From LSU to the Paris 2024 Olympics: Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth’s Remarkable Path to the Games
From LSU to Paris 2024: Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth’s Inspiring Journey to the Olympics
From LSU to the Paris 2024 Olympics: Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth’s Remarkable Path to the Games For months, Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth marveled at a picture on their phones that captured a breathtaking view of the beach volleyball venue for the 2024 Paris Olympics, with the iconic Eiffel Tower in the background. The image was a reminder of their improbable dream come true.
“We played in Paris on the world tour the last two years, and Kristen and I looked at each other and said, ‘We want to be here in 2024,’” Kloth recalled. “We worked so hard to make it happen.”
The journey of former LSU beach volleyball stars Nuss and Kloth to the Paris Games was far from straightforward. Kloth’s transition from indoor volleyball to beach volleyball and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic played pivotal roles in shaping their path.
Nuss described the experience as “an absolute dream come true.” The foundation for their Olympic aspirations was laid during their exceptional collegiate careers at LSU. Kloth, initially an indoor volleyball player at Creighton, made a bold switch to beach volleyball as a graduate transfer at LSU. Despite initial struggles, she found a perfect partner in Nuss, who was already a standout player. The duo achieved an impressive 36-0 record in 2021 and received accolades including the American Volleyball Coaches Association Pair of the Year award.
“We wouldn’t be going to the Olympics without the LSU beach volleyball program,” Nuss said. “That’s where we met, where our coach still works with us, and where our foundation was built.”
Kloth’s transition to beach volleyball was challenging. Moving from South Dakota to Louisiana, she faced the daunting task of mastering a new sport. Her first competitive experience was humbling, as she struggled against younger players. “I got destroyed,” Kloth laughed. “I hit every ball into the net. It was extremely humbling.”
Despite initial doubts and a period of adjustment, Kloth’s determination and the support of her teammates helped her improve. The COVID-19 pandemic, while disruptive, inadvertently strengthened their partnership. The abrupt end to the 2020 season forced both players to return home, providing them with time to regroup and train. Kloth reached out to Nuss in Louisiana, and they dedicated themselves to training, setting the stage for their future success.
Upon returning to LSU, they played together for a year, refining their on-court synergy. Their transition to professional beach volleyball presented new challenges, including navigating international tournaments and the Olympic qualification process. Starting without any international points, they faced an uphill battle.
“We were nearly delusional,” Kloth admitted. “We had zero points and were starting so late. We couldn’t even get into tournaments.”
Their hard work paid off as they climbed the FIVB world rankings, currently standing at No. 2. Key victories, including one over the 2021 Olympic silver medalists in Turkey, marked their journey to Paris. When they learned they had qualified for the Olympics, the moment was surreal, filled with disbelief and joy.
“We were like, ‘Did he just say we qualified for the Olympics?’” Nuss said, reflecting on the revelation.
As they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Nuss and Kloth continue to train in Baton Rouge, staying connected to their roots. Their journey, marked by perseverance and teamwork, underscores their commitment to achieving their Olympic dreams.
“Thank goodness I relied on my teammates and family to push through those tough times,” Kloth said. “There were ups and downs, but I’m so happy I persevered. It teaches you so much about perseverance.”
Nuss echoed this sentiment, highlighting the life lessons learned from their college experience. “The hardest days are often the most memorable,” she said. “Playing a sport in college teaches you lessons that you carry with you in every aspect of life, whether in business or sports.”
Nuss and Kloth’s qualification for the Paris Olympics represents the culmination of their hard work and dedication, celebrating their journey from LSU to one of the world’s greatest sports stages.
