Claes/Hughes Become Youngest Pair To Win AVP Event At Chicago Finals

2017 AVP CHAMPIONSHIPS

• Chicago, Illinois
• Aug. 31 – Sept. 3
• Schedule/Results 
• Qualifying Brackets
• Live Stream

After starting out as the #12 seed in the tournament, Kelly Claes and Sara Hughes fight to take the final AVP Tour stop in Chicago away from Summer Ross and Brooke Sweat. With the win, Claes/Hughes become the youngest duo to win an AVP Tournament. This is, also, the first big win for the rookie squad, as they just began their professional beach volleyball career back in May following their NCAA tournament season with USC. The win gives the pairing $22,000 in winnings with 1,200 points going toward their AVP Tour total.

The young duo took down the seasoned pros in straight sets 2-0, (21-17, 21-18).

Overall throughout the tournament, Hughes and Claes put down some good numbers. Hughes led all players with 88 digs for an average of 5.87 digs per set while Claes put down 132 kills for a .448 hitting percentage.

Leading up to the finals win, Claes/Hughes were able to take down April Ross/Lauren Fendrick who have been in a slump the past few tournaments together. The win came in straight sets 2-0, (21-14, 21-19) with an impressive match point play.

The most incredible point of the tournament goes to Sara Hughes & @kellyclaes3! Just, wow. #AVPStrong pic.twitter.com/5HTFVKb0SV

— The AVP (@avpbeach) September 3, 2017