Tag: paris 2024

APRIL 9, 2024.- Volleyball Canada has confirmed its men’s program staff for the upcoming season, which includes senior staff for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

“I am thrilled to announce the staff for our men’s senior team, as well as NextGen and age-group squads,” said Julien Boucher, High Performance Director (Indoor). “It promises to be an exciting season for all our teams. The coaches will provide excellent leadership and we have assembled a high-quality staff to support our athletes throughout the international season.”

The senior team will kick off the season at the upcoming Volleyball Nations League, while the development teams will represent Canada at NORCECA events throughout the summer.

Senior Men’s Team- VNL & Paris 2024
Head coach: Tuomas Sammelvuo
Assistant coach: Joao Paolo Bravo
Assistant coach: Michael Hawkins
Strength and conditioning: Michael Cook
Medical coordinator: Melissa Healy
Performance analyst: Damian Musiak
Athletic therapist: Schad Richea
Chiropractor: Abe Avender
Mental performance coach: Jelle Koijman
Dietician: Erik Sesbreno
Team manager: Cassandra Nicol

NextGen Team – NORCECA Pan Am Cup and Final 6
Head coach: Glenn Hoag
Assistant coach: Chris Voth
Assistant coaches: John Barrett / Shayne White
Strength and conditioning coach: Louis-Jean Tremblay
IST lead: Michael Cook
Medical coordinator and athletic therapist: Melissa Healy
Performance analysts: Lionel Bonnaure / Christophe Elek
Mental performance coach: Jelle Koijman
Dietician: Erik Sesbreno
Program coordinator: Cassandra Nicol
Team Manager: Matheus Braz

U21/U23 Men – U21 NORCECA Championship
Head coach: Daniel Lewis
Assistant coach: Ghazi Guidara
Assistant coach: Josh Gaudet
Strength and conditioning coach: Louis-Jean Tremblay
IST lead: Michael Cook
Medical coordinator: Melissa Healy
Performance analyst: Lionel Bonnaure
Sport physiotherapist: Meredith Waisman
Mental performance coach: Brendan Dinsdale
Dietician: Erik Sesbreno
Team manager: Matheus Braz

U19 Men – U19 NORCECA Championship
Head coach: Dan Ota
Assistant coach: Bryan Duquette
Assistant coach: Phil Dixon
IST lead: Michael Cook
Medical coordinator: Melissa Healy
Performance analyst: Lionel Bonnaure
Athletic therapist: Ashley Hiscock
Mental performance coach: Brendan Dinsdale
Dietician: Erik Sesbreno
Program coordinator: Cassandra Nicol
Team manager: Phil Dixon

U17 Men – U17 NORCECA Pan Am Cup
Head coach: TBD
Assistant coach: Daniel Lewis
Assistant coach: TBD
IST lead: Michael Cook
Medical coordinator: Melissa Healy
Performance analyst: Lionel Bonnaure
Athletic therapist: Ashley Hiscock
Mental performance coach: Brendan Dinsdale
Dietician: Erik Sesbreno
Program coordinator: Cassandra Nicol
Team manager: TBD

Seven teams per gender have already secured their spots at Paris 2024, while team rosters are also set to expand to 13 with addition of non-competing athlete.

The women’s and men’s volleyball tournaments at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 are set to be a key highlight of the year ahead. The 16th Olympic volleyball competition will get underway from 27 July to 11 August at the South Paris Arena, situated within Paris Expo, with the world’s best on the hunt for gold.

Having made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 1964, volleyball will grace the Olympic stage for the 16th time and for its first-ever appearance at a Games held in the French capital. The South Paris Arena, nestled in the heart of the city, will provide the stage for a fierce competition between 12 women’s and 12 men’s teams, all with one objective in mind – Olympic glory.

The FIVB has also confirmed that, for the first time in the history of the Olympic volleyball competition, each team participating in the Games will be entitled to include one non-competing (AP) athlete to replace an athlete for medical reasons. As such, team rosters will increase from 12 to 13 athletes.

The decision follows extensive consultation between the FIVB and IOC with a view to increase roster sizes closer to those of the FIVB’s main events to allow teams greater flexibility and team depth. AP athletes are non-competing athletes accredited by the IOC and serve as a last-minute replacement if an athlete is unable to compete due to injury or illness. The replaced athlete shall not be allowed to compete for the remainder of the competition.

While the 13th athlete will be able to attend matches and train with the team, they will not be accommodated in the Olympic Village unless additional support is granted by the respective National Olympic Committee. More information on the AP athlete procedure will be provided in a to-be-released updated version of the Competition Regulations of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 volleyball tournament.

The Drawing of Lots (DoL) process for Paris 2024 has also been confirmed. The twelve qualified teams will be ranked according to their position in the World Ranking on 17 June 2024 for the women’s teams and 24 June 2024 for the men’s teams.

