No. 3, No. 4, No. 5 — those are the end-of-season national rankings by the American Volleyball Coaches of America of the LMU beach volleyball team. Add to those laurels four straight WCC championships, four conference Coach of the Year awards for John Mayer, and numerous individual player awards and it’s hard to argue that beach volleyball is not bringing home the hardware — repeatedly.
Mayer’s expectations for the coming season remain high, but he also relates winning titles to helping his players grow.
Looking at the 2024 season, he says, “This is probably one of the more talented teams we’ve had. I think we have the ability to beat anybody, but we’ll find out if we can continue to improve and get there.” But he adds that he wants his players to achieve personal growth: “To be great learners, take on areas in which they can grow. If we can do that, we’ll probably win some matches and also learn some lifelong skills beyond the sport.”
Winning is not the only recruiting tool. Players’ experiences shape lives as well as the standings.
“Success helps, but the experiences our athletes have had, as student athletes at LMU — when our athletes share their experiences with those we’re recruiting, that’s probably the most helpful thing.”
After several outstanding seasons, the team may now take the game up a notch. And the players may be better people for it.
The 2024 beach volleyball schedule will include matches with UCLA, USC, UC Berkeley, Washington, and others.