April Ross

April Ross was one of only a few women beach volleyball athletes who earned medals during multiple Olympics. Alix Klineman has become a brand new Olympian and is set to join the team in Tokyo. But more than that, Ross is aiming to capture her first Olympic gold. Perhaps it is her last chance at winning, as she's 39 old. However, she's convinced that top prizes can be achieved. Ross was quoted in NBC Boston as saying that If you put in your best, even if you perform well, you will win the gold. Also, it's an issue of luck. Ross was a Californian born in Costa Mesa in 1982. She grew up in Costa Mesa with her mother, father and sibling. The athletic pursuits she pursued began at Newport Harbor High School where she participated in several sports. Her pre-athletic career comprised indoor volleyball, as well as basketball, running and track. In the last sport, she clearly stood out. Through her high school years, she was a middle blocker outside hitter and setter in the court for volleyball, according to her college bio. Her efforts were recognized by her being named 1999 Gatorade's National Circle of Champions Players of the Year. Additionally, in 2000, she was named Orange County Athlete of the Year for volleyball. Ross and Klineman have been doing what they do from 2017. But, Ross played a significant role in the world of beach volleyball before joining the duo. She actually won numerous major events with two different partners, one of whom is an icon of volleyball. Jennifer Kessy coached her from 2007 through 2013. Kessy was Ross's co-coach at the World Championships in 2009. In the 2012 Olympic Games, they received the gold medal. Misty May, Kerri Walsh and Kerri Jennings were the group to beat for the gold. Ross Jennings took over for May-Treanor after she retired. In 2016, the duo were awarded bronze medals at the Rio Olympics for beach volleyball. Ross competed for USC Trojans throughout her college prior to becoming a professional. It was a successful run for Ross at the school. Her freshman year in 2000 saw her earn the Pac-10 as well as NCAA Freshman's of Award and also be named an All-American. The Trojans were also able to reach the Final Four with her help. The Trojans suffered a significant personal defeat in her sophomore year but was still capable of achieving the All-American title. In her last two seasons in the program she led the Trojans up to the summit by winning two consecutive national championships. In her own way Ross established her status as a legend by winning the Honda Sports Award for 2003-04. This prize was awarded to the top female college volleyball players in the country. Ross was a student at USC in International Relations. Margie Ross wasn't able to witness her daughter's rise to the beach volleyball spotlight. In 2001 when Ross was a sophomore studying at USC her mother passed away from breast cancer. She is devoted to her late parent. Margie is a constant source of inspiration for her both in and out of the water.