Webber Athletics
Ricky Baptist, Director of Sports Information
BABSON PARK, Fla. – The very first recruit in the history of the Webber International University men’s beach volleyball program, Chris Ludwig, has been selected to join the USA Collegiate National Beach Team.
The team is comprised of the best collegiate beach volleyball players from around the country. Team trains at the Chula Vista Olympic Training Center in San Diego, California. Due to COVID-19, the team’s activities for the summer of 2020 was limited to virtual meetings and trainings sessions only.
I believe being selected to play for the USA Collegiate National Team is a great opportunity to showcase my achievements on the court,” said Ludwig. “This nomination has motivated me to become the best player I can be.”
“Chris is adding on to his beach resume and getting the chance to both represent his school and his country at the highest level of competition for collegiate athletics,” spoke Webber’s Head Men’s Volleyball Coach Carlos Jimenez. “He is one of the best players in Florida and I am glad he is getting the chance to show this at the national and possibly international level. Chris has worked hard to be one of the best beach players currently in the beach game. Having him be part of the inaugural men’s beach program here at Webber as a senior is the culmination of his hard work and dedication to the sport, and it makes him the perfect ambassador for our program. We are very excited to see him represent Webber on the beach this season.”
“Starting a men’s beach program at our school gives not only me, but other players the opportunity to play the sport they love while receiving their degree,” added Ludwig. “Being the first Webber recruit to play men’s beach volleyball is an honor and will hopefully motivate others to follow their dreams too.”
We hope you enjoy our Q&A with Chris Ludwig below:
What are you most looking forward to about this opportunity to play beach volleyball for the USA Collegiate National Team?
A: To be able to have the chance to train and compete against the best collegiate players in the country
When did you start playing beach volleyball and why is it important to you? What do you think separates you from others in the sport or when you were younger playing the sport?
A: I started playing volleyball about six years ago, and I think what separates me from others is my drive and passion for the sport.
What brought you or what attracted you to Webber back when you first came here?
A: I wanted to stay in Florida if I was going to play for a school and Webber was the first to contact me, so I chose them.
What are your favorite memories from your time at Webber so far?
A: All of the away game trips with the men’s team.
What are your goals for your remaining time at Webber?
A: Most importantly, I want to finish my degree, but I also want to help the men’s volleyball team win our first ring ever.
What does your training look like preparing for this opportunity, or what steps are you taking to ensure you meet your goals?
A: I train four days out of the week for beach volleyball and I travel almost every weekend to play in tournaments to improve my game.
What do you like to do during your free time / what are your hobbies?
A: Fishing and diving are my primary hobbies, but I also enjoy hunting.
What has been the hardest or most challenging thing you have had to overcome so far on your journey?
A: To be able to stay focused on the academic side of being a student-athlete.
What drives you to do all that you do?
A: I just want to be the best at whatever I am trying to do in life.
What does it mean to you to be a Warrior?
A: Family is the first thing that comes to mind. I’ve met lifelong friends at Webber