Sports Information: Beach Volleyball
BACKGROUND TO BEACH VOLLEYBALL
Beach Volleyball is a derivative of volleyball but is played outdoor on a sand court by two teams of two players (compared to two teams of six players for standard volleyball). It originated in California in the 1920's and the first professional tournament was the Olympia World Championship staged in Pacific Palisades, California in 1976, with a prize fund of $5,000.
THE SPORT TODAY
Despite its increased popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, American beach volleyball suffered setbacks with the AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) twice filing for bankruptcy. Increased television coverage and inclusion in the Olympics from 1996 have since created a more stable professional tour.
TOP TIPS FOR BETTING ON BEACH VOLLEYBALL
Watch as many games as possible and research team and player form
Analyse recent events via volleyball magazines, websites, online posts and TV coverage
Pay attention to form and injury reports
Compare prices offered by a number of bookmakers to secure the best value
Consider betting in-play
Most European bookmakers and betting exchanges accept bets on the major volleyball tournaments although markets are not strong.