|
Tim HovlandBorn: February 23, 1959, Westchester, California
Enshrined: 2024 Country: United States Category: Beach Player |
|
|
|
|
BIOGRAPHY
Tim Hovland has long been celebrated not only for his incredible skills on the beach volleyball court but also for his larger-than-life personality, which has captivated fans and opponents alike. Known as “The Hov,” Hovland's presence on the sand was as formidable as his athletic ability, earning him a reputation as both a top-tier player and an entertaining competitor.
Inducted into the California Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2000, Hovland was described as “an original smack talker who delighted the crowds with his antics.” However, his flair for showmanship was matched by his exceptional talent on the court. Partnered with fellow Hall of Famer Mike Dodd, Hovland secured 60 professional titles throughout his career, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Hovland’s journey to beach volleyball stardom began in Southern California, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. He started playing volleyball at the age of 10 and quickly excelled, becoming a three-time All-American at the University of Southern California (USC). During his time at USC, Hovland led the Trojans to three consecutive NCAA championship matches, capturing the NCAA championship in 1980 and establishing himself as a force in the indoor game.
Hovland mixed his playing time at USC with competing for the U.S. Men’s National team. He spent eight seasons competing professionally in Italy, leading Kappa Turin to the Italian Serie A1 title and MVP in 1984 becoming one of two Americans to accomplish the double feat.
On the beach, Hovland’s achievements are legendary. He won six Manhattan Beach Open titles and four Hermosa Beach Open Championships, cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His 1988-89 season with Dodd was particularly remarkable, with the duo winning 18 titles and reaching the podium in 39 of 48 tournaments.
In 2020, Hovland was rightfully inducted into the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame as an All-Time Great Male Player, further recognizing his contributions to the sport. His international acclaim was solidified when he was named one of the top picks in the International Volleyball Hall of Fame Fan Vote, receiving thousands of votes from fans worldwide.
For his extraordinary career and his lasting impact on the sport, we are proud to induct Tim Hovland into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame as a Beach Player.
Inducted into the California Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2000, Hovland was described as “an original smack talker who delighted the crowds with his antics.” However, his flair for showmanship was matched by his exceptional talent on the court. Partnered with fellow Hall of Famer Mike Dodd, Hovland secured 60 professional titles throughout his career, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Hovland’s journey to beach volleyball stardom began in Southern California, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. He started playing volleyball at the age of 10 and quickly excelled, becoming a three-time All-American at the University of Southern California (USC). During his time at USC, Hovland led the Trojans to three consecutive NCAA championship matches, capturing the NCAA championship in 1980 and establishing himself as a force in the indoor game.
Hovland mixed his playing time at USC with competing for the U.S. Men’s National team. He spent eight seasons competing professionally in Italy, leading Kappa Turin to the Italian Serie A1 title and MVP in 1984 becoming one of two Americans to accomplish the double feat.
On the beach, Hovland’s achievements are legendary. He won six Manhattan Beach Open titles and four Hermosa Beach Open Championships, cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His 1988-89 season with Dodd was particularly remarkable, with the duo winning 18 titles and reaching the podium in 39 of 48 tournaments.
In 2020, Hovland was rightfully inducted into the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame as an All-Time Great Male Player, further recognizing his contributions to the sport. His international acclaim was solidified when he was named one of the top picks in the International Volleyball Hall of Fame Fan Vote, receiving thousands of votes from fans worldwide.
For his extraordinary career and his lasting impact on the sport, we are proud to induct Tim Hovland into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame as a Beach Player.
