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All TCU. All the time.

TCU 360

TCU 360

All TCU. All the time.

TCU 360

TCUs Graydon Morris wins the mens 5000 meter race at the 2024 TCU Invitational a time of 14:11.50. (Micah Pearce/Staff Photographer)
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California’s coastal clash: Beach volleyball’s finest gather at Cal Poly

TCU beach volleyball gears up to play Pepperdine, USC and Long Beach State in the first round at the Center of Effort Challenge.
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Players and fans along on the sideline for the 2024 TCU Invitational. (Courtesy of gofrogs.com)

At the center of California’s sun-soaked shores, the stage is set for a beach volleyball spectacle unlike any other.

The Frogs are gearing up for a thrilling showdown at the Center Of Effort Challenge, hosted by Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on April 12-13. 

This two-day extravaganza promises fierce competition, breathtaking rallies and a showcase of unparalleled athleticism as TCU clashes with powerhouse opponents No. 7 Long Beach State, No. 2 USC and Pepperdine.

Long Beach State, fresh off a valiant effort against top-ranked UCLA, is eager to bounce back and prove their resilience on the sand. Led by pairs like Malia Gementera and Taylor Hagenah, who put up a thriller fight against UCLA, Long Beach State is a force to be reckoned with. Despite setbacks, their ability to regroup and secure a sweep against CSUN highlights their determination and skill, guaranteeing an intense battle against TCU.

Pepperdine, boasting a perfect 3-0 record from the Waves Tourney, arrives with confidence and momentum.

The dynamic duo of Kate Clermont and McKenna Thomas leads the charge with a blend of power and finesse that has proven formidable against opponents like UC Davis. With a lineup filled with talent and depth, Pepperdine is poised to make a statement at the Center Of Effort Challenge.

Meanwhile, the No. 2-ranked USC beach volleyball team arrives in San Luis Obispo with a string of impressive victories under their belt.

The Trojans’ recent triumph over the No. 7 California Golden Bears demonstrated their prowess and resilience with pairs like Maddi Kriz and Grace Seits delivering clutch performances. USC’s ability to handle pressure situations and clinch crucial points makes them a daunting adversary for TCU and the other contenders at the tournament.

 

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When the sun sets over the sandy courts of the Swanson Beach Volleyball Complex, fans, players and coaches can expect exhilarating matches with energy that could fill the atmosphere.

In the face of such a high-profile tournament, Head coach Hector Gutierrez said, “The girls always know that there’s no easy game.”

The Center Of Effort Challenge isn’t only about individual skills; it’s a celebration of teamwork, determination and the constant drive for greatness in beach volleyball. Every match is like a new chapter in this exciting story. Family, friends and fans should gear up for a weekend packed with thrilling matches, unforgettable moments and the crowning of a champion who’s set to leave their mark on beach volleyball history.

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