Beach Volleyball Returns to Los Angeles: An Exciting Showdown at Intuit Dome
Professional beach volleyball is making waves in Los Angeles as the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) tour hits the Intuit Dome for a thrilling Week 5 event. This newly constructed arena, home to the Los Angeles Clippers, is set to host the league known for its Olympians and beach volleyball pioneers. With the sport generating increasing interest, especially during Olympic years, this indoor event offers fans an unprecedented chance to experience the electrifying atmosphere of beach volleyball up close.
A Historic Venue for a Growing Sport
The Intuit Dome marks another milestone in L.A.’s evolving sports infrastructure. This venue is tailored for an array of sporting events and adds a unique flair to beach volleyball. As Geena Urango of the San Diego Smash points out, first-time attendees will grasp the excitement and entertainment that beach volleyball embodies. The fusion of beach vibes and high-caliber competition in a professional setting propels the sport into the mainstream, making it a potential highlight for sports enthusiasts in the area.
For athletes like Urango, the venue holds personal significance. As USC’s first beach volleyball recruit in 2007, she laid the foundation for a legacy that would see her program amass six NCAA championships. Now, 17 years later, she continues to compete at a high level, inspiring younger players like Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft—members of the L.A. Launch women’s team—who also honor her pioneering contributions. Such connections symbolize a thriving community within the sport, bridging generations of players eager to showcase their talents indoors.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The AVP tour features a plethora of elite talent, enhancing the event’s allure. Olympians like Phil Dalhausser, who will retire after the 2025 season, represent a historic peak in the sport. Known as one of the most dominant players, Dalhausser’s presence is a major draw. Joining him is Kelly Cheng, another USC alum and two-time Olympian, who currently plays for Miami Mayhem alongside 2016 Olympian Chaim Schalk.
Furthermore, the participation of noted figures like Chase Budinger—who transitioned from the NBA to the AVP—brings additional recognition to the league. Fans eager to witness these athletes compete live will find this weekend’s event to be a unique opportunity, especially since beach volleyball is rarely featured outside of Olympic cycles. The AVP’s indoor venue provides an intimate setting to appreciate the exceptional skills and athleticism of these star players.
Embracing Team Dynamics
The AVP operates under a team-based format dedicated to fostering continuity and chemistry among players. With eight city-backed franchises, including the L.A. Launch, Miami Mayhem, and San Diego Smash, every tour stop consists of competitive matchups that contribute to team standings. Each team fields two men’s and two women’s duos, enhancing camaraderie and encouraging deep-rooted connections that extend beyond the court.
As Hagen Smith, an L.A. Launch player, puts it, friendships are forged through the shared experiences of competing, but once on the court, the focus shifts to winning. This duality creates a competitive yet familial atmosphere among the athletes, making the event not just a display of skill but also a celebration of teamwork and mutual respect among players.
Home Court Advantage
As the AVP tour returns to Los Angeles, the L.A. Launch finds themselves in an enviable position as they lead league standings. The excitement for this weekend is palpable, especially for players like Megan Kraft, who are eager to represent their city. Kraft and her teammates have rallied their friends, family, and former USC partners to support them at the Intuit Dome, demonstrating the community’s passion for both beach volleyball and local representation.
Competing at home adds extra motivation for the L.A. Launch, who hope to defend their top ranking in front of an enthusiastic crowd. This opportunity to play in such a prominent venue not only elevates the profile of beach volleyball but also enables local fans to connect with the sport and its athletes on a personal level.
Watching the Action
Beach volleyball enthusiasts and casual fans alike can catch the AVP Week 5 action live at the Intuit Dome. The event kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues Saturday at 4 p.m. For those unable to attend, several viewing options are available. Friday’s matches will be broadcast on YouTube and CBS Sports Network, while Saturday’s coverage will include The CW Network and YouTube.
This weekend promises to be a landmark occasion for beach volleyball in Los Angeles, as the AVP takes over the Intuit Dome. With a mix of world-class athletes, team dynamics, and the opportunity for fan engagement, this event is set to elevate the profile of beach volleyball and cultivate a passionate following in one of America’s entertainment capitals. Whether live at the event or watching from home, the excitement surrounding this unique sporting spectacle is undeniable.
