In this episode of Behind the Mask, get to know the USF Dons beach volleyball team led by first-year head coach Frank Lavrisha.

Coach Lavrisha is one of the winningest coaches in NCAA Division II history with more than over 30-years of experience. He joined the Hilltop last year, heading up both the indoor and beach programs at USF. Not only is he new to the Hilltop, but he's also new to beach volleyball. This season marks his first season on the sand. Luckily for Coach Lavrisha, he has assistant coach Gary Hodge to lend a hand. Hodge, an experienced beach coach and player, is entering his second season on the Hilltop. Last year he was in the role of a volunteer assistant, but this year he is stepping up to be Lavrisha's assistant coach. A graduate from Cal State East Bay with a degree in sociology, Hodge will help to develop the team's mental strength. He also fits into the system that revolves around Coach Lavrisha's style.The combination of the two coaches and the determination of the beach players creates loads of potential for the program. 

There is a fair mix of veteran players on the roster, including a pair of graduate players who also played indoor for the Dons. There are also a few true freshman who strengthen the quality of the USF pairs. Each morning, the Dons head out to Ocean Beach in San Francisco to practice. Every practice is done with intensity and a high level of competitiveness. The team constantly strives to enhance their performances with every touch of the ball.  

Behind the Mask airs on NBC Sports California, which can typically be found on channel 698 for DirecTV customers, 438 on the Dish Network, 412-01 on Dish Hopper packages, 767 on U-Verse and 41 on most Comcast packages. CSN Bay Area can be generally be accessed at channel 40 on Comcast, 41 on the Dish Network, 696 for DirecTV subscribers, and at 770 on U-Verse.

Check local listings for your cable provider's station guide and additional air dates and times each month. Segments from the show as well as past seasons of "Behind the Mask" can also be found on-demand on USF Athletics' Youtube channel.