Why Derek Bradford Left Hawai‘i Volleyball to Go All In on Beach

Derek Bradford is betting on himself and going all in on beach volleyball.

The rising Team USA athlete joins GRIT to share his journey from leaving the University of Hawai‘i men’s indoor volleyball program after his freshman year to pursuing a professional career on the sand.

That decision is already paying off. Derek has qualified for and competed in the AVP League this season while also testing himself internationally on the FIVB Beach Pro Tour, including Elite16 competition.

In this episode, we talk about the biggest learning curves he’s faced making the transition to beach, the players he was most excited to meet on tour, what he’s learned competing against the best in the world, and how he’s handling the expectations that come with being viewed as one of the next great American blockers.

Derek also shares what it means to bet on yourself, commit fully to the process, and chase the goal of representing Team USA at the highest level.

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Hosted by Victoria Dennis, GRIT dives into the stories, strategy, and personalities shaping the beach volleyball world. Episodes feature Olympic athletes, college coaches, and top professionals, along with the latest news, highlights from USAV and AAU Junior Nationals, and exclusive insight from the Beach Pro Tour and AVP.

From the sand to the sidelines, GRIT breaks down the game with expert analysis, behind-the-scenes access, and conversations that go beyond the scoreboard — spotlighting the athletes, teams, and culture driving the sport forward.

Broadcast from Manhattan Beach Studios, the heart of beach volleyball, GRIT is your go-to destination for interviews, predictions, and everything happening in the world of beach volleyball.

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