CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 11, 2025.- Venezuela moved into the semifinals of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup after defeating Suriname in straight sets 3-0 (25-15, 25-14, 25-17) on Friday at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
Venezuela now awaits the result of the quarterfinal matchup between Canada and Chile to determine their semifinal opponent. Suriname, meanwhile, will move on to the classification matches for positions 5 to 8.
Venezuela displayed a dominant and consistent performance throughout the match, outperforming Suriname across all key areas.
Venezuela led in kills (44-21), blocks (13-5), and aces (6-0). Despite committing 21 unforced errors, against 12 from Suriname.
Opposite hitter Yoisbel Galeno led the Venezuelan offense with 13 points, including 10 kills and 3 blocks. Teammates Neyver Zabala and Harold Alonso Larez added 10 points each in the victory.
For Suriname, Javier Nasibdar was the top scorer with 13 points, recording 12 kills and one block.
Yoisbel Galeno, the match’s top scorer, said after the victory: “Our intention was to be dominant, and we achieved that. It was a good match for the entire team, and we hope to continue like this in the semifinals. The group stage matches were excellent and gave us a lot of experience to reach this stage of the tournament with more confidence”.
The U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup continues Saturday with semifinal action in Cuernavaca.
July 10, 2025.- The United States earned an important 3-1 victory (23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 25-20) over the Dominican Republic in their bid to secure a spot among the top 8 teams competing for the title at the 2025 Women’s VNL.
The Dominicans gave the Americans an early scare by taking the first set of the match held in Arlington. However, starting in the second set, the Stars and Stripes found their rhythm and proved superior to the “Caribbean Queens,” ultimately claiming the win.
The U.S. dominated in attacks (51-41), blocks (14-10), and service aces (6-4), while taking advantage of 27 unforced errors by the Dominican Republic, compared to 25 from their side.
Avery Skinner led the scoring for the United States with 18 points, 15 from attacks, 1 block, and 2 aces. Also standing out in attack were Tia Jimerson and Logan Eggleston; Tia scored 14 points (9 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace), while Logan added 10 points (7 attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace).
Gaila González of the Dominican Republic was the top scorer in the match with 19 points, from 13 attacks, 4 blocks, and 2 aces. Team captain Brayelin Martínez tallied 15 points (13 attacks and 2 blocks), while Jineiry Martínez also reached double digits with 10 points (7 attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace).
This win brings the United States within one victory of clinching a spot in the final round, currently sitting in eighth place with a 6-4 win-loss record. For the Dominican Republic, the loss puts them on the verge of elimination from the top 8, as they now have 4 wins and 6 losses. Both teams have only two matches remaining.
Match Schedule for July 11
The United States has a rest day. The Dominican Republic faces Thailand at 4:00 p.m. (local time), while Canada plays China at 7:30 p.m. (local time).
MALONEY, AROUCA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 10, 2025: Host Trinidad and Tobago served off their bid for the title in the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Women’s Championship
hosted by the T&T Volleyball Federation (T&TVF) with a nail-biting (3-2) win over Curacao at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena.
In a see-saw contest that had the vociferous crowd at the edge of their seats with nearly every passing play, L’fe Roberts led ‘Calypso Spikers’ emerge from the five-set battle victorious, 23-25, 25-16, 25-18, 21-25, 15-13.
An emotional Deon Hutchinson was quick to admit that he believes the first game jitters affected his team.
“Playing in front of the home crowd for the first time may have gotten to the players, but I think we played really good volleyball, and we are happy for the win.
Henry Delfina, Head Coach of Curacao women, “We fought hard tonight but we lost the game. Our difficulty during the game was our passing which was not good enough to make out attacks useful.”
On Friday, Curacao serves off the day’s action versus Suriname from 1 pm followed by Trinidad and Tobago against Martinique at 8 pm, then on Saturday’s final day of round-robin matches, Curacao tackles Martinique at 3 pm, while Trinidad and Tobago closes out against Suriname from 6 pm.
At the end of both the round-robin series, the top two teams will square off for the gold medal on Sunday, July 13 final day of competition at 4 pm, while the third and fourth placed teams will contest the bronze medal, also on the final day from two hours earlier.
MALONEY, AROUCA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 10, 2025: Team captain Nicholas Williams led from the front as host Trinidad and Tobago swept Martinique (3-0) 25-13, 25-18, 26-24 in an enthralling contest in the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship hosted by the T&T Volleyball Federation (T&TVF) at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena.
Commenting on his team’s performance Trinidad and Tobago head coach Sean Morrison said it was a very good match by his team.
“We started off very strong and won the first two sets, but Martinique came back with a very good fighting spirit and won the third set. Then we also found our game again in the fourth set and came back strongly and lifted out confidence and kept fighting and good the win.”
Team captain Williams added, “The result didn’t shock me and I’m proud of my team mental endurance during the game tonight. It was a great battle, and we congratulate Martinique for giving us a good fight.”
Brice Hardy-Dessources, head coach of Martinique, was quick to admit that his opponents on the night were a very strong team.
“Tonight, Trinidad and Tobago was very strong, and I hope tomorrow against Suriname that my team will be better.”
On Friday, Martinique and Suriname meet from 3 pm followed by Trinidad and Tobago versus Guadeloupe at 6pm.
Then on Saturday’s final day of round-robin matches, Guadeloupe and Martinique clash from 1 pm while Trinidad and Tobago faces Suriname in the final pool match from 8 pm.
At the end of both the round-robin series, the top two teams will square off for the gold medal on Sunday, July 13 final day of competition at 6 pm, while the third and fourth placed teams will contest the bronze medal, also on the final day at 12 noon.
MALONEY, AROUCA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 10, 2025: Martinique sounded a warning to all rivals at the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Women’s Championship hosted by the T&T Volleyball Federation (T&TVF) when they defeated defending champions Suriname (3-1) at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena.
Led by captain Maelyss Melinard-Chanteur, Martinique secured a 25-16, 25-11, 21-25, 25-21 victory to signal their title ambitions in their opening match of the four-nation tournament.
Reflecting on his team’s win Eddy Erialc,Head Coach of Martinique women said, “We started well and won the first two sets, but then we made a tactical change with the libero, and it affected our play.”
“The third was not so good by us, but then we regrouped in the fourth set and won the match, and we are now looking forward to the next match where we hope to improve.
Melinard-Chanteur added, “I’m satisfied with our win, but I know we can play much better as a team.”
“It’s going to be a very tough competition and as a team we need to be focus and prepared for every match.”
Victor Lesperans, Head Coach of Suriname women was quick to point out that the reception from his players played a major role in their demise.
“Our reception fell away from early in the match and if you don’t receive well, then your attack breaks down. The good thing is that it’s a tournament where we have a chance to grow with every match, and we intend to do much better in our next match”.
Host Trinidad and Tobago comes up against Curacao in the second match tonight while on Friday, Curacao serves off the day’s action versus Suriname from 1 pm followed by Trinidad and Tobago against Martinique at 8 pm, then on Saturday’s final day of round-robin matches, Curacao tackles Martinique at 3 pm, while Trinidad and Tobago closes out against Suriname from 6 pm.
At the end of both the round-robin series, the top two teams will square off for the gold medal on Sunday, July 13 final day of competition at 4 pm, while the third and fourth placed teams will contest the bronze medal, also on the final day from two hours earlier.
MALONEY, AROUCA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 10, 2025: Suriname got off to a winning start in their bid to become the first champion in the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship hosted by the T&T Volleyball Federation (T&TVF) when they defeated Guadeloupe (3-1) at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena.
Playing the opening match of the four-team tournament which also involves host country Trinidad and Tobago and Martinique, Suriname prevailed 25-23, 25-20, 24-26, 25-11 in a very entertaining contest to get the four-day tournament off to a positive start.
Speaking after his team’s victory Cuban-born Carlos Orta, Head Coach of Suriname men said he felt his team performed well.
Orta added, “My team worked well as a unit, and they did what they were supposed to do to get the win against an opponent we have never played before.”
“During the third set had some difficulties, but we made the needed adjustments to come out on top with the win and now we are looking forward to the next match.
Gayetann Broussillon, Head Coach of Guadeloupe men said her team was very prepared for the match but did not execute well.
“Our concentration level in the first two sets was not where it needed to be and in the third set, we were able to get the win.
“But overall, I think we lacked the experienced to get the points in the crucial parts of the game as we are a young team, but we will expect to do much better in our next match,
Host Trinidad and Tobago face off with Martinique in the second match tonight while on Friday, Martinique and Suriname meet from 3 pm followed by Trinidad and Tobago versus Guadeloupe at 6pm.
Then on Saturday’s final day of round-robin matches, Guadeloupe and Martinique clash from 1 pm while Trinidad and Tobago faces Suriname in the final pool match from 8 pm.
At the end of both the round-robin series, the top two teams will square off for the gold medal on Sunday, July 13 final day of competition at 6 pm, while the third and fourth placed teams will contest the bronze medal, also on the final day at 12 noon.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 10, 2025. – Host Mexico secured a direct berth to the semifinals of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup after defeating Chile 3-0 (25-22, 25-19, 29-27) on Thursday at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
Mexico closed the preliminary round undefeated at the top of Pool B. Chile, finishing second in the group with a 2-1 record, will face Canada in Friday’s quarterfinals.
Mexico displayed composure and control in the second set and rallied from behind in the third. The dramatic final set saw Chile reaching set point first at 24-23. However, Mexico’s attacking power proved decisive, closing the set in extended play to seal the sweep.
GIMNASIO UAEM CROWD SUPPORTING MEXICO
The host team’s offensive skill was evident with a 50-38 advantage in kills. Chile led in blocks (8-7), and both teams scored two points from the service line. Errors were nearly identical, with Mexico committing 21 and Chile 20.
Mexican outside hitter Emi Díaz led all scorers with 19 points on 18 kills and one ace. Opposite hitter Arnoldo Hurtado added 13 points (12 kills, one block), while Carlos Grajeda chipped in 11 points (10 kills, one block).
For Chile, Joaquín Valjalo was the lone scorer in double digits, recording 13 points from 12 kills and one block.
Mexico now awaits its semifinal opponent as the knockout phase of the tournament begins.
Emi Díaz, the match’s top scorer, said, “We stayed calm and went point by point until we secured the win in straight sets. Our serves let us down, but we’re going to improve them for the upcoming matches. Tomorrow we’ll rest so we can come into the semifinal with full strength.”
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 10, 2025 .– Suriname booked their place in the quarterfinals of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup after defeating Panama in four sets 3-1 (16-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-13) in their final Pool B match at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
With the win, Suriname secured third place in Pool B and will face Venezuela in Friday’s quarterfinals. Panama, finishing fourth in the group, will compete for positions 5 to 8.
Both teams came out energized, knowing a win would advance them to the next stage. The match featured intense rallies, dynamic net play, and strong crowd engagement. Panama took the opening set with aggressive attacking and solid defense, but Suriname responded adjusting their block and defensive structure in the second set.
MONSTER BLOCK FROM SURINAME
The turning point came in the fourth set, where Suriname stormed to an 11-3 lead, capitalizing on Panama’s errors and maintaining control through strong blocking.
Suriname’s blocking proved decisive, outscoring Panama 11-2 in that category. Panama committed 30 unforced errors, while Suriname had 22. Panama led in attacks 52-47, and both teams scored three aces.
Outside hitters Javier Nasibdar and Gianni Ritfeld were Suriname’s top scorers with 17 points each, while middle blocker Jahmit Jambo added 10. Panama’s captain Kendrieck Newby led his team with 17 points, supported by Wen Downer with 14.
Suriname head coach Furgil Ong-A-Fat reflected on the victory: “We had a tough start against Chile, then Mexico, and today we finally got a win. To keep the momentum for tomorrow’s quarterfinal, we must continue with our blocking, that was the key today, along with solid defense”.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 10, 2025. – The United States secured a direct berth to the semifinals of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup after dominating Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-17, 25-14, 25-19) in their final Pool A match on Thursday at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
With this result, Team USA finishes pool play undefeated at 3-0, marking their third consecutive straight-set victory and advancing directly to Saturday’s semifinal round. Puerto Rico, finishing fourth in Pool A, will compete in the 5th-8th classification matches. Venezuela secured second place and Canada finished third, both advancing to Friday’s quarterfinals.
The United States outperformed Puerto Rico in every scoring category: 42-34 in kills, 9-4 in blocks, and 6-5 in aces. They also committed fewer errors (17) compared to Puerto Rico’s 18.
USA
Outside hitter Kale Cochran led all scorers with 14 points for the U.S., followed by opposite Corbin Batista with 11 and middle blocker Dante Cayaban with 10. Gustavo Alvarez was Puerto Rico’s top scorer with seven points.
U.S. middle blocker Brodie Heshler, who sealed the match with a block, shared his excitement: “It’s my first time being out of the country being part of the U.S. national team and feels great, it’s a big moment. I loved the ending match. We have a bunch of good players. The U.S. is very physical, and on top of that, we have a great libero who passes every ball perfectly. Overall, we’re a good team.”
Puerto Rico’s head coach, Juan Albarrán, shared his thoughts on the preliminary round: “I think the first two group matches were within reach; out of the six sets we played, four ended at 23 points, meaning we were in the fight the whole time. We were in a tough group with four strong teams, and this tournament serves as a learning experience for the World Championship. Facing these teams gives us a great level of preparation for what lies ahead.”
The U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup continues Friday with quarterfinal action, as teams compete for a spot in the medal rounds.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 10, 2025.– Venezuela secured a hard-fought 3-1 (25-22, 25-22, 17-25, 25-22) victory over Canada in their final Pool A match at the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, held at the UAEM Gymnasium in Cuernavaca.
With this result, Venezuela closes the preliminary round with a 2-1 win-loss record, while Canada finishes 1-2. Both teams await final seeding ahead of the knockout stage.
Canada mounted a strong comeback in the third set after trailing by two sets, improving both their defensive reads and offensive execution. However, Venezuela responded with a reorganized effort in the fourth set to seal the match in four.
Venezuela
Venezuela held advantages in attacks (51-44), blocks (11-10), and aces (6-4). Canada committed fewer unforced errors, 23 to Venezuela’s 33.
Venezuela’s top scorer was outside hitter Neyver Manuel Zabala, who tallied 15 points on 11 kills, 2 blocks, and 2 aces. He was supported by middle blocker Angel Matute, who contributed 12 points (7 kills, 4 blocks, 1 ace), and outside hitter Gandy Lugo, who added 11 points all from kills.
Canada was led by team captain Marcus Barrett, who also scored 15 points. Middle blockers Simon Oberbuchner and Cameron Hutt contributed 12 and 10 points respectively.
Venezuela’s head coach, Iván Nieto: “The game plan was executed as expected; we only failed in the third set when Canada managed to break our reception line and gained an early lead. We also struggled with ball distribution, and they were well positioned to anticipate where we were going to pass. In the fourth set, we made the necessary adjustments, changing our middle attack and serving strategy, corrected our reception, and that gave the team the stability to move forward.”
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 10, 2025.– With Nicaragua coming in as the defending champion, the Second Edition of the AFECAVOL Men’s Final Four will kick off on Friday, July 11, featuring the national teams of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize alongside the titleholders.
The FESAVOL Gymnasium will host the event, which will feature two matches per day from July 11 to 13.
All participating teams completed their preliminary interviews and declared themselves ready for what is shaping up to be an intense competition in the quest for the championship trophy.
Jorge Mena, head coach of the Nicaraguan team, shared his thoughts on the challenge ahead in this Second Final Four: “The team is motivated and ready for the challenge. We are 100% prepared for the three matches ahead. As always, our goal is to take first place. We have a tough opening match against Guatemala, but I have confidence in our players”.
Andrea Genova, head coach of El Salvador, stated: “We’re coming in highly motivated. We know we have a good team, made up of experienced veterans and promising new athletes. The level of this event will be very high, with strong opponents, so we expect spectacular matches”.
Belize’s head coach, Albert Humes, explained: “We hope Belize will be one of the top teams in this Final Four. The teams here have significantly improved and developed, and Belize is no exception. That’s why our expectations for this competition are very high.”
Guatemala’s coach, Reider Lucas, commented: “Our goal in this competition is to achieve a good result. We’ve prepared well for this tournament, and we’re confident that things will go our way. The boys are coming in with a lot of energy and determination to get a strong result”.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 9, 2025. – Mexico will play for the top spot in Pool A and a direct ticket to the semifinals of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup when they take on Chile, as both teams remained undefeated after two days of competition at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
The Mexican team defeated Suriname in four sets on Wednesday, 25-23, 25-16, 22-25, 25-11, earning their second straight win (2-0), the same record as Chile. Their upcoming matchup will determine the group winner and the direct qualification to the semifinals.
Suriname (0-2), on the other hand, will face Panama (0-2) in a decisive game for third place in the group and a spot in the quarterfinals.
Mexico
Mexico dominated the match with a significant advantage in attacks (57-30), while Suriname outperformed the hosts in blocks (13-8) and service aces (4-1). Mexico committed 28 unforced errors, compared to 31 by Suriname.
Opposite hitter Arnoldo Hurtado led the Mexican offense with 15 points, all on kills, followed by team captain Carlos Grajeda, who contributed 14 points (11 kills, 3 blocks).
For Suriname, top scorers were Javier Nasibdar and Gianni Ritfeld with 11 points each. Middle blocker Revelino Sandel added 10 points, including a match-high of 8 blocks.
In the third set, Mexico attempted a comeback after trailing 7-14, tying the score at 22, but Suriname’s insistent defense allowed them to force a fourth set.
Mexican head coach Óscar Viña said after the match: “The team lost focus due to Suriname’s excellent defense; they picked up every ball. It wasn’t a bad thing for them to feel pressure; they showed grit and closed the match with a wide margin in the final set. Tomorrow will be a tough match; Chile is a respected opponent, and we must have our strategy ready to finish first in the group.”
MALONEY, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 9, 2025: As the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Championships prepare to serve off simultaneously for both men and women at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13, attention turns to the women’s tournament, now being held for only the second time in seven years.
With Suriname having claimed the inaugural title in 2018 in Bonaire, the four participating women’s teams arrive in Trinidad and Tobago with renewed ambition. On the eve of the competition, the coaches expressed confidence in their squads and excitement to compete at this level once again.
This time around, Suriname is back to defend their crown and will come up against host Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao and Martinique.
Speaking ahead of the tournament the four coaches all expressed optimism about their chances at lifting the title.
Henry Delfina, Head Coach of Curacao women, “We had a period of training for about three months, and we have prepared a good team. We hope that we can have a good tournament and that we can also reach the finals, that’s our goal. And when we reach the final, anything can happen.”
Courtnee-Mae Clifford, Assistant Coach of Trinidad and Tobago women, “We are looking forward to the team competing and representing Trinidad and Tobago as best as they can with all the work they have put in with the goal of making it to the final match of the championship.”
Eddy Erialc, Head Coach of Martinique women, “I have come to win this tournament in Trinidad and Tobago with my team as I think that my team is very capable of winning this competition.”
Victor Lesperans, Head Coach of Suriname women, “It’s an honour to be here for the tournament. As defending champions, we are not thinking less than getting back the crown.
“Our preparations have been quite hectic as we had the national playoffs in that same period, so, we were more checking out the players in their teams, but in the last three weeks we had quite a good preparation.”
MALONEY, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, JULY 9, 2025: Less than 24 hours before the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Men and Women Under-23 Championships get underway simultaneously at the Maloney Indoor Sports Arena from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13, the focus turns to the historic debut of the men’s tournament.
Being staged for the first time, the men’s event will see host nation Trinidad and Tobago face off against Suriname, Martinique, and Guadeloupe in pursuit of the inaugural title.
Following Wednesday’s preliminary inquiry and technical meeting, chaired by CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed and T&TVF President Daymian Stewart at the Teams Hotel Piarco Palace, the four head coaches shared optimistic outlooks on their teams’ preparations and chances in the upcoming matches.
Cuban-born Carlos Orta, Head Coach of Suriname men, “I have been coaching in Suriname for the past three years as part of the FIVB agreement. This is the first time we are going to have the men’s competition in the Under-23 CAZOVA Championship and with it being the first time we don’t know the opposing teams that well. We know that Trinidad and Tobago always has a good team, but we don’t know the rest, but we now have a chance to show who is the best.”
Essiel Seecharan, Head Coach of Trinidad and Tobago men, “We are very much prepared for this competition. We have been training for the past three months, and we only have a few slight injuries, but nothing that should affect the outcome for us which is to get the gold medal.”
Brice Hardy-Dessources, Head Coach of Martinique men, “We came to Trinidad and Tobago to win this competition. This team had three weeks of preparation, and we are okay for this competition.”
Gayetann Broussillon, Head Coach of Guadeloupe men, “We have come here with a beautiful team to win and the objective here in this tournament is to win against every team
July 9, 2025.- In the start of the final week of the 2025 Women’s VNL Preliminary Round, the United States moved forward in their quest for qualification with a four-set victory over Thailand, while the Dominican Republic and Canada both lost tough five-set matches to China and Germany, respectively, in Arlington.
United States Earns Hard-Fought Win Over Thailand
Team USA had a tougher time than expected in defeating Thailand 3-1 (28-26, 21-25, 27-25, 25-15), as the Thai side fought for every ball.
Despite the challenge, the Americans led in attacks (67-56), blocks (10-7), and aces (3-2). It was a low-error match, with Thailand benefiting from 26 opponent errors, while USA received 21.
Outside hitter Avery Skinner led all scorers with 22 points for the U.S., including 19 attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace. She was supported by Logan Eggleston with 19 points (18 attacks, 1 block) and Dana Rettke with 10 (9 attacks, 1 ace).
The win helps the U.S. stay among the top 8 contenders, currently holding the eighth position with 5 wins, 4 losses, and 14 points, tied with Germany, who sits seventh with the same win-loss record but 16 points.
