Volleyball Celebrity Protocol

[baywatcher]

So I was at a Stanford match a while ago and saw Lambert there, playing with his kids in the lobby. Wanted to go over and express my admiration for the way he played the game, but twenty years in LA taught me to leave celebs alone unless they are clearly making a public appearance. His kids were the deciding factor and I walked on by.

Wwhats an acceptable protocol for approaching volleyball heroes. Are they anonymous enough that they appreciate recognition from a stranger, or is that an intrusion on private time. LA taught me to be very sensitive about the latter. Reslixe it depends on the individual but you see a ton of talent at a MPSF finals, say.

[ggopher]

I had just the opposite problem when I saw Tori Dixon's dad for the first time. He wanted to give me a high five, and I was afraid I was going to lose a limb. He's actually a friendly person, but he is really big.

[Wolfgang]

I don't think these volleyball "celebrities" are recognized much, if at all -- unless it's Tom Selleck or maybe (maybe...!) Karch Kiraly. Come on...it's volleyball!! You might even make their day if you approach them.

[johnbar]

I find myself in agreement with Wolfgang. (Though he forgot to mention Kerri Walsh.)

The situation matters, of course. But the lobby of Maples seems like a reasonable place to approach, even with his children present (as long as there isn't some family drama unfolding).

[chancelucky]

I suppose it depends. If they have an entourage and are being stalked by paparazzi, I'd say no. Otherwise, I suspect most of them don't mind the attention.

The rules are probably a little different for approaching volleyball parents who happen to be celebrities. They're generally there to be some player's mom or dad.

[Thrill of the 'ville]

I never recognize people...which is why when I met a former NCAA champion, I spent more time with her dog than talking to her.

[Wiswell]

Parents, my rule is it ok to ask, are you x's parent? Then say something nice about the player and walk away, unless they continue to engage. Of course I have only talked to two sets of parents, one was a quick hello, second time was longer as I ended up sitting near them in regionals. Also had a long chat with grandparents at a pre conference tourney. When it is an away match they are just as appreciative as the players that a non relative would travel to see them Fun to observe who is really calm, who is excitable, and who is willing to be upset with their kid's play and how they respond.

[madonna]

The way I see it, I believe it depends on the volleyball "celebrity". For instance, the ones I feel that wouldn't mind a fan approaching them at a public event to express some sort of admiration for them, are the ones that accept friend requests from strangers on Facebook. The ones that don't, I automatically sense they rather not have a fan approach them at all. Which in that case, I would respect their privacy wishes and not approach them if I saw them.

[Wolfgang]

You guys have too many rules.

Just go and say "hi," ya big doofs. We are all social animals.

[jordan]

Go ahead and say hello especially if you're a fan. I've spoken to several volleyball stars and they were all approachable and friendly.

[geddyleeridesagain]

There aren't any volleyball celebrities (in this country, at least). Kerri comes the closest - she's also very approachable, BTW. But if you want to walk up and say "Hey, just wanted to say that I really enjoy/enjoyed watching you play" or something similar, 99% will appreciate it.

Three Don'ts, however:

1. Do not geek out. So no "OMG,OMG YOU'RE MY FAVORITE EVER!"
2. If someone is eating, at least wait until they finish chewing or put the sandwich down.
3. Public bathrooms, like at the airport, are off limits. As a good friend of mine discovered when he tried to shake hands with Bill Walton at an LAX urinal. That did not go well.

Oh, and do not get between Logan and her scotch order.