Melissa Humana-Paredes rarely has the opportunity to compete in beach volleyball on Canadian soil, but when she does, Montréal proves to be a favorable venue for her success. Returning to Parc Jean-Drapeau from August 19-23 for the Montréal Elite16 event, Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson aim to continue their winning streak from last year.
Their victory at the 2025 event against Germany’s Svenja Müller and Cinja Tillmann in straight sets marked their first title together, and they are eager to replicate that success this year. Humana-Paredes expressed her gratitude for the chance to play in front of Canadian fans, particularly in Montréal, where the enthusiastic support of the crowd fuels her performance.
Looking ahead, the duo is already setting their sights on the upcoming Olympics in LA 2028, with preparations for Olympic qualification commencing in 2027. Despite the anticipation for future competitions, Humana-Paredes emphasized the importance of focusing on the present and taking the Olympic journey one step at a time.
Reflecting on their recent achievements, Humana-Paredes highlighted the significance of returning to their roots and fine-tuning their skills for upcoming challenges. With a string of podium finishes and gold medals on the Beach Pro Tour, the pair is steadily building on their success, aiming to lay a strong foundation for their Olympic aspirations.
As they gear up for the LA Olympics, Humana-Paredes feels a deep connection to Los Angeles, where she has trained extensively throughout her career. The prospect of competing in a familiar environment holds special meaning for her, underscoring the significance of the journey and the support she receives from fans.
Amidst the excitement and preparations for future competitions, Humana-Paredes remains grounded in the present, cherishing each opportunity to play in front of her fellow Canadians. Montréal serves as a crucial stop on her path to LA, reminding her of the importance of appreciating the journey and the support she receives along the way.