Logan Eggleston USA
Dominican Republic Falls to China, Jeopardizing Final Round Hopes
Brayelin Martínez’s 33 points weren’t enough to stop China in Arlington.
In a direct clash for one of the remaining four VNL 2025 Finals spots, China edged out the Dominican Republic 3-2 (25-22, 17-25, 22-25, 25-22, 15-13) at the College Park Center, bringing the Asian team closer to securing their ticket to the Finals in Łódź, Poland, taking place July 23–27.
With this victory, China remained in sixth place with six wins and 17 points, strengthening their hold on a qualification spot. The Dominican Republic, on the other hand, sits in tenth place with four wins and 10 points, unable to gain ground at the start of the final week of preliminary action.
China’s blocking made the difference, with 15 points at the net compared to 10 from the Caribbean team. This helped offset the Dominican edge in kills (74-65) and aces (8-6). It was a tight match with few errors, Dominican Republic gave up 18 points, while China conceded 15.
Named team captain this week, outside hitter Brayelin Martínez kept her team in contention with a massive 33-point performance, including 28 kills and 5 blocks. Opposite Gaila González also stood out with 22 points (17 kills, 5 aces).
“I think we were pretty aggressive, and our serving was really good,” said setter Ariana Rodríguez. “China had their moments, of course, because they’re a great team, but we never gave up. We went to five sets, it was back and forth, but someone had to lose.”
Dominican Republic
Germany Tops Canada in Five-Set Battle
The third competition week began with a five-set thriller, where Germany edged Canada 3-2 (24-26, 25-20, 23-25, 25-23, 15-13), bringing them a step closer to the VNL Finals while leaving Canada in a tough spot.
Germany currently holds sixth place with five wins (16 points) and controls its own destiny for qualifying to Łódź later this month. Canada, with just two wins and seven points, faces an uphill battle not only for qualification but also to avoid relegation, sitting in 15th place out of 18 teams in the 2025 VNL.
For Canada, 21-year-old opposite Anna Smrek led the scoring with 20 points (17 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace). Middle blocker Nyadholi Thokbuom added 16 points, while outside hitter Abagayle Guezen contributed 15.
Kacey Jost CAN
Match Schedule for July 10
Canada will have a rest day. The Dominican Republic faces the United States in Arlington at 7:30 p.m. (local time).
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 9, 2025.- Chile earned its second consecutive victory at the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, defeating Panama 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-17) on the second day of the tournament, at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
Chile remains undefeated with a 2-0 record in Pool B, while Panama is still seeking for its first win (0-2).
The Chilean team dominated the match with a powerful offense, outscoring Panama in attacks 48-24. They also led in blocks (7-5) and service points (3-0), although they committed 21 unforced errors compared to Panama’s 17.
Chile celebrated
Chilean opposite Joaquín Valjalo was the top scorer of the match with 19 points (18 attacks and one ace), followed by outside hitter Mateo Sanza, who contributed 12 points. For Panama, Wen Downer led with 11 points.
Chile will close the pool-play on Thursday against Mexico, while Panama will face Suriname.
Álvaro Del Campo, head coach of Chile: “We’re happy. The team is focused and enjoying the moment. It’s very important to be able to apply on the court what we’ve been training for so long, and we’re taking it step by step. Tomorrow we’re going all in against Mexico; we’re exactly where we set out to be”.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 9, 2025. – The United States earned its second consecutive win at the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, sweeping Canada 3-0 (25-20, 27-25, 25-17) on day 2 of the tournament at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
The U.S. leads Pool A with a 2-0 record, while Canada drops to 1-1.
The Americans found their rhythm early, especially in the second set where they surged ahead with an eight-point lead at the technical timeout (16-8). Canada, however, mounted an impressive comeback to tie the score at 24, pushing the set into extra points before the U.S. closed it out.
USA
Opposite hitter Corbin Batista led the U.S. offense with 12 points, while middle blocker Isiah Powell contributed 9 points, including three aces.
The United States showed dominance from the service line, outscoring Canada 9-2 in aces, 6-2 in blocks and committing fewer errors (25 to 33). Canada held a narrow 30 to 29 lead in attack points.
Canada’s top scorer was outside hitter Mason Lange with 11 points, followed by opposite Jarom Rowin with 9.
The United States (2-0) will conclude pool play on Thursday against Puerto Rico (0-1), while Canada (1-1) will face Venezuela (1-1) in a decisive match for the next round.
Head Coach of the United States, Jonah Carson: “Canada is a quality team that plays the game really well and puts some nice pressure on us. Our team showed that they know how to solve problems and work the process. I am really proud of the way the guys are playing and the way the responded together as a team”.
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 9, 2025. – Venezuela celebrated its first victory at the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup by defeating Puerto Rico in straight sets 3-0 (25-23, 25-19, 25-22) at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium in Cuernavaca.
With this result, Venezuela evens its record to 1-1 in Pool A, while Puerto Rico remains winless at 0-2.
The match was tightly contested point by point. Puerto Rico showed composure in the first two sets by coming back from behind but failed to hold on to an early 4-0 lead in the third.
Jean Gonzalez PUR
Blocking was the key to Venezuela’s success, with a clear advantage of 14-7. They also led in service points 4-2. Puerto Rico had a slight edge in attacks 36-35. Venezuela committed 19 unforced errors, compared to 22 by Puerto Rico.
Top scorers of the match were Venezuela’s Jean Sanabria with 14 points and Gandy Lugo with 12. Middle blocker Harold Larez also stood out with a match-high of six effective blocks.
On Puerto Rico’s side, outside hitter Gustavo Pérez was the only player to reach double digits, finishing with 10 points.
Venezuela will close pool-play on Thursday against Canada, while Puerto Rico will face the United States. The team that finishes first in the pool will advance directly to the semifinals.
Venezuela’s Head Coach, Ivan Nieto, stated: “It wasn’t an easy win, the score doesn’t reflect what truly happened. The Puerto Rican team is very similar to ours; they have the same skill set and playing style. But today, the balance slightly tipped in Venezuela’s favor in terms of tactics. We were able to finish on defense, counterattacks, or transitions that were crucial, and that they (Puerto Rico) couldn’t close, especially after the 20-point mark. It was tight.”
MALONEY, Trinidad and Tobago, July 9, 2025.- The T&T Volleyball Federation (T&TVF) will play host to the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-23 Championship at the Maloney Indoor Sporting Facility from Thursday, July 10 until Sunday, July 13.
In the men’s four-team tournament, host Trinidad and Tobago will face off with Martinique, Guadeloupe and Suriname and the women’s competition will also feature four teams inclusive of host Trinidad and Tobago, Martinique, defending champion Suriname and Curacao.
At the end of both men and women Under-23 round-robin series, the top two teams will square off for the gold medals on Sunday, July 13 final, while the third and fourth placed teams will contest the bronze medal.
Mushtaque Mohammed, President of the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association, in looking ahead to the tournament, said as an association, CAZOVA, was really happy to finally see the tournament come to fruition.
The CAZOVA boss added, ‘The tournament for the men was originally scheduled for the Cayman Islands, but because of some challenges they had, the T&T Volleyball Federation has taken up the challenge to stage the event along with hosting the women’s competition.
“Now we are going to get both men and women under-23 events off the ground, and we are really happy to see that the challenges we have been faced with are being overcome.
Commenting on the small number of participating teams, with the likes of the Bahamas, Barbados, Haiti, Jamaica and the US Virgin Islands all absent from this year’s tournament, Mohammed said, “Although it’s only four teams, we are really looking forward to an exciting and eventful tournament.
Mohammed noted that the tournament is being used as a qualification tournament for the Under-23 NORCECA Continental Pan American Cup Championship and will also pave the way for the teams that participate in the Pan American Junior Championship, which is held every quadrennial, and this year it will be held in Asunción, Paraguay.
However, this year’s qualification tournament is not for that specific competition and will serve as planning in preparation for the next quadrennial Pan American Junior Championship.
Following the completion of the CAZOVA Under-23 Championships, the T&T national teams are expected to compete in the NORCECA Senior Women’s Final Four in Puerto Rico from July 16-21, followed by the CAZOVA Under-17 Championships in Jamaica from July 28 to August 4, the Pan American Cup Senior Women’s Championship from August 1-11, and the CAZOVA Senior Championships from August 14-24.
July 8, 2025.– The United States advanced to the quarterfinals of the U19 Girls’ World Championship taking place in Croatia and Serbia. The defending champions edged out Germany 3-2 (25-18, 26-28, 17-25, 25-15, 15-13), while Mexico was unable to overcome the strength of Bulgaria and fell 0-3 (22-25, 16-25, 16-25).
The quarterfinal matchups on Friday, July 11, will be: Italy vs United States, Bulgaria vs Brazil, Türkiye vs China, and Poland vs Japan, to determine the semifinalists of the tournament.
Team USA will continue its title defense on Friday when they face Italy in the quarterfinals. The defending champions battled through a tough five-setter against Germany in their Round of 16 match in Osijek, taking the win 3-2 (25-18, 26-28, 17-25, 25-15, 15-13) to secure a spot among the top eight.
The Americans played a focused, point-by-point match, dominating in both blocking (19 to 11 effective blocks) and serving (8 to 4 aces).
Middle blockers Jordan Taylor and Gabrielle Nichols added 7 and 6 points respectively to the team’s blocking performance. Taylor also tallied 6 points (5 kills, 1 ace), while Nichols scored another 7 points, all from attacks. Both ended the match with 13 points each, matched by outside hitter Suliane Davis (8 kills, 2 blocks, 3 aces).
Germany’s Maria Tabacuks led all scorers with 21 points (19 kills, 1 block, 1 ace) in a respectful farewell for the European team.
U.S. Head Coach Robert Keegan Cook said, “We talked about our defense being an issue during the group stage, and it was great to see our middles step up and organize the block against some very talented outside hitters. Germany played outstanding volleyball… I was very impressed with them. It was a tough match, and it’s good to see your team face that and see how they respond. We had to make a lot of changes in our lineup and systems. Having many players who can perform in different positions is one of our strengths, and thanks to our persistent team effort, we were able to win today.”
Mexico Falls to Bulgaria
Bulgaria became the first team to advance to the quarterfinals, confidently defeating Mexico 3-0 (25-22, 25-16, 25-16). Kalina Veneva and Viara Parapunova both scored 12 points. For Mexico, Naomi Cruz Toledo led with 11 points.
In the matches for 17th to 24th place, Canada came from behind to beat Peru 3-2, after losing the first two sets. The set scores were 21-25, 20-25, 25-17, 25-21, 15-12. Canada outperformed Peru across the board: 63-43 in attacks, 12-6 in blocks, and 9-7 in aces. Maya Bukovcan led the scoring for Canada with 20 points, followed by Brooke Fermaniuk with 16 and Sydney Bell with 14.
Puerto Rico also secured a 3-1 (25-18, 22-25, 25-17, 25-21) victory over Tunisia. They led in attacks (39-38), blocks (13-12), and service aces (10-6). Pamela Zoe Agosto led Puerto Rico with 15 points, while Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo contributed 13.
Canada and Puerto Rico will now play for positions 17 to 20.
In a thrilling five-setter, the Dominican Republic was edged out by Chile 2-3 (17-25, 24-26, 25-17, 25-13, 10-15). Despite leading in attacks (60-49) and service aces (11-8), the 40 unforced errors from the Dominicans contributed to Chile’s victory.
Matches on July 11 (Local Time – Croatia and Serbia)
Quarterfinals:
China vs Türkiye – 15:15; Japan vs Poland – 18:15; Bulgaria vs Brazil – 21:15; United States vs Italy – 21:15
9th–16th Places:
Serbia vs Croatia; Chinese Taipei vs Thailand; Mexico vs Belgium – 18:15; Germany vs Argentina
17th–20th Places:
Canada vs Puerto Rico – 15:15; Spain vs Chile
21st–24th Places:
Peru vs Tunisia; Egypt vs Dominican Republic – 18:15
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 8, 2025. – Mexico got off to a strong start at the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, defeating Panama in straight sets 3-0 (25-14, 25-22, 25-14) at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
The Mexican team opened the match with a commanding 5-0 lead, setting the tone for their first victory in Pool B of the tournament taking place from July 8 to 13 in Cuernavaca.
Mexico led in every skill of the game: kills (40-31), blocks (7-2), and aces (8-3). They also capitalized on 20 points from Panamanian errors, while conceding 14.
MONSTER BLOCK FROM MEXICO
Team captain Carlos Grajeda led Mexico’s offense with 16 points, followed by opposite hitter Arnoldo Hurtado, who contributed 11 points.
For Panama, the top scorers were opposite Kendrieck Newby with 14 points and outside hitter Wen Downer with 12.
On the second day of competition, Mexico (1-0) will face Suriname (0-1), while Panama (0-1) takes on Chile (1-0).
Mexico’s Captain, Carlos Grajeda: “I’m very proud of the chemistry we showed, considering we’re all from different parts of Mexico and usually play against each other. The bond I felt with the team is very special. Our attitude really worked in our favor.”
Panama’s Captain, Kendrieck Newby: “The start of the tournament was very tough since we had to face the host team. Mexico has a strong squad that has been preparing for a long time. We are a young group that is building up little by little, and we’re improving. Panama won’t stay still, we’re going to move forward. Mexico defended much more than we did; they were more consistent in their defense.”
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 8, 2025.– Chile swept Suriname 3-0 (25-14, 25-17, 25-14) in their opening match of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium in Cuernavaca, Morelos.
In the first Pool B clash of the tournament, Chile controlled the rhythm from the start, outmatching Suriname with a significant 42-19 lead in attacks and an 8-3 advantage in blocks. Both teams scored two aces, while Chile committed 21 errors and Suriname 23.
Chile
Four Chilean players reached double figures in scoring: Mateo Sanz led with 14 points, followed by Joaquin Valjalo with 12, Gabriel Contreras and Francisco Briones with 10 points each.
For Suriname, Javier Nasibdar was the top scorer with eight points.
Chile will face Panama in their next match, while Suriname will meet host Mexico.
Chile Captain, Carlos Grajeda: “It was a good start. We have high expectations for this tournament; we want to reach the podium. This match allowed us to play our game and show our volleyball, which gives us more confidence for the upcoming matches”.
Suriname Captain, Kendreieck Newby: “We had a rough start. I think the city’s altitude affected us, since we live at 3 meters above sea level. We need to adjust and play better.”
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 8, 2025.– Canada kicked off their U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over Puerto Rico in a tightly contested Pool A match 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-20) at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
The match was a rollercoaster of momentum swings, with Canada ultimately sealing the win despite a strong comeback attempt from Puerto Rico, who erased a 19-24 deficit, looking for a fourth set. Canada ultimately ended the game with a stuff block from middle blocker Simon Oberbuchner.
Canada’s powerful offense was key, outscoring Puerto Rico 41-22 in attacks. They also held a slight advantage in service points (5-2). Puerto Rico was more effective in blocks with seven against five and committed fewer errors (24-35).
Barret CAN Attacks
Outside hitter Marcus Barrett and opposite Jarom Rowin led Canada’s scoring efforts with 11 points apiece. For Puerto Rico, Gustavo Alvarez scored seven points.
In their next matches, Canada (1-0) will face the United States (1-0), while Puerto Rico (0-1) looks to bounce back against Venezuela (0-1) as group play continues in Cuernavaca.
Team Canada captain, Marcus Barrett: “It was a great last set for the guys, and we came out super strong. I’m really happy how we played and starting with a win because it brings great energy to the team. I believe we have a shot of winning the tournament, we’ll go even stronger for our next matches.
Team Puerto Rico captain, Jean Paul Gonzalez: “It was a tough start. We had ups and downs, but with each game, we’ll gradually adjust to the new players on the team. In the end, we were more confident, and we need to believe more that we can do it.”
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 8, 2025. – The United States recovered from a slow start to defeat Venezuela 3-1 (20-25, 25-18, 25-16, 32-30) in the opening match of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, taking place from July 8 to 13 at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
Competing in Pool A, both teams engaged in a thrilling contest where the U.S. bounced back after dropping the first set. Despite constant pressure from the Venezuelan side, the Americans sealed the win with a dramatic extended fourth set.
United States held a slight advantage in attack points, 52-48, and dominated with a huge 15-3 advantage in blocks. USA led in aces 5-4, but committed more unforced errors, 34 to Venezuela’s 30.
USA
Middle blocker Isiah Powell of USA scored a match-high of16 points, including 8 kills and 8 stuff blocks. Opposite hitter Corbin Batista added 15 points.
For Venezuela, outside hitter Gandy Lugo led with 14 points, all from kills.
In their next matches in Pool A, the United States will face Canada, while Venezuela goes up against Puerto Rico.
Team captain USA Brett Novak: “There are a lot of new guys in the team, so they were nervous in the first set and missed a lot of serves, we gave Venezuela a lot of points in that set. In the next two sets we were able to go on some pretty good runs. We love playing tight games, that last set is what we live for and coming out with the win is the greatest part”.
Team captain Venezuela José Bello: “For eight of our players this is their first international experience. It was a great game for us; I am confident tomorrow we’ll come with more. The match was as expected facing the United States”.
July 8, 2025. – The United States, Dominican Republic, and Canada head into a decisive week in their quest to finish among the top eight teams in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) and qualify for the Finals, scheduled for July 23-27 in Łódź, Poland.
The United States currently sits in 8th place with 11 points, holding a 4-4 win-loss record. The Dominican Republic is in 10th place with the same 4-4 record but has earned only 9 points. Canada is in 15th place with 2 wins and 6 losses, collecting 6 points.
Dominican Republic
The teams competing this week in Arlington, Texas, USA, include the host nation United States, Dominican Republic, Canada, Germany, Thailand, and China.
Every match is crucial, but the most important ones for the NORCECA teams will be against China, currently in 6th place with 5 wins, 3 losses, and 15 points, and Germany, in 7th place with 4 wins, 4 losses, and 14 points.
Thailand is currently ranked 16th in the overall standings with 1 win, 7 losses, and 6 points, just below Canada.
Canada
Match Schedule for NORCECA Teams (All times are local Arlington, USA time)
July 9: Canada vs Germany – 12:30 PM; Dominican Republic vs China – 4:00 PM; United States vs Thailand – 7:30 PM
July 10: Canada rests; United States vs Dominican Republic – 7:30 PM
July 11: United States rests; Dominican Republic vs Thailand – 4:00 PM; Canada vs China – 7:30 PM
July 12: Dominican Republic rests; United States vs Canada – 7:30 PM
July 13: Dominican Republic vs Germany – 11:30 AM; Canada vs Thailand – 3:00 PM; United States vs China – 7:00 PM
July 7, 2025. – The United States and Mexico are the only NORCECA teams that have advanced to the Round of 16 at the U19 FIVB Girls’ World Championship, currently taking place in Croatia and Serbia. Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic will compete in the classification matches for 17th to 24th place.
Pool A
With two sets won against group leaders Croatia, Thailand edged out Canada and Egypt in a tiebreaker to secure the last spot in the Round of 16.
Mexico closed pool play with a strong 3-0 (25-12, 25-23, 26-24) win over Egypt, finishing third with a 3-2 record and 9 points. Naomi Alejandra Cruz Toledo led all scorers with 17 points, while Salma Elbehiry was Egypt’s top performer with 11.
Germany dashed Canada’s hopes with a 3-1 (18-25, 25-16, 25-15, 25-23) comeback win. Canada needed a victory to qualify but couldn’t hold onto their first-set momentum. Marika Loker stood out for Germany with 21 points. Sol Henson and Sofia Zabjek led Canada with 11 points each. Germany finished second in the group with a 4-1 record and 13 points; Canada ended in fifth place with a 1-4 record and 3 points.
Alejandra Cruz MEX
Pool B
In a dramatic finish, Argentina narrowly overtook Puerto Rico to clinch fourth place in the pool.
Argentina kept their hopes alive with a hard-fought 3-2 (25-21, 21-25, 22-25, 25-23, 15-12) win over the Dominican Republic. Just 14 years old, Sofía Emilia Baldo was the top scorer with 24 points. For the Dominican Republic, Rayni Merab Mondesí Arias scored 20. Argentina ended pool play with a 2-3 record and 4 points and depended on Puerto Rico’s result.
Puerto Rico needed a win over Chinese Taipei but fell in a five-set battle, 3-2 (25-22, 25-19, 22-25, 20-25, 15-12), and was eliminated. Wu Tzu-Hua, 15, led with 21 points. For Puerto Rico, Pamela Zoe Agosto and Kalia Isabel Alvarado contributed 13 points each.
Pool C
United States defeated Türkiye 3-1 (25-19, 20-25, 25-22, 25-23), finishing third in the group with a 3-2 record and 11 points. Suliane Davis led the U.S. with 21 points, while Aylin Uysalcan scored 17 for Türkiye, who advanced in fourth place with a 2-3 record and 7 points.
Suliane Davis USA
Round of 16 Matchups:
Croatia vs Türkiye; Germany vs United States; Bulgaria vs Mexico; Poland vs Thailand; Brazil vs Belgium; Chinese Taipei vs Japan; China vs Serbia; Italy vs Argentina
17th–24th Place Playoffs:
Canada vs Peru; Spain vs Egypt; Puerto Rico vs Tunisia; Chile vs Dominican Republic
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, July 7, 2025. – One day before the start of the U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup, the coaches of the eight participating teams shared their thoughts and expectations for the tournament, which will take place from July 8 to 13 at the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM) Gymnasium.
The event brings together promising youth talents from across the continent, offering them valuable international experience and the opportunity to continue developing within high-performance programs.
Jordan Taylor, Head Coach of Canada: “We had a training camp in Halifax; we trained a couple of times a day which is a big step for us versus last year’s competition. This year we have more continuity, so we feel a little bit more organized and prepared for competition. We’re bringing a younger squad, five returning players with NORCECA experience, for the majority, it’s going to be their first international competition, so it’s going to be a growth and learning event for these twelve athletes.”
