by: mengechePosted on:

Kelly Cheng: Rising Star in Beach Volleyball

Kelly Cheng, formerly known as Kelly Claes, is an accomplished beach volleyball player from the United States, renowned for her powerful play and strategic skills on the sand. As a prominent figure in the sport, Cheng has made significant strides in both national and international competitions. Here’s an in-depth look at her career, achievements, and contributions to beach volleyball.

Early Life and Education

Kelly Cheng was born on September 18, 1995, in Fullerton, California. She developed a passion for volleyball at a young age and excelled in the sport throughout her high school years at El Dorado High School. Her outstanding performance earned her a scholarship to the University of Southern California (USC).

College Career at USC

Cheng’s college career at USC was nothing short of remarkable. She played for the USC Trojans’ beach volleyball team from 2014 to 2017 and was instrumental in their success.

  • NCAA Championships: Cheng helped lead USC to three consecutive NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships (2015, 2016, 2017).
  • Awards and Honors: She earned numerous accolades, including being named an All-American multiple times and receiving the Pac-12 Player of the Year award.

Professional Career

After her successful college career, Kelly Cheng transitioned to professional beach volleyball, quickly making a name for herself on the AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) Tour and the FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball) World Tour.

  • AVP Tour: Cheng has been a dominant force on the AVP Tour, regularly competing in and winning tournaments. Her athleticism, skill, and teamwork have made her one of the top players in the league.
  • FIVB World Tour: On the international stage, Cheng has represented the United States in numerous FIVB World Tour events, earning medals and recognition for her outstanding play.

Partnership with Sarah Sponcil

One of the most notable periods in Cheng’s career has been her partnership with fellow American beach volleyball player Sarah Sponcil. The duo formed a successful team, competing in various international tournaments and the Olympics.

  • Olympic Participation: Cheng and Sponcil represented the United States at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, showcasing their talent and teamwork on one of the biggest stages in sports.
  • Tournament Success: The pair have achieved significant success in both AVP and FIVB tournaments, earning multiple titles and podium finishes.

Achievements and Impact

Kelly Cheng’s contributions to beach volleyball go beyond her individual accolades. She is known for her strategic approach to the game, powerful serves, and exceptional defensive skills.

  • AVP Awards: Cheng has received several awards on the AVP Tour, including Best Blocker and Team of the Year honors.
  • FIVB Success: Her performance on the FIVB World Tour has solidified her reputation as one of the top beach volleyball players globally.

Personal Life and Off-Court Contributions

Off the sand, Kelly Cheng is known for her dedication to promoting beach volleyball and her involvement in community initiatives.

  • Coaching and Mentorship: Cheng is actively involved in coaching and mentoring young athletes, helping to develop the next generation of beach volleyball players.
  • Community Engagement: She participates in various community outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of sports and physical activity.

Keywords and Related Searches

For those interested in learning more about Kelly Cheng, these related searches can provide additional insights:

Kelly Cheng continues to be a significant figure in beach volleyball, inspiring many with her skill, dedication, and passion for the sport. Her career is a testament to hard work and perseverance, making her one of the most respected athletes in the beach volleyball community.