Klineman's switch to beach volleyball came after she was not selected for the US volleyball team at the 2016 Rio Olympics. She described this period as a time of reevaluation, which led her to embrace beach volleyball fully. Her decision was driven by the desire to control her destiny through performance.

Training and Coaching

Klineman trains for two hours each morning on a beach in the South Bay area of Los Angeles, CA. She also attends gym sessions at the USA Volleyball Beach Headquarters in Torrance, CA. Her personal coach is Angie Akers from the USA.

Achievements and Honours

Klineman has received numerous accolades throughout her career. She and her partner April Ross were named joint 2019 Women's Player of the Year by USA Volleyball. In 2018, she was honoured as AVP Best Blocker, Most Improved Player, and included in the Women's Team of the Year. She was also named AVP Rookie of the Year in 2017.

During her time at Stanford University, Klineman earned titles such as Volleyball Magazine National Player of the Year and Pac-10 Player of the Year. She was included in the AVCA All-America First Team twice and the Volleyball Magazine All-America First Team three times.

Influences and Inspirations

Klineman cites her brother as the most influential person in her career. Her idol is US basketball player Kobe Bryant. These figures have played significant roles in shaping her athletic journey.

Injuries and Challenges

In early 2015, Klineman suffered injuries to her ankle and knee. She also underwent shoulder surgery before her second year at Stanford University. Despite these setbacks, she continued to excel in her sport.

International Experience

Klineman has played volleyball at international levels, winning gold with the USA at the 2015 Pan American Cup in Lima, Peru. She has also competed in Italy's Serie A1 and Brazil's Superliga club leagues.

Family Background

Klineman comes from a sporting family. Her brother Max played volleyball for the University of California, Santa Barbara, while her sister Maddy competed for the University of California, Los Angeles.

Partnership with April Ross

In 2017, Klineman partnered with April Ross after Ross split with Kerri Walsh. Klineman acknowledged that partnering with Ross gave her the best chance to succeed due to Ross's skill and mentorship.

Sanction

In 2013, Klineman faced a 13-month suspension by USADA after testing positive for an androgenic anabolic steroid or its precursors. The suspension was attributed to inadvertently ingesting a prohibited substance from her mother's supplements mixed with her vitamins. Her contract with Imoco Volley in Italy was terminated due to this suspension.

Future Ambitions

Klineman aims to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. This goal continues to drive her dedication and commitment to beach volleyball.

Klineman's journey from indoor volleyball to beach volleyball showcases her resilience and determination. Her achievements reflect her hard work and passion for the sport.