Canada
Alvaro Del Campo, Head Coach of Chile: “The team is happy to be part of such an important international competition. We’ve been preparing with great dedication for several months. This is a group that’s been working together since last year’s South American tournaments. Our preparation included a tour to Uberlandia before coming to Mexico. We come with high expectations and the desire to compete against other countries.”
Chile
Oscar Viña, Head Coach of Mexico: “The team was built from the national championship. I selected players from the top four teams of that tournament, along with others with strong potential. We’ve been training here in Morelia for two weeks. The work has been solid; we may lack height compared to other teams, but I trust this group.”
Mexico
Horacio Angulo, Head Coach of Panama first highlighted that Panama is making its return to this level of competition after more than a decade of absence: “Panama hadn’t competed in an event like this for over ten years, it’s very gratifying. We’re here to show that high-level volleyball is played in Central America. We’ll take it one match at a time and focus on our own game.”
Panama
Juan Albarrán, Head Coach of Puerto Rico: “The Pan American Cup is a great preparation tournament for the U19 World Championship in Uzbekistan. We’re taking this competition very seriously. The pool we’re in offers strong preparation, and we’re confident we can do a good job.”
Puerto Rico
Furgil Ong-A-Fat, Head Coach of Suriname: “Our preparation went well. We started at the end of January with 60 players. We played friendly matches against French Guiana, so we’re motivated. The team has experience from the NORCECA U19 in Puerto Rico, and we hope to improve our position.”
Suriname
Jonah Carson, Head Coach of the United States: “This is a great opportunity for the development of our programs. We’ve got four players with previous international experience representing USA Volleyball. This is the first time USA Volleyball has been able to send a U19 team to both a Pan American Cup and a World Championship, so we have two distinct rosters. We’re looking to help accelerate the growth of our under-19 and coaching programs, and this is a nice first step in that. With the addition of the U17 category, we’re seeing something incredible develop here in NORCECA and globally.”
USA
Iván Nieto, Head Coach of Venezuela, emphasized that this event is part of the country’s federation restructuring and youth development process: “This competition is part of the development cycle for these young athletes. Most of the group is inexperienced, and we hope to showcase the progress they’ve made during this recent phase of training. We’ve gone through changes in our national federation and are forming new work teams. This is an opportunity for the newly identified talents to demonstrate the rise of Venezuelan volleyball.”
ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay, July 6, 2025 – In the presence of the President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, Panam Sports President Neven Ilic, Paraguayan Olympic Committee President Camilo Pérez, and other distinguished officials, the traditional lighting ceremony of the Pan American Flame and the start of the Torch Relay for the ASU 2025 Junior Pan American Games took place.
Starting today, the Pan American Flame will travel through Paraguay’s main cities, culminating its journey on August 9 at the ASU 2025 Opening Ceremony.
The beautiful, historic, and touristic Jesuit Mission of Jesús de Tavarangue in Paraguay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provided the perfect setting for the significant and traditional ceremony that marks the beginning of the II ASU 2025 Junior Pan American Games.
Set against the natural backdrop of the Jesuit Ruins, the event brought together the highest-ranking government and sports authorities from Paraguay and Panam Sports. After the flag procession and national anthems, the attending officials delivered speeches emphasizing the importance of the ceremony and the significance of hosting the most impactful sporting event in Paraguay’s 214-year history.
“This is a very traditional ceremony in our organization. For the senior Pan American Games, the flame is always lit in Teotihuacan, Mexico. For the first Junior Pan American Games, the lighting took place at Cerro Cristo Rey in Cali. Today, we are in a magical place, full of history and of great importance to Paraguay. Here, the new flame is born and will travel to various corners of this beautiful country until it reaches the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony. We are happy and excited, the most important youth sporting celebration in the continent is almost here,” said Panam Sports President Neven Ilic.
“From here, a journey begins, not just a ceremonial journey, but a true, tangible process of national transformation. ASU 2025 is not an isolated project; it’s part of a broader effort involving infrastructure investment, tourism promotion, job creation, talent development, and, of course, Paraguay’s international projection,” said Paraguayan President Santiago Peña.
After the speeches, Guaraní indigenous representatives entered the scene. To the rhythm of music and ancestral dances, they lit the new flame and the Pan American torch, officially starting the traditional relay.
The first to carry the Pan American Flame was Panam Sports President Neven Ilic, followed by Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, Minister of Sports César Ramírez, Paraguayan Olympic Committee President Camilo Pérez, a Guaraní representative, and six athletes, officially launching the ASU 2025 Torch Relay.
For 33 days, the ASU 2025 torch will travel through Paraguay’s main cities until it reaches the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción on August 9 for the Opening Ceremony.
The ASU 2025 Junior Pan American Games will be held from August 9 to 23 and will feature over 4,000 athletes from 41 countries across the continent.
July 6, 2025. – Mexico and the United States secured their spots in the Eightfinals at the FIVB U19 Women’s Volleyball World Championship this Sunday in Croatia and Serbia.
The following teams clinched their place in the next round: Germany and Mexico (Pool A), Serbia (Pool B), Bulgaria, the United States, and Türkiye (Pool C), and Belgium (Pool D). They join the seven teams that had already qualified on Friday: Croatia, Brazil, Chinese Taipei, Poland, Italy, China, and Japan. Only two remaining spots are up for grabs on Monday.
Pool A
Germany and Mexico joined host Croatia as the three teams advancing to the Eightfinals, while Thailand, Egypt, and Canada are still fighting for the last remaining ticket.
Mexico made a major move with a 3-0 win (25-19, 25-22, 25-18) over Canada. Three players reached double digits for Mexico: Isabella Annie Ocampo, Angelica Jazmín Torres Galván, and middle blocker Aitana Rettke Tanguma, each scoring 10 points. Canada’s Sofia Zabjek led all scorers with 13 points. Mexico now holds a 2-2 record with 6 points, while Canada sits at 1-3 with 3 points.
Croatia kept its unbeaten record intact by defeating Egypt 3-0 (25-16, 25-21, 25-15). Opposite hitter Asja Zolota led the way with 16 points, while Gena Mohamed was Egypt’s top scorer with 9. With this result, Mexico secured its eightfinals spot. Egypt, now 1-3, will face Mexico on Monday in a decisive match.
Isabella Annie Ocampo MEX
Pool B
Puerto Rico earned its first win of the tournament with a 3-0 victory (25-22, 25-12, 25-19) over the Dominican Republic. Diangelie González and Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo both scored 12 points. Ambar Avril Hernández led the Dominicans with 11 points.
Serbia secured qualification with a win over Argentina, while Puerto Rico and Argentina will battle on Monday for the last spot. Brazil and Chinese Taipei had already qualified.
Puerto Rico will need a strong performance against China and must hope that Argentina does not defeat the Dominican Republic. The Dominican team is mathematically eliminated from contention.
Puerto Rico celebrated
Pool C
Bulgaria, the United States, and Türkiye advanced to the Eighfinals, joining previously qualified Poland. Spain and Peru will move on to the 17th–24th place playoffs.
Bulgaria outlasted the United States in a thrilling five-set match (25-15, 16-25, 27-25, 13-25, 15-5). Kalina Veneva led Bulgaria with 18 points, while Suliane Davis posted 17 for the U.S. The Americans dominated in blocks (16-4), but Bulgaria held the edge in attacks (60-51) and aces (9-7).
Suliane Davis USA
Pool D
Belgium joined Italy, China, and Japan as the teams advancing to the next round. Tunisia and Chile will play in the 17th–24th place bracket.
Match Schedule – Monday, July 7
The final day of pool play features key matchups for NORCECA teams:
Pool A: Mexico vs Egypt at 15:15 (local time); Canada vs Germany at 21:15
Pool B: Dominican Republic vs Argentina at 15:15; Puerto Rico vs China at 21:15
July 4, 2025.- All five teams representing NORCECA at the U19 Girls’ World Championship, currently taking place in Serbia and Croatia, ended day three of competition with losses.
At the conclusion of day three of competition, several teams secured their spots in the eightfinals, Croatia (Pool A), Brazil and Chinese Taipei (Pool B), Poland (Pool C), as well as Italy, China, and Japan (Pool D).
Pool A
Mexico could not hold on to its early lead after winning the first set and ended up falling to Germany 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-16, 25-12), recording their second consecutive loss. Mexico now holds a 1-2 record. German outside hitter Maria Tabacuks led her team with 19 points, while middle blocker Franziska Heil stood out with 7 of her team’s 16 blocks. For Mexico, Angelica Jazmin Torres Galván was the top scorer with 9 points.
Croatia remained undefeated after a hard-fought 3-1 win (25-19, 30-28, 25-27, 35-33) over Canada. Sixteen-year-old Opposite Asja Zolota, was the leading performer with 23 points, bringing her tournament total to 69 points in three matches. For Canada, middle blocker Maya Bukovcan contributed 16 points. Canada’s record is now 1-2.
Sol Henson CAN
Pool B
Chinese Taipei earned its third consecutive victory, defeating the Dominican Republic 3-1 (25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 25-17). Top scorers were Wu Tzu-Hua and Chen Yi, each with 17 points. For the Dominican Republic, Estel Santos and Virelys Shantal Rivera both scored 11 points.
Co-host Serbia won a thrilling five-set match over Puerto Rico, 3-2 (19-25, 26-24, 19-25, 25-10, 18-16). Sixteen-year-old Mia Ciric led Serbia with 17 points. Cherisse Binex Atilano was Puerto Rico’s top scorer with 15 points. The Caribbean side now has two points in the standings.
Both Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are still searching for their first win in the tournament and must win their upcoming matches to have a chance of qualifying for the eightfinals. Unfortunately, they will face each other on Sunday, July 6.
Estel Santos DOM
Pool C
Poland and the United States clashed in a high-level match on Friday, with the Polish side eventually edging out the defending champions, the U.S., 3-2 (25-23, 23-25, 25-17, 25-27, 16-14). Poland’s Natasza Ornoch led all scorers with 27 points, while Macaria Spears led the U.S. with 21 points. Poland leads the group with 8 points; the U.S. sits in second place with 7 points and is close to securing a spot in the eightfinals.
Gabrielle Nichols – Macaria Spears USA
Match Schedule for Sunday, July 6
Saturday, July 5, is a rest day for all teams. Competition resumes Sunday, July 6, with the following matches:
POOL A: Mexico vs. Canada at 15:15 (local time)
POOL B: Puerto Rico vs. Dominican Republic at 15:15 (local time)
POOL C: United States vs. Bulgaria at 21:15 (local time)
July 4, 2025.- FIVB President Fabio Azevedo today stopped in the Philippines on his way to Palau for the Mini Pacific Games for meetings with various local authorities and stakeholders in the lead-up to a historic moment for the country
The visit comes as the Philippines prepares to host the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship from 12 to 28 September, the first time the tournament will be held in the country and only the second time ever in Asia. With just 71 days to go, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark edition of volleyball’s premier global event.
This year’s Volleyball Men’s World Championship will debut an expanded format, increasing from 24 to 32 teams, and marks the first edition under a new biennial cycle. Matches will be held at two major venues in the heart of Manila: the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
While in the region, President Azevedo, joined by Volleyball World Chief Business Officer Guido Betti, took the opportunity to connect with local stakeholders and check on preparations for the milestone event. AVC President Ramon Suzara also joined President Azevedo during the visit.
President Fabio Azevedo commented:
“It is a pleasure to be here in the beautiful city of Manila, where the passion for volleyball is truly inspiring. With preparations in full swing, it’s clear the Philippines is ready to make history as it hosts the Volleyball World Championship for the very first time.
“This edition will officially be the largest and most globally inclusive edition in the tournament’s history. Better yet, we will be making history in a country that lives and breathes our sport. I am delighted to meet with local authorities and see firsthand the energy going into delivering an exceptional event at two world-class venues.”
Awarded the hosting rights in 2024, the Philippines has shown strong commitment and enthusiasm at all levels, including strong government support, to delivering an unforgettable tournament.
July 3, 2025. – United States was the only NORCECA team to win on Day 2 of the Girls’ U19 World Championship, remaining undefeated with 2 wins in as many matches. The event is taking place in Croatia and Serbia.
Pool C
Defending champions USA continued their strong performance with a 3-0 (25-19, 25-18, 25-18) win over Peru. Henley Anderson led the team with 14 points (10 kills, 4 blocks), while Waleska Toro Zoltanski was Peru’s top scorer with 12 points (8 kills, 2 blocks, 2 aces).
With this win, the U.S. now shares the top spot in Pool C with Poland, both at 2-0 and 6 points. Bulgaria and Türkiye follow with 1 win and 1 loss (3 points), while Spain and Peru remain winless with no points.
USA will face Poland this Friday in a key match to determine the group leader.
Henley Anderson – Gabrielle Nichols USA
Pool A
Host nation Croatia claimed a second straight victory, defeating Mexico 3-1 (25-17, 23-25, 25-22, 25-19). Opposite Asja Zolota starred once again with 23 points (19 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace), while Naomi Alejandra Cruz Toledo led Mexico with 15 points (13 kills, 2 blocks). Mexico now holds a 1-1 record.
Thailand earned its first win by beating Canada 3-1 (22-25, 25-12, 25-17, 25-22). Captain Supawadee Panwilai led the charge with 23 points (18 kills, 1 block, 4 aces), while Sofia Zabjek was Canada’s top scorer with 14 points (11 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace).
Croatia tops the group with 6 points from 2 wins. Following behind with 1 win and 1 loss are Germany, Mexico, Canada, and Thailand. Egypt remains at the bottom of the group, winless.
Brenda Sofia Esquivel MEX
Pool B
Co-hosts Serbia bounced back with a 3-0 (25-13, 25-17, 25-20) victory over the Dominican Republic. Outside hitter Anja Miovcic led with 12 points (7 kills, 3 aces, 2 blocks). Estel Santos Mateo led the Dominican side with 8 points, including 3 aces.
Brazil stayed perfect with another 3-0 win, this time over Puerto Rico (25-16, 25-17, 25-20). Middle blocker Lara Gabriele Rodríguez Almeida led with 13 points (10 kills, 1 block, 2 aces), while Kalia Isabel Alvarado scored 11 points for Puerto Rico.
Brazil leads the pool with 2 wins (6 points), followed by China, also 2-0 but with 5 points due to a five-set match. Serbia and Argentina sit at 1-1, while Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic remain winless; Puerto Rico has one point from their first-day performance, while the DR has yet to earn a point.
Matches for July 4
POOL A: Mexico vs Germany – 15:15 (Local Time) and Canada vs Croatia – 18:15 (Local Time)
POOL B: Dominican Republic vs China – 15:15 (Local Time) and Puerto Rico vs Serbia – 18:15 (Local Time)
POOL C: United States vs Poland – 21:15 (Local Time)
CUERNAVACA, Morelos, Mexico, July 3, 2025. – A showcase of the next generation of volleyball talent is coming to Cuernavaca, as the NORCECA U19 Boys’ Pan American Cup takes center stage from July 8 to 13 at the Gimnasio de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM).
The event will feature eight national teams from North, Central America and Caribbean NORCECA Volleyball Confederation and the South America Volleyball Confederation CSV battling for the Pan American title and a place among the region’s best. The tournament also plays a key role in shaping the competitive landscape ahead of future international championships.
NORCECA teams qualify for the 2026 NORCECA U19 Boys Continental Championship, which is part of the qualification process to the 2027 U19 FIVB Boys World Championship.
USA arrives as the team to beat, having captured back-to-back gold medals in 2022 and 2023 undefeated. In both finals, they topped Mexico, who now seeks redemption and a chance to end their streak of three consecutive silver medals. Puerto Rico, bronze medalists last year, will also be aiming for a spot on the podium.
Teams are divided into two pools for the preliminary round: Pool A features Canada, Puerto Rico, United States and Venezuela, while Pool B consists of Chile, Panama, Suriname, and host Mexico.
Pool-play begins on July 8 with four daily matches, followed by quarterfinals on July 11, semifinals on July 12, and the final medal matches on Sunday, July 13.
Preliminary Round Schedule
July 8 14:00 USA vs Venezuela 16:00 Puerto Rico vs Canada 18:00 Chile vs Suriname
20:00 Mexico vs Panama
July 9 14:00 Puerto Rico vs Venezuela 16:00 USA vs Canada 18:00 Chile vs Panama
20:00 Mexico vs Suriname
July 10 14:00 Canada vs Venezuela 16:00 USA vs Puerto Rico 18:00 Suriname vs Panama
July 3, 2025.- The FIVB recently welcomed a high-level delegation from the Government of India and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to the Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland, for productive discussions on the exciting future of volleyball in India.
The delegation was led by Mr. Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary Sports, Government of India, and legendary Olympian and IOA President, Ms. PT Usha. The group also included IOA CEO Mr. Raghuram Iyer; Hon. Minister of Sports, Government of Gujarat, Mr. Harsh Rameshbhai Sanghavi; Principal Secretary, Sports, Youth & Cultural Activities, Government of Gujarat, Shri Ashwani Kumar; Principal Secretary, Urban Development & Urban Housing, Shri M. Thennarasan; Municipal Commissioner of Ahmedabad, Mr. Banchhanidhi Pani, and Reliance Industries Limited President and Chief of Staff, Srinivasan B.
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo took the opportunity to share his vision for the global development of volleyball, as outlined in the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032. This vision is focused around four key pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation.
The delegation was also updated on the FIVB’s Volleyball Empowerment programme, which supports National Federations to reach their full potential. Since 2017, India has received a total investment of USD 420,000 through four coach support projects for its men’s national volleyball team. A new 12-month coaching project is currently underway. The impact of Volleyball Empowerment support has been positive, with India’s national team claiming silver last month at the CAVA Nations Volleyball League.
The visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of both parties to harness India’s enormous volleyball potential and continue fostering stronger ties in the years ahead.
BELIZE CITY, Belize, July 3, 2025.-Belize Volleyball Association President Allan Sharp has been elected President of the Belize Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (BOCGA), following elections held during the National Olympic Committee’s Annual General Meeting on June 28, succeeding Hilberto Martinez, who had served in the role since 2013.
Sharp has served as BOCGA’s Secretary General since 2017 and has led the Belize Volleyball Association since 2008.
The new Executive Board will serve a four-year term through 2029. Elected alongside Sharp were Herman Pastor as Vice President, Giovanni Alamilla as Secretary General, Sharon Hardwick as Assistant Secretary General, and Arturo Vasquez as Treasurer.
Three Executive Members were also elected, namely Kaya Cattouse, Raul Rosado and Leticia Westby.
The new Executive Board begins its term with a mandate to promote excellence, strengthen unity across the sporting community, and support the continued development of sport in Belize.
The leadership group is expected to build on recent progress made both nationally and through Belize’s participation in regional and international competitions.
June 2, 2025. – The 19th edition of the FIVB U19 Girl’s World Championship kicked off on Wednesday in Croatia and Serbia, with 24 national teams beginning their group stage campaigns. Canada, Mexico, and defending champions the United States all recorded opening-day victories.
Pool A
Canada started their campaign with a 3-1 (25-23, 14-25, 25-21, 25-18) win over Egypt at Gradski Vrt Hall in Osijek. Emerson Matthews led the Canadian scorers with 13 points (8 attacks, 3 blocks, 2 aces). Egypt’s middle blocker Retaj Kammer also tallied 13 points (9 attacks, 1 block, 3 aces), standing out as her team’s top performer.
Mexico had a flawless start, defeating Thailand 3-0 (25-20, 25-14, 25-20) to take the early lead in the group. Outside hitter Naomi Alejandra Cruz Toledo was the match’s top scorer with 14 points (11 attacks, 3 blocks). For Thailand, Supawadee Panwilai stood out with 9 points, all from attacks.
Canada celebrates
Pool B
Argentina and Puerto Rico played a tightly contested five-set battle, with the South Americans emerging victorious 3-2 (21-25, 25-11, 25-18, 17-25, 15-10) in Vrnjačka Banja. Opposite Paula Tomasa led Argentina with 19 points (16 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace), while outside hitter Cherisse Binex Atilano was Puerto Rico’s top scorer with 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace).
With 16 team blocks, Brazil left no room for the Dominican Republic, winning in straight sets 3-0 (25-14, 25-13, 25-20). Opposite Luize Da Silva Tavares contributed six of those blocks and added two aces for a match-high 19 points. Julie Millaray Arias Alejo led the Dominican side with 8 points (7 attacks, 1 block).
USA celebrated
Pool C
Defending champions the United States had a tough start but overcame a spirited Spanish team 3-1 (22-25, 25-16, 25-12, 25-23). Middle blocker Gabrielle Nichols and outside hitter Macaria Spears both scored 14 points, while Spanish captain Inés Losada Gordaliza was the match’s top scorer with 17 points (14 attacks, 3 blocks).
BELIZE CITY, Belize, July 2, 2025.- The International Level 1 Volleyball Coaching Course was officially inaugurated in Belize with the presence of Mr. Giovanni Alamilla, Secretary General of the Belize Olympic Committee; Mr. Marvin Ottley, Acting Director of the Department of Sports; and Mr. Allan Sharp, President of the Belize Volleyball Association and recently elected President of the Belize Olympic Committee. The course is organized by the NORCECA Confederation and the NORCECA/FIVB Regional Development Center.
This landmark course, the first of its kind held in Belize, brings together 23 coaches from different regions of the country and is led by renowned international instructor John Kessel from the United States.
During the opening ceremony, Mr. Allan Sharp, who heads both the Belize Olympic Committee and the Belize Volleyball Association, expressed his satisfaction and gratitude for the support received from NORCECA President Lic. Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz and the Regional Development Center. He emphasized that this course is part of an ambitious training program being implemented by the Belize Volleyball Association, with the aim of making volleyball the strongest sport in the country.