As the host team, France is seeded 1st and will be placed in the top position of Pool A. The two top ranked teams seeded 2nd and 3rd will be placed at the top of Pools B and C respectively. The remaining nine teams will be distributed across three bowls of three teams each based on their position in the World Ranking and drawn for their seed line by line applying the serpentine system.

The competition format for the Olympic volleyball tournament has also been confirmed

Hosts France, who have automatically qualified for both tournaments, will be looking to ride the wave of home support to victory. The men’s national team, led by Tokyo 2020 Most Valuable Player Earvin Ngapeth (pictured in the main photo), will also have the opportunity to defend its first-ever Olympic volleyball title from the most recent edition of the Games.

Another six teams per gender have already secured their spots at the Games through the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers held in 2023. On the women’s side, the Dominican Republic, Türkiye, United States, Serbia, Brazil and Poland earned the right to compete at Paris 2023. 

Teams already qualified for the women’s Olympic volleyball competition

The men’s national teams of Germany, the USA, Poland, Brazil, Japan and Canada have also booked their tickets to the Games. 

Teams already qualified for the men’s Olympic volleyball competition

The final Olympic line-up will be officially completed with another five teams per gender, based on the FIVB Volleyball World Ranking after the end of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2024 Preliminary Phase, with priority given to countries from continents that do not yet have teams qualified for the Games to guarantee the principle of universality.

For the teams that just missed out on an Olympic ticket at last year’s tournament, it is still all to play for with the Women’s VNL Preliminary Phase set to get underway on 14 May while the Men’s on 21 May.

The Paris 2024 Volleyball Qualification System and Competition Regulations can be found in more detail in both English and French here.

XI’AN, China, October 8, 2023.- Canada’s men’s team defeated Mexico 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-15) on Sunday at the Olympic Qualification Tournament (OQT) Pool C in Xi’an, China, earning a berth to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Canada led in attack (39-33), dominated in both blocking (13-5) and aces (8-1), but did concede more error points to Mexico (17-15).

Eric Loeppky of Canada led scoring with 16 points; followed by Stephen Maar with 12 (including two aces). Josué López Rios led Mexico with 11 points.

This decisive win, along with Belgium falling to Bulgaria earlier today, put Canada into second place in the pool and booked the team’s ticket to Paris 2024.

It was a dramatic turn of events for Canada as yesterday the team had the opportunity to close the deal against Belgium, but lost 1-3, leaving the second spot in Pool C undecided until today. Then Belgium, in a high-pressure position, struggled in a 2-3 loss to Bulgaria earlier on Sunday. Poland had already secured the top spot in the pool based on its record (undefeated with one match to go today vs. China.)

“It was an important game after yesterday,” said Team Captain Nicholas Hoag, a two-time Olympian. “It was disappointing and scary to be in that position, but we got another opportunity today and we took it. We stepped up and we had also beat the teams we needed to earlier in the tournament. I’m really happy with the way the guys performed; we got the job done. The celebration starts and we will have the year to prepare for Paris!”

Canada ended with a 5-2 recording, its losses coming from a five-set match with number-one ranked Poland and the loss to Belgium yesterday. Argentina, who finished third and outside qualification, also had a 5-2 record but fewer points than Canada.

“It’s unbelievable,” said head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo. “I’m just so happy for volleyball in Canada, and the history of what people have done for many years with this program to now consistently be in the Olympics (third consecutive appearance). I would like to thank the players, not only the ones here in China, but also those that given so much effort to this program during the summer, as well as the coaching staff that have been part of the program. It’s an unbelievable moment and being in the Olympics is huge, as it represents the country”.

TOKYO, Japan, October 7, 2023.- One day before the end of the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers Pool B tournament in Tokyo, United States qualified for next year’s Olympic Games. USA will compete in the men’s volleyball Olympic tournament for the 13th time in history.

On Saturday, United States delivered their sixth straight victory in the pool, a shutout of Serbia, to become the first team to secure a spot at Paris 2024, along with hosts France. So far in the history of the Olympic Games, the Americans have earned three gold and two bronze medals.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

Hammering out Saturday’s 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 25-17) win over Serbia, United States, now on a 6-0 win-loss record and 18 points, made sure they will finish among the top two teams in the pool at the end of Sunday’s last competition day in the Japanese capital when they face Japan who also claimed a ticket to Paris beating Slovenia 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-18).

