Riley Salmon is an American Olympic gold medalist, long-time indoor volleyball professional and indoor and sand volleyball coach. At 6'1", this Texas native did not play for a big volleyball program (though Pierce is not to be ignored) is a true underdog story, getting the call to the US men's national team. After playing in the games in Athens and finishing 4th, he became the team captain, winning multiple championships en route to Olympic gold in 2008 at Bejing. He is currently the Head Men's Volleyball Coach at Jamestown.
Tune in, as we chat up dealing with losses on the big stage, military kids and how they handle that life, why our human psyche leans towards the negative, his journey to the national team that lead to 2004 and 2008, the match vs Serbia, teamwork vs wanting to stand out, Dave Palm, fun stories playing overseas, why "Avalide" was considered a banned substance, how he got started with volleyball, the talent in Italy, where the money comes from in pro leagues overseas, advice on how to keep a good woman, his battle with addiction to opioids and alcohol, how he conquered stereotypical obstacles to play at the highest level, the "South Bay stare," and MORE!