Sharp also extended special thanks to Prof. Nelson José Ramírez, Director of the NORCECA/FIVB Regional Development Center, for his swift commitment to making this initiative a reality. He announced that a second Level 1 course is scheduled for August, reinforcing the Federation’s commitment to advancing technical development in Belizean volleyball.
Representing the Belize Olympic Committee, Mr. Giovanni Alamilla expressed pride that the Committee’s headquarters is serving as the venue for these educational activities. He also recognized the Belize Volleyball Association as one of the most dynamic and active sports organizations in the country.
Mr. Marvin Ottley, Director of Sports, highlighted that training is key to national sports progress. He congratulated the Development Center for making it possible to host such courses in Belize and emphasized the potential impact this initiative could have in strengthening other federations through technical knowledge.
Finally, Prof. Nelson José Ramírez shared his enthusiasm for the support received in organizing these courses and reaffirmed that the Development Center remains aligned with the strategic growth plan of the NORCECA Confederation and the FIVB, with a firm belief in education as a pillar for regional volleyball development.
July 1, 2025.- The FIVB this week welcomed Marc Olivier Anatole, the President of the French Guyana National Federation (NF), a Regional Member of the FIVB, to the Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland, where discussions focused on the Volleyball Empowerment programme and future collaboration opportunities.
The FIVB was represented by FIVB President Fabio Azevedo, General Sports Director Steve Tutton, Head of Empowerment and NF Relations Hitesh Malhotra and Head of Development and Sustainability Paulo Barone.
A key topic of discussion was the Volleyball Empowerment programme. To date, the NF has received USD 130,000 in support across eight projects, ranging from volleyball equipment, knowledge transfer and coach support. Currently, a 12-month coach support project, approved for two years, with French coach Baptiste Barberon is underway for the French Guyana national volleyball team. The meeting explored both the impact of these initiatives and potential future projects.
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo also took the opportunity to present the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, an ambitious yet realistic roadmap designed to take volleyball to the next level globally. It focuses on four key pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation.
June 29, 2025.- Week 2 of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League 2025 closed with Canada sweeping China (in Chicago), Cuba falling to Argentina in a five-set battle (in Belgrade) and host USA losing to Italy in three straight sets.
Cuba Falls to Argentina in a Five-Set Battle in Belgrade
Cuba closed its campaign in Belgrade with a hard-fought five-set loss to Argentina, missing the chance to break into the qualification zone for the Volleyball Nations League 2025 Finals.
Despite winning their first three matches in Belgrade, the Cubans couldn’t hold off the South Americans, who relied on their technique to overcome Cuba’s powerful offense and secured a 3-2 (23-25, 25-23, 25-21, 21-25, 15-11) victory on Sunday.
Cuba still walked away with one point from the match, bringing their total to 13. However, with a record of four wins and four losses, they now sit in ninth place in the standings, just outside the qualification zone for the VNL Finals.
Captain and outside hitter Miguel Ángel López led the Cuban offense with 18 points, all from kills. Opposite José Massó contributed 17 points, including 13 kills, three blocks, and one ace.
Canada sweep China
The first match of the day in Chicago had Canada putting on a strong performance to take China down 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-23) and take their first win in the week. With 11 points (three wins, five losses), the Canadians end the second week of the VNL 2025 in 14th place.
Opposite Xander Ketrzynski had an excellent all-around performance and led Canada with 21 points (14 kills, four aces, three blocks). Outside hitters Isaac Heslinga and Skyler Varga also reached double digits in scoring, registering 17 and 11 points, respectively.
United States swept by Italy
Reigning world champions Italy dominated the match from start to finish to secure a 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-18) victory over hosts United States at the NOW Arena in Chicago.
Playing more aggressively than the Americans, the Italians outscored their opponents in aces (eight to one) and blocks (six to two), besides benefiting from more errors (23 to 18). The United States had a slim edge in kills (40 to 38).
Outside hitter Cooper Robinson, who scored 11 points in kills, and opposite Gabi Garcia, who delivered ten, with nine kills and one ace, were the most effective players for the United States.
The Americans collected five points in their four VNL home matches, beating China and Canada and losing to Poland and Italy, and now rank 13th in the tournament, with ten points (four wins, four losses).
“The team is growing,” Garcia reflected. “The young kids are not so young anymore, and we’re happy about this. We know we have a lot of work to do and that we’re still learning about each other and our weaknesses and our strengths. We’re happy with the results we got this week. We’re going to keep working and preparing for the next one.”
The Men’s Volleyball Nations League 2025 will pause for one week. The women’s competition resumes from July 9-13, with Canada, Dominican Republic and USA competing in Arlington. The men return to action for the final week of the Preliminary Phase from July 16-20 in Chiba (Japan), Gdańsk (Poland), and Ljubljana (Slovenia).
Nassau, The Bahamas, June 29, 2025. – The CAZOVA VolleyStation Seminar officially concluded in Nassau, The Bahamas, as part of preparations for the upcoming CAZOVA Championships set to take place in the country. The initiative aimed to strengthen the region’s technical capabilities in line with international standards.
A total of 16 participants were trained in VolleyStation Referee (digital scoring), while 10 completed the VolleyStation Pro (performance analysis) module, with 8 individuals successfully completing both courses. This marks a significant step forward in developing a group of qualified VolleyStation delegates who can support both domestic and international competitions.
Bahamas Volleyball Federation President, Kurkwood Greene Sr., expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing how vital it is to have certified personnel for the upcoming events. “We are pleased that these participants are now qualified to work at our championships, especially for the CAZOVA Senior Championships which we will be hosting. This also allows us to use them in our national leagues, fully aligned with FIVB standards,” said Greene.
FIVB instructor Manuel Calderón, who led the seminar, praised the dedication of the participants. “The group was very attentive, highly engaged, and eager to learn. Now the key is to continue their development through regular practice to maintain and refine these new skills,” he stated.
CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed also commended the group’s commitment. “This is a major step toward developing self-sufficiency in the Caribbean. I encourage participants to keep practicing because without it, these skills can fade. This effort is not only for local events but also prepares them to contribute to NORCECA and other international competitions,” he said.
This seminar is part of CAZOVA’s broader strategy to develop a sustainable network of qualified VolleyStation delegates within the Caribbean. Some of the participants are expected to gain further experience through upcoming international assignments within the region, helping to strengthen our presence on the global volleyball stage.
The seminar wrapped up with a certification ceremony on June 29, reinforcing CAZOVA’s commitment to embracing technology and elevating volleyball operations across the Caribbean.
June 28, 2025.- Despite their efforts and improvements throughout the match, the U.S. Men’s National Team couldn’t stop the power of Poland, who earned a 3-0 victory (25-20, 25-21, 25-22) at the NOW Arena, backed by a passionate crowd of Polish fans on American soil.
With this result, the U.S. missed out on key points in the 2025 Men’s VNL standings, falling at home to a European powerhouse energized by strong support from the large Polish community in Chicago.
The top scorer for Team USA was 22-year-old outside hitter Cooper Robinson, who recorded 9 points, one more than opposite Kyle Hobus.
“We didn’t start well, but we made some adjustments, and our bench is always ready to contribute,” said setter Micah Ma’a.
“It’s tough to play against Poland, but it’s also a great experience. We wanted to keep competing all night, and even though we didn’t get the win, we fought until the end. They’re a great team.”
Following this setback, Karch Kiraly’s squad will look to regroup quickly and get back on the winning track in their next match, knowing that every point is crucial in the race for a spot in the VNL Finals.
Schedule for Sunday, June 29
In Belgrade, Serbia: Cuba faces Argentina at 4:30 p.m. (local time). In Chicago, USA: Canada plays China at 12:30 p.m. (local time), and the home team, USA, faces Italy at 7:30 p.m. (local time) to close the second week of competition.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- A young squad from USA won gold and 14-year-old Kari Knotts stood out at MVP today in Kingston, Ontario, as the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup concluded.
USA also picked up “best spiker” and “best setter” awards.
Valeria Gutierrez won two awards – libero and digger for her defensive action with the Costa Rican team. Dominican Republic’s Julie Arias also won two individual awards.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- USA swept Mexico to claim gold at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
Despite the determination of the Mexican side, the powerful young U.S. squad won the final 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-21).
Head coach of USA, Jamie Morrison, said: “It’s a young team and we set the goal of getting better every single day that we are here and I thought we did that. All 12 players contributed to us getting into this match. I’m proud that it’s their first gold medal in a USA uniform and the rest of the country should be proud of them too.”
The USA came out swinging and earned 48 points off attack, compared with 24 from Mexico. USA also had more blocking points (11-8). Mexico led in aces 9-5 and made fewer errors (11-23).
Top scorer of the match was 14-year-old outside hitter Kari Knotts with 24 points (19 kills, 2 blocks, 3 aces).
Naomi Alejandra Cruz led Mexico with 8 points.
Host Canada won the bronze match over Dominican Republic.
Next up for this age-class, the FIVB U19 Girls’ World Championship in Serbia and Croatia in July.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- Canada was able to manage the young, talented Dominican Republic team to win in the tie-break today at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
The home crowd cheered Canada on to the 3-2 (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 19-25, 15-10) win and the bronze medal.
Canada led in attack points 58-50, blocking 10-4, while Dominican had one more ace (11-10). Canada also made more errors 35-24.
Canada_happy
Sydney Bell (16) and Sol Henson (14) led in points for Canada. Ambar Hernández (16) and Julie Millaray Arias (13) were top scorers for Team Dominican Republic.
“It was a great team effort for us,” explained Canada’s head coach Gina Schmidt. “Dominican served tougher than they did in the previous match we played against them. We were in system a lot in our first match, and they added some service pressure today, which got us out of our rhythm with our offense. Once we kind of settled that down and put on more pressure from service from our side, we were able to work our way back into the match. I loved the way our team reacted in that fifth set. Everyone found a way to contribute, so that’s important as we head into the next tournament.”
Most teams at the Pan Am Cup are using this tournament to prepare for the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025, which will be held in Serbia and Croatia in early July.
The gold-medal match is next to determine place 1-2.
Dominican Republic is fourth. Venezuela finished fifth. Puerto Rico is sixth and Costa Rica is seventh.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- Puerto Rico beat Costa Rica to finish sixth overall at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada today.
Puerto Rico won in straight sets 3-0 (25-20, 31-29, 25-19).
Eduardo Galarza, Head Coach, Puerto Rico, said post-match: “I tried rotating my team in preparation for the U19 World Championship, which is coming up. The level of our team is a bit higher than Costa Rica, so I tried different things to get a rhythm before the next tournament. But it was a great win. A win is always good.”
Puerto Rico’s strong offense led to 55 attack points, compared with 33 by Costa Rica. Blocks were 7-4 in favor of Costa Rica and aces were even at four. Costa Rica earned more points from errors 24-18.
Opposite Diangelie Gonzalez led the Puerto Rican team in points with 21.
Maria del Sol Venegas of Costa Rica equaled that tally, also with 21 points.
Puerto Rico is sixth and Costa Rica is seventh in this year’s standings.
June 27, 2025. – Cuba staged yet another comeback, defeating the Netherlands 3-1, while Canada let a two-set lead slip away and fell 2-3 to Poland.
Cuba, the kings of comebacks, claim another victim in Belgrade!
Cuba heads into the weekend with plenty to celebrate after securing their third consecutive comeback win this Friday in Belgrade during Week 2 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.
Playing for the third day in a row at Belgrade Arena, Cuba recovered from dropping the first set to defeat the Netherlands 3-1 (21-25, 25-18, 25-21, 30-28). It was a repeat of their performances against Germany on Wednesday and Serbia on Thursday, three straight comeback victories.
With nine points earned this week alone and 12 points total (four wins, three losses), Cuba now sits in sixth place in the overall 2025 VNL standings.
“It was really tough,” admitted middle blocker David Fiel. “The first two matches were very demanding, both physically and mentally. But today we came out determined to win. It didn’t matter how, what mattered was getting the victory. We have a great team, and everyone can contribute, as they did today.”
Cuba won as they usually do, by dominating at the net. They outperformed the Netherlands in attacks (64-57), blocks (13-6), and also led in aces (3-2). This edge allowed them to overcome their 27 errors, compared to 21 from the Dutch side.
VNL 2025’s top scorer, outside hitter Marlon Yant, shined once again, leading Cuba with 21 points (20 kills and 1 block). He was supported by José Masso with 17 points, José Gutiérrez with 15, and middle blocker Roamy Alonso with 14, in a strong collective performance.
Cuba celebrated
Canada lets two-set lead slip away and falls to Poland
Canada wasted a two-set lead and eventually lost in a tie-break (32-30, 25-14, 17-25, 23-25, 13-15) against Poland.
The Canadians outperformed the Europeans from the service line (11 aces to 6) but were outscored in attacks (60-57) and blocks (12-8). In unforced errors, Canada benefited from 34 opponent errors while conceding 31 themselves.
Xander Ketrzynski led Canada with 20 points, including 19 kills and one ace. Brodie Hofer contributed 18 points (15 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces). Canadian captain Eric Loeppky also reached double digits, scoring 14 points (8 kills, 3 blocks, and 3 aces).
The loss leaves Canada in 14th place with a record of two wins and five losses.
Canada
Saturday, June 28 schedule
Only one match is scheduled for Saturday, June 28: USA vs. Poland at 7:30 p.m. (local time) in Chicago. Cuba and Canada have the day off.
Cuba vuelve a remontar, Canadá deja escapar la victoria
27 de junio de 2025.- Cuba volvía a remontar y terminó ganando 3-1 a Países Bajos, mientras que Canadá dejó escapar la victoria y terminó perdiendo 2-3 ante Polonia.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.- Mexico outlasted Canada today to win their semifinal at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
It was a thrilling, back-and-forth five sets 3-2 (19-25, 25-19, 24-26, 25-16, 15-10).
Mexico led in attack points 55-52, and dominated from the service line 13-5. Canada had the blocking advantage (14-13).
Ignacio Ramirez, Head Coach, Mexico, said; “It was a very tough match from the beginning. We were able to take advantage of the opportunities that the Canadian team gave us. We had a bad set that we practically had won, but the girls recovered in the fourth and fifth sets to achieve this much-desired victory.”
Mexico’s Naomi Cruz led her team in scoring with 23 points (which included 3 blocks and two aces).
Canada’s Emerson Matthews led the home team with 19 points.
Canada’s Head Coach Gina Schmidt sums up her team’s effort: “We did a good job of executing our game plan early in the match. They made some adjustments, and I give credit to Mexico for doing that. Then it took us too long to adapt to what they adjusted to. They fought hard. We needed to execute better on our side, offensively and in serve receive. They were serving some tough, deep serves and that got us out of our rhythm a bit as well.”
Mexico plays for gold vs. USA and Canada plays for bronze vs. Dominican Republic.
Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.
Nassau, The Bahamas, June 26, 2025.- The Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) has officially launched a four-day VolleyStation Seminar in Nassau, The Bahamas, bringing together volleyball professionals from across the region.
The seminar, which runs from June 26 to 29, has attracted 16 participants representing Trinidad and Tobago and multiple islands of The Bahamas, reflecting CAZOVA’s commitment to strengthening volleyball through technology and education.
Under the guidance of FIVB Instructor Manuel Calderón, the program focuses on two specialized modules: VolleyStation Pro for statisticians and VolleyStation Referee, designed for statisticians, scorers, and referees
Delivered in a blended classroom and on-court format, the seminar provides hands-on training in digital scoring and performance analysis, essential tools in modern volleyball.
This initiative is a key step in preparing for upcoming CAZOVA events this year and beyond, ensuring that the region is equipped with qualified professionals capable of operating advanced statistical and scoring systems. It also reinforces CAZOVA’s commitment to knowledge transfer and developing a growing network of certified VolleyStation technicians to support volleyball’s growth throughout the Caribbean.
“In today’s game, technology is as important as physical skill. This group has shown great enthusiasm and determination to embrace new tools that will enhance how we manage and analyze volleyball,” said Calderón.
CAZOVA president, Mushtaque Mohammed, recognized the importance of this investment “We must become self-sufficient in hosting our events and also I encourage each national federation to use the software in their national leagues”.
The seminar will conclude with a certification ceremony on June 29, equipping participants with the credentials and skills to implement VolleyStation systems in their respective countries. This effort is part of CAZOVA’s broader strategy to elevate volleyball standards and foster sustainable regional development.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.- Team USA won its semifinal today at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
The final score was 3-0 (25-22, 25-14, 25-20) over the Dominican Republic.
USA’s powerful attack was a difference maker and scored 41 points, compared with the Dominican Republic’s 26 attack points. USA also led in blocks (6-5) and ace (5-4). Errors were 23-21 favoring the USA on the scoresheet.
Despite Dominican Republic’s efforts early on in the match, USA’s size and power eventually led to the win.
USA head coach Jamie Morrison: “I talked to the team and I thought that midway through the second set we started competing. We didn’t think about the circumstances, other than the scouting report. We let that show to the world. That’s what I’m fired up about!”
Megan Hodges led the U.S. side with 14 points (including a block and an ace); Taylor Harrington and Olivia Henry followed scoring 11 apiece.
Yalyn Filpo and Julie Millaray Arias led the Dominican team with 8 points each.
Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.- Venezuela put together a solid performance at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, today.
They beat Costa Rica in three sets (25-22, 25-19, 25-19) to finish fifth out of seven teams overall in the tournament.
Ihosvanny Chambers, head coach of Venezuela said he was happy with today’s accomplishment: “We fully achieved our goal; we came with the hope that the players would develop. Winning matches is an added bonus. We know we have a future working with this group of girls who are participating for the first time in an international event of this high level. We are satisfied with the girls’ performance in this competition.”
Outside hitter Leidymar Colina led all scorers with 17 points for the winning team. Her team led in all skills, attack points were 36-33, blocks 8-3, aces 8-6 and Venezuela earned more points from Costa Rica’s errors (23-18).
Maria del Sol Venegas led the Costa Rican side with 14 points.
Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- Dominican Republic earned its first win at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada today.
They won decisively 3-0 (25-14, 25-8, 25-14) putting consistent pressure, especially from the service line, against Costa Rica today.
The Dominican team was dominant in the attack points 33-16, blocking 6-3 and service aces 17-4 and made fewer errors.
Alexandre Ceccato, Head Coach, Dominican Republic, was pleased with today’s effort: “We played a good match against Costa Rica and we will try to play a good semifinal tomorrow against the United States. The team improved a bit today.”
Julie Millaray Arias led scoring with 15 points – six of those aces. She was followed by teammate Harleny Linette De los Santos who scored 13 attack points.
Dominican Republic will face USA in tomorrow’s semifinal, while Canada will face Mexico in the other semi.
June 26, 2025. – Cuba in Belgrade and the United States in Chicago secured their second win in as many matches during the second week of the Men’s VNL.
Cuba Comes from Behind to Beat Serbia
After starting the week in 15th place, the Caribbean side earned its second consecutive victory and is now sitting in 9th.
Cuba continues to climb up the standings. This Thursday in Belgrade, the Caribbean squad secured another win after coming from dropping the first set to defeat Serbia 3-1 (22-25, 25-22, 25-16, 25-16), silencing the home crowd at the Belgrade Arena.
A day after defeating Germany, Cuba once again prevailed with grit and determination. With only two of their four matches this week completed, they have already doubled the points they collected in Rio de Janeiro and are now in eighth place with nine points (3 wins, 3 losses).
Cuba was clearly dominant against Serbia in all aspects of the game, with a massive advantage in blocks (18 to 4) and aces (10 to 3). They also scored more points in attacks (45 to 43), which helped offset a higher number of unforced errors (29 to 24).
Individually, opposite José Massó was the standout performer, leading all scorers with 19 points (14 kills, 3 blocks, and 2 aces). Outside hitter Marlon Yant, the current top scorer of the 2025 VNL, continued his unstoppable form with 18 points (14 kills, 3 aces, and one block).
“We’re still tired from the travel issues we had, but everyone is making sacrifices for the team,” said José Massó. “We push each other to keep the level high, and we will continue fighting until the end of the week,” he added.
USA Defeats Canada in Straight Sets
The United States earned their second win of the week, defeating Canada in straight sets (25-23, 25-22, 30-28) in Chicago during Men’s VNL Week 2.
The USA outperformed Canada from the service line (6 aces to 2), while the Canadians led in blocks (7 to 3). Both teams finished with 41 attack points.
Gabriel García led all scorers with 19 points for the USA (15 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces), while Cooper Robinson contributed 13 points (11 kills and 2 aces). On the Canadian side, team captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy was their top scorer with 13 points (8 kills, 4 blocks, and 1 ace).
With this win, the USA moves into sixth place in the overall standings with 4 wins, 2 losses, and 10 points. Canada drops to 14th with a record of 2 wins and 4 losses.
USA Celebrated
Schedule for Friday, June 27
In Belgrade at 20:00 (local time), Cuba faces the Netherlands, while in Chicago at 19:30 (local time), Canada takes on Poland. The United States has a rest day.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 26, 2025.- USA remains undefeated at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Canada after a win over Puerto Rico 3-1 (20-25, 25-20, 25-14, 27-25).
Puerto Rico came out determined to show their grit and won the first set. The young United States squad regrouped to take the second and third sets. But Puerto Rico was not giving up and almost forced the tie-break only to lose in four.
USA celebrated
USA Head Coach Jamie Morrison: “I talked to the team in the locker room and told them I hope we do get pushed at some point because that matters. I’m happy with the way the team responded in the face of adversity. (Before the semifinal) I will tell them to be a team, work hard and play good volleyball.”
Outside hitters 14-year-old Kari Knotts along with team captain Ireland Real led scoring with 19 points each for USA.
Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo led the Puerto Rican side with 18 points (including 3 aces).
The United States led in attack points 57-46, blocking points 8-6, but Puerto Rico had the advantage in aces 12-9 but made more errors 23-20.
