Misty May-Treanor
Early Life and Education
Misty May-Treanor was born on July 30, 1977, in Los Angeles, California. Her parents, Barbara and Butch May, were both athletes, with her father being a member of the 1968 United States men's national volleyball team. This early exposure to the sport played a significant role in shaping May-Treanor's career.
She attended Newport Harbor High School in Newport Beach, California, where she played on the school's volleyball team. After graduating in 1995, she went on to attend Long Beach State University, where she continued her volleyball career. During her time at Long Beach State, May-Treanor was a key player on the 49ers team that won the 1998 NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship.
Professional Career
May-Treanor began her professional beach volleyball career in 1999, partnering with Holly McPeak. The duo had a successful run, but it was her partnership with Kerri Walsh Jennings that catapulted May-Treanor to international fame. The pair, often referred to as "the greatest beach volleyball team of all time," won numerous tournaments, including the World Championships and the AVP Tour.
Their most notable achievement, however, was their success in the Olympic Games. May-Treanor and Walsh Jennings won gold medals in beach volleyball at the 2004, 2008, and 2012 Summer Olympics, making them the only team to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the sport.
Retirement and Post-Career Activities
May-Treanor announced her retirement from competitive volleyball after the 2012 Summer Olympics. Since retiring, she has been involved in various activities, including coaching and broadcasting. She served as a coach for the women's volleyball team at Long Beach City College and later became the Director of Volleyball Operations at Long Beach State University.
In addition to her work in volleyball, May-Treanor has also made appearances in popular media. She competed in the seventh season of the television show Dancing with the Stars, and has been featured in various magazines and television programs.
Legacy and Impact
May-Treanor's impact on the sport of beach volleyball is undeniable. Her impressive record, including three Olympic gold medals and numerous championship titles, has solidified her status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Her success has not only elevated the profile of beach volleyball, but also inspired countless young athletes to pursue the sport.