When you think of women’s beach volleyball, chances are that sand and bikinis come to mind. This sport has been synonymous with the racy dress code since its 1996 induction as an Olympic medal event. It’s a sport where the scantily clad athletes will no doubt garner some attention. But, does the sexy attire detract from the true athleticism of these fierce competitors? For top women beach volleyball players like Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh-Jennings and silver medalist April Ross, the answer is: No. For them, the bikini is simply a work uniform for their profession.
As they enter this weekend’s AVP Championship undefeated, here are five ways Walsh-Jennings and Ross are not only defying the stereotypical sex-symbol undertone but showing why they’ll be the top team to beat in 2016.