USA will play in the semifinals on Friday at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 26, 2025.- Mexico defeated Venezuela today 3-1 (17-25, 25-23, 25-13, 25-20) at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.
Mexico recovered from a first-set loss to win this important match and advance to the semifinals.
Esquivel (MEX)
Mexico’s team captain Isabella Ocampo said in a post-match interview: “Even in the tough times in this match, we were able to work as a team. We were also being very smart with where we were putting the ball and talking to each other about what’s open and how to help each other. I think that’s why we got the win today. It will help our momentum into the next match.”
Mexico led in attack points (61-45) and dominated from the service line – 10 aces compared with one from the losing side. However, Venezuela led in blocking points 9-4 and Mexico also made more errors (26-17).
Mexico’s Naomi Cruz Toledo led all scorers with 22 points; her teammate Angélica Torres was next on the scoresheet with 19 points.
Venezuela’s Leidymar Colina led her team’s efforts with 15 points.
On 7 July 2025, volleyball fans worldwide will unite to celebrate the sport we love. From beaches and courts to parks and playgrounds, let’s come together and showcase how volleyball inspires, unites, and empowers communities everywhere.
Share your passion for volleyball! Post videos that capture your favourite moments, best plays, or simply the joy volleyball brings to your life. Let the world see your love for the game–your video might inspire millions.
Use the hashtag #WorldVolleyballDay to share your videos and join the global conversation. Follow us on Instagram for updates and highlights as we count down to the big day.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Be part of history! This inaugural event is your opportunity to help grow volleyball locally and globally, engage new fans, and proudly showcase your athletes, your community, and your unique volleyball spirit.
Questions? Ideas? We’re here to help. Reach out to us at press@fivb.com.
June 25, 202. – The start of the second week of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) was quite challenging for NORCECA teams. The United States had to battle hard to defeat China 3-2, Cuba overcame logistical issues to beat Germany 3-1, and Canada couldn’t stop Brazil’s momentum, falling 0-3.
USA Struggles to Defeat China
Playing at home in the NOW Arena in Chicago, the United States had to push to the limit to defeat China 3-2 (25-22, 21-25, 19-25, 25-16, 15-11).
The Americans were superior in attack (65-52), but China put up strong resistance, outperforming the U.S. in blocking (16-12). Both teams tallied 3 aces each.
Jordan Ewert led all scorers with 18 points (16 from attacks and 2 blocks). Kyle Ensing also stood out at the net with 12 points, while Jacob Pasteur contributed 11 points and Ethan Champlin added 10, both hitting double digits.
With this victory, the United States moves into ninth place in the standings with a record of 3 wins and 2 losses.
Jordan Ewert USA
Cuba Tops Germany with Powerful Serving
Cuba faced logistical challenges traveling to Belgrade and barely had time to rest before kicking off their second week of the 2025 Men’s VNL.
Despite the fatigue, the Caribbean squad fought hard on court and earned a crucial 3-1 victory (19-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-21) over Germany.
With this result, Cuba climbs to tenth place in the standings with a 2-3 record and 6 points, surpassing Germany, who drops to 14th with a 1-4 record, also with 6 points.
Serving was Cuba’s main weapon, delivering seven aces compared to Germany’s two. One of them, a powerful serve from José Gutiérrez straight to the corner of the German court, sealed the final point of the match with precision.
Gutiérrez was the standout player of the match, finishing with 20 points, 19 of them from attacks at an impressive 68% efficiency. Opposite José Masso contributed 14 points, while middle blocker Javier Concepción and outside hitter Marlon Yant each added 11.
“What can I say? We’re very tired, but we brought a lot of positive energy to the court and beat Germany. We tried to forget about being tired,” said Javier Concepción. “I think this week will be better than the last one. It was a good start, but that’s behind us now. We have to forget it and move forward…” he concluded.
Cuba celebrated
Canada Can’t Stop Brazil
Canada was unable to contain a sharp and inspired Brazil in its opening match of Week 2 at the 2025 VNL, falling 0-3 (22-25, 17-25, 17-25) at the NOW Arena in Chicago.
The Canadian team, which had shown strong performances in Week 1, suffered a setback against a Brazilian squad that controlled the match from start to finish. With this defeat, Canada drops three spots in the standings, falling from sixth to ninth place, though it still holds 8 points overall.
Despite the result, outside hitter Brodie Hofer was once again a key player for the North American side. Hofer tallied 12 points, including 11 kills and 1 ace, continuing to be one of Canada’s most consistent players in this edition of the tournament.
Daniel Lewis’s team showed flashes of solid play but couldn’t sustain the rhythm under Brazil’s pressure, especially in the second and third sets. The difference in blocking efficiency and offensive firepower proved decisive in the outcome.
Brodie Hofer CAN
Thursday, June 26 Schedule
On Thursday, June 26, Cuba will face host Serbia at 8:00 PM (local time in Serbia), while Canada takes on the United States at 7:30 PM (local time).
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- Canada now has a 2-0 record after beating Dominican Republic at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada on Wednesday evening.
Canada was challenged early on but managed to control the Dominican offense at crucial moments leading to a 3-0 win (25-22,25-23, 25-17).
Canada led in attack points (37-31), blocking points (8-6) and serves (7-4). They also made fewer errors (21-23).
Canada’s head coach, Gina Schmidt: “We talked about some things after last night’s game, and some of the things we talked about worked through (in practice) this morning, showed up in this game. I’m pleased with how we executed the game plan and adjusted to anything they brought during the game. I felt it was a good team effort to stay focused throughout the match.”
Canadians Sofia Zabjek (12 points) and Maya Bukovcan (11) led scoring for the host team.
Julie Millaray Arias led the Dominican side with 11 points.
Canada has Thursday off, while Dominican Republic faces Costa Rica in Group B action tomorrow.
The U19 Pan Am Cup is the final tournament before the teams head to Croatia and Serbia next month to face off in the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- USA earned its second consecutive win at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Canada, beating Mexico 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-23).
Despite many challenges from their North American neighbors, USA kept the pressure on Mexico today.
USA dominated in attack points (52-38) and also led in block points (5-3) and aces (6-4). USA, however, made more errors (20-12).
United States captain Ireland Real led all scoring with 19 points (17 attack points, 1 block and 1 ace).
Outside hitter Naomi Cruz Toledo was top scorer for Mexico with 16 points.
“Mexico is a good team that has been training for a long time and their coach has done a really great job,” said USA head coach Jamie Morrison. “I’m proud of our girls – we’re going to throw out a bunch of combinations and give everyone an experience representing USA Volleyball. I think we’re learning within matches and I’m proud of that. It sets the tone that we need to get better throughout this tournament.”
The USA faces Puerto Rico tomorrow in their final Group A matchup.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- Venezuela took five sets to beat Puerto Rico 3-2 (25-15, 25-20, 28-30, 22-25, 16-14) at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada to earn their first win at the tournament.
In the 2-hour 20 min match, Puerto Rico had more successful attack points – 64-61, but the winning side led in blocks (14-11) and aces (8-6). Puerto Rico also made more errors (33-23).
Venezuela looked as if they would take the match in three sets, but Puerto Rico showed a lot of fight to push the match into a tie-break situation.
Ihosvanny Chambers, head coach of Venezuela said post-match: “It was a very intense match. We are very happy. We would have been happy regardless of whether the result was in our favor or not, because this is about the experience for all these girls participating in an event at this level… and how they were able to come from behind after winning two sets, then playing three very close sets, losing the third and fourth, and still coming from behind in the fifth. I think this is very important for them, for their development, which is the goal we are pursuing here — for the players to experience the level of volleyball at the international stage.”
Venezuela’s Leidymar Colina led all scoring with 26 points, including 2 blocks.
Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo was top scorer for Puerto Rico with 22 points – 19 attack points combined with three blocks.
This was both teams’ second match in Group A play.
Junio 25, 2025.- The FIVB has updated two key components of its World Ranking system following consultation with the World Ranking Working Group and the Volleyball Council. The changes aim to enhance fairness, improve system flexibility and align with the organisation’s development objectives.
The first update revises the Overlapping Events Rule. Previously, when two World Ranking-eligible events overlapped and involved the same team, only the event with the higher Match Weight Factor (MWF) was counted, with the other excluded entirely.
Under the new rule, both events are now included in the ranking system. However, overlapping teams will only earn ranking points from the event with the higher MWF and the stronger position on the World Ranking event table. Matches involving those teams in the lower-weighted competition will not count for points. All other teams in both events will have their results recognised as usual.
The new approach enables greater inclusion of zonal and continental competitions within the ranking system, while maintaining competitive integrity.
The second update introduces a broader definition of National Federation (NF) activity. In the past, federations were penalised 50 points after two years of inactivity in World Ranking-eligible events.
Under the new rule, a federation is considered active if it takes part in any international, confederation or zonal event at senior or underage level, whether in volleyball or beach volleyball.
This new approach removes unnecessary penalties and reflects the full range of federation engagement.
Both updates are now in effect and form part of the FIVB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen competition structures and support the modernisation of the sport.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.- Canada overcame some first-match jitters to defeat Costa Rica in straight sets today at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
The home team won 3-0 (25-19, 28-26, 25-20).
“It was a good win in front of our home crowd,” said Canada’s head coach Gina Schmidt. “I think something we’ll talk about for tomorrow is about how we can reduce the amount of unforced errors on our side, but for a first game we got a lot of players into the game, so that was important. We got to try different people getting used to playing beside each other, so this was a great first game to get those first-game jitters out of the way and we are looking to keep building for the next game.”
Attack points favored Canada 52-22, and they had nine aces compared with Costa Rica’s six. Costa Rica led in blocking points 7-4 and scored more points from Canada’s errors 30-13.
Canadian outside hitter Sofia Zabjek led both teams in points with 16 including 14 off the attack. She was followed by Sydney Bell with 10, and Maya Bukovcan with eight. Bukovcan also led the team in blocks with two.
Maria del Sol Venegas Grant and Mariela Navarro scored eight points apiece as top scorers for the Costa Rican side.
Canada is back in Group B action tomorrow to face off against Dominican Republic at 6:30 pm ET.
The U19 Pan Am Cup is the final tournament before the team’s head to Croatia and Serbia next month to face off in the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.-Venezuela’s best efforts were not able to match USA’s size and power today at U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, ending with a 3-0 (25-9, 25-23, 25-21) score.
USA dominated the first set, but Venezuela was able to make it a closer game in the second and third sets, even leading by up to four points at one point. But the young USA squad battled back to win.
“For all these players, it’s their first time ever putting on a USA uniform and that causes emotions. I’m proud of their ability to get over the emotion and play good volleyball,” said USA head coach Jamie Morrison. “This is an amazing experience for these girls. We talked about staying true to who it is they are and who we want to be as competitors. You need to pressure test that as much as you can and hats off to Venezuela for putting the pressure on us.”
USA dominated in attack points (41-22), blocking (14-4) and had more aces (8-5). Venezuela gained more points from opponent errors 22-12.
Megan Hodges (8 attack points, 5 blocks) and Shayla Rautenberg (6 attack points, 3 blocks and 4 aces) led USA in scoring with 13 points apiece. Leidymar Colina led the Venezuelan team with 13 points.
The tournament is held at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre in Kingston and continues until June 28.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.- In the opening match of the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, Mexico swept Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-18).
Mexico’s team captain Isabella Ocampo said she was proud of the way her team worked together for the win: “I thought we came out swinging – we came out hard and aggressive. I feel like our teamwork is really what helped us get this win. Whenever we were stuck, we would help each other back up, get the point back and go on a good run.”
Mexico led in attack points (40-35) and out blocked its opponent 10-2. Service aces were equal at three each. Puerto Rico also made more errors (22-18) to Mexico’s advantage on the score sheet.
Naomi Cruz of Mexico led all scoring with 19 points (17 attack points and two blocks). Angélica Jazmin Torres Galvan and Brenda Sofia Esquivel Valdez, also of the winning side, scored 10 points each.
Pamela Agosto Serrano led scoring for the Puerto Rican team with 11 points.
The tournament is held at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre in Kingston and continues to June 28.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 23, 2025.- Seven teams are in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, for the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup, which runs from June 14 to 28 at Queen’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.
Jamie Morrison, Head Coach USA: “For the players on this team, it’s their first opportunity to put on a jersey with the American flag on it and I think that’s a very special thing. We’re looking forward to some great competition against some of the best teams in our zone.”
Ihosvanny Chambers, Head Coach, Venezuela: “Despite Venezuelan teams having been away from these age group categories competitions for many years, it is an honor to now participate in NORCECA. Our expectations are first and foremost for the girls to experience high-level competition for their development, as we are bringing a team between the U19 and U17 so they can gain experience and enhance their skills, which is the most important thing. Also, we aim for the girls to witness firsthand how the top-level international volleyball is played.”
Alexandre Ceccato, Head Coach, Dominican Republic, “We’re going to do everything we can to have a good tournament. Our group includes Canada and Costa Rica; we’re going to try to be the best in the group and do well in the tournament.”
Yuliana Gonzalez, Head Coach, Costa Rica: “I’m really excited about this new experience. We have a very young team; so I think we’re going to try out best and get a lot of experience, and to grow and better as a team. Also it’s important for us to have fun at this tournament!”
Gina Schmidt, Head Coach, Canada: “It’s a great warm-up to prepare us for the World Championship – we’re excited to see what we are capable of….We are using this to see how we can best prepare for what’s next, so there will be a lot of learning. We are familiar with some of the teams from last summer and we’re looking forward to a strong showing in front of a home crowd.”
Eduardo Galarza, Head Coach, Puerto Rico: “We are using this as preparation for the World Championship in Serbia. It’s the same players that will be travelling to the Worlds, so it’s great preparation with some good teams.”
Ignacio Ramirez, Head Coach, Mexico: “Our primary expectation is to utilize this competition as a platform for training and preparation for the World Championship in July, which is our main objective. Additionally, our secondary goal is to position ourselves among the top four teams. This will enable us to maintain our presence and continue developing the skills and objectives we have established in collaboration with the Mexican federation.”
June 22, 2025. – On the final day of Week 2 in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), the United States celebrated a thrilling five-set victory over France in Belgrade, a win that lifted the Americans above the Finals qualification cut.
Earlier in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic also claimed a dramatic five-set win against Korea. In another Istanbul nail-biter, Belgium emerged victorious in five sets over Canada.
USA Defeats France in Epic Battle
USA earned a hard-fought victory over France in Belgrade, allowing them to climb past the Europeans in the VNL standings and move above the qualification line for the Finals. The Americans now sit in 8th place with a 4-4 record and 11 points. France, meanwhile, holds 11th place with a 3-5 record and 10 points.
In their match, France controlled much of the first two sets, but the Americans managed to rally in both to take a 2-0 lead. France responded with an 8-0 run in the third set to ignite their comeback and repeated the feat with another 8-0 run in the fourth set to force a decider.
At 13-13 in a tightly contested fifth set, Sarah Franklin sealed the win for the U.S. with back-to-back kills, securing a 3-2 victory (25-22, 26-24, 20-25, 21-25, 15-13).
Franklin led with 18 points, all on kills, while Logan Eggleston added 17 points on 61% efficiency. Middle blocker Dana Rettke contributed 10 points, including three blocks and an ace, and opposite Madisen Skinner was the team’s top scorer with 21 points, including one ace and one block.
Madisen Skinner USA (1)
Dominican Republic Edges Korea in Five-Set Thriller
Playing in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic and South Korea battled to a tie-break, where Las Reinas del Caribe came out on top with a 3-2 (19-25, 25-17, 19-25, 25-20, 16-14) win.
The Dominicans twice came from behind in sets to push the match to a decisive fifth set. In the thrilling tie-break, Korea saved three straight match points (14-11) to level at 14-14. However, middle blocker Geraldine González earned another match point, and a Korean attack error handed the Caribbean team the win.
Blocking was key for the Dominicans, who doubled Korea’s output at the net (16 blocks to 8). González had a standout performance with seven blocks and 12 total points.
Brayelin Martínez was the match’s top scorer with 24 points, including four blocks. Opposite Gaila González also starred with 22 points and four blocks, while outside hitter Yonkaira Peña added 17 points, all from attacks.
The result places the Dominican Republic in 10th place with 9 points, holding a 4-4 record.
Dominican Republic Celebrated
Canada Falls Just Short in Five-Set Battle Against Belgium
Canada played one of the week’s most exciting matches but narrowly missed out on a win, falling to Belgium 2-3 (25-22, 13-25, 25-21, 22-25, 16-18) in a roller coaster match.
Canada came close to clinching the win, especially in the fifth set where they led 13-9. But Belgium stormed back with a five-point run. Despite having two match points, Canada couldn’t finish the set.
Head coach Giovanni Guidetti’s team put together a strong collective performance, particularly in blocking, where they outscored Belgium 17-10.
Outside hitter Hilary Howe Johnson led with 21 points, including five blocks. Young opposite Anna Smrek, 21, added 19 points with four blocks and two aces. Andrea Mitrovic contributed 14 points, and middle blocker Emily Maglio added 10.
“Despite the result, this was one of our most complete matches of the tournament. The team showed character, intensity, and the ability to compete to the final point,” said Canada’s coaching staff after the match.
With the loss, Canada remains in 15th place with a 2-6 record and 6 points. However, their level of play offers positive signs for the remaining matches, where they’ll look to finish strong and climb the standings.
Hilary Howe CAN
Men’s VNL Week 2 Begins Wednesday, June 25
The second week of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League starts Wednesday, June 25, with NORCECA teams playing in Serbia (Cuba) and Chicago (USA and Canada).
Cuba faces Germany at 13:00 (local time Serbia), while Canada plays Brazil at 16:00 (and the United States hosts China at 19:30 (both local time in Chicago).
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 22, 2025 – The Dominican Republic U19 Women’s National Volleyball Team departed today for Kingston, Ontario, Canada, to compete in the NORCECA U19 Women’s Pan American Cup, set to take place from June 24 to 28 at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.
The Dominican team will aim to represent the country with pride in this important continental tournament, facing off against the U19 national teams of Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, Suriname, the United States, and Venezuela.
Official Roster Dominican Republic U19 Women’s National Team:
Setters:
Ana Patricia Encarnación Montero
Valerie Mariel Vargas Guzmán
Outside Hitters
Virelys Shantal Rivera Soto
Estel Santos Mateo
Ámbar Avril Hernández Domínguez
Harleny Linette De los Santos Báez
Middle Blockers:
Jakarlis Marianni Lima García
Yalyn Victoria Firpo Filpo – Team Captain
Cristal Yasmelis Mercedes Núñez
Opposites:
Julie Millaray Arias Alejo
Rayni Merab Mondesí Arias
Libero:
Aurelina Ruiz Rosario
Coaching Staff:
Alexander Ceccato, Head Coach
Marcos Vinicious Macedo, Assistant Coach
José Antonio Espinal Reynoso, Second Assistant Coach
Cedar Andrés Báez, Team Doctor
José Antonio Reynoso De Los Santos, Physiotherapist
Agripina Martínez, Team Manager
With a talented and determined group of athletes, the Dominican Republic heads into the competition ready to perform at a high level and continue advancing the growth of women’s volleyball in the country.
June 21, 2025.- Playing in Belgrade, the United States swept the Netherlands, while in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic couldn’t overcome Brazil and fell in straight sets at the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL).
USA Sweeps Netherlands for Third Win in VNL 2025
The United States earned its third win of the tournament by defeating the Netherlands 3-0 (25-18, 25-22, 25-19) on Saturday in Belgrade.
With this result, the Americans move up to ninth place in the overall standings, just below the cut for the VNL Finals, holding a 3-4 record and 9 points.
Team USA dominated the match in all areas of the game, particularly in attack (49-39), blocks (6-4), and service aces (4-2).
Outside hitter Logan Eggleston led all scorers with 14 points. Opposite Madisen Skinner contributed 13 points, including two blocks, an ace, and the match-winning point. Middle blocker Dana Rettke also stood out with 12 points.
“It’s been great! This group has amazing energy and is always willing to adapt, adjust, and improve,” said veteran Dana Rettke.
“I’m very proud of how they’ve responded to this challenge. I know for many it’s their first VNL, so it’s been a lot of fun playing with them and sharing this experience. Overall, I’m proud of how this group keeps improving every day, whether it’s during matches or training. We’re having a lot of fun!”.
Logan Eggleston USA
Dominican Republic Falls to Brazil
The Dominican Republic faced one of the world’s volleyball powerhouses on Saturday, falling to Brazil 0-3 (23-25, 18-25, 20-25).
Coached by Marcos Kwiek, the Caribbean team now sits in 10th place in the standings with 3 wins, 4 losses, and 10 points, just outside the current cutoff for Finals qualification. Despite the result, the team showed cohesion, determination, and competitive spirit against a Brazilian squad that now boasts six wins and only one loss, with star player Gabriela “Gabi” Guimarães back in the lineup.
Yonkaira Peña led the Dominican offense with 13 points, including two aces and a block. Brayelin Martínez added 12 points, while opposite Gaila González chipped in with 10. The trio kept the Dominican Republic in contention throughout the match, especially in a tightly contested third set.
“I’m proud because I’m doing a good job, and my team is helping me a lot,” said Brayelin Martínez, who has surpassed the 100-point mark in this year’s VNL.
“I’ll keep working hard to improve and help my team win more matches. No matter what happens, we always stay united and support each other, that’s something I’m really proud of.”
Yonkaira Peña DOM
Final Day of Week Two
Sunday, June 22 marks the final day of Women’s VNL Week 2, with the following matches scheduled: In Istanbul, Türkiye, Canada vs. Belgium at 12:30 PM (local time) and the Dominican Republic vs. Korea at 4:00 PM (local time). In Belgrade, Serbia, USA vs. France at 7:30 PM (local time).
June 20, 2025. – Canada delivered one of its strongest performances so far in the 2025 Women’s VNL, but couldn’t overcome Brazil’s powerful blocking game, falling 0-3 (20-25, 23-25, 23-25) in a tightly contested match at Istanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome, with over 2,000 spectators in attendance.
