Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor

This photograph was taken of Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor (aka Turtle) during a press session at an AVP event. Both are exceptional athletes who remain at the top of their game on the court and off. During play they were driven and focused; however, between matches they spent time with fans and openly displayed their graciousness to the cheering crowds.

This week marks the opening weekend of AVP volleyball. Today, Kerri and Turtle won the women's AVP Cuervo Gold Crown Miami Open. The team of Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers successfully defended their men's title.

Founded in 1983, the AVP is made up of the best professional beach volleyball players in the world. It is the country's only pro beach volleyball tour and it has a cooperative relationship with USA Volleyball and the FIVB. AVP events are exciting and the players demonstrate amazing athletic prowess. You will be able to get up close to 2004 Athens Summer Olympics gold medalists Walsh and May-Treanor and bronze medalists Holly McPeak and Elaine Youngs as well as other champions and future Olympic medalists.

The Beijing Summer Olympic games are just around the corner and will be held at the Chaoyang Park Beach Volleyball Ground from August 9-22, 2008. Be sure to support your AVP favorites in the games.

You can learn more about the AVP, beach volleyball or your favorite player by visiting its website at http://www.avp.com/. The AVP Crocs Tour runs now through the end of September.