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.