Despite the straight-set loss, Giovanni Guidetti’s squad showed character, tactical discipline, and organized defense, staying close throughout the match, particularly in the second and third sets, where they came close to leveling.
Nyadholi Thokbuom CAN
The standout for Canada was 19-year-old Abagayle Guezen, who came off the bench in the first set and led the offense with 13 points, all from kills. Middle blocker Nyadholi Thokbuom also impressed with a 75% attack efficiency, scoring 12 points that included two blocks and an ace.
“I’m very happy to see the team improving every day,” said head coach Giovanni Guidetti.
“Today we had a real chance to win two sets against Brazil. That shows we’re competing at their level, which is a very positive sign. We need to finish sets better, but the progress is clear and that keeps us motivated,” he added.
Despite Canada’s strong showing, Brazil’s blocking superiority made the difference. Julia Kudiess led the way with 8 blocks and totaled 16 points. In contrast, the Canadian side managed only 4 blocks throughout the match, a gap that proved crucial in key moments.
With this loss, Canada drops to 15th in the standings with a 2-5 record (5 points), but the performance proved they can compete head-to-head with the world’s top teams. The team now looks to build on this momentum in the upcoming VNL matches.
SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025.– The Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) hosted a dynamic one-day Under-21 Beach Volleyball Championship on June 19, on the beautiful sands of Seven Mile Beach, bringing together top youth teams from across the region in a vibrant competing atmosphere.
The event served as a qualifier for the 2025 NORCECA U21 and U18 Beach Volleyball Championships and marked a key milestone on the path to the FIVB Age-Group World Championships, with the U18 event scheduled in Doha, Qatar, from October 7 to 11 and the U21 tournament set for Puebla, Mexico from October 15-19.
In a highly competitive tournament featuring both men’s and women’s divisions, the top three ranked countries in each category secured qualification for the NORCECA World Championship Qualifiers. The U21 event is set for July 3–7, and the U18 tournament will follow from July 6–10, with both taking place in the Dominican Republic.
In the women’s division, the top three teams, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, along with the men’s teams from Barbados, Cayman Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago, qualified for the NORCECA qualifying tournaments to be held in the Dominican Republic.
CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed, present at the event, expressed his delight, with the hosting conditions, calling it “one of the best-organizers of beach events in NORCECA.” He praised the participating federations and teams for their commitment to the historic first CAZOVA youth beach volleyball tournament, “This signals the growth of beach volleyball in CAZOVA and the future development of the sport within each National Federation” he added.
The next CAZOVA underage beach Volleyball event will be held in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago for the U18 teams in preparation for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics.
With great weather and exciting matches all day, the CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship was a big success, showcasing the region’s rising talent and building momentum for upcoming international competitions.
SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025. – Seven men’s duos were off to an undefeated start on the opening day of the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour at the stunning Seven Mile Beach. Both Canadian pairs, the U.S. team, St. Kitts and Nevis and all three Central American duos, each delivered dominant performances, winning their two matches in straight sets.
Canada’s two duos Brandon Burnside/Reed Venning and Charles Ellinas/Colin Lash delivered strong performances in Pool A and Pool D respectively.
Brandon Burnside and Reed Venning prevailed over their two opponents, first overpowering host team Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee 2-0 (21-4, 21-12) and then defeating Trinidad & Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel with an identical 2-0 (21-11, 21-11) win.
Charles Ellinas and Colin Lash opened with a 2-0 (21-13, 21-5) win against William Duty and Dimitri Cardenas from the Cayman Islands, and followed that up with a 2-0 (21-9, 21-10) sweep over Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake and Ithran Softley.
CAN #1 Burnside with the poke set
In Pool C, Ayden Keeter and Carson Barnes from USA, opened with a convincing 2-0 (21-10, 21-7) win over Anderson and Aden Rojas of the U.S. Virgin Islands, then controlled the game in a 2-0 (21-11, 21-10) victory over Nkoya Williams-Bailey and Aaron Taylor from Barbados.
Also in Pool C, Julian Bristol and Clerique Ward of St. Kitts and Nevis defeated Nkoya/Taylor 2-0 (21-16, 21-18) in a tight contest, and later secured a 2-0 (21-11, 21-15) win over Brown/Wathey .
The three Central American teams, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and El Salvador, also remained perfect.
Daniel Delgado and Jose Guevara from Guatemala, in Pool B, defeated Aruba’s Jeandre Kock and Thelion Coutinho 2-0 (21-12, 21-18), and Cayman Islands’ Liam Chisholm and Declan Van Dam 2-0 (21-13, 21-12).
Costa Rica’s Julian Araya and Jhostin Varela were equally dominant in the same pool, sweeping D. Van Dam/Chisholm (2-0, 21-10, 21-9) and Coutinho /Kock (2-0, 21-9, 21-8) without trouble.
Christopher and Yoel Guardado from El Salvador, beat Jamaica’s Blake/Softley 2-0 (21-6, 21-11) and Cayman Islands’ William Duty/Dimitri Cardenas 2-0 (21-9, 21-11) without complications in Pool D
Pool-play clashes will conclude on Saturday, followed by the quarterfinal matchups and classification matches for positions.
June 19, 2025. – An intense day of action unfolded Thursday during Week 2 of the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL). The Dominican Republic earned a commanding win over Belgium, the United States started strong against Poland but couldn’t hold on, and Canada fell in straight sets to a dominant Türkiye.
Dominican Republic overpowers Belgium for solid victory
The Dominican Republic showcased its offensive firepower and control, sweeping Belgium 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 27-25) at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul before 2,146 fans.
Under the guidance of coach Marcos Kwiek, the Caribbean Queens delivered a consistent performance, taking full advantage of their opportunities against a Belgian side that only threatened in the third set.
Brayelin Martínez led the way with 18 points (15 attacks, 3 aces) and came up big in the final moments of the match.
Gaila González added 17 points, helping form a well-balanced offense that overwhelmed the Belgians. Yonkaira Peña and Ariadne Rodríguez contributed solidly on defense and reception, allowing for effective offensive distribution.
With this win, the Dominican Republic now holds a 3-3 record and sits 8th in the standings with 7 points.
Brayelin Martinez DOM
USA loses momentum, falls to Poland in four sets
The United States couldn’t sustain its strong start and fell to Poland 1-3 (25-20, 20-25, 17-25, 18-25) in Belgrade.
Logan Eggleston led Team USA with 24 points, showing power in attack and serving. Middle blocker Brionne Butler also impressed with 13 points, including 6 blocks and 2 aces, though it wasn’t enough to stop Poland’s comeback.
After a solid first set, Erik Sullivan’s squad lost consistency, especially in the fourth set, where they failed to hold a four-point lead. Reception and serve control were weak points, as Martyna Lukasik fired 6 aces for Poland.
“We need to be more consistent. We didn’t compete at the level we expect from ourselves. We’ll regroup and prepare better for the next match,” said coach Erik Sullivan. Team USA now stands at 2 wins and 4 losses, with 6 points and sits 11th in the standings.
Logan Eggleston USA
Canada fights hard but falls to Türkiye in straight sets
Canada battled with determination against undefeated Türkiye in front of nearly 15,000 local fans but ultimately lost 0-3 (16-25, 18-25, 24-26) at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul.
Opposite Anna Smrek led Canada’s offense with 13 points (11 kills, 2 blocks), while outside hitter Kyla Johnson added 8 points and contributed effectively in defense and from the service line. Alexa Mitrovic also chipped in with 5 points.
Canada showed tactical discipline and solid defense but struggled to contain Türkiye’s offensive strength. Türkiye led in attacks (39-33), blocks (8-5), and aces (9-0). Both teams committed 20 unforced errors.
With the loss, Canada drops to 2 wins and 4 losses, sitting in 12th place with 5 points.
Anna Smrek CAN
Friday, June 20 Schedule
In Istanbul, Canada will face Brazil at 7:30 p.m. local time. The United States and the Dominican Republic have a rest day.
SANTIAGO, CHILE, June 19, 2025 .– With just over two years to go until the start of the 20th Pan American Games, Panam Sports has officially announced the 36 sports that will be included in the Lima 2027 Sports Program. Among the confirmed disciplines are Indoor Volleyball and Beach Volleyball, both of which have gained significant popularity and prestige across the continent.
The decision was made by the Panam Sports Executive Committee based on a participatory process that considered the preferences of the organization’s 41 member National Olympic Committees. Of the 36 sports, 33 were selected by the National Olympic Committees, while the remaining three were proposed by the Lima 2027 Organizing Committee.
“As Panam Sports, we have taken a very important step with the approval of the 36 sports for Lima 2027. We carried out a highly democratic process among all the National Olympic Committees, and today, the Executive Committee has confirmed the sports included in the Sports Program of our Pan American Games,” emphasized Panam Sports President Neven Ilic.
The Lima 2027 Pan American Games will be held from July 16 to August 1, bringing together more than 7,000 athletes from 41 countries across the continent.
The Pan American Volleyball Union (UPV), the body that brings together the NORCECA Confederation and the South American Volleyball Confederation (CSV), confirmed the qualification system for Lima 2027, which must be completed no later than December 31, 2026.
In indoor volleyball, each gender (men and women) will feature eight national teams, according to the following criteria:
Peru, as the host country, qualifies automatically.
1 team per confederation (NORCECA and CSV): the highest-ranked team at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games.
NORCECA: the top three teams at the 2026 Senior Pan American Cups.
CSV: the top two teams at the 2026 Senior Pan American Cups.
In beach volleyball, each gender (men and women) will feature 16 national teams. The qualification system includes:
Peru, as the host, qualifies automatically.
1 team per confederation (NORCECA and CSV): the highest-ranked team at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games.
NORCECA: the top seven non-qualified teams based on the final standings of the 2026 NORCECA Tour.
CSV: the top six non-qualified teams based on the final standings of the 2026 CSV Beach Tour.
June 18, 2025.– The United States kicked off the second week of the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with a valuable victory over host Serbia in Belgrade. Meanwhile, in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic put up a strong fight but fell in straight sets to Türkiye, while Canada played a thrilling match that ended in a five-set loss to Korea.
USA Defeats Serbia in Belgrade
The United States spoiled Serbia’s opening match in front of 5,800 fans, mostly cheering for the home team, with a 3-2 win (25-22, 25-20, 22-25, 22-25, 15-11) at Belgrade Arena.
It was a standout night for Madisen Skinner, who led USA’s offense with a dominant 32-point performance (30 attacks and 2 blocks). Sarah Franklin contributed 20 points (18 attacks and 2 blocks).
The Americans led in attacks (65-61) and blocks (10-9). Both teams recorded 5 service aces.
Madisen Skinner (9) USA
Canada Nearly Pulls Off Dramatic Comeback
Canada played a thrilling match against Korea to kick off their second week of Women’s VNL action, narrowly losing in five sets, 2-3 (25-27, 18-25, 25-15, 25-20, 13-15), in Istanbul.
After dropping the first two sets, the Canadians showed strength and determination, rallying to tie the match at 2-2 and force a tiebreak. However, despite a strong collective effort, Korea edged out Canada in the final moments of the deciding set.
Canada stood out with an excellent performance at the net, tallying 13 direct blocks, nine of them shared between key players Emily Maglio (5 blocks, 13 total points) and Anna Smrek (16 points including 4 blocks). The team also outserved Korea, 6-4.
The offense was led by 19-year-old Abagayle Guezen, who scored 17 points, all from attacks. The Canadian squad showed strong competitive spirit and signs of tactical improvement in both defense and blocking.
Despite the loss, Canada’s performance leaves a positive impression and reflects their ongoing development as a team. They will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches in the regular phase of the VNL.
Abagayle Guezen CAN
Dominican Republic Nearly Spoils Türkiye’s Home Debut
In front of over 14,000 spectators at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic came close to spoiling Türkiye’s home opener. Although the final score was a 0-3 loss, the Caribbean team fought valiantly, particularly in the first and third sets, which they nearly claimed. Set scores were 25-27, 19-25, and 26-28 in favor of the hosts.
Türkiye held slight advantages in attacks (44-39), blocks (7-6), and service aces (6-2), but the world No. 3 team had to battle for every point to secure the win.
The Dominican offense was powered by key hitters, with Gaila González scoring 19 points and Brayelin Martínez adding 11.
Gaila González DOM
Thursday, June 19 Schedule
In Istanbul, the Dominican Republic will face Belgium at 4:00 p.m. local time, while Canada takes on hosts Türkiye at 7:30 p.m. (both local time. In Serbia, the United States will meet Poland at 4:30 p.m. local time.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 18, 2025.- A productive working meeting was held this week at the headquarters of the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA between the new leadership of the Cuban Volleyball Federation (FCV) and NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz.
The Cuban delegation was led by MSc. Osvaldo Idel Martínez Arias, President of the FCV; Mireya Luis, OLY, Vice President; and Lorenzo Martínez Cordero, Treasurer. This marked the new administration’s first official visit to NORCECA’s offices in Santo Domingo following their election.
The meeting addressed a range of topics of mutual interest related to the development of volleyball in the region. Discussions focused on designing joint programs between NORCECA and the Cuban Volleyball Federation aimed at strengthening institutional and technical collaboration.
Projects centered on the training of referees and coaches through courses and seminars were also reviewed, along with Cuba’s active participation in NORCECA’s competitive calendar, including Confederation qualifying tournaments.
Both parties highlighted the strength and stability of the bonds between NORCECA and the Cuban Volleyball Federation and agreed on the importance of maintaining the necessary support for Cuba to regain its historic prominence in international volleyball.
They also welcomed the possibility of a future meeting between the FIVB, NORCECA, and the FCV, with the goal of enhancing institutional cohesion and addressing key issues for the development of Cuban and regional volleyball.
The meeting concluded in an atmosphere of mutual cooperation and shared vision for the growth of volleyball in the region.
KINGSTON, Ontario, June 18, 2025. – Volleyball excitement is building in Kingston as the city prepares to host the NORCECA U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup from June 24 to 28 at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.
Seven national teams from the Americas will take the court in pursuit of the Pan American crown, following Chile’s withdrawal due to unforeseen travel issues.
Participating National Teams from NORCECA qualify for the 2026 NORCECA U19 Girls Continental Championship, which is part of the qualification process to the 2027 U19 FIVB Girls World Championship.
Team USA enters the tournament as the defending champion and one of the title favorites, aiming to retain their crown. The event was last held in Puerto Rico in 2023 and saw the U.S. win gold, followed by Mexico with silver, and host Puerto Rico winning bronze.
The tournament will feature three days of preliminary round-robin play, culminating in high-stakes semifinals on Friday, June 27, and medal matches on Saturday, June 28.
The teams are divided into two groups: Group A includes Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United States, and Venezuela; Group B features host Canada, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic.
Preliminary Round Schedule
June 24 14:30 Puerto Rico vs Mexico 16:30 USA vs Venezuela 18:30 Canada vs Costa Rica
June 25 14:30 Puerto Rico vs Venezuela 16:30 USA vs Mexico 18:30 Canada vs Dominican Republic
June 26 14:30 Mexico vs Venezuela 16:30 USA vs Puerto Rico 18:30 Costa Rica vs Dominican Republic
Year by Year podiums (referred to as U18 until 2019)
June 15, 2025. – The United States and Canada wrapped up the first week of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with victories. The U.S. defeated Cuba, while Canada swept Bulgaria.
USA Survives Four-Set Battle Against Cuba in Rio
In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, the U.S. Men’s National Team secured a hard-fought 3-1 win (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23) over Cuba at the iconic Maracanãzinho stadium, claiming a crucial victory on the final day of Week 1 of the VNL.
Led by head coach Karch Kiraly, the Americans showed grit and composure to come back in several tough moments. Outside hitter Cooper Robinson led the team with 18 points (12 attacks, 4 blocks, 2 aces), playing a decisive role in the final two sets.
Middle blocker Jeff Jendryk also stood out with 13 points through strong performances both in attack and blocking, while outside hitter Taylor Champlin contributed 11 points.
After a shaky start, USA adjusted its system and capitalized on Cuba’s mistakes to take a 2-0 lead. Although the Caribbean squad bounced back in the third set, the Americans imposed their game in the fourth to seal the win with poise.
This result marks a step forward for Kiraly’s project with the men’s team, highlighting their ability to respond and perform under pressure. The United States now moves forward in Pool 2 with a valuable victory that strengthens their campaign in the 2025 VNL.
The U.S. finishes Week 1 with 2 wins and 2 losses, currently in 11th place, while Cuba ends with 1 win and 3 losses, ranked 15th.
Cooper Robinson USA
Canada Ends Week on a High Note with Sweep Over Bulgaria
Backed by 7,984 fans at the Centre Vidéotron, Canada earned a commanding 3-0 victory (26-24, 25-23, 25-19) over Bulgaria in their final match of Week 1 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.
The match lasted 1 hour and 36 minutes and showcased the Canadian team’s maturity and power, especially in crucial moments.
Head coach Daniel Lewis’s squad displayed consistency across all areas of the game. Outside hitter Eric Loeppky Hofer was the star of the night, leading the offense with 21 points, including powerful spikes and decisive aces. Opposite Ryan Sclater also played a key role with 12 points, showing precision in both attacking and serving.
Canada especially excelled in blocking (scoring 11 points in that category) and serving, while taking advantage of 24 unforced errors by Bulgaria. The Bulgarian team, after a competitive first set, was unable to maintain their level.
With this result, Canada closes the first week of the VNL with a 2-2 record, placing them in sixth place.
Canada celebrated
Women’s VNL Week 2 Begins June 18
Week 2 of the Women’s VNL begins Wednesday, June 18, across various locations. Canada and the Dominican Republic will head to Istanbul, Türkiye. Canada opens against Korea at 12:30 p.m. local time, while the Dominican Republic takes on the home team at 7:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Women’s National Team will travel to Belgrade, Serbia, where they’ll open against the host team at 8:00 p.m. local time.
June 14, 2025. – Teams from NORCECA, the United States and Canada, were unable to overcome Slovenia and France, respectively. The U.S. lost 1-3 to Slovenia, while Canada came close to an epic comeback against France but ultimately fell in a tie-break.
Canada Nearly Pulls Off Historic Comeback
Team Canada came within reach of a historic comeback against the reigning Olympic champions, France. The Canadians lost a five-set thriller, 2-3 (22-25, 27-29, 29-27, 25-21, 6-15), with the French pulling away early in the final set to secure the win.
France outperformed Canada in attacks (72-67) and blocks (8-4), while the North Americans had the edge in serving, with five aces to France’s two.
Brodie Hofer and Xander Ketrzynski led Canada’s scoring, each finishing with 15 points. Hofer scored all his points from attacks, while Ketrzynski recorded 13 attacks, one block, and one ace. Also contributing to double digits were Ryan Joseph Sclater with 14 points, Skyler Varga with 12, and Daenan Gyimah with 10.
With this result, Canada now holds 4 points from one win and two losses, placing them 10th in the overall standings.
Canada celebrated
USA Falls Short Against Slovenia
The United States, fielding a young squad, could not overcome Slovenia and suffered a 1-3 loss (22-25, 25-27, 25-20, 23-25).
Both teams were tied in attacks (54 each), with the U.S. having a significant advantage in blocking (13-4). However, the Americans were hurt by 31 unforced errors, which handed valuable points to the Slovenians. The Europeans also had the edge in serving, with eight aces compared to the USA’s three.
Kyle Hobus led the U.S. scorers with 13 points. Gabriel García followed with 12 points, while Matthew Knigge and Jordan Ewert each contributed 11 points.
The United States currently sits 15th in the standings with 2 points, from one win and two losses.
Gabriel Garcia USA
Sunday, June 15 Schedule
The final day of Men’s VNL Week 1 features: United States takes on Cuba (5:00 p.m. local time, Rio de Janeiro), and Canada against Bulgaria (6:00 p.m. local time, Quebec)
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 14, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) is pleased to announce the return of renowned Italian coach Luca Cristofani to Puerto Rico. He will collaborate directly with both the women’s and men’s National Team programs.
Cristofani, whose international career spans the highest levels of professional volleyball and national teams, will provide technical consulting, specialized observation of training sessions, and mentorship for local coaches. His focus will be strengthening the technical structure from the grassroots to the elite level, driving a comprehensive and sustainable vision for Puerto Rico’s national teams.
The FPV expects Cristofani to arrive on the island this Monday, June 16.
Luca Cristofani (Left)
Regarding this important addition, FPV President Dr. César Trabanco stated: “The return of Professor Luca Cristofani to our National Team Program reaffirms our commitment to the technical development of our teams. His international experience and formative approach will be key to strengthening both our senior and youth national teams, in both genders. We are confident that his collaboration will continue to elevate the level of Puerto Rican volleyball.”
As part of his visit, Cristofani will also offer continuing education courses for coaches and technical staff. These sessions aim to raise the level of preparation and encourage the exchange of knowledge, creating a valuable space for the growth of volleyball on the island.
“Puerto Rico has talent, passion, and a rich volleyball history. I’m excited to return and continue contributing to the growth of this sport on the island,” said Cristofani.
Luca previously visited Puerto Rico in 2023, serving as a technical advisor supporting the coaches of both the men’s and women’s national teams across all age categories.
June 13, 2025. – The Caribbean team fought until the very end but couldn’t replicate the previous day’s feat. Cuba played its second consecutive five-set match in Rio de Janeiro, but this time fell short against a surprising Ukrainian squad, who edged out a hard-fought 3-2 victory (25-22, 20-25, 25-20, 17-25, 15-12).
Cuba outperformed Ukraine from the service line (8-5) and capitalized on the Europeans’ 35 unforced errors. However, Ukraine held the advantage in attacks (51-50) and blocks (17-11).
