When it comes to volleyball, Karch Kiraly’s name is synonymous with the sport. And it’s no wonder—a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, Karch has actually had three careers in the industry: player (the most winningest ever), analyst and now coach of the gold medal winning U.S. women’s national volleyball team. 

But his commitment to volleyball goes much farther than just the elite levels. He’s dedicated to increasing opportunities for all young athletes, especially those who may not be able to afford to play without the help of organizations like Starlings Volleyball, USA and First Point Volleyball Foundation.

You’ll hear why this purpose is so important to Karch in our latest episode of About Time, a podcast focused on women’s sports. A champion of women’s volleyball, Karch said it best: “It is absolutely right that girls and women should have wonderful, and as many, opportunities as boys and men in sports.”

Volleyball has seen explosive growth over recent years, and that impressive progress can’t be narrowed down to just one factor (though the impact of leaders like Karch has certainly been tremendous). As he said, “It’s a combination of things, and thousands and thousands of people have been working behind the scenes for decades to help get [volleyball] to this wave of growth.” We think it’s about time.