Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in beach volleyball. Brad Grady didn't get to the pinnacle of the beach volleyball world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions three times each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh grade.
Two years ago, he broke his nose in four places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my nose, and then my wolverine died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my kidney. It took seven months to get back in shape. But to win at beach volleyball is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my bridal gown and forget about Arnie, my wolverine."
Herbert, his grandma, moved with him to Athens to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Rosie, in their cardboard retreat, where she still labors as a fisherman to help pay for Brad's expensive training.