Flo Hyman

Flo Hyman (1954-1986) was an American volleyball player who became one of the greatest athletes in the sport's history. Standing 6'5", Hyman was an imposing presence on the court and helped establish volleyball as a major sport in the United States. She was a two-time Olympic medalist, winning a silver medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and a bronze medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics, and she led the U.S. National Volleyball team to numerous international victories throughout her career. Known for her athletic prowess, competitive spirit, and charismatic personality, Hyman became a pioneering figure in women's sports at a time when female athletes received limited media attention and sponsorship opportunities. She was a vocal advocate for women's athletics and worked tirelessly to increase the profile of volleyball and women's sports generally. Tragically, she died suddenly at age 31 from an undiagnosed heart condition while playing in a professional volleyball tournament in Japan. Her legacy lives on through the Flo Hyman Memorial Award, which is given annually to a female volleyball player who makes significant contributions to the sport both on and off the court.