Bradley Keenan is definitely a name you will hear when it comes to volleyball legends.
From his career to his impactful coaching, he has left a huge mark on the sport, and we have been following his path.
It’s all about passion, skill, and dedication.
Today, we are here to share Bradley’s story, from being a college player to becoming a coach who is shaping the future of beach volleyball.
Let’s get started!
Early Volleyball Career of Bradley Keenan
Imagine a young athlete dominating the volleyball court at the University of Pepperdine. That was Bradley Keenan.
Between 2002 and 2003, he wasn’t just playing; he was rewriting record books.
Here’s what made him special:
- Four-time All-American athlete
- Twice named National Player of the Year
- Smashed Pepperdine’s career records:
- 745 career blocks
- 1.79 blocks per set
- 187 service aces
His most impressive achievement? Leading Pepperdine to three NCAA Championship appearances and nearly capturing a national title in 2002.
Professional Playing Achievements
After transitioning from college to professional beach volleyball, Keenan continued to make waves in the sport.
His path was marked by impressive achievements, starting with his selection as the AVP Rookie of the Year in 2006.
He then earned the title of Most Improved Player in 2007, showcasing his rapid growth.
In 2014, Keenan clinched his first AVP event win in St. Petersburg, Florida. He consistently maintained top-three finishes on the AVP tour, cementing his reputation as one of the top players in the game.
Coaching Roles of Bradley Keenan
Arizona State University
- Served as head coach of the ASU beach volleyball program from 2016 to 2023.
- Led the team to its highest Pac-12 win totals in program history, including a 17-15 record in 2022.
- Guided the Sand Devils to four sweeps and multiple wins over ranked opponents.
Sam Houston State University
- Appointed as the inaugural head coach for Sam Houston’s new beach volleyball program in 2024.
- Tasked with building the program from the ground up and preparing the team for Conference USA competition starting in 2025.
Other Coaching Experience
- Director and coach at OC Sand Volleyball Club.
- Previous roles as a graduate assistant and with USA Volleyball.
Recognition and Hall of Fame
In 2014, Pepperdine Athletics honored Keenan by inducting him into their Hall of Fame. This recognition celebrated his outstanding collegiate career and significant contributions to volleyball.
Bradley Keenan in The Field
Here’s a match between Brad Keenan and Ty Tramblie vs Avery Drost and Russ Marchewka in 2015 at AVP Huntington Beach:
Personal Life & Lifestyle of Bradley Keenan
- Marriage to April Ross: Bradley is married to April Ross, another accomplished beach volleyball star, sharing a bond both on and off the court.
- Mentorship and Development: He is deeply committed to developing young athletes, offering guidance and mentorship to aspiring volleyball players.
- Family Balance: Despite his busy professional career, Bradley makes a priority of balancing his demanding volleyball duties with quality family time, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
Final Thoughts
Volleyball is more than a sport; it’s a community, and Bradley Keenan shows us that true greatness lies in inspiring others, not just winning titles.
His legacy goes beyond personal achievements, focusing on creating opportunities and lifting up future athletes.
As the sport improves, athletes like Keenan prove that the biggest victories occur off the court, in the lives they touch and the hearts they inspire.