The match was a one-sided affair, in which the Serbians managed to take short-lived leads only early into each of the first two sets. The Americans clearly outplayed the opponents in all scoring elements, most notably in serving, with 12 aces against two. Middle blocker Maxwell Holt produced four of those aces and raised two kill blocks towards a match-high 13 points. The other middle, Jeffrey Jendryk, and opposite Matthew Anderson added 11 points, including two aces, each, while outside hitter Aaron Russell scored 10 times. His counterpart Miran Kujundzic and opposite Aleksandar Atanasijevic led Serbia with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

“I feel really good about this victory. I think one of the hardest parts about this job are the intensity and focus on getting qualified for the Olympic Games,” USA’s head coach John Speraw told Volleyball World. “So in the back of your mind there is always that quest to make sure you have that opportunity at the end. So for us, to get past that is exciting; it’s a relief and I’m so happy and proud of the guys, because they’ve really had an outstanding tournament, steady the whole way through. It’s a well deserved victory.”

October 6, 2023.- United States earned a big win over Slovenia to remain undefeated, Canada swept Bulgaria and Cuba fell in a critical match to Brazil on Friday at the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers.

Watch the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers live on VBTV

Unites States remained the only undefeated team in Pool B and are getting closer and closer to snatching one of the two Olympic tickets from Tokyo to Paris.

With star opposite Matthew Anderson leading the way, The U.S. handed Slovenia their first loss of the tournament, as the two teams got into a head-to-head battle for the top of the current pool standings on Friday.

The Americans registered a 3-1 (25-18, 21-25, 25-20, 25-19) victory over Slovenia to improve to a 5-0 win-loss record and full 15 points. The U.S. led Slovenia in kills (53-44) and blocks (10-3). The two teams were even on aces at three each. The U.S. scored 30 points off opponent errors while giving up 28.

Matt Anderson produced two aces and 14 spike kills at a 56% success rate in attack to top the scorers’ chart of the match. Outside Torey Defalco added another 13 points, including a kill block, while the two middle blockers, David Smith and Jeffrey Jendryk, finished with 10 points each towards the victory.

On Saturday, the U.S. Men (5-0) will play Serbia (3-2) 

Canada made quick work of Bulgaria3-0 (25-21, 25-17, 25-18) early Friday in Pool C in Xi’an, China.

Canada led in attacking (39-26), blocking (10-5) and service points (6-5), but errors were equal at 20 apiece.

Stephen Maar scored 16 points for Canada (on 12 attacks, 3 blocks and an ace). Teammate Eric Loeppky was next with 13 points (including a block and 2 aces) and Arthur Szwarc added 11 points.

The Canadian team, sitting at 4-1 and in the running for the top-two qualifying positions, plays Belgium in less than 24 hours. The final match for Canada is against Mexico on Sunday.

Cuba fell to Brazil 1-3 (25-23, 18-25, 20-25, 20-25) in Pool A. Now Cuba is 3-2 and will need to beat Italy on Saturday and Iran on Sunday, and count on favorable results in other encounters involving Brazil, Germany and Italy to advance.

Outside hitter Marlon Yant led the way for Cuba with 19 points (16 kills, two aces, one block), followed by opposite Jesus Herrera, with 13.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

October 4, 2023.- The United States leads Pool B, Canada and Cuba improve 3-1 after their victories on Wednesday at the FIVB Road to Paris Olympic Qualifiers.

Watch the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers live on VBTV

United States took a quick sweep (25-11, 25-12, 25-14) over Tunisia in Tokyo, to lead the group (4-0) ahead of second place Slovenia (4-0). After getting Thursday off, the two teams will play each other on Friday.

The U.S. led Tunisia in kills (40-22), blocks (13-3) and aces (6-0). The U.S. scored 17 points on Tunisia’s errors while giving up 12 points on errors.

Kyle Ensing led all scorers with a match-high nine kills and a match-high four blocks. Thomas Jaeschke added 10 points on eight kills, one block and one ace.

Canada dashed China’s hopes of a home-court win 3-0 (25-19, 25-22, 26-24) in Pool C in Xi’an, China.

Stephen Maar scored 20 points for Canada, with four coming from the service line. Teammate Eric Loeppky was again strong offensively with 17 points, and middle blocker Jordan Schnitzer made an impact with 10 points.

Canada led in attacks (49-46) and serves (5-2), but China held an advantage in blocking points (5-3).

Canada is 3-1, currently sitting in second in Pool C will have a day off and next play Bulgaria.

Cuba in Rio De Janeiro, secured their third win and passed Italy, moving up to second place with a 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-16) sweep of Qatar.in Pool A.  

Star outside hitter Miguel Angel Lopez produced 12 points, three more than middle blocker Javier Concepcion.

Cuba’s tough serves (7-0) and 43 to 34 advantage in attacking points were key, with both teams scoring on eight blocks.

Cuba will also have a day off and will play Brazil next.

