, and low-pressure way to stay fit, reduce stress, and engage with others—all while improving your physical health and having a blast in the sand.