We Speak Volleyball
Beach Volleyball, Big Goals, and Bright Futures: Meet Even Stray Aas
Even Stray Aas is making waves in the sand as a standout beach volleyball player for Team Norway. Playing as a right-side specialist, Even brings versatility to the court with his ability to both block and defend. His journey started thanks to a little sibling encouragement and a life-changing trip to the Beach Volleyball World Championships. Now, he’s chasing big dreams, aiming for Olympic glory, and having plenty of fun along the way. Get to know Even as he shares his favorite memories, training habits, and what keeps him motivated to give it his all on and off the court.
How did you get started playing volleyball, and what made you fall in love with the sport?
My sister convinced me to give volleyball a shot, even when I didn’t want to. Once I started improving, I began to really love it. A trip to the Beach Volleyball World Championships in Hamburg in 2019 opened my eyes to how amazing the sport truly is.
Who has been the most influential person in your volleyball journey so far?
My coach Christian Wolf at Toppvolley Norway has made the biggest impact. He helped me open my mind and see the game from new perspectives. He always encouraged me to think bigger and play smarter.
What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I play right side in beach volleyball. I love mixing up the side-out plays and setting up my partner for second ball attacks. It keeps the game exciting and strategic.
How do you balance academics, volleyball, and personal time during the season?
This year I focused entirely on beach volleyball, but I also worked some teaching classes by adjusting my schedule with the school. Next year, I’ll study economics and administration online while training with Team Norway. It’s all about good planning and staying organized.
What’s your favorite memory from your volleyball experience?
Winning the silver medal with Adrian Mol at the U22 European Championships in Turkey was unforgettable. It was such a proud moment and made all the training worth it.
What’s a typical training day like for you during the season?
I usually train twice a day. Some days it’s two ball practices, while other days include a strength session and a ball session. It keeps me in top shape and always improving.
How would you describe your team’s chemistry this season?
Our team chemistry at Team Norway is awesome. We train, eat, and hang out together, which makes everything more fun. It feels like one big supportive family.
What’s one drill or workout you secretly enjoy (or hate to love)?
I secretly love warm-up games, especially when we play “two-ball” with a bigger group. It’s fast-paced, fun, and gets us fired up for practice.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a game or big tournament?
I like to visualize the game ahead—everything from the crowd to the pressure. Music is a big part of my pre-game routine too—it helps me zone in and get pumped.
What personal goals have you set for yourself this season?
One of my big goals is to qualify for the Senior European Championships. I also want to win more international medals and keep pushing toward the top level.
What’s a piece of advice you’ve received from a coach that stuck with you?
A coach once told me to always look for the moments when others think you’re not ready—that’s when you prove them wrong. It’s advice I carry with me into every match.
What motivates you to keep pushing through tough practices or losses?
My biggest motivation is the dream of playing in the Olympics one day. I remind myself that every bit of hard work now will pay off later, even if my opponents aren’t grinding as hard.
Where do you see yourself in volleyball over the next 3–5 years?
I hope to compete in the 2028 Olympics and play among the best in the world. That’s the goal, and I’m putting in the work to make it happen.
How do you handle pressure during close matches or high-stakes points?
I stay calm by focusing on my breathing and drawing on past experiences. I keep my game face on, trust my instincts, and give it everything I’ve got.
Who’s the funniest teammate on the squad, and why?
My partner Nils Ringøen is definitely the funniest. He always has a hilarious comment ready and loves teasing us when we mess up—in the best way!
Favorite volleyball player or team you look up to?
I don’t really have a favorite player or team I look up to. I focus more on carving my own path and learning from every experience.
Do you have any pre-game rituals, superstitions, or pump-up songs?
No specific rituals, but I do have a go-to playlist that gets me hyped. Music helps me lock in and feel confident before hitting the court.
What’s your go-to post-tournament meal or snack?
Pasta is my favorite meal the day before a big game—gotta load up on carbs! On game day, I keep it simple with some nuts and fruit.
If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you try instead?
Definitely soccer. I played it for years, and if I could choose another dream, it would be playing for Liverpool FC.
What’s something fans or coaches might be surprised to learn about you?
Here’s a fun fact—I won the Norwegian Championship in floorball as a kid! It’s something not many people know about me.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
Athlete Spotlight
Pro Volleyball Player Camryn Hannah Shares Insights on Life, Leadership, and the Game with Volleyball Player Loretta Duby
As part of our Athlete Spotlight series, we’re proud to feature Camryn Hannah, a standout right-side hitter for the Vegas Thrill of the Pro Volleyball Federation. Known for her composure, powerful presence, and leadership both on and off the court, Camryn’s rise from Lansing, Illinois to the professional stage is built on talent, grit, and purpose. Her journey has taken her from setting historic records at Clemson to capturing a national title at Penn State, and now thriving as a top performer in the pro ranks.
This spotlight interview was led by none other than Loretta Duby, a libero whose relentless hustle and viral highlights have earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting defensive players in the game. What started as a middle school experiment turned into an obsession with the craft of volleyball. With elite quickness, leadership, and a fire that never quits, Loretta brings both insight and intensity to every conversation, making her the perfect voice to unpack the mindset of an elite competitor like Camryn Hannah.
Camryn’s volleyball journey began when she joined her mother who played in college and on recreational teams—at the court. She started by peppering with other kids on the sidelines until she decided to chase the game herself. As she moved into collegiate volleyball at Clemson, she made immediate waves, earning ACC All‑Freshman honors and setting a record with 37 kills in a single match. In her final year at Penn State, she delivered the final kill in the 2024 NCAA championship match over Nebraska and earned a spot on the All‑Championship Team, helping the program to its eighth national title.
Drafted fourth overall by the Vegas Thrill in the 2024 Pro Volleyball Federation Draft, Camryn now competes professionally as an outside hitter and has already made key contributions to the team’s 2025 roster.
While Camryn’s athletic achievements shine, her journey is equally rooted in personal growth. One of her biggest challenges came during her first NCAA tournament, when the pressure to perform overwhelmed her. She overcame that moment by embracing support from teammates and recognizing she did not need to shoulder the burden alone. Off the court, she stays grounded by nurturing hobbies beyond volleyball and reminding herself that she is a person first, not just an athlete.
Her preparation is both physical and mental. She fuels her body properly days before a match and works to silence distractions so she can stay fully present with her team when it matters most. For Camryn, every match is an opportunity not just to excel, but to inspire. She plays not just for the love of volleyball but to inspire girls who relate to her journey, hoping to create a path for future generations, especially for the daughters she envisions for her future. Camryn’s journey is one of grit, growth, and breaking barriers, inspiring those who watch her to dream bigger and push harder. Her current ambitions include being named Player of the Year in her league and one day representing her country on the international stage.
To dive deeper into Camryn’s mindset, journey, and personality, be sure to watch the full Athlete Spotlight interview. Loretta Duby sits down with Camryn for an honest and inspiring discussion about pressure, confidence, motivation, and what it really takes to compete at the pro level. You can watch the full video now on our YouTube channel.