The Road to Paris: My Olympic Journey
By Miles Partain
When I first stepped onto the beach volleyball court as a kid, the Olympics seemed like a distant dream, a fantasy reserved for the legends of the sport. Fast forward to today, and here I am, reflecting on an unforgettable journey that led Andy Benesh and me to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. It’s a surreal moment, but one built on countless hours of hard work, trust, and unwavering belief.
The Partnership That Changed Everything
Andy and I teamed up in 2023 with one goal: to push the boundaries of what’s possible in beach volleyball. We didn’t just want to win—we wanted to innovate. That’s where the jump set offense became our signature. For those unfamiliar, the jump set is a fast-paced, aggressive style of play that keeps opponents guessing and puts us in control. Mastering it wasn’t easy, but it became the cornerstone of our success on the international stage.
From the moment we started working together, there was a natural chemistry. Andy’s towering presence at the net as a blocker and my role as a setter/defender created a dynamic that clicked almost immediately. We didn’t just complement each other’s skills; we amplified them.
The Grind
Qualifying for the Olympics isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience. Over the past year, we competed in 24 international tournaments across the globe, facing off against the world’s best. There were days when our bodies felt broken, when the pressure seemed too much, but we pushed through.
Each match taught us something new. Every loss was a lesson, and every win was a validation of our effort. We spent hours reviewing game footage, analyzing opponents, and refining our strategy. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was necessary.
The Moment We Qualified
I’ll never forget the moment we found out we officially made it to Paris. It was one of those rare instances where time seemed to stand still. All the sacrifices—missed birthdays, sleepless nights, grueling training sessions—suddenly felt worth it.
For me, qualifying wasn’t just about achieving a personal goal. It was about representing something bigger: my family, my teammates, and the entire beach volleyball community. Knowing that I’ll be stepping onto the Olympic stage as part of Team USA is a responsibility I don’t take lightly.
Looking Ahead to Paris
The journey doesn’t end here—it’s only just beginning. As Andy and I prepare for the Olympics, we’re doubling down on our training and fine-tuning our game. Paris is the ultimate stage, and we’re ready to leave everything on the sand.
This isn’t just about us as a team—it’s about inspiring others. Whether you’re a young athlete dreaming big or someone just discovering the sport, we want to show that with passion, hard work, and a little bit of creativity, anything is possible.
Thank You
To everyone who has supported us along the way—our families, coaches, fans, and sponsors—thank you. Your belief in us has been the fuel that keeps us going. We’re taking you all to Paris with us, in spirit and in heart.
The road to the Olympics has been the adventure of a lifetime, but there’s still more to write in this story. Stay tuned—because PB and J Volleyball is just getting started.
See you in Paris!
— Miles Partain