The AVP, along with its longtime sponsor Wilson, is proud and humbled to announce the Mike Whitmarsh Memorial Volleyball.

This limited edition AVP Wilson official game ball commemorates the life and career of a beloved giant in the world of beach volleyball. Though his life was tragically cut short, Ol' Whitty packed a lifetime of achievement and joy into his 47 years. In his death, as in his life, Whitty has brought the beach volleyball community together. The ball will be unveiled at this weekend’s AVP Crocs Slam Bud Light Manhattan Beach Open, where it will be used in the Legends Game and the "6-Man" preview exhibition.

The Mike Whitmarsh Memorial Volleyball features panels filled with some of his famous quotes ("How about a little action?" and "Let’s have fun and leave it all on the court"), and a list of his finest volleyball achievements: 28 Career Victories, 1996 Olympic Silver Medalist and One of the Best Blockers of All Time.

A limited number of these commemorative balls will be on sale at the Manhattan Beach Open AVP Merchandise Booth, as well as on-site throughout the season as supplies last. The Mike Whitmarsh Memorial Ball will also be for sale online at AVP.com. Net Proceeds will benefit the Jaden and Kendall Whitmarsh College Scholarship Fund.

The AVP will honor Mike Whitmarsh with a tribute at the AVP Crocs Slam Bud Light Hermosa Open on Sunday, August 9 before the Men’s Finals at approximately 3 p.m. Highlights of this tribute will be included in NBC’s coverage of the Hermosa Open.

Rest in Peace Whitty.

For more regarding the life and death of Mike Whitmarsh, please visit "Remembering Mike Whitmarsh" and "Mike Whitmarsh: An AVP Legend". Also see "Tribute to a Champion" written by Canyon Ceman, Whitmarsh's former friend and teammate.