Walsh Jennings makes official comeback at World Series of Beach Volleyball

Manhattan Beach, Calif. – June 25, 2013 – Kerri Walsh Jennings, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and pro beach volleyball star, announced today her U.S. comeback will begin at the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball, July 22-28 in Long Beach, Calif.
Walsh Jennings, who gave birth to her daughter in April, remains undefeated in Olympic competition boasting a 42-1 set record overall. Hoping to compete with future Olympic partner, April Ross, Walsh Jennings will officially begin her comeback bid for a fourth gold medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, at the World Series.

The ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball features the first Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) sanctioned Grand Slam tournament in the United States since 2003, and will include the inaugural ASICS World Series Cup, a special competition that will feature the top U.S. men’s and women’s teams competing against the best teams from around the world.

“I am excited that the FIVB is returning to the U.S. after a 10-year absence,” said Walsh Jennings. “More importantly, to represent my country for global bragging rights in the inaugural World Series Cup and having the chance to capture the title, adding to my three Olympic medals, would be amazing.”

“We are thrilled that Kerri will launch her return to competition, after recently giving birth, in the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball and represent the USA in the inaugural World Series Cup “live” on NBC Sports, “ said Leonard Armato, the event’s creator and producer. “She is a true icon of the sport and having her represent the U.S. against the best in the world will make for compelling television.”

Walsh-Jennings has also taken the opportunity to team up with Elisabeth Rohm, an American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet Member to announce a charitable partnership with the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball that benefits the 132-year old organization.

Through a multi-level approach, fans, spectators and viewers at home, will be encouraged to #JoinIn and “pay it forward” either through donations or volunteerism. In addition, the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball will also feature a celebrity match on Saturday, July 27. Donations to the Red Cross can be made by texting 90999 to REDCROSS or online at redcross.org.

“It is our privilege to support the vital work of the Red Cross,” said Armato “Almost every person is touched by their outstanding efforts in one-way-or-another. As a global event, we are proud to help support their efforts. When an international crisis occurs the Red Cross is there to help those in need. We are thrilled to be able to offer them a platform through our event to further their mission and help generate funds, volunteers and exposure.”

NBC, NBC Sports Network, and Universal Sports Network will provide more than 20 hours of programming of the competitions July 25-28, including telecasts of the men’s and women’s Grand Slam finals and World Series Cup Finals.

More information about the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball is available at www.wsobv.com or on twitter @wsobv.

Sports Imports is proud to be an official net system sponsor of the Inaugural World Series of Beach Volleyball.