The Deadman's Beach Story

What exactly is Deadman's Beach? I think anyone who has been here, probably gets it. But for those who haven't, it truly is hard to explain. Really it's just a pile of sand in some guys backyard (it's me, I'm that guy!).  So you probably wonder, how does some backyard court get its own website, clothing and now turning into a beach club? 

It started for selfish reasons, I wanted to play more beach volleyball. Harder for the wife to say no when I don't have to leave the yard right? I'd always dreamed of having my own court, we had the space and in 2020 decided to make it happen. I had no idea how often it would get used, but I knew I needed to build it right. Proper drainage and nearly 2 feet of sand depth. The court was finished as things were shutting down for COVID, so with leagues cancelled and most other public court closed down - having a private court made me pretty popular. 

While I had hoped the court would get lots of use, what it turned into was beyond my wildest expectations - it became a community - it became Deadman's Beach. Yes, it was now a place where some of the best beach athletes in the city and beyond came to train and play. But it became a place to hang out after the games, chill in the pool, and throw some burgers on the BBQ. It was now a place where spouses would come watch and hang out. Where kids would come to shag balls and pepper between sets. And a place where everyone felt comfortable to bring their dogs to run around while we played (RIP Hunter, we all miss you). 

It is absolutely crazy to me the amount of hours of volleyball that have been trained and played here. How many different athletes have set foot on this court always blows my mind. Players from all over: Calgary, Victoria, Maryland, Colorado, and Cameroon. But what I am the most appreciative of and the most in awe of are the relationships and friendships that have been created on and off the court at Deadman's Beach. This is the one aspect I could never have imagined. I am biased, but its a pretty special place. 

Initially I had only dreamed of having my own court, my own place to play. But now it feels selfish to not try and grow this into something even more - to expand our reach. I feel like there is an opportunity to share my passion for the sport but also maybe make a difference. Seeing how Eric has gone from Deadman's beach KOTB winner to Canadian Pro is unreal. Also, getting to play with, train with, and be part of Bruno's Journey for his Olympic dream - has inspired me. Seeing the gap in funding and the sacrifices beach athletes like them must make to follow their dreams has motivated me even more.   

In the spring of 2024 Deadman's Beach will be expanding in many ways. It is official, a second court is coming in May. This will allow for so many things including bigger tournaments and more opportunities to train. This will also support the second big initiative and that is the Deadman's Beach youth volleyball club. The main focus of this club will be a competitive youth beach team which will give beach athletes the opportunity to train in a high performance environment and take their passion for the sport to the next level. I also plan to organize and host regular development sessions for younger athletes looking to get started on their beach volleyball journey. Finally, the launching of the Deadman's Beach store - which is home to a great selection of custom gear to show your support for the Deadman's Beach community and support the growth of the game! 

With this I am excited to also note that Deadman's Beach is officially becoming a not-for-profit to ensure all supporters that all profits from any of our programs (beach tournaments, youth beach team, or beach development camps) along with all Deadman's Beach gear sales will go 100% to the support of our Deadman's Beach athletes! 

I want to thank everyone who has supported the community this far. Whether you have played here, trained here, worn an OG tank top, or just have been following along on Instagram.  I am blown away daily by the support and all the great people I have met and built amazing relationships with all because of 300 tonnes of sand in my backyard. Thanks for sharing your love of the game with me. Please reach out if you want to connect, if you want to come play, or just want to say hi. Thanks for following our journey. 

Sincerely

Derek Dedman