Despite a 500% increase in collegiate beach volleyball teams since 2011, the sport continues to be an underdog when it comes to funding.

Even at major D1 universities, beach volleyball is considered an equivalency sport — meaning no more than 6 full scholarships per program. With the growing costs of club sports, it can feel difficult, if not impossible, to play the game, and with increased demand, competition is at an all time high, forcing junior athletes to overexert themselves to risk of injury and burnout.