Dax Holdren never had a nickname and it turned out he never needed one. Known for his consummate professionalism and steady demeanor, the affable and athletic lefty let his play do the talking through an impressive and impassioned career.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Dax developed his competitive nature through a variety of sports before discovering his love for the sand at legendary East Beach, eventually competing in local CBVA tournaments with childhood friend and future Olympic Champion Todd Rogers.

Dax and Todd made their AVP debut at the Manhattan Beach Open in 1995, splitting $250 for their 25th place finish. They were named co-rookies of the year in 1997 and won 8 tournaments together, including the 2000 FIVB tournament in Rosarito as the lowest seed ever to win an FIVB tournament, and took home the Hermosa Beach title in 2001. In 2002, Dax partnered with Eric Fonoimoana, finishing as the top ranked team on the AVP and winning the famed Manhattan Beach Open.

In 2004, Dax partnered with Stein Metzger, making a Cinderella-esque run to place 2nd at the FIVB tournament in Rio and securing a spot in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. The duo inspired the entire nation with their hustle and determination, barely falling short of the medal round with a 5th place finish, best among American men.

Dax's final professional victory came with Jeff Nygaard at the Santa Barbara Open, defeating former partner Rogers in a battle of local boys done good. Dax eventually retired after the 2008 season with 14 career titles and over $700,000 in career earnings.

While volleyball was important to Dax, it pales in comparison to the love he has for his wife Jen, and his two grown children, Kobe and Ellis. Dax and Jen currently live in the Denver area, enjoying all things athletic, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

 

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