AMERICANS WIN THE GOLD!!!

Beach volleyball originated on the beaches of California and for years the US teams were untouchable when it came to the beach, however recently, led by Brazil, much of the world has surpassed the US in world rankings. Blanton and Fonoimoana headed into the Olympic competition ranked just eleventh in the world.

This did not hinder the Americans' focus from their ultimate goal ... a gold medal ... however in order to attain that goal they would have to play the third seeded team (and top FIVB team) of Ze Marco De Melos and Ricardo Santos from Brazil. In a match that took over 100 minutes and on the rain soaked Bondi Stadium court, Fonoimoana and Blanton played catch-up for most of the initial game. Down 11-8 (the Brazilians at game point), it was "do or die" for the Americans. At one point, Ricardo dug a ball, Ze Marco then set a perfect ball, only to have Ricardo hit it straight into the net. That would have been the game !! Aces, digs, and a little help from the Brazilians allowed Dain and Eric to make a charge and close out the match 12 - 11.

The second game was not much easier. The score continued back and forth until it was finally 11-9, with the Americans one point away from winning the gold medal for the second straight Olympics. Scoring the final point with a massive Fonoimoana roof block, the US team looked as though they could hardly believe that they were the Olympic champions. It was a dream come true for both Dain and Eric, who, after tackling each other at center court, proceeded to do a victory lap (Dain draped in a US flag) and then make their way into the stands to share their excitement with their friends and family.

Blanton and Fonoimoana went through the tournament undefeated and are well deserving gold medal champions. For more info, visit www.olympics.com.

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