Shaping Volleyball’s Legacy: An Exclusive Interview with Doug Beal

Volleyball is a community, a passion, and a movement that continues to evolve. Few individuals have been as instrumental in shaping this movement as Doug Beal. With a career spanning decades, Beal has been a player, coach, and visionary leader who helped propel volleyball to new heights, both in the United States and on the international stage.  

In this exclusive interview, Doug shares his thoughts on the partnership between Sports Imports and USA Volleyball, the evolution of the game, and the bright future of the sport. 

 

Who Is Doug Beal? 

Doug Beal, a volleyball icon and cofounder of Sports Imports, has been instrumental in blending innovation with tradition in the sport. He played a vital role in establishing what a modern net system would be in the USA today, cementing Sports Imports as a leader in volleyball equipment. Four decades after confounding Sports Imports, he assisted in forging a partnership with USAV that continues to this day.  

Doug Beal is a name synonymous with volleyball excellence. A former player and coach, he is perhaps best known for leading the U.S. Men’s National Team to its first Olympic gold medal in 1984. His innovative strategies, including the introduction of a specialized player system, transformed the way volleyball was played at the highest levels.  

Beal went on to serve as CEO of USA Volleyball, where he was instrumental in expanding the sport’s reach, fostering youth development, and securing the United States’ position as a global volleyball powerhouse. His career is a testament to his passion for the game and his commitment to its growth. 

 

 

A Winning Partnership: Sports Imports and USA Volleyball 

When asked about the partnership between Sports Imports and USA Volleyball, Beal’s enthusiasm is clear. 

“There has been quite a long history between Sports Imports and USA Volleyball,” he says. “We’ve been in a contractual relationship as the official upright supplier and net support system for USA Volleyball at least two or three times. Both entities share a commitment to excellence and to providing the best for the sport.” 

This partnership has been instrumental in elevating the quality of volleyball events in the United States.  

Beal also helped establish the exclusive relationship between Senoh and Sports Imports.  This allows Sports Imports to further amplify Senoh, as the official volleyball equipment supplier of the Olympic Games. Senoh uprights, the Olympic standard since volleyball’s introduction to the Games in 1964, have become a symbol of quality and safety. Beal highlights that this relationship wasn’t just about equipment but about aligning philosophies. 

“If we’re going to provide opportunities for people to play at the highest level in the safest environment, we want the best product. It was easy to approach Sports Imports, talk about how their product works with our philosophy, and see an easy melding of the two companies,” he explains. 

This collaboration has not only enhanced USA Volleyball’s events but also showcased the Sports Imports’ name to a broad audience. “It’s been a win-win for both of us,” Beal says. “I’m impressed with the expansion of the Sports Imports brand and the quality of the products. Being ahead of the market is sort of embedded in who Sports Imports is.” 

 

 

The Evolution of Volleyball 

Over the past few decades, volleyball has undergone transformative changes, many of which Beal witnessed firsthand. From the introduction of rally scoring to the libero position, these innovations have made the game faster, more engaging, and more accessible. 

“Rally scoring simplified the game for spectators, even those without a volleyball background,” Beal explains. “The libero position has shown that anyone can play volleyball at a high level. You don’t have to be a giant to excel.” 

Beal also points to the explosion of Title IX as a key driver of the sport’s growth. “Volleyball may now be the most popular sport for women across all age groups,” he notes. These advancements have not only changed the way the game is played but also how it’s perceived by fans and players alike. 

 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Volleyball 

For Beal, the future of volleyball is bright. The sport’s appeal to families, its inclusivity, and its growing professionalization are all indicators of its upward trajectory. 

“Volleyball stands out because it doesn’t have the same concussion risks or physical problems that other sports face,” Beal explains. “It’s a game that kids can play for longer periods, and its team-oriented nature makes it particularly appealing.” 

Beal is especially optimistic about volleyball’s potential to become a major player in the professional sports landscape in the United States. “While volleyball has been professional internationally for some time, it’s now gaining traction here. Giving athletes opportunities to build professional careers at home adds the final piece to volleyball’s growing prominence,” he says. 

 

 

The Lasting Impact of Doug Beal 

From his innovative coaching strategies to his leadership at USA Volleyball, Doug Beal’s contributions to the sport are unparalleled. His vision has helped volleyball evolve into a dynamic, inclusive, and family-friendly game that continues to captivate players and fans around the world. 

As Beal reflects on his career, his passion for volleyball remains evident. “Volleyball has unique elements, like rotation, rallying, and keeping the ball flying—enhancing rallies and encouraging more back-and-forth play would further improve the game,” he says. “I’m excited about where the game is now and where it’s heading.” 

 

A Call to Action 

Doug Beal’s story is a reminder of the transformative power of volleyball—both on and off the court. At Sports Imports, we are proud to continue supporting the sport’s growth through our partnerships, innovative equipment, and commitment to excellence. 

Explore our net systems and discover how we’re helping shape the future of the game. Together, let’s elevate volleyball to even greater heights.