VOLLEYBALL: The bikini's role in Volleyball

Positive advertisements for women in sports, who knew? After researching for ad's for the past couple weeks, I have had a hard time finding even one ad that perpetuates a positive, powerful, healthy image for women. Many of the advertisements seen in today's media for women in sports are sexualized and objectified through their body parts. Volleyball is no exception. Kerri Walsh, a professional volleyball player is seen here as a strong role model and competitor.

As many of you know, beach volleyball is a sport whose uniform is a scantily clad bikini. Because it is played on a beach or sand court and takes place usually in high temperatures the women need to be able to perform, therefore we have the bikini.  As controversial as it can be, the bikini in volleyball can be seen as a showcase of the body that has worked and trained to become sculpted and muscular.  Although serving a dual purpose, the bikini as seen in this ad is a mere accessory.  The main focus is Kerri Walsh and her athleticism and skill.  Walsh is perpetrated as an athlete, not a swimsuit model or an object for men to stare at.  She is a competitor and a positive influence for both men and women alike.