On a recent Monday morning in Santa Monica, beach volleyball phenom Sally Perez steps onto the sand and immediately notices that all the nets are hung to men’s standard height, not women’s.
Luckily, it’s not a practice day for the 20-year old UCLA star, who is hitting the beach for an entirely different reason — an FN cover shoot.
It takes a minute for Perez to switch from athlete to model mode, but she embraces the challenge, gamely posing for the camera and asking questions about photography as the shots roll on.
One of Rocket Dog’s most important new faces, Perez personifies the attributes the brand wants to represent: She’s resilient, strong and celebrates her unique style.
For both the athlete and the brand, the beach is the center of everything.
“Sally is a great fit for Rocket Dog because she embodies the origin story,” said Christine Kayayan, head of marketing, U.S. at parent company Top Pick Global Inc. “We were founded in 1997 on the Santa Monica sands. Beach volleyball was born on those same sands. Sally isn’t just a beach athlete; she’s a beach champion.”
Just as importantly, Perez, a North Carolina native, is also helping tell the story of the brand’s future, according to the executive. “We didn’t just want nostalgia, we wanted someone who [will help shape] the next 30 years,” said Kayayan.
Indeed, Perez is already blazing new trails for the sport and her university. In May, the athlete and teammate Maggie Boyd, a senior, led UCLA to its third NCAA Beach Volleyball Title and its first since 2019.
“It is the goal I have worked the hardest and longest for,” Perez said.
Here, the athlete sounds off on the secrets to success in beach volleyball, the women’s sports surge and SoCal style.
Beach volleyball is a unique sport. What is the key to success?
Learning to be a great teammate. People think it’s more of an individual sport because you’re not out there playing with a big team. But because it is only two of you out there, it’s that much more important to learn how to connect and bring the best out of your partner. A great teammate is an observant one, someone who is looking outside of themselves to meet people halfway, someone who is selfless and puts the team first in every situation.
What is your biggest career accomplishment so far?
Winning a national championship last year with the team. It is the goal I have worked the hardest and longest for.
What makes a great coach?
To me, a great coach is one that pushes me out of my comfort zone. I appreciate someone who challenges me as a person and a player because that’s when I know they believe in me. Also, a great coach is one that connects with the player outside of volleyball to create a deeper relationship.
You’ve grown up in an era where women’s sports continue to hit new highs. How will long-term progress be achieved?
The key is for the women athletes themselves to continue showing how tough we are. To be vulnerable and show the world how hard we work to get to where we are. Growing up in an era where I’ve had countless opportunities in sports has been game-changing. I’m forever grateful for all the support that has carried me to where I am.
Who are some of the female athletes you admire?
Aryna Sabalenka, who is a top pro women’s tennis player on tour right now. She is so authentic on and off the court and the raw emotion she expresses shows all women athletes that it is OK to be vulnerable. It all comes from a place of care, and she has helped me find my fire on the court for sure.
What makes your partnership with Rocket Dog a natural fit, and why does the brand stand out?
How awesome the team is. They are so kind and personable, which makes working with them a blast. My favorite part about the brand is how diverse the style selection is. There is a shoe for any activity or occasion.
How would you describe Southern California style?
I’m not originally from SoCal but growing up spending summers here and now attending college [at UCLA], I’ve picked up some of the style. If I had two words to describe it, I would say “sporty” and “beachy.” Those are two things important to the majority of the population here.
How has your own personal style evolved since you moved to California?
I’ve felt more free to explore my creative side. I love colorful clothing and shoes, and California inspires me to be more expressive.
Who are your fashion icons?
Hailey Bieber. She’s a trendsetter, and I’m proudly one of her followers.
What are your favorite shopping haunts?
My bank account is always in danger when I go into Free People, and I have been loving the tall-girl brand Après June for some customized clothes.
Have you ever splurged on a major fashion purchase?
I’m not crazy about jewelry, in general, but I love the Van Cleef & Arpels pendant, so after freshman year I spoiled myself and got a necklace from them in UCLA blue.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I’m coming back from an injury, so my biggest [goal] is to get back healthy and thriving. So it’s hard to see that far out. But what I do know is that I will be spending time with my family and being surrounded by friends who make me feel best.