Despite a strong offensive performance, particularly from star outside hitter Marlon Yant, who once again led all scorers with 23 points (19 attacks, 3 aces, and 1 block), Cuba was unable to close the tie-break in their favor as they did against Brazil on Thursday. Middle blocker Javier Concepción also had a solid outing, contributing 11 points (6 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace).
Javier Octavio Concepcion CUB
It was a match filled with emotion, as Cuba managed to level the score twice after falling behind in sets. But in the decisive fifth set, they couldn’t contain Ukraine’s offensive push. The physical toll of back-to-back five-set matches also played a role.
With this loss, Cuba earns its second point in the overall standings of the 2025 VNL. The Caribbean squad has shown intensity and competitiveness but still needs to improve their finishing in key moments.
Saturday, June 14 Schedule On Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, the United States faces Slovenia (1:30 PM local time) and in Quebec, Canada plays against France (16:30 PM local time).
June 12, 2025. – Cuba pulled off the surprise of the day by defeating Brazil at home in five sets. The United States came back from a 0-2 deficit to win in five sets against Iran, while Canada couldn’t hold on to a 2-1 lead and ended up falling 2-3 to Argentina.
Cuba Finish Strong and Beat Brazil Again in Rio
Cuba secured a thrilling 3-2 victory (27-25, 26-24, 21-25, 20-25, 15-13) against Brazil at the Maracanãzinho, repeating their 2024 feat. After winning the first two sets, the Caribbean squad saw Brazil tie the match but managed to come out on top in the tie-break with their powerful offense. The win earned Cuba 8.39 World Ranking points, and they now stand at one win and one loss.
It’s the second consecutive year that Cuba stuns Brazil in the Maracanãzinho during the VNL. Last year, the two teams met in the tournament opener, and Cuba won 3-1.
Cuba led in attacks 68-61, both teams scored 10 points from blocks, and Brazil dominated the serve with 7 aces to 3. However, the Cubans committed more unforced errors—34 compared to Brazil’s 28.
“It was an incredible match,” said López. “We fought for every point, and I want to congratulate the team. Each of our players contributed to this victory. We couldn’t play the way we wanted in the first match, but today we came back to win.”
Marlon Yant Herrera was Cuba’s top scorer with 23 points, all from attacks. José Israel Masso added 18 points (16 attacks, 2 blocks), while team captain Miguel Ángel López scored 18 as well (14 attacks, 2 blocks, 2 aces). Javier Octavio Concepción also reached double digits with 10 points (9 attacks, 1 block).
Marlon Yant Herrera CUB
USA Complete Reverse Sweep to Earn First VNL Victory
The Americans were down 2-0 against Iran, but showed resilience to come back and triumph.
Competing in the first week of the VNL with an inexperienced roster, the Americans had 25-year-old opposite Kyle Hobus, who plays in Austria with Hypo Tirol Innsbruck, as their leading scorer with 19 points (17 kills, two blocks).
Outside hitters Jordan Ewert, who spent the last club season in Italy with Rana Verona, and Cooper Robinson, who plays collegiate volleyball at UCLA, also delivered strong performances, contributing 17 and 14 points, respectively.
The victory against the Iranians also marked the Americans’ first win under new head coach and volleyball legend Karch Kiraly, who transitioned from the women’s national team after 12 successful seasons to lead the men’s side starting in 2025.
“The guys have so much to be proud of, that was really a true team effort,” Kiraly said. “Lots of guys came in and changed the game for us. All of us are learning together. It was great that we got better as the match went along, and all credit goes to the guys.”
The Americans outperformed Iran in attacks (58-56) and blocks (14-5), but struggled with unforced errors, committing 39 compared to Iran’s 31. Iran had the edge in aces, 9-4.
The result gave the United States their first two points in the VNL 2025 and placed them in 12th at the end of the day.
Kyle Hobus USA
Canada Fall in Five-Set Thriller
A thrilling match took place in Quebec, where the home team dropped the first set, came back to lead, but eventually lost 2-3 (22-25, 25-21, 25-14, 22-25, 8-15) to Argentina.
Canada outscored Argentina in blocks (9-6), while the South Americans led in attacks (59-58) and aces (10-4). Canada committed fewer unforced errors (25) than Argentina (31).
Four Canadian players reached double figures in scoring: Xander Ketrzynski led with 22 points, supported by Brodie Hofer with 17, Jackson Young with 16, and captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy with 12.
With this loss, Canada ends the second matchday with one win and one defeat.
Xander Ketrzynski CAN
Schedule for Friday, June 13
On Friday, Cuba will be the only team in action, facing Ukraine at 5:30 p.m. local time in Rio de Janeiro. Canada and the United States will have a rest day.
June 11, 2025.- Host country Canada kicked off the first week of the Men’s VNL with an important victory, edging Germany 3-2. Meanwhile, the United States were upset by Ukraine in a straight-set loss, and Cuba began their campaign with a 1-3 defeat to Slovenia.
Canada defeats Germany in five sets
The first five-set match of the 2025 VNL went to Canada, who came from behind twice to triumph 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23, 15-11) over Germany in the final match of the opening day, earning their first win under new head coach Dan Lewis.
Opposite Ryan Sclater and outside hitter Jackson Young led the way with 17 points each. Fellow outside hitter Brodie Hofer added 16, while Ryan Joseph Sclater and team captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy chipped in with 14 and 13 points, respectively.
Canada outperformed Germany in blocks (14-8) and service aces (8-3) and capitalized on the 36 unforced errors committed by the Europeans. Germany held the advantage in attacks (58-48).
USA suffers surprise loss to Ukraine in VNL 2025 debut
The U.S. Men’s National Team, bronze medalists at the Paris Olympic Games, suffered a surprising 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-23) loss to Ukraine in their opening match of the 2025 VNL, held in Rio de Janeiro.
With a young squad featuring just one Olympian, Jeff Jendryk, on the court, the Americans struggled to contain Ukraine’s strong serving and were outplayed in all three sets. Gabriel García and Cooper Robinson led the U.S. attack with 13 points each, but their efforts fell short.
This defeat marks a tough start for Karch Kiraly in his debut as head coach of the U.S. Men’s Team. The loss also impacted the team’s FIVB World Ranking, dropping them from third to fourth after losing 17.64 points, allowing Slovenia to overtake the podium spot.
Captain Kyle Dagostino pointed to Ukraine’s serve as the key factor: “They put a lot of pressure on us. When they serve like that, everything becomes easier for them, in both blocking and defense.”
Gabriel Garcia USA
Cuba falls in four sets to Slovenia
Cuba opened its campaign in Group 2 of the Men’s VNL in Rio de Janeiro with a 1-3 (22-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25) defeat to Slovenia, currently ranked third in the FIVB World Ranking.
Both teams were even in blocks (12 each), but Slovenia had the edge in attacks (51-44) and service aces (5-3).
Two Cuban players reached double digits in scoring: outside hitter Marlon Yant Herrera tallied 19 points (14 kills, 4 blocks, 1 ace), and opposite José Israel Massó added 12 (9 kills, 1 block, 2 aces).
Jose Israel Masso CUB
Schedule for Thursday, June 12
In Rio de Janeiro, Cuba faces Brazil (5:30 PM local time) and the United States plays against Iran (9:00 PM local time). In Quebec, Canada hosts Argentina (8:00 PM local time).
June 8, 2025 .- The first week of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) came to a close this Sunday. The United States claimed their first victory in Group 2, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Meanwhile, in Group 1, played at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario, the host team ended the week with a spectacular comeback against Serbia to win 3-2. The Dominican Republic closed their participation with a loss against undefeated Japan.
USA Gets on the Board with Win Over Korea
The United States finally broke through and ended their first week with a 3-0 victory (25-13, 28-26, 25-17) over Korea. With this win, the U.S. team finished with one win and three losses, placing 13th overall with 4 points.
The Americans outperformed Korea in attacks (43-31) and blocks (14-3). Service aces were close, with Korea edging out the U.S. 5-4. Both teams committed 17 unforced errors.
Four U.S. players scored in double digits, with middle blocker Amber Igiede leading all scorers with 16 points (7 attacks, 8 blocks, 1 ace). Opposite Madisen Skinner tallied 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace), Sarah Franklin added 14, and Logan Lednicky finished with 10.
Amber Igiede – Sarah Franklin – Saige Kaahaaina-Torres USA
Canada Rallies to Defeat Serbia 3-2
Canada pulled off a stunning reverse sweep in front of their home crowd, defeating reigning world champions Serbia 3-2 (20-25, 18-25, 25-20, 25-18, 15-12). After dropping the first two sets, the Canadians turned the table and came from behind in the fifth set to seal the win.
Opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 34 points, 24 from attacks, 1 block, and 9 service aces.
Despite Serbia leading in attacks (62-53) and blocks (18-5), Canada capitalized on the Europeans’ 34 unforced errors and Van Ryk’s phenomenal serving (Canada led 11-4 in aces). Van Ryk ended the week as the tournament’s second-highest scorer with 89 points and led all players in service aces with 15.
With this result, Canada finished 11th overall with 2 wins and 2 losses.
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
Dominican Republic Falls to Powerhouse Japan
The Dominican Republic wrapped up their week in Ottawa with a 0-3 loss (19-25, 21-25, 9-25) against a dominant Japan squad, who topped the standings with a perfect 4-0 record, all wins coming in straight sets. The Dominicans finished with 2 wins and 2 losses, placing 12th overall.
Japan outperformed the Caribbean team in attacks (51-26) and service aces (10-1), while the “Queens of the Caribbean” led in blocks (8-3). Japan committed 14 unforced errors to the Dominican Republic’s 11.
Gaila González led the Dominican scoring with 14 points (11 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace). Star player Brayelin Martínez, who didn’t shine as brightly in this match as in the previous three, still finished the week as the fourth top scorer of the tournament with 79 points (65 attacks, 12 blocks, 2 aces).
Gaila Gonzalez DOM
Men’s VNL Begins Tuesday, June 10
The Men’s Volleyball Nations League kicks off on Tuesday, June 10 in Xi’an, China, with a single match between Poland and the Netherlands. NORCECA will be represented by Canada, who will play in Quebec in Group 1, and by the United States and Cuba, who will compete in Group 2 in Rio de Janeiro.
On Wednesday, June 11, the United States faces Ukraine (11:00 a.m. local time), Canada takes on Germany (6:00 p.m. local time), and Cuba closes the day against Slovenia (6:00 p.m. local time).
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, June 8, 2025.- Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation and a member of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation Board, visited Volleyball House this week.
During the visit, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo presented the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 and shared the organisation’s plans for the future of volleyball over the next eight years.
The Strategic Vision 2032 is an ambitious but realistic roadmap designed to take volleyball to the next level globally. It focuses on four key pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. Together, these pillars aim to make the sport more accessible and impactful – bringing people together, inspiring social change, and helping to ensure a bright future for volleyball.
After extensive consultation with National Federations and stakeholders across the Global Volleyball Movement, the FIVB identified 15 main areas of focus for the years ahead. One of the major elements is the Volleyball Foundation, launched in May 2024, which uses the global reach and power of volleyball to support projects around the world that have a positive impact.
The Volleyball Foundation was one of the key topics discussed at Volleyball House during the meeting with Her Excellency Sheikha Hind, who plays an active role on its Board.
There were also discussions around future collaboration between the FIVB, Volleyball Foundation and Qatar Foundation, especially in areas such as sport promotion, coach education and women’s empowerment.
This partnership was first launched in December 2024 and is focused on growing and promoting volleyball in Qatar. It aims to support athletes, develop leadership in sport and facilitate the development of volleyball at all levels.
One of the first activations between the organisations was the ‘Women in Sports: Creating Pathways’ event, held at Education City Stadium. The event brought together international sports administrators, Olympians and Olympic medallists to explore the role of sport – in particular, volleyball – in empowering women. The panels were hosted by the FIVB and Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA), in collaboration with Qatar Foundation.
June 7, 2025.– Canada suffered a tough defeat in the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. The Canadian team, playing at home, lost 0-3 (24-26, 20-25, 19-25) to Japan.
Their opposite and team captain, Kiera Van Ryk, was Canada’s top scorer with 11 points, one block, one ace, and the rest from attacks. Hilary Howe contributed 9 points (7 from attacks and 2 blocks).
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
Canada’s blocking was dominant, with an 8-0 advantage over Japan, but the Japanese team led in attacks (39-33) and service aces (7-3). The Asians also capitalized on 30 points from unforced Canadian errors.
With this loss, Canada now holds two defeats and just one win. Japan remains undefeated with three straight-set victories.
The final day of the first week of the women’s VNL will be played this Sunday, June 8. In Pool 1 action in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic faces Japan at 11:00 a.m. local time, while Canada hosts Serbia at 6:00 p.m. local time. In Pool 2, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the United States will face Korea at 4:00 p.m. local time.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, June 7, 2025.- 7 July 2025 marks a historic moment for our sport – the inaugural World Volleyball Day, and it is now just one month away!
The date commemorates the first public demonstration of volleyball by William Morgan in 1895 and will annually serve as a global celebration of volleyball.
The day will bring the Global Volleyball Movement together like never before, uniting players, fans, clubs, FIVB stakeholders, partners and friends from every corner of the world. Whether it is played on a beach, a court, in a park or in the home, volleyball is for everyone. The very nature of the sport encourages teamwork and collaboration. It’s fast, exciting, fun, and it has a unique power to bring people together. The FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 speaks to this power through the pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. Now, through World Volleyball Day, our sport has its very own day to celebrate these values.
By playing, watching, promoting or engaging with volleyball in all its forms, you will have the opportunity to be part of a shared global experience. Whether you are a player, coach, supporter, organisation or partner, your voice and your passion will help make World Volleyball Day 2025 a truly memorable occasion.
This is a day for us all to demonstrate that volleyball is for everyone, everywhere.
June 6, 2025.- The first week of the Volleyball Nations League 2025 has been intense, but also successful for the Dominican Republic, which secured on Friday their second victory in three matches in the tournament, while the U.S. fell in dramatic five sets to Czechia in their third loss.
Dominican Republic returns to winning ways
One of the six teams competing in Pool 1, in Ottawa, Canada, the Queens of the Caribbean won their second five-setter in three days at The Arena at TD Place, taking the Netherlands down to keep their record positive.
If their opening-match five-set victory over Serbia on Wednesday featured a massive comeback for the Dominicans, their triumph over the Dutch had a different script, with ups and downs from both sides and tremendous back-and-forth before the Caribbeans prevailed 3-2 (22-25, 25-19, 28-26, 22-25, 15-13).
With two of their first three matches in Ottawa going to five sets, the Dominicans have played as many as 14 sets so far – before beating Serbia, they lost 3-1 to Bulgaria on Thursday.
Against the Dutch, the Caribbean could rely on their two main scorers as Brayelin Martínez and Gaila González combined for an impressive 51 points – the outside hitter registered 26, with 23 kills, two blocks and one ace, while the opposite produced 25, with 19 kills, three blocks and three aces.
The Dominican team outperformed the Netherlands 10-7 in blocks, and their serve was dominant, delivering 7 aces to the Netherlands’ 3.
With this victory, the Dominican Republic climbed to sixth place in the overall standings among the 18 teams competing in the 2025 VNL, with 2 wins and 1 loss for a total of 4 points.
Gaila Gonzalez DOM (2)
USA Can’t Hold the Lead, Suffers Third Consecutive Loss
The United States was unable to maintain their initial 2-0 set lead and ended up losing in five sets (25-23, 25-20, 17-25, 20-25, 25-27) to the Czechia. The final set was full of emotions—Team USA had a 10-7 lead but ultimately lost 25-27 in a set that was supposed to go to 15 points.
Despite the Czechs committing 31 unforced errors, they were superior at the net (82-66 in attacks) and in service aces (7-2). The USA led in blocks, 13-6.
Sarah Franklin was the top scorer for the U.S. with 20 points (19 attacks, 1 block), Amber Igiede added 18 points (13 attacks, 4 blocks, 1 ace), while Molly McCage and Logan Eggleston also scored in double digits with 11 points each, and Logan Lednicky added 10 points.
This marked the third loss for the United States.
On Saturday, June 7, in Ottawa, only one match will be played: Canada will face Japan at 4:00 PM local time. The Dominican Republic and the United States will have the day off.
LAUSSANNE, Switzerland, June 6, 2025.- At the inaugural Olympism365 Summit in Lausanne from 4 to 5 June, the FIVB stood at the heart of a transformative conversation on sport’s potential to drive sustainable development.
Featured in the final plenary session, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo joined Olympic legend and changemaker Abhinav Bindra OLY on stage to speak candidly about how volleyball, and sport at large, can make a real difference through collective action. It was here that the FIVB President also pledged coordinated action with the FIVB and Volleyball Foundation to further scale and sustain Volley4Change in Vanuatu and extend the initiative into the wider Pacific region.
The session, “Strengthening the Role of Sport as an Enabler of Sustainable Development: Summit Outcomes and Concrete Actions”, explored how sport can serve as a practical tool to help realise the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
President Fabio Azevedo opened by aligning the volleyball vision with that of the IOC – building a better world through sport. He then noted how the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 is focused on making volleyball more affordable, accessible and understandable to people around the world. From elite arenas to grassroots courts in remote villages, the vision is about transforming volleyball into a truly global movement.
At the centre of that transformation is the Volleyball Empowerment programme, a landmark initiative launched in 2021. With over USD 50 million invested in more than 1,489 projects across 205 countries, the programme supports coaching, equipment, and capacity-building to enable national teams to reach their full potential.
However, realising these efforts needed to be expanded to projects not necessarily within the FIVB ecosystem, but still promoting the values of volleyball, the FIVB launched the Volleyball Foundation in 2024.
The FIVB President spoke with passion about the Volleyball Foundation-supported Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL) in India, a grassroots league founded by former national captain Abhijit Bhattacharya, and emphasised how it reshaped his own sense of purpose.
“I’ve been working for volleyball for 35 years now, but this was a lifetime experience for me,” said FIVB President Fabio Azevedo. “I saw kids playing barefoot, playing on dirt. I saw kids and a community, far from being privileged, donating everything. I met a lady, 93-years old, who donates 20% of her 150-dollar monthly pension to an under-12 volleyball team. And she’s following every single match. I saw kids playing barefoot like lions. That gave me, humbly, a greater responsibility to lead our sport towards society and to allow more people to have access to our sport.”
IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry also addressed the Summit to conclude the final session. During her speech, she reflected on the stories from the BVL, commenting:
“Fabio, you felt the Ubuntu spirit. That fight of the lion of those kids, the 93-year-old lady sharing the little that she has, that’s exactly what it is. Ubuntu is a huge foundation for me; it’s a part of my legacy. It’s a part of my everyday life. And it is: I am because we are. And it means that any little thing I do has a ripple effect onto you and everyone around us.”
Indian Olympic gold medallist and Founder of the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, Abhinav Bindra, stressed the importance of collective action when discussing the impact of the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) in India.
“Meaningful progress only happens when it is co-owned. When public systems, civil society and the sports movement not only align in purpose but design and sustain sports programmes together. Transformation only becomes real when ownership is shared, when these sectors come together, not just to align, but to co-create.
“Sport must meet people where they are. Whether the priority is gender equality, mental health or climate action, sport must connect to what matters. People invest in what they can see, feel and benefit from.”
In addition, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice President of the Qatar Foundation, who is also a member of the Volleyball Foundation Board, joined a panel alongside UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Ending Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla M’jidm.
Addressing the Summit, Her Excellency stated: “One of the partnerships we worked on just yesterday was with the FIVB. We have committed to developing female coaches in volleyball and, once we pilot the real framework of developing female coaches, we would like to see that across all the different sports.”
Other speakers during the final plenary session included Zeph Nhleko, Chief Economist at the Development Bank of Southern Africa; Nate Hurst, Chief Sustainability Officer at Visa; Auvita Rapilla, IOC Member and Chair of the IOC Olympism365 Commission; and Emma Terho OLY, Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.
June 6, 2025.- Expecting her first baby, the Dominican captain will be with her team for as long as she can during the tournament.
The Dominican Republic will count on an extra body on the court for at least their first matches in the Volleyball Nations League 2025 as team captain and veteran setter Niverka Marte is playing the tournament while expecting her first baby.
The 34-year-old playmaker doesn’t know for how long she’ll be able to keep playing, but she definitely wants to enjoy the moments of joy she is experiencing this first week, as the Queens of the Caribbean have faced Serbia and Bulgaria, and will play the Netherlands and Japan in Ottawa, Canada.
Even though many players who want to start a family plan to do it in the post-Olympic year, that wasn’t exactly the case with Marte. Having a baby had long been a dream of her, but the Dominican captain was struck with both surprise and intense happiness when she found out she was pregnant.
“My husband and I have been thinking about having a baby for a long time, but we always kept focused on what our priorities were at the moment and the upcoming tournaments,” she told Volleyball World in an exclusive interview. “We didn’t plan for it to happen now, but when we realized it was happening, it was a moment of incredible happiness for us. Our wonderful baby came by the grace of God and He couldn’t have picked a better time to give us this gift.”
Feeling as energized as ever and having many examples of players who continued to compete through pregnancy, including her longtime national team friends Bethania De La Cruz and Brenda Castillo, Marte had no doubts that she wanted to continue to represent her country in the VNL for as long as she could.
“I never felt better before,” she said. “I’ve been so, so happy that I’m in an unexplainable mood all the time. And I feel stronger and with a constant desire to train my body, too. I think that many people portray pregnancy as a disease and make it look like you can’t do anything. I always saw it from an entirely different perspective, and now that I’m experiencing it, I feel it in an even stronger way. Of course, my body is changing, and I need to take care of my needs and my baby’s needs, but why should I stop my entire life? I’ll adapt to it as it goes and will keep listening to my body. I feel great and would love to be with my team on the VNL. The only recommendation my doctor made was that I enjoy this moment, and that’s what I’ll do.”
