Beach Volleyball on Oakland Beach, which began the third Monday in May, concluded with the championship playoffs on August 11.

By Melanie Cane

Beach Volleyball on Oakland Beach, which began the third Monday in May, concluded with the championship playoffs on August 11. The popularity of this sport is evidenced by the fact that 44 teams (the maximum number given the beach space) from all over Westchester County participated all season. Of the 44, 29 teams made it to the playoffs. The teams are divided into three leagues — Competitive, Inter-A, and Recreational — based on level of skill.

Clever Beaches, who have been playing in Rye for five years, won the Competitive league, beating their nemesis, Hit That, who beat them last year in the championship match-up. Clever Beaches Captain Geygy Cortez said, “Most of the players on the opposing team are our close friends with whom we play in different leagues and tournaments. We were ecstatic to be able to play them again, and, this time, win it all. We look forward to returning next summer as defending champs.”

Smokin Aces won the Inter-A league championship, and Hot Mess came away with the recreational league championship title.

Beach Volleyball is run by The Sound Shore Youth Foundation to raise money for their football program for boys from Port Chester, Rye Brook, and Rye. Foundation President Angel Rosado said after paying beach fees, T-shirt costs, and the set-up crew, they net between $5,000 and $6,000, which helps fund the 40 scholarships they award.