Meet The Icons: Mariafe Artacho del Solar

Rockwear Icons strive to inspire, push the boundaries, and smash goals. In this series, we shine a light on the incredible powerhouse women in our community. 

Meet Mariafe, three-time beach volleyball Olympian. Her journey reveals the dedication, strength, and resilience needed to excel in this demanding sport, as well as the joy and fulfillment it brings.

Embracing the Power of Beach Volleyball 

Q: Tell us about your training routine for beach volleyball  
A: Volleyball is a sport that demands both strength and power, and because every athlete is unique, training approaches vary. For me, a lot of my power training happens in the gym. We focus on strength three times a week, working on explosive power and conditioning. Alongside this, we have up to ten sand sessions each week, where we concentrate on skill and technique. It's all about finding that balance between physical strength and the finesse required on the sand.

Q: What advice would you give to beginners or anyone interested in beach volleyball?
A: My advice is simple: just have a go and enjoy it! Beach volleyball can look easy from the sidelines, but moving on sand is challenging. Patience is key—embrace the process, enjoy yourself, and don’t get discouraged if it feels tough at first. It's a sport that rewards persistence and passion. 

The Magic of the Paris Olympics 

Q: What was your experience like at the Paris Olympics? 
A: The Paris Olympics were truly special. Playing in front of the Eiffel Tower was magical—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’ll always cherish. There’s something incredible about representing your country on such a grand stage, and the atmosphere in Paris made it unforgettable.

Q: How do you spend your time between major competitions, like the Olympics? 
A: After each Olympics, I like to take a break. The schedule is intense and can be overwhelming, so I make time for myself to recharge. Right now, I'm enjoying being at home, spending time with family, and doing things I usually don’t get the chance to do. It’s important to take care of myself and relax after such a busy season.
 
Dreams of a Fifth Olympics at Home 

Q: What are your future goals for beach volleyball?
A: I've always dreamed of competing in five Olympics, and with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, that dream feels closer than ever. The idea of playing a home Olympics is something every athlete hopes for. If I make it to both LA in 2028 and Brisbane in 2032, Brisbane would be my fifth Olympics—a true “icing on the cake” moment. It would be the ultimate culmination of my career. 

Follow @mariafe_beach1 on Instagram to keep up with her beach volleyball journey. 
  
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the amazing women who embody the Rockwear spirit, pushing boundaries, and inspiring others every step of the way. #RockwearIcons #WePlayStrong