I started playing beach volleyball in 2007, several years after the new rules in this sport came in to place:

• The court used to be 1m bigger in each direction
• When hand setting, the ball could not spin more than 1 rotation, otherwise it counted as a double
• Only points on your own serve
• Net touch on serve was a lost point

Even if it was several years later, I still remember hearing about some rule changes back then. I didn’t know anything about it, obviously, but it was mentioned here and there. But I never actually played with the rules. Until now. A complete different game. I can only imagine the change it must have meant for professionals back then? Going from 9x9m courts to 8x8m courts? Everything must have always been out initially.

That is what I struggled with most, trying to cover a court which was 17 m2 larger than what I’m used to. The balls were also heavier and not as easy to touch. It was also extremely hot that day in December and my wig was definitely keeping my head warm. Feet burning on the sand. Our outfits were on point though and we, as most others, were literally only there to have fun. Which is why I was so upset that in our first game, our opponent’s didn’t seem to know that we were playing with the old rules and got grumpy when we called their doubles. So unnecessary. Why go to an event and be grumpy about the fact that you didn’t even pay attention at all to the actual event and the rules? Not too surprised though to be honest. Our second game was much better and we had a really enjoyable game against friends who also were there just for the fun of it. Great rallies, many back-and-forths where no points were added to the total score due to the rule of no scoring unless on your own serve.

Pictures are from Keith, a friend who runs around on the beaches of Gold Coast, snapping pictures of everyone playing beach.