Hero Volley, the beach volleyball experience founded by three-time Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings, returns to Montauk July 28 through 30 for its second year, bringing professional athletes, youth clinics, wellness programming and a partnership with the Hampton Lifeguard Association.
Walsh Jennings, one of the most decorated beach volleyball players in Olympic history, created Hero Volley in 2025 to celebrate the sport beyond competition. Held at venues throughout Montauk, including Hero Beach Club, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Spa, and Kirk Park Beach, the three-day event blends elite competition with opportunities for players of all ages to get on the sand. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Hampton Lifeguard Association, supporting water safety programs and the organization’s work throughout the South Fork.
Walsh Jennings said she created Hero Volley because she believes youth sports have become increasingly centered on year-round schedules, rankings, and high-pressure performance, leaving less room for enjoyment. She wanted to create an experience where seasoned volleyball players and newcomers alike could reconnect with the game in a fun, welcoming environment.
“Hero Volley is a fun setting to bring the sport to players in a unique way or introduce people to it in one of the most beautiful settings,” she said.
Montauk was a natural choice because of its beach culture and strong sense of community. “It’s magical, and the community is so wonderful,” she said. The partnership with the Hampton Lifeguard Association was equally important, allowing the event to support the local lifeguards who help keep the area’s beaches safe.
The collaboration also reflects a longstanding connection between beach volleyball and East End lifeguard culture. Local ocean lifeguards have long been known for their athleticism and competitive traditions, making them a natural fit for Hero Volley’s emphasis on community and sport. This year’s Pro-Am tournament featured professional athletes competing alongside local lifeguards and standout amateur players, while youth and adult clinics will give participants the chance to learn directly from experienced competitors.
As beach volleyball continues to grow in popularity, Walsh Jennings said she has enjoyed watching the next generation of athletes bring a new level of confidence and athleticism to the sport. “When I look at these young girls playing today, I am just blown away by their fearlessness and athleticism. They are so strong, so dynamic, and they carry themselves with this beautiful confidence that took me years to cultivate,” she said.
Reflecting on her own career, she said she would tell her younger self to embrace the setbacks that come with pursuing big goals because, “It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t skip any steps and know that everything serves you.”
Since retiring from Olympic competition, Walsh Jennings has turned her focus to growing volleyball through coaching, entrepreneurship, and professional team ownership. She co-founded p1440 and is a founding owner of the NorCal MLV franchise in addition to Hero Volley. She said the transition has challenged her to shift from concentrating solely on her own performances to building organizations, events, and opportunities for other athletes.
While the work comes with a learning curve, she said many of the qualities that made her successful on the court have carried over into business. “I think the most complex mind shift has been going from being an athlete whose sole focus is personal performance to zooming out and considering all of the people, moving pieces, and more,” she said.
Hero Volley has grown quickly since its inaugural event. After returning to Montauk this summer, the beach volleyball experience will make its San Diego debut later this year as Walsh Jennings continues to expand the event’s reach.
While the event features high-level competition, Walsh Jennings said its greatest success will be measured by the experience participants take home.
“More than anything, I want everyone to leave feeling connected, to each other, to the game and to what’s possible when you challenge yourself,” she said. “Volleyball has given me so much throughout my life, and if one child leaves inspired to keep playing, trying something new, or believing in themselves a little more, that’s a win.”
Her motivational words for those joining for a day on the sand? “Remember who you want to be, and what you’re aiming for, and let it rip… every day!”
Hero Volley begins Tuesday, July 28, with youth and adult clinics at Lion’s Field, followed by an invitation-only wellness session at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Spa and a welcome celebration on July 29. The event concludes July 30 with the Pro-Am tournament at Hero Beach Club and Kirk Park Beach, where professional volleyball players, local lifeguards and amateur athletes will compete together while raising support for the Hampton Lifeguard Association.