Three-time Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor spoke to Parkersburg High School students Wednesday during the school’s Sports in American Culture class. May-Treanor and teammate Kerri Walsh Jennings were gold medalists in beach volleyball at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

PARKERSBURG — Olympic gold medalist in beach volleyball Misty May-Treanor talked to students in Parkersburg High School’s Sports in American Culture class Wednesday where she shared her experiences and insights with students.

“Having someone that we could ask specific questions to, that would help us and just give advice to help us in our sport, was really great,” junior volleyball player Kennedy Porter said.

Appearing on Zoom, May-Treanor discussed her journey from being a top recruit in high school to choosing Long Beach State for its renowned volleyball program and coaching staff. The 1998 team that May-Treanor captained was the first women’s NCAA volleyball team to have an undefeated season.

She explained how she made the transition from an outside hitter to a setter, a move that allowed her to continue competing at the highest levels, including the Olympics. She spoke about the challenges of balancing her college career with playing on the national indoor team.

“In between my time at Long Beach State, I was playing on the indoor national team, so I never had a summer off,” May-Treanor said.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor spoke to Parkersburg High School students Wednesday during the school’s Sports in American Culture class. May-Treanor and teammate Kerri Walsh Jennings were gold medalists in beach volleyball at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

She shared how she transitioned to beach volleyball after getting burned out with the indoor game, ultimately participating in four Olympic Games and winning gold in 2004. When asked about the transition from indoor to beach volleyball, May-Treanor emphasized the importance of developing all-around skills, especially for middle players. She advised the students to use the offseason to play at the beach to get accustomed to the different timing and demands of the game.

“As an athlete we prepare for everything, right? So, you have to prepare for anything,” May-Treanor said. “When things aren’t normal, it’s kind of fun.”

She said she enjoyed all of her trips to the Olympics and each had their own experiences. She said one of her fondest memories, and one of the biggest honors someone could get, is walking with the American flag during the Olympic parade.She described the immense pride and honor of representing her country, standing behind the flag during the opening ceremonies and hearing the national anthem play as she stood atop the podium.

“You know, even if I lose the medals or they get stolen or lost, no one can take that memory from me,” she said. “And every time, no matter what stadium I’m at, when the national anthem plays, I get those movies back in my head. I’m standing on the podium and staring up at the flag and just remembering all the hard work that went into it.”

May-Treanor completed her graduate degree with Concordia University Irvine and received a master’s degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration.

Parkersburg High School junior Kennedy Porter speaks to three-time Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor Wednesday during the school’s Sports in American Culture class. May-Treanor and teammate Kerri Walsh Jennings were gold medalists in beach volleyball at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

She also touched on the realities of professional volleyball, including the difficulties of extensive travel and adjusting to different time zones and food. She stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent routine and finding ways to get adequate rest.

She encouraged the students to always strive for excellence and cherish the memories that come with achieving their goals.

May-Treanor emphasized the importance of having a Plan B and maintaining a passion outside of sports. She also stressed the need to be mindful of one’s social media presence.

“You have kids looking up to you. Eyes are on you. You’re representing your school,” she told students. “So be careful with the social media aspect. Be strong. It’s okay to be independent.”

May-Treanor’s appearance provided students with valuable insights into the world of elite volleyball and the dedication required to succeed at the highest levels. Her experiences and wisdom are sure to inspire the next generation of volleyball players.

“You don’t have these experiences every day,” junior volleyball player Ava Sayre said. “You can use some things that she talked to us about for the rest of your life.”

Douglass Huxley can be reached at dhuxley@newsandsentinel.com