TUCSON, Arizona — Salpointe Senior Abby Russell loves the beach.
“You don’t have to wear shoes," Abby said. "You don’t have to wear knee pads or socks. You can just wear whatever. You need sunscreen and that’s about it.”
And during her junior season, Abby and partner Alex Parkhurst won the 2019 beach volleyball state pairs competition.
“Alex and I put so much work in, and to get that reward was a pat on the back.”
Alex Parkhurst now plays for UArizona. Abby, who did play indoor volleyball in the winter, was set for a senior beach volleyball season that was cut short due COVID-19.
“I feel badly for all the other seniors who are only doing one sport.”
But Abby is on to a bigger beach. She’s headed to play for the UArizona, where she will be reunited with Alex Parkhurst.
"I’m not sure if we’ll be partners. However, being on the same team with her will be awesome. I love that."