Poland beat Mexico 3-0 (25-21, 25-19, 25-14). Mexico still has no wins in Pool C and will face Belgium next.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

October 3, 2023.- United States beat Türkiye in four sets, Canada lost a five-set thriller to Poland, Cuba swept Czechnia and Mexico lost to China at the FIVB Road to Paris Olympic Qualifier on Tuesday.

Watch the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers live on VBTV

The tournament runs until October 8.  The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

United States lost its first set, but the team outlasted Türkiye 3-1 (25-17, 26-28, 32-30, 25-20) to stay undefeated.

On Wednesday morning, USA (3-0) will play Tunisia (0-3) The U.S. and Slovenia are currently the only two undefeated teams in Pool B.

USA led Türkiye in kills (63-49), blocks (13-7) and aces (9-3). The United States scored 23  points on Türkiye errors but gave up 36.

Outside hitter Aaron Russell led all scorers with 25 points on 20 kills, two blocks and three aces. DeFalco scored 21 points on 15 kills, one ace, a match-high five blocks and team-high 10 digs. Middle blocker Max Holt had 10 points on seven kills and three aces.

In a five-set showdown with the world-ranked number-one team, Canada came up short in the tight tie-break set for the team’s first loss in Pool C in Xi’an, China. Poland won 3-2 (21-25, 25-20, 25-20, 20-25, 17-15).

Though Poland led in attack points (62-51), Canada had the slight advantage in blocking (13-12) and service aces (6-5). Poland lost more points to errors (35-29) as they attempted to put pressure on Canada.

Stephen Maar was again strong for Canada with 20 points followed by teammates Eric Loeppky with 16 points, Arthur Szwarc (11) and Jordan Schnitzer (10).

Next, Canada plays host China on Wednesday, who beat  Mexico, the other NORCECA team in Pool C, 25-21, 25-9, 25-19. Mexico remaines without wins (0-3) and faces Poland next.

Cuba improved 2-1 in Pool A in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, beating Czechia 3-0 (26-24, 25-21, 25-21).

On Wednesday, Cuba plays Qatar (0-3). Italy leads the group 3-0

Cuba led in kills 49-28 and in serves 5-2. Czechia held an 8-4 advantage in blocks. Cuba benefited from 28 opponent errors and committed 18.

Cuban Jesús Herrera led all scorers with 16 points from kills. Miguel Angel Lopez and Marlon Yant contributed 14 and 13 points respectively.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

September, October 1, 2023.- Canada upset one more favorite defeating Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medalist and reigning South American champions Argentina, the United States swept Finland and Cuba first beat Ukraine and then fell to Germany in the FIVB Paris 2024 Qualifiers.

Watch the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers live on VBTV

As with the opening match against Netherlands, which Canada won in five sets, Canada’s top producers on offense were Stephen Maar (16 points), Arthur Szwarc (16 points) and Eric Loeppky (15 points, which included two blocks and two aces). Overall, Argentina led in attack points 51-47 and aces 6-5, but gave up more points to errors (38-25). Canada’s block was more effective (10-5). 

Canada plays its next match on Oct. 03 against the number-one ranked Poland.

In Tokyo, USA improved to 2-0 in Pool B after a sweep (25-17, 25-14, 25-17) against Finland, leading in kills (43-27), blocks (7-1) and aces (8-2). The U.S. scored 17 points on Finland errors and gave up 19.

Outside hitter T.J. DeFalco led all scorers with 14 points on seven kills, two blocks and 5 aces. Opposite Matt Anderson added 12 points on nine kills, two blocks and one ace. Jeff Jendryk had 10 points on eight kills, one block and one ace.

On Tuesday, the United States will play Türkiye.

In opening day, Cuba took Ukraine down 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-18) to also start with a win in Pool A. Opposite Jesus Herrera (13 points), outside hitter Marlon Yant (11) and middle blocker Javier Concepcion (ten) all reached double digits in scoring.

On Sunday, Cuba fell 1-3 (25-21, 14-25, 22-25, 15-25) to Germany. Cuba led 6-5 in serves and both teams finished with 8 points on blocks. Outside hitter Miguel Angel Lopez and Marlon Yant scored 13 points each.

Cuba next faces the Czech Republic on Tuesday.

September 30, 2023.- Canada came out on the winning side of a five-set battle with Netherlands and United States beat Egypt on opening day at the FIVB Men’s Olympic Qualification Tournament.

Matches are Live on VolleyballWorld.tv.

Canada came out of the winning the end 3-2 (25-21, 23-25, 24-26, 25-18, 15-12) against the Netherlands in Pool C at Xi’an, China.

Netherlands came out swinging hard, leading in attack points (69-57), but also gave up more points to errors (34-25). Canada led in blocking (13-5) and service aces (8-3).

