Jen Kessy is a name that resonates with beach volleyball enthusiasts around the world. Known for her impressive skills on the sand, Kessy has left an indelible mark on the sport.
In this article, you will learn about Jen Kessy’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Jen Kessy’s Biography
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jennifer Anne Kessy |
| Date of Birth | July 31, 1977 |
| Place of Birth | San Juan Capistrano, California, USA |
| Height | 6’0″ (1.83 m) |
| Education | University of Southern California (History degree) |
| Spouse | Andy Cés (married in 2013) |
| Children | Two (a daughter and a son) |
Early Career
Jen Kessy’s journey in volleyball began at Dana Hills High School in Dana Point, California. She excelled in both swimming and volleyball, earning numerous accolades.
Her talent caught the attention of the University of Southern California, where she played indoor volleyball from 1995 to 1998.
During her college years, Kessy was named an All-American and was a member of the U.S. Junior National Team, setting the stage for her future success in beach volleyball.
Professional Career
After graduating from USC, Kessy initially played indoor volleyball professionally in the United States and Puerto Rico.
However, the allure of beach volleyball proved too strong to resist. In 2004, she teamed up with Barbara Fontana, marking the beginning of her full-time beach volleyball career.
The duo quickly became one of the most formidable teams in the world, winning the FIVB World Championships in 2009.
Their crowning achievement came at the 2012 London Olympics, where they secured a silver medal.
Husband
Jen Kessy is happily married to French beach volleyball player Andy Cés. The couple tied the knot in 2013 and have since welcomed 2 children into their family.
Kessy’s journey into motherhood has added a new dimension to her life, balancing her love for volleyball with her role as a parent.
Jen Kessy’s Net Worth Details
Jen Kessy’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-3 million as of 2025.
Career Earnings
| Year | Earnings |
|---|---|
| 2004-2007 | $245,635 |
| 2008-2012 | $1,223,635 |
| 2013-2016 | $573,430 |
| Total Career | $2,042,700 |
Endorsements
Kessy has been associated with several endorsements throughout her career, including:
- CoverGirl (2012 London Olympics)
- Oakley (eyewear)
- Asics (sportswear)
- Wilson (volleyball equipment)
Career Stats
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Olympic Medals | 1 Silver (2012 London) |
| FIVB World Championships | 1 Gold (2009) |
| AVP Tour Wins | 10 |
| FIVB Tour Wins | 9 |
| Career Win Percentage | 71.4% |
FAQs
1. What is Jen Kessy known for in her professional volleyball career?
Kessy is a celebrated American beach volleyball player, renowned for winning the silver medal in women’s beach volleyball at the 2012 London Olympics alongside partner April Ross.
2. How did Kessy’s career develop prior to her Olympic success?
She played indoor volleyball for USC, earning All-American honors before turning to the AVP and FIVB beach circuits, winning multiple tour events and building an international reputation as a top competitor.
3. Who were Kessy’s primary beach volleyball partners during her career?
Her most notable pairing was with April Ross, with whom she achieved Olympic and world tour success. Kessy also partnered with Rachel Wacholder and Whitney Pavlik in earlier and later stages of her beach career.
4. What are Kessy’s career highlights besides the Olympics?
Kessy and Ross won gold at the 2009 FIVB World Championships. She claimed over ten AVP tour victories, FIVB medals, and ranked among the world’s best beach players for nearly a decade.
5. What is Kessy’s playing style and on-court strengths?
Kessy excelled with all-around athleticism, powerful serving, strong net presence, and savvy defensive play. Coaches praised her leadership, strategic approach, and resilience against the world’s top opponents.
6. How did Kessy and Ross fare during their time as a team?
They consistently ranked among the world’s elite, making the finals of major international tournaments and ultimately facing Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh Jennings in the 2012 Olympic gold medal match.
7. Did Kessy face injuries or setbacks in her volleyball career?
She battled through shoulder and ankle injuries yet remained a competitive force on tour, often returning quickly and making podium runs even after recovery periods.
8. What did Kessy pursue after retiring from professional play?
Kessy transitioned into coaching, notably mentoring April Ross and Alix Klineman to Olympic gold in Tokyo. She became a respected voice in USA Volleyball’s developmental systems and broadcast media.
9. What personal or educational background contributed to Kessy’s success?
Kessy grew up in California and attended college at USC, where she developed foundational skills for elite beach competition and established her reputation as a dedicated student-athlete.
10. What legacy has Kessy created for women’s beach volleyball?
Kessy is recognized as an Olympian, World Champion, and trailblazer for the growth of women’s beach volleyball, mentoring the next generation on and off the court with her example and expertise.
