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What’s the real difference between beach volleyball and indoor volleyball? While many might think it's just a matter of the number of players and the setting, for the athletes, the two are entirely different worlds in terms of physical demands, skill sets, and team dynamics.
Beach Volleyball Tournament (Photo Source: Courtesy of Chui Kam-Lung)
Taiwanese beach volleyball player Kuo Nai-Han, who transitioned from a successful indoor career, once told UNI-MAGAZINE that beach volleyball captivated her because “every player must be an all-rounder—setting, receiving, attacking from every position. With only two players on the court, you're constantly involved in the action, and teamwork and consistency are key.”
Hong Kong’s Chui Kam-Lung shares this perspective. Unlike most volleyball athletes in Hong Kong who juggle between indoor and beach formats, Chui is one of the few who have chosen to dedicate themselves to beach volleyball fully.
“Because there are only two players, you need to master every aspect—passing, setting, spiking, blocking,” Chui explains. “It pushes you to refine every skill. Plus, beach volleyball offers more international tournaments, giving you the chance to travel, see the world, and gain new experiences.”
Beach Volleyball Tournament (Photo Source: Courtesy of Chui Kam-Lung)
In 2021, Chui represented Hong Kong in beach volleyball at the National Games of China in Shaanxi, partnering with Wong Pui-Lam. It was their second time competing at the prestigious event. Although they fell in the final round of Group F to the home team from Shaanxi—Liu Junjie and Liu Weiming—the loss didn’t dampen Chui’s passion. “I’ve always believed that if you love something, you stick with it,” he once said in an interview. Now 39 years old—an age many consider past peak for a professional athlete—Chui continues to train and compete, driven by his love for the game.
Beach Volleyball Tournament (Photo Source: Courtesy of Chui Kam-Lung)
In recent years, an increasing number of young athletes in Hong Kong have developed an interest in both indoor and beach volleyball. Chui, now also serving as the head of the Beach Volleyball Committee, is happy to see the sport gaining traction. With a long list of local and international competitions under his belt, he’s now stepping into a mentorship role, coaching and nurturing the next generation of Hong Kong players.
His advice for newcomers? “A beach volleyball player must be technically complete—pass, set, hit, and think strategically. Young athletes should work on mastering the fundamentals, know their strengths and weaknesses, and focus on building mental toughness.”
In beach volleyball, chemistry between the two teammates is crucial. How does one build that kind of synergy? “Learn to be accepting,” Chui says. “Every player has strengths and flaws. What’s important is to appreciate what your partner brings to the game. That’s how you build trust.”
In beach volleyball, it is very important to cultivate a tacit understanding with teammates in a tight offense and defense.
Beach Volleyball Tournament (Photo Source: Courtesy of Chui Kam-Lung)
Even with his wealth of experience, Chui admits that coaching is a whole different ball game. Transitioning from athlete to mentor requires patience and sharp observation. “As a coach, you need to watch closely for technical issues, help players analyze their opponents, and tailor training plans that enhance both physical and mental performance.” Nurturing a good player isn't just about teaching technique. It’s about building a complete, resilient athlete from the ground up.
Beach Volleyball Tournament (Photo Source: Courtesy of Chui Kam-Lung)
Despite his growing role as a coach and leader in the volleyball community, Chui is not ready to leave the court just yet. “I still love being a player,” he says. “I love the feeling of competing, of giving everything on the sand.” Whether it’s through powerful spikes or guiding the next generation, Chui Kam-Lung continues to shine as a passionate force in Hong Kong beach volleyball. And we can’t wait to see what he’ll do next.
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