Melissa Humana-Paredes rarely has the opportunity to compete in beach volleyball on Canadian soil. However, when she does, Montréal has proven to be a favorable location for her success. This week, from August 19-23, Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson will be back at Parc Jean-Drapeau for the Montréal Elite16 event, aiming to build on their victory from the previous year.
In the 2025 tournament, the Canadian duo triumphed over Germany’s Svenja Müller and Cinja Tillmann in straight sets, 21-15, 22-20, securing their first title together. Humana-Paredes expressed her enthusiasm for competing at home, emphasizing the exceptional support from Montréal sports fans.
Looking ahead, the pair is already setting their sights on the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. Despite the anticipation, Humana-Paredes emphasized the importance of staying focused on the present and breaking down their Olympic preparations into manageable steps.
Their recent successes, including a gold medal at the Elite16 event in Ostrava, Czechia, reflect their dedication to continuous improvement. Humana-Paredes views each achievement as a stepping stone towards their ultimate goal. As they fine-tune their skills and preparation for future competitions, the duo remains committed to their journey towards the LA Olympics.
The prospect of competing in Los Angeles holds special significance for Humana-Paredes, who has trained extensively in the city throughout her career. She considers it a second home and looks forward to the opportunity to showcase her skills in a familiar environment. Amidst their rigorous training and competitive schedule, playing in front of a Canadian audience in Montréal serves as a cherished moment for Humana-Paredes, emphasizing the importance of appreciating each step on the road to the Olympics.