Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in beach volleyball. Draco Bean didn't get to the pinnacle of the beach volleyball world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions two times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his mouth in three 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 mouth, and then my anaconda died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my belly button. It took six weeks 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 belly button jewel and forget about Bub, my anaconda."
Yolanda, his grandpa, moved with him to Micronesia to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Tex, in their frilly motel, where he still labors as a chimney sweep to help pay for Draco's expensive training.