One thing that makes Marte’s experience of playing through pregnancy even more special is the fact that her husband, Omar Martinez, is the physical trainer of the Dominican national team. That means the two can experience every step of her pregnancy together, supporting each other along the way.
“I’ve met him a couple of years before he joined the national team, and I’ve become better in every area of my life after that,” the setter, a three-time Olympian, added. “Having him full-time by my side is the best thing that could have happened, and it’s not a coincidence that I’ve been playing every set of every tournament for many years now. He takes care of me in every area of my life, not just sports, and that means a lot. I’m so blessed to have him by my side.”
While Marte still can’t determine for how long she’ll be able to help her teammates on the court in the VNL, the setter can already confirm she will need to sit out of the upcoming FIVB Volleyball World Championship, set to take place from August 22-September 7, in Thailand, as her pregnancy will approach its final stage.
Part of the Dominican national team since 2008 and a starter and captain for over a decade, Marte’s absence will create a void in the team both technically and from a leadership standpoint. While she’s out, Ariana Rodríguez, Yokaty Pérez, Aylin Liberato and Camila De La Rosa are the candidates to step into the starting lineup at the setter spot.
“We have over 20 players training with the Dominican national team, and we’re all different, but everyone has something to bring to the table,” Marte reflected. “So, I don’t think anyone replaces someone on the team. The opportunities have always been there and will continue to be there.”
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 5, 2025 .- In a meeting held this evening between the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) and the eight franchise owners of the Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM), it was unanimously agreed to postpone the start of the 2025 season to October 20, 2025.
The decision was made to comply with the regulations set by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and to ensure the proper development of the competition under international standards.
FPV President Dr. César Trabanco confirmed the decision and noted that further details regarding tournament planning and necessary adjustments will be announced in the coming days to guarantee a competitive and well-organized event.
“Our top priority is to meet international requirements while also delivering a high-quality tournament for our players, clubs, and fans. We’ll soon be sharing key information about the schedule and other logistical aspects,” said Dr. Trabanco.
All eight teams are confirmed to participate in the upcoming season, and each team will be allowed up to two foreign reinforcements to strengthen their rosters.
June 5, 2025.– All three NORCECA teams competing in the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) had a tough second day. In Pool 1, host nation Canada fell 1-3 to the Netherlands, while the Dominican Republic lost 1-3 to Bulgaria. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, USA suffered their second consecutive defeat, this time a 0-3 loss to Brazil.
Canada drops first match in Pool 1
Canada suffered their first loss of the 2025 VNL season, falling 1-3 (18-25, 25-22, 15-25, 23-25) to the Netherlands. In a match with few unforced errors, Canada committed 20, while the Netherlands had 24.
Canadian opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk once again led the scoring with 17 points (15 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace). The Dutch outperformed Canada in every skill, 55-48 in attacks, 13-3 in blocks, and 9-6 in aces.
With this result, Canada now holds a 1-1 record and 2 points, thanks to their win over Bulgaria the day before.
Andrea Mitrovic CAN
Dominican Republic falls in four sets to Bulgaria
Despite a standout performance from Brayelin Martínez, who scored 30 points (27 attacks, 3 blocks), and a strong effort in the second and fourth sets, the Dominican Republic was outlasted by Bulgaria 1-3 (21-25, 32-30, 19-25, 29-31).
Blocking was once again the Dominican team’s strongest weapon, dominating that category 16-11, but Bulgaria narrowly won in attacks 65-64 and led in service points 7-4.
The Dominican Republic now holds a 1-1 record with 2 points, following their victory over Serbia.
Brayelin Martinez DOM
USA suffers second straight loss
Brazil, the world’s second-ranked team, defeated USA, ranked third, in straight sets 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-19) in Rio de Janeiro.
The young American squad was unable to match Brazil’s power and experience and were outplayed across 38-35 in attacks, 12-4 in blocks, and both teams with 4 aces.
Logan Eggleston was the top scorer for the USA and the only player in double digits, with 13 points, including 1 block and 12 attacks from the net.
On Friday, June 6, in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic will face the Netherlands at 2:00 p.m. local time, while Canada will have a rest day. In Rio de Janeiro, the United States will take on Czechia at 6:00 p.m. local time.
June 5, 2025.- Simon leads, young stars mature, and momentum builds in Cuba’s 2025 campaign as they return for their third straight Volleyball Nations League season aiming to build on the progress of recent years. After back-to-back campaigns in 2023 and 2024, the team bring back familiar leaders and rising contributors, continuing to rely on physical strength and fast attacking play to push for a stronger finish in an expanded field.
At the heart of the squad is 37-year-old middle blocker Robertlandy Simon, who remains part of the national team setup after initially suggesting his international career was over in 2024. He is expected to join the group in the third week of the Preliminary Phase.
Alongside the top-calibre middle blocker, Cuba will count on outside hitters Miguel Angel Lopez, Marlon Yant and Osniel Melgarejo, who have shaped the team’s attack in recent seasons. Setter Christian Manuel Thondike Mejias provides continuity in distribution, while middle blockers Roamy Alonso and Javier Concepción bring speed and vertical threat at the net. Libero Yonder García anchors the backcourt and leads a defensive unit that has gained stability over the past two editions.
Robertlandy Simon of Cuba
Cuba begin the season ranked 12th in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Ranking. Their campaign opens in Rio de Janeiro from 11 to 15 June, where they will face Slovenia, Brazil, Ukraine and the United States. In Week 2 from 25 to 29 June in Belgrade, they are set to take on Germany, Serbia, Netherlands and Argentina. Then Week 3 will be held from 16 to 20 July in Gdansk, with matchups against Bulgaria, Poland, France and China.
Their development has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, which began with a six-month coaching support in 2023 valued at CHF 12,000. The support had a long-term impact, helping to strengthen the team’s technical preparation and giving the coaching staff the tools to build a more competitive unit on the international stage.
Now in their third VNL season, Cuba are no longer new to the demands of the competition. Their physical style, built around quick swings, strong blocking and high-tempo transition play, has made them a difficult team to face. Against more structured systems, Cuba’s unpredictability and athleticism continue to stand out.
A return to the Final Round remains within reach. With experienced leaders, improved depth and a style that can pose a threat to the top-ranked teams, Cuba’s purpose in 2025 is grounded in the progress they have already made. Their next step is to prove they can sustain it.
Cuba are scheduled to hold a training camp in Argentina ahead of the VNL, including friendly matches with the home side. The trip will form part of their preparations for a packed international season that also includes the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship later this year.
After rebuilding their presence on the international stage, Cuba now face a season that could define their trajectory in the next Olympic cycle. With Simon still in the fold and a more balanced lineup around him, their 2025 campaign is built to power through the pack.
June 4, 2025.- The Dominican Republic opened their 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign with an exciting five-set comeback victory over reigning world champions Serbia in Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. Host Canada also secured a five-set win over Bulgaria to start strong at home. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, the United States fell in their debut against Olympic champions Italy in Rio de Janeiro.
Dominicans complete reverse sweep against Serbia
The second match of the day in Ottawa delivered high drama as the Dominican Republic clawed back from a two-set deficit to defeat Serbia. The “Queens of the Caribbean” didn’t give up after dropping the first two sets, ultimately triumphing 3-2 (26-28, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16), marking the first tiebreak victory of the VNL’s seventh edition.
Outside hitter Brayelin Martínez led the offense with 17 points (11 kills, five blocks, one ace), joined by her sister, middle blocker Jineiry Martínez, who added 16 (14 kills, two blocks). Opposite Gaila González also contributed 16 points (11 kills, four blocks, one ace) in the epic comeback.
Blocking proved to be the Dominicans’ strongest skill, outperforming Serbia 16-11. They also capitalized on Serbian errors, with a 34-22 advantage in opponent unforced mistakes. However, Serbia led in kills (61-58) and aces (10-5).
Brayelin Martinez DOM
Canada needs five sets to beat Bulgaria
The final match of opening day action also went to five sets, with host Canada outlasting Bulgaria 3-2 (25-18, 25-12, 23-25, 19-25, 15-4) in front of their home fans. It was Canada’s first win under new head coach Giovanni Guidetti.
The Canadians were dominant in attacks (67-49) and serves (9-4), while Bulgaria held a slight edge in blocking (10-9).
Star opposite Kiera Van Ryk led all scorers with 25 points (19 kills, four aces, two blocks). Outside hitter Hilary Johnson followed with 18 (16 kills, two aces), and middle blocker Emily Maglio chipped in 14 points (eight kills, five blocks, one ace).
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
USA fall to Italy in opener
Reigning VNL champions Italy imposed their strength early, winning the first two sets comfortably. The third set saw the USA take a commanding 21-14 lead, but Italy mounted a comeback to win the set 30-28 and seal a 3-0 (25-13, 25-13, 30-28) victory in Pool 2, played in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
New American head coach Erik Sullivan fielded a very young squad, with ten players making their VNL debut against the Olympic champions. Sarah Franklin and Logan Lednicky led the USA in scoring with nine points each.
On Thursday June 5, in Ottawa, Dominican Republic faces Bulgaria at 4:00 PM local time, and Canada goes against the Netherlands at 7:30 PM local time. In Rio de Janeiro, the U.S. will meet with host Brazil at 9:00 PM local time.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, June 3, 2025.- The Haitian Volleyball Federation has been in full activity organizing successful tournaments, thanks to the tireless efforts and remarkable dedication by regional organizers.
In parts of the Northern Department, school tournaments began as early as December 2024. In 2025, hundreds of students continued to play volleyball, with championships held in Cap-Haïtien, Ouanaminthe, Hinche, Port-Margot, La Jeune, Mombin-Crochu, Pignon, and Saint-Marc.
A play sequence in the Port-au-Prince championship
Concurrently, the regular First Division tournaments were successfully held by the Ouanaminthe League, while the League in the West tournaments are currently in its final phase. These two major championships welcomed 20 clubs, with a total of approximately 300 athletes.
“I am proud that the Haitian Volleyball Federation has been able to stay the course and ensure that volleyball courts continue to be places of joy and performance for athletes during these challenging times. We recognize the many sacrifices made by both parents and athletes to keep volleyball alive across the country, bringing energy, unity, and hope to a population striving for stability.” said Jean Michel Frédéric François, President of the Haitian Volleyball Federation.
“Special thanks to all the regional leaders for their perseverance, all the institutions that championed us, and especially NORCECA for their continuous support. Seeing our youth smile, play, and push themselves beyond their limits, despite the circumstances, is the greatest triumph for Haitian sports,” concluded Mr. François.
MANATÍ, Puerto Rico, June 3, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV), led by President Dr. César Trabanco, has officially announced that the city of Manatí will host the prestigious 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four tournament, scheduled to take place from July 18 to 20 at the Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu Coliseum.
The event will bring together the national teams of Puerto Rico, Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica in an exciting round-robin format that promises high-level matchups. Additionally, this will be the first tournament to award ranking points toward qualification for the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), adding extra incentive to the competition and increasing its relevance on the international stage.
Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz, Manati
Dr. César Trabanco, President of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, expressed deep gratitude to the Mayor of Manatí, the Honorable José A. Sánchez, for his support to Puerto Rican volleyball and his commitment to the development of sports in the region.
“We greatly value the support of Mayor Sánchez and his team, who have opened the doors of the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum to host a top-tier event. Their backing is a clear demonstration of Manatí’s commitment to the growth of volleyball and the strengthening of our national teams,” said Trabanco.
He also emphasized the importance of the 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four for the Puerto Rican national team and the sport on the island:
“This tournament is a great opportunity for our players to showcase their talent and continue raising the level of volleyball in Puerto Rico. Facing strong opponents like Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica will allow us to compete at the highest level and demonstrate our team’s progress on the international stage. We look forward to an exciting event, with thrilling matches and passionate fans supporting our team as it aims to defend its title.”
As the reigning champion, Puerto Rico will look to maintain its dominance in the tournament and take full advantage of the home court to deliver an unforgettable experience for its fans.
June 2, 2025.- The French Volleyball Federation (FFVolley) hosted its General Assembly this week in Nice led by FFvolley President Eric Tanguy.
Joining the meeting was the FIVB delegation, led by the FIVB President Fabio Azevedo as well as the CEV President and FIVB 2nd Vice-President Roko Sikirić. This was part of an ongoing collaboration with national and continental leaders to advance the sport’s development in France and internationally while encouraging discussions within the Global Volleyball Movement.
During the meeting, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo presented key elements of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 – an ambitious yet realistic roadmap designed to elevate volleyball’s global impact over the next eight years. The strategy, guided by the motto “Together as One”, outlines the FIVB’s key strategic priorities, which include increased investment in grassroots development, digital innovation, enhanced athlete support and further cooperation with partners and stakeholders around the world.
The meeting highlighted the highly successful Olympic Games Paris 2024, held last summer, where both indoor and beach volleyball captivated global audiences. The French men’s volleyball team successfully defended their Olympic title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, while beach volleyball was showcased in the iconic Eiffel Tower Stadium widely celebrated as “the greatest stadium on earth”.
“Paris was a fantastic celebration of our sport and showed us what volleyball is capable of – both in terms of sporting excellence and its power to bring people together,” said Azevedo. “At its core, volleyball embodies key values: collaboration, integration, peace and solidarity, and we saw so much of that in Paris. It’s brilliant to see that this spirit has been sustained, and that FFvolley are continually implementing new initiatives to grow our sport.”
The General Assembly addressed a comprehensive agenda of governance topics, including financial and technical reporting, regulatory updates and activity reports from the National Technical Directorate and Supervisory Board. FFVolley President presented his annual report that was fully endorsed by the Assembly.
The FIVB’s visit reaffirmed its close working relationship with FFVolley, the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), and other key stakeholders who were also present at the assembly.
“As we look to the future, unity and collaboration at every level of the game are vital as we continue building our sport around four central pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation,” Azevedo concluded. “We move forward together, ‘Together as One’, guided by a shared vision and a collective commitment to growing our sport.”
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 31, 2025. – In an event held at Cayo Caribe, The Outlets at Montehiedra, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Volleyball Pre-Selection was officially presented under the leadership of Head Coach Juan C. Núñez and his staff, including assistant coach José Mieles.
A group of athletes, made up of a mix of young talent and experienced veterans from the national program, is preparing for training sessions ahead of this summer’s international commitments.
“I’m excited and happy to be in charge of this talented group of players. It’s an excellent blend of youth and experience, with athletes returning to the program and others who will have their first opportunity to compete at this level,” said Núñez.
The preliminary group consists of approximately 19 to 22 players. As training progresses, the coaching staff will face the difficult task of making cuts to determine the final roster that will represent Puerto Rico in the upcoming summer qualification tournament.
The libero position, in particular, has multiple strong candidates, which will intensify internal competition. “For official tournaments, we must have a 14-player roster, which means eventually five or six players will be cut,” Núñez explained.
Training will begin this coming Monday at the University of Puerto Rico, with sessions open to the press. “We want everyone to be able to see the team’s preparation process. We’ll be training at 5:30 p.m. initially on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Then, we’ll add a fourth day and adjust the schedule as the weeks progress,” the coach stated.
With this preparation phase underway, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Team aims to solidify its roster and strengthen its play in anticipation of the important challenges it will face in the coming months.
Senior Women’s National Team Summer Events:
– NORCECA Women’s Final Four – Host: Puerto Rico, July 16–21
– XII Pan American Cup Women – Host: Mexico, August 1–11
– FIVB Women’s World Championship – Host: Bangkok, Thailand, August 22–September 7
– NORCECA Women’s Final Six – Host: Mexico, September 22–29
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, May 30, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation held the official presentation of the 2025 Men’s Senior National Volleyball Preliminary Roster, which will train to represent Puerto Rico in upcoming NORCECA and FIVB tournaments.
Head coach of the senior national team, Jamille Torres, inspired the players with a motivational message:
“I want to be a facilitator and help you achieve everything you set out to do because just like you have goals, I have mine too. I’d like to win the Olympics, but we must go step by step. Let’s think big, beyond the Central American Games. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I want you to make the most of it. I was once in your shoes, and one day you could be in mine. I’ll always be available to help you with anything you need.”
Meanwhile, the president of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, Dr. César Trabanco, emphasized the importance of the competitive path ahead for the team:
“Puerto Rico has the talent to position itself among volleyball’s elite. The Volleyball Nations League and the World Championship are key opportunities for international exposure and growth. Every tournament adds vital ranking points and helps with Olympic qualification. With effort, discipline, and commitment, we can compete with and beat top teams. This team has everything needed to make its mark.”
The men’s senior team will face a demanding schedule, with high-level tournaments paving the way toward the international elite:
– NORCECA Men Final Four – México, July 23-28
– XVIII Pan-American Cup – México, August 24 -September 1
– NORCECA Final Six – Puerto Rico, October 4 -13
The coaching staff and players are committed to preparation and teamwork, with a shared goal of proudly and excellently representing Puerto Rico in these events.
Men’s Preliminary Roster by Position
Outside Hitters: Omar Hoyos Pedro Molina Pele Vargas Jr. Kevin López Diego Rosich Axel Meléndez Lorenzo Rivera Antonio Feliciano
Opposites: Klistan Lawrence Jamal Ellis Gregory Torres Sebastián Negrón
Middle Blockers: Jonathan Rodríguez Antonio Elías Ismael Alomar Janluar Figueroa Ramón Rosado Iván Fernández Eliel Salva
Setters: Kevin Rodríguez Howard García Daniel Henwood Diego Estrada
Liberos: Arnel Cabrera Dennis Del Valle Luis Bertrán Noah Meléndez
Coaching Staff:
Jamille Torres – Head Coach Ramon Lawrence – Assistant Coach Felix Román – Statistician
May 28 2025.- A Canadian at the helm, a home opener and their rise mark a defining chapter for the men’s team at the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.
The 2025 Volleyball Nations League arrives at a defining moment for the Canadian men’s national team. With three Olympic appearances in the past decade and a breakthrough VNL Final Round finish in 2024, the team has turned sustained development into results. Now, with a Canadian coach on the bench and the season opening on home soil, the journey not only comes full circle — it finally hits home.
Dan Lewis, a former national team player and long-time assistant, was appointed head coach in January. His promotion reflects the federation’s focus on continuity and leadership from within. After competing for Canada as a player at the highest level and contributing from the sidelines in recent years, Lewis now leads a group he knows well into the next stage of its evolution.
The coaching shift builds on a foundation strengthened by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2020, Canada have received CHF 1.55 million in support across both volleyball and beach volleyball, through application-based and targeted projects. That backing has supported long-term coaching and technical development for the national team programmes, contributing to the progress of the men’s squad at the highest level.
The 2025 squad features players from last year’s campaigns at the Paris Olympics and the Volleyball Nations League, alongside younger talent rising through the national pathway. Under Lewis, the team will continue to rely on its physical presence, structured systems and strong team identity that shaped their breakthrough performance in 2024.
Canada’s 2025 squad is led by some of their most prominent returnees from their Paris 2024 roster, including Luke Herr, Fynn McCarthy and Nick Hoag. Their contribution and experience at the international level remain central to Canada’s goals this season.
Canada host Week 1 of the VNL from 11 to 15 June at Centre Vidéotron in Quebec, where they face Germany, Argentina, France and Bulgaria. In Week 2, Canada travel to Chicago for matchups against Brazil, United States, Poland and China from 25 to 29 June. The final week of the preliminaries takes place in Ljubljana from 16 to 20 July, where they meet hosts Slovenia, Netherlands, Serbia and Ukraine.
Canada have appeared in every edition of the VNL since its launch in 2018. After years of consistent presence, their qualification to the Final Round in 2024 confirmed their arrival among men’s volleyball’s top-tier contenders. That upward trend now continues with a renewed leadership structure and home-court spotlight.
The 2025 season will also serve as a key step in preparation for the FIVB Men’s World Championship later this year.
May 27, 2025.- The extended rosters of the 24 teams that will participate in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship have now been released and the eager volleyball fans can already find out which rising stars of world volleyball are getting ready to hit the courts in Osijek, Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia from July 2 to 13.
While at this young age, the volleyball stars of the future are still building up their fame, there are still plenty of names on the rosters that would ring a volleyball fan’s bell.
Defending U19 world champions United States, for example, will be captained by Genevieve Harris (pictured in the main photo), the Best Setter of last year’s NORCECA U19 Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship.
China’s squad is highlighted by Yang Shuming , who was selected Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Opposite of the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship as well as MVP of the 2024 AVC U18 Women’s Volleyball Asian Championship, Chen Xiaohui, who was one of the U17 Dream Team middle blockers, and another three of the players, who snatched the inaugural U17 world title last year – Guo Zhongnan, Huang Yuexin and Wang Yibo. The two continental U18 Dream Teamers – outside Zhai Yurui and middle Wang Aoqian – are also on China’s roster.
Reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria have 13 of the 14 players who conquered the continental title last year on the roster for the upcoming U19 World Championship, headlined by EuroVolley U18 MVP and Best Setter Dimana Ivanova and other Dream Teamers like outside Kalina Veneva and middle Darina Naneva.
The MVP of the 2024 CSV U19 Girls’ Volleyball South American Championship, Mikaela Hestmann, is one of the outside hitters on the list of Brazilian players for Croatia-Serbia 2025, accompanied by setter and captain Luana Vazquez and middle Lara Rodrigues, also among the individual awardees at last year’s continental event.
A number of other continental Dream Teamers are featured on the rosters of Argentina (Paula Tomasa and Julia Allub), Belgium (Liese Verhelst and Jasmine Debout), Chile (Martina Allende), Chinese Taipei (Chen Pin-Yu), Dominican Republic (Julie Arias and Caroline Rodriguez), Italy (Ludovica Tosini and Veronica Quero), Japan (Tanyama Tsubaki and Chugangi Rion), Mexico (Caroline Rodriguez), Peru (Fatima Villafuerte) and Thailand (Sasitorn Jatta).
The German team will be captained by outside hitter Leana Grozer and it is