NCAA Division I volleyball takes a back seat in this edition of Volleyball Today, which includes a retirement from beach volleyball by April Ross, Athletes Unlimited wrapping up its second week, what happened Monday and what will Tuesday in the aforementioned NCAA, plus the latest AVCA top 25, NCAA RPI and Athletes Unlimited recap.
April Ross retiring from beach volleyball
The Tokyo Olympic gold medalist put the following statement on social media. It includes a lot of emojis, which we’ve left in:
It is with a very fulfilled and grateful heart, and also some tears, that I am announcing my retirement (after the end of this @avpbeach League season). 18 years, 16 seasons, four quads
I’m glad I can say I lived it to the fullest and that it was an absolute BLAST. At the same time, I’m in disbelief it’s (almost) over, it feels like it went by in a heartbeat.
There were lots of ups
and a few downs, a lot of it was tough emotionally and mentally, but it was all so rewarding and worth it. What an intensely amazing experience. I feel so so lucky to have had this career
When I started back in 2006 I could have never allowed myself to dream of doing the things I can now say I have done. All I wanted to do was see the world
I never would have guessed picking up beach volleyball at 26 would lead to all this.
It feels both easy and hard for me to step away from playing. After all the hard work I put into gearing up for this season after giving birth and making a big push to be ready for The League, I know I could keep playing. But I have the overwhelming feeling that I’ve done all I need to do as an athlete. My motivation has been satisfied and it’s time to chase other passions. I also cannot imaging traveling to tournaments and spending that much time away from Ross and my family anymore
I owe SO much to the people who guided me along the way. There are far too many to name, but this journey would not have been what it was without @jenniferkessy in so many ways
. And I’m so thankful for each of my baller partners over the years
I have so much love for my family and friends who bought in at 110% and supported me the whole way, it wouldn’t have been anywhere close to as meaningful without you guys, SO many awesome memories
Thank you @alixklineman for playing this season with me, it wouldn’t have felt right any other way
and I will cherish every point we still get…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Volleyballmag.com…