Laf, SIRI is dissapointing right now.
OK, well for the non balance sheet minded. Even though the company made more money than ever, they still spent alot to get that done. Hence a net loss.
A few things to keep in mind though, AVP and USAV are not one in the same. Which is why USAV is trying to get more involved @ the grass roots level in beach. USAV is currently the governing body for the US Olympic program, but because it is very indoor-centric the AVP has lobbied for greater representation with the IOC. While this is a bit of a coup it will take years to be any great effect.
Bottom line is with the '04 Olympics making beach VB a more popular spectator sport it has grown out of the cult venues of it's roots and has become a bit more corporate. Yes the cooler venues may have changed but with increased prizes and a focus on developing of talent there will be more players of higher skill over the course of time. If done right it can only have a positive impact on the game.
Let's keep in mind that VB is the number one participant sport in the world but one of the least televised :shrug: VB is not a spectator sport by nature which is why we all love the game (see Mr. Owl's post on spirituality). It is by this very nature that VB prob. won't ever be mainstream and I like it that way. VB hasn't, isn't and shouldn't be about the money.
That all being said I'd probably sing a different tune if I were good enough to make money playing and didn't have to work 12hr. days to get where I am