Dutch star opposite Nimir Abdel-Aziz led the attack, with 29 points; followed by Maarten Van Garderen with 19. For Canada, it was more of team effort, Arthur Szwarc (19 points – including 2 blocks), Stephen Maar (18 points total, with 2 blocks and an ace) and Eric Loeppky (15 total, with a block and an ace).

Canada’s next opponent is Argentina who earlier mastered a 3-0 (25-20, 25-17, 25-19) win against  Mexico. Argentina held a 48-29 advantage in kills, 13-3 in blocks and both teams scored three points on aces. Diego González was Mexico’s best scorer with 11 points.

Mexico will face Netherlands in their second outing.

In Pool B United States scored a 3-0 (25-20, 25-16, 25-19) victory over Egypt, leading 40-29 in attacking points, 5-4 in blocks and 8-2 in service aces.

Torey Defalco led all scorers with 17 points (11 kills, 2 blocks, 4 aces), Matt Anderson scored 13 points (11 kills, 2 aces) and Aaron Russell added 11 points (10 kills, one block).

United States will play next against Finland, in Tokyo.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

September 27, 2023.- NORCECA teams, Canada, Cuba, Mexico and the United States are all set to compete for a spot for Paris 2024 at the FIVB Men’s Olympic Qualifiers taking place in Brazil, Japan and China from September 30-October 8.

Matches will be shown on VolleyballWorld.tv.

There are three pools of eight teams each, where two teams from each one will qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Cuba will compete in Pool A in Rio De Janeiro against Brazil, Italy, Iran, Ukraine, Germany, Czechia and Qatar.

In Pool B, the United States will play matches against Egypt, Finland, Türkiye, Tunisia, Slovenia, Serbia and Japan, in Tokyo.

Canada and Mexico will be in Pool C in Xi’an, along with the hosts China, Poland, Argentina, the Netherlands, Belgium and Bulgaria.

At the end of the three qualifiers, six teams for the Olympics will be determined, plus the host country France.

The other five teams will be determined based on world rankings in mid-June 2024.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

ŁÓDŹ, Poland, September 24, 2024.- Reigning Olympic champions the United States qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Sunday when it defeated Germany 3-1 (24-26, 25-21, 25-9, 25-16) at the FIVB Road to Paris Olympic Qualifier in Łódź, Poland.

United States finished the tournament with a 6-1 record. They qualified for their 11th straight Olympic Games and 13th overall. USA finished first in group C and also improved their world ranking to No. 2.

United States dominated Germany on the attack (69-41) led by opposite Annie Drews who entered the match as a substitute to start the second set and led all scorers with 27 points on a match-high 27 kills (.544 hitting efficiency).

 “My focus coming into tonight was to just be where my feet were and fill in the gaps as needed,” Drews said. “We sometimes talk about how we want to feel after the match is over. Can we truly say we have nothing left in the tank or finished with no regrets? So that was in the back of my mind tonight; playing in a way where I wouldn’t regret anything.”

 Outside hitter Jordan Larson added 17 points on 11 kills, a team-high three aces and three blocks. She also led the team in successful receptions with five and had 16 digs.

 “Really proud of our team for how we responded after a difficult loss (to Poland) yesterday,” said Larson, a three-time Olympic medalist. “Props to Germany for coming out strong in set one, but really proud of our team, which stayed steady and secured our ticket to Paris.”

 Germany led in blocks (10-8). The teams tied in aces (6-6) and Germany had one more scoring error (16-15).

USA outside hitter Kelsey (Robinson) Cook totaled 13 points on 12 kills and one ace. Middle blocker Chiaka Ogbogu scored 10 points on five kills, a team-high four blocks and one ace. 

NINGBO, China, September 24, 2023 – The Dominican Republic clinched their direct ticket to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Sunday after defeating the Netherlands in a thrilling five-set match (25-20, 20-25, 25-19, 23-25, 15-12) at the FIVB Road to Paris Qualifier in Ningbo, China.

This marks the fourth time that the Dominican Republic has participated in the Olympics, their  second consecutive one (Athens 2004, London 2012, Tokyo 2021).

The Dominican Republic started the Olympic qualifier ranked number 10 in the world, now holds position 8, surpassing Japan, the Netherlands, Canada, and Germany.

The top positions are Türkiye, Serbia, United States, Brazil, Italy, China, and Poland, in that same order.

The Caribbean Queens goal was to win two sets over the Netherlands to secure their Olympic qualification, achieving it when Brayelin Martínez managed to close the third set with a touch (25-19) in favor of the Dominicans. The Dominican Republic had won the first set.

With their sixth consecutive victory, the Dominican Republic closed the event with a 6-1 record, winning Pool A. The Dominicans triumphed over Canada, Ukraine, Mexico, Serbia, China, and the Netherlands, only falling in their opening match against the Czech Republic.

