According to PRNewswire, International Management Group (IMG), USA Volleyball (USAV) and Jose Cuervo have announced the 2011 “Jose Cuervo Pro Beach Volleyball Series.” The three-event series is USAV sanctioned and features a $500,000 cumulative prize purse, the richest in the United States this year. The three-day, double elimination tournaments will be televised live on VERSUS.
“IMG has a long history in pro beach volleyball and we’re thrilled to get back in the game here in the States,” Senior VP James Leitz said. “With great partners like USAV and Jose Cuervo, and a tremendous field of very talented athletes, we envision consistent growth and success for the sport in the coming years.”
The Cuervo Pro Beach Volleyball Series will debut on August 26-28 at the $200,000 Manhattan Beach Open in California, a tournament with the longest history in the sport. A field of 64 teams in both genders will battle for the largest domestic purse of 2011 and the winners will have permanent plaques on the Manhattan Beach Pier. Known as the Wimbledon of beach volleyball,” winners will join the ranks of legends Karch Kiraly, Phil Dalhausser, Todd Rogers, Sinjin Smith, Randy Stoklos, Misty May-Treanor, Kerri Walsh and Holly McPeak.
“Beach Volleyball and Jose Cuervo are both known for intensity and lifestyle appeal, and the opportunity to help the sport return to prominence not only for the players but also for fans was one we’re excited about,” said Brian Radics, Brand Director, Jose Cuervo. “Given the Jose Cuervo brand’s deep history in professional beach volleyball as one of the sport’s first corporate sponsors, this just feels right for everyone involved.”
The series will move to Miami Beach on September 16-18 for the $150,000 Miami Beach Pro followed by the $150,000 Jose Cuervo Pro Beach Volleyball Series National Championship on September 23-25 in Hermosa Beach, California.
“I am pleased and excited to begin this relationship with Cuervo as the title sponsor of our Pro Beach Series,” USA Volleyball Chief Executive Director Doug Beal said. “This is exactly the kind of partnership we have been looking for as we develop high-profile, quality beach events. Cuervo has a rich history in our sport and to open up our Series in Manhattan Beach is only fitting. USA Volleyball is committed to grow our beach involvement at all levels.”
