Parkersburg — On Wednesday, three-time Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor made a special virtual appearance to talk to students in Parkersburg High School’s Sports in American Culture class. Known for her achievements in beach volleyball at the Olympics in 2004, 2008, and 2012, she shared inspiring stories and valuable advice that resonated with young athletes, particularly aspiring volleyball players.
During the Zoom session, May-Treanor recounted her journey from a promising high school recruit to her choice of Long Beach State, recognized for its strong volleyball program. She led her team to an incredible *undefeated season* in 1998, a first for women’s NCAA volleyball. May-Treanor discussed her transition from an outside hitter to a setter, a move that allowed her to remain competitive and fulfill her Olympic dreams.
Junior volleyball player Kennedy Porter appreciated the chance to ask May-Treanor questions and learn about her career, stating, “Having someone that we could ask specific questions to… was really great.” May-Treanor also explained the demanding nature of balancing a college career with her commitments on the national indoor volleyball team, noting, “I never had a summer off.”
She shared her reasons for shifting to beach volleyball, mentioning the *burnout* she felt from indoor competition. May-Treanor emphasized the significance of developing versatile skills, especially for middle players, encouraging students to utilize their offseasons to gain experience on the beach. “As an athlete, we prepare for everything, right? So, you have to prepare for anything,” she mentioned, adding that it often led to unique experiences.
Reflecting on her Olympic experiences, she described walking with the American flag during the parade as one of her proudest moments. “Even if I lost the medals, no one can take that memory from me,” she said, expressing the pride of representing her country during the national anthem at various ceremonies.
May-Treanor also highlighted the challenges professional players face, such as travel and adjusting to new environments. She advised the students to maintain routines for rest and self-care, and encouraged them to strive for excellence both in their sport and personal lives. The importance of having a backup plan and being mindful of their social media presence was another key point she stressed to the students.
Her visit left a significant impact on students. “You don’t have these experiences every day,” noted junior Ava Sayre, recognizing the long-lasting benefits of the insights shared. With lessons from an Olympic champion, the students of Parkersburg High School are inspired to pursue their passions both in sports and beyond.