The Dominican Republic’s offensive attack was led by Brayelin Martínez with 23 points, all from attacks, followed by Yonkaira Peña with 17 (16 attacks, one block), Gaila González with 16 (15 attacks, one service ace), and Jineiry Martínez with 10 (7 attacks, 3 blocks).

The top scorers for the Netherlands were Nika Daalderop with 23 points, Celeste Plak with 18, and Jasper Marriet with 14.

Also in Pool A, Canada defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-21), securing third place with a 5-2 record.

Canadian Kiera Van Ryk was the top scorer of the match with 17 points. Also contributing to the win were Emily Maglio with 13 points and team captain Alexa Gray added 10 points.

September 23, 2023 – The Dominican Republic secured an important victory over China on Saturday, winning 3-1 (25-23, 21-25, 25-14, 25-14) in the FIVB Qualification Tournament for the 2024 Olympic Games held in Ningbo, China. They will now vie for the ticket to Paris against the Netherlands on Sunday.

Live Matches on VolleyballWorld.tv

The Caribbean Queens will play their last match of the qualifier on Sunday against the Netherlands who suffered a 3-0 loss on Saturday against Serbia. Serbia earned their ticket to the Olympics.

The Queens of the Caribbean currently hold the second position in Group A with a 5-1 record, tied with Serbia, who leads with 15 points. The Dominican team has 15 points, closely followed by the Netherlands with 12 points.

The Dominican Republic needs to win two sets on Sunday against the Netherlands to qualify for Paris 2024, which would mark their fourth participation in the Olympic Games (Athens 2004, London 2012, Tokyo 2021).

The Dominicans made more unforced errors than China, but well made up with an advantage in offense, leading 60-43 in attacks and 10-4 in blocks.

The Dominican attack was led by Brayelin Martínez (25 points), Gaila González (21 points), and Yonkaira Peña (16 points).

Meanwhile, Canada, also in Group A, improved their record to 4-2 after defeating Mexico 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-17). Opposite hitter Kiera Van Ryk led with 17 points, including two aces and two blocks, while outside hitter Grecia Castro was the top scorer for Mexico with 16 points.

Here are the standings
https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/volleyball-olympic-qualifying-tournament/standings/women/

September 21, 2023.- The United States took one more step toward Olympic qualification on Friday by beating Italy 3-1 (25-19, 23-25, 25-21, 25-18) at the FIVB Road to Paris Olympic Qualifier in Łódź, Poland and Canada defeated Ukraine 3-1 (25-22, 23-25, 25-12, 25-11) at in Ningbo, China.

Live Matches on VolleyballWorld.tv

United States (5-0), the defending Olympic champions, are now the only undefeated team in Pool C. On Saturday, USA will play Poland (4-1) while in Pool A, Canada (3-2) plays Mexico, who has yet to find a win. 

The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

USA led Italy in kills (63-58). The teams tied in blocks (9-9) and aces (2-2). The U.S. scored 24 points on Italy’s errors and gave up 14.

Opposite Jordan Thompson led all scorers with 24 points on a match-high 23 kills and one block.Outside hitter Kelsey Cook added 16 points on 12 kills, three blocks and one ace. Outside hitter Kathryn Plummer, who played as a substitute and started the fourth set, scored 11 points on 10 kills and one ace.

In Pool A, Canada had a tentative start, and Ukraine took advantage and control early on, however, Canada recovered to take the match in four sets.
 
Alexa Gray topped the scoring charts with 24 points for Canada. Middle blocker Emily Maglio was again effective with 13 points; including five block kills. Ukraine’s opposite Anastasiia Kraiduba led her team with 16 attack points.

Mexico had a strong ending in their loss 1-3 (17-25, 19-25, 25-18, 27-29) to Czechia.

Here are the standings
https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/volleyball-olympic-qualifying-tournament/standings/women/

September 21, 2023 – The Dominican Republic took an important step towards their qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by dominating Serbia in Group A, while Puerto Rico came from behind to defeat Argentina in Group B.

Live Matches on VolleyballWorld.tv

Dominican Republic secured a 3-1 victory over Serbia (25-23, 18-25, 25-23, and 25-17), the current world champions and second in the world ranking.

With this crucial win, “Las Reinas del Caribe” now have a 4-1 record, the same as Serbia. Both have accumulated 12 points in Group A, in Ningbo, China.

Dominican Republic will have the day off on Friday and will return to play on Saturday, facing China.

Dominican Republic’s offence was led by Gaila González with 18 points, followed by Brayelin Martínez with 16. Yonkaira Peña contributed 13 points, while Cándida Arias and Jineirys Martínez finished with seven points each.

Serbia’s star opposite player, Tijana Boskovic, scored an impressive 32 points.

In Group B, in Tokyo, Puerto Rico came from behind to defeat Argentina 3-2 (28-30, 19-25, 25-19, 25-23, 15-8).

Opposite Brittany Abercrombie, scored an impressive 35 points, with 30 attacks, 3 blocks, and 2 direct service points, helping Puerto Rico improve their record to two wins and three losses.

Pilar Victoria contributed 18 points, while Alondra Vázquez and Neira Ortiz each added 10 points.

Puerto Rico will return to the court on Friday, September 22, to face Peru.

Follow the tournament at Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament

September 20, 2023 – Canada secured their second victory in Pool A of the Women’s Olympic Qualifier  event this Wednesday by defeating China in a five-set thriller (28-26, 15-25, 25-23, 22-25, 17-15) held in  Ningbo, China.

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Kiera Van Ryk led Canada’s attack with 26 points, supported by captain Alexa Gray, who contributed 23 points in attacks and one block. Her teammate, Emily Maglio, performed exceptionally at the net with 9 blocks, 10 points in attack, and one service point. 

Canada now stands with a 2-2 record, while the Dominican Republic improved to three wins and one loss after defeating Mexico 3-0 (25-17, 27-25, 25-16). The Dominican offense was spearheaded by Gaila González with 14 points, followed by the central player, Eve Mejia, with seven, and Yonkaira Peña with six.

Dominicans will face Serbia on September 21, the only undefeated team in the pool. On September 22, Canada will take on Ukraine, and Mexico will play against the Czechia.

Meanwhile, in Pool C, taking place in Lodz, Poland, the United States remains undefeated with victories over Slovenia and Korea. The American team will play against Italy on September 21, with both teams holding a 4-0 record.

Jordan Thompson led the United States over Korea with 26 points, including 20 in attacks, 3 in blocks, and 3 service points. Kelsey Robinson contributed 13 points, while Jordan Larson and Dana Rettke each scored 12 points.

In Pool B, in Tokyo, Puerto Rico lost to Brazil 21-25, 15-25, and 9-25. Brittany Abercrombie was Puerto Rico’s top scorer with 8 points, including 6 in attacks and 2 in blocks. Elaine Alondra Vázquez contributed 7 points from attacks.

Puerto Rico’s next opponent is Argentina.

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September 19, 2023 – The Dominican Republic earned its second consecutive victory in Pool A of the FIVB Olympic Qualification Tournament on Tuesday, defeating Ukraine 3-0 (27-17, 25-21, 31-29). In the same pool, Canada and Mexico suffered straight-set defeats, as did Puerto Rico in Group B.

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The Dominican Republic’s attack was led by Brayelin Martínez with 25 points, followed by Yonkaira Peña with 15, Gaila González with 13, and Jineirys Martínez with 10 points, improving the team’s record to two wins and one loss in Pool A, in Ningbo, China.

Dominicans outperformed Ukraine 55-48 in attacks and 11-4 in blocks. Ukraine led in service aces 3-1.

Meanwhile, Canada fell 0-3 (19-25, 17-25, 21-25) to Serbia and now has a 1-2 record.

The European team dominated in attacks 45-32, blocks 9-7, and service points 8-1. Canadians Alexa Gray, Kiera Van Ryk, and Hilary Howe each scored nine points. Serbia’s Tijana Boškovic was the top scorer with 25 points, including four aces.

Also in Group A, Mexico suffered its third defeat (0-3) after losing to the Netherlands 0-3 (18-25, 18-25, 17-25), who led in attacks 45-38, blocks 10-3, and service points 5-2. Grecia Castro was Mexico’s top scorer with 12 points, followed by Jocelyn Urías with eight points.

In Group B, contested in Tokyo, Japan, Puerto Rico lost to the hosts 0-3 (23-25, 21-25, 13-25) and now has a 1-2 record.

Puerto Rico dominated in blocks 7-2, but Japan led in attacks (52-36) and service points (5-2). Brittany Abercrombie, with 17 points, was the leading scorer for Puerto Rico.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

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Canada in Pool A and defending Olympic Champions United States in Pool C started the FIVB Road to Paris Women’s Volleyball Qualifier Tournament with success.

In Ningbo, China, Canada number 9 in the world ranking, won a dramatic five set 3-2 (32-30, 18-25, 15-25, 25-17, 15-13) to Netherlands, number 11 in the world ranking.

Canada prevailed over a 77-70 advantage in attacking points and scoring on 20 opponent errors, while giving away 18. The Netherlands topped 14-8 in blocking points and eight to one in points from serves.

Four players led Canada’s offense with double figures, team captain Alexa Gray scored a match-high of  28 points, outside hitter Kiera Van Ryk (19 points), middle blocker Emily Maglio (12 points) and outside hitter Hilary Howe (10 points).

In Lodz, Poland, the United States, number 2 in the world, earned a straight-set victory 3-0 (25-12, 25-12, 25-13) over Colombia (No. 20).

USA held a 44-25 advantage in kills, 9-2 in blocks and 6-1 in serves. Middle blocker Dana Rettke and opposite hitter Jordan Thompson led with 11 and 10 points respectively.

Also in Pool A, Dominican Republic and Mexico fell in their opening performances. Dominican Republic (No. 10) to Czechia (No. 17) in a tough five set battle 2-3 (21-25, 25-21, 21-25, 26-24, 12-15) and Mexico (No. 23) to Serbia (No. 3) in straight sets 0-3 (16-25, 19-25, 23-25).

Dominicans led in attacks (73-63) and serves (4-2); Czechia in blocks (15-9) and committed fewer errors (19-30). Dominican Brayelin Martinez led all scorers with 28 points, followed by Yonkaira Peña with 24 points. Middle blocker Jineiry Martinez added 15 points.

Serbia outplayed Mexico in attacks (43-31) and in blocks (11-3); Mexico held a slim 4-3 margin in serves. Mexican outside hitter Grecia Castro and Aimé Topete led their team with 9 points each.

In Pool B, in Tokyo, Japan, Puerto Rico (No. 22) fell to Türkiye (No. 1) in three sets 0-3 (19-25, 16-25, 14-25).

The Turks held advantage on 37 attacking points against 26, in kill blocks (9 to 3) and aces (11 to 6).Opposite Brittany Abercombie led the Puerto Rican scorers with 14 points.

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, September 12, 2023.- The Women’s Volleyball Olympic Qualifying Tournament will get underway from September 16-24 in China, Japan and Poland.

With pools in China, Japan and Poland, the women will be the first to play in the Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifiers. A week later, from September 30-October 8, the men will compete in Brazil, Japan and China. Two national teams in each of the three pools per gender will book their spots at next year’s Games.

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United States are aiming to defend their Olympic title in Paris, but will have to go through Italy, Poland, Germany, Thailand, Colombia, Korea and Slovenia to clinch one of the two spots on offer in their Pool C to be played in Lodz, Poland.

Dominican Republic, after retaining their continental title will be in Pool A, in China, where they will face two NORCECA rivals, Canada and Mexico, in addition the home team, Serbia, the Netherlands, Czechia and Ukraine.

Puerto Rico completes the list of NORCECA teams, they will battle hosts Japan, Brazil, Türkiye, Belgium, Bulgaria, Argentina and Peru in Pool B.

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LAUSANNE, Switzerland, June 16, 2023.- Following the announcement of the host countries for the FIVB Road to Paris Volleyball Qualifier events to be held this year, the FIVB have confirmed the host cities that will welcome the world’s best teams competing for spots at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The Women’s OQT’s will take place from 16-24 September 2023

Pool A – Ningbo, China

Pool B – Tokyo, Japan

Pool C – Lodz, Poland

The Men’s OQT’s will take place from 30 September to 8 October 2023

Pool A – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Pool B – Tokyo, Japan

Pool C – Xian, China

POOL COMPOSITION

Women’s Tournament

Pool A (Ningbo, China) – China, Serbia, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Canada, Czechia, Mexico, Ukraine

Pool B (Tokyo, Japan) – Japan, Brazil, Turkey, Belgium, Bulgaria, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Peru

Pool C (Lodz, Poland) – Poland, Italy, United States, Germany, Thailand, Colombia, South Korea, Slovenia

Men’s Tournament

Pool A (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) – Brazil, Italy Iran, Cuba, Ukraine, Germany, Czechia, Qatar

Pool B (Tokyo, Japan) – Japan, United States, Slovenia, Serbia, Turkey, Tunisia, Egypt, Finland

Pool C (Xian, China) – China, Poland, Argentina, Netherlands, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Bulgaria

OLYMPIC QUALIFICATION EXPLAINED

Twelve teams per gender will participate in the Olympic volleyball competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. As the host nation, France, the current men’s Olympic volleyball champions, has secured its place in both the men’s and women’s competitions. The other 11 quota places per gender will be allocated via a two-step qualification process that ensures the best volleyball nations can participate at the event while observing the principle of universality.

In particular, six Olympic quota places per gender will be contested during the Olympic Qualification Tournaments where the top 24 teams as per the FIVB Volleyball Senior World Ranking (WR) not yet qualified will be split into three pools of eight teams. The top two teams of each pool will then qualify for Paris 2024.

The remaining five places per gender will be filled by selecting the top five not yet qualified teams in the FIVB WR as of the end of the preliminary phase of the Volleyball Nations League 2024. To guarantee the principle of universality, these teams will be selected as per the following order of priority: 1) The team(s) from a continent(s) without a qualified team(s) and 2) Top team(s) not yet qualified.