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 location for her success. Returning to Parc Jean-Drapeau, Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson are set to participate in the Montréal Elite16 event from August 19-23, aiming to build on their victory from last year.

The Canadian duo clinched the 2025 title by defeating Germany’s Svenja Müller and Cinja Tillmann in straight sets, with a score of 21-15, 22-20. Humana-Paredes expressed her enthusiasm for playing at home, emphasizing the exceptional support they receive from the passionate Montréal sports fans.

She highlighted the growing support for women’s sports across Canada, acknowledging the positive momentum in various sports, including hockey, soccer, and basketball. Looking ahead to their next challenge, the pair is already focused on the upcoming Olympic cycle, with their sights set on the LA 2028 Games.

Reflecting on their recent achievements, including a gold medal win at the Elite16 event in Ostrava, Czechia, Humana-Paredes emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and preparation for future competitions. As they gear up for the road to LA 2028, the duo is determined to maintain their performance level and build on their success.

Training in Los Angeles, a city she considers a second home, Humana-Paredes is excited about the prospect of competing at the LA Olympics. She emphasized the significance of returning to familiar surroundings and fine-tuning their skills as they approach the pinnacle of their Olympic journey.

With beach volleyball expected to be a marquee event at the LA Olympics, Humana-Paredes anticipates a remarkable showcase of the sport in Southern California. Despite the focus on future competitions, she values the opportunity to compete in front of Canadian fans in Montréal, acknowledging the importance of each step on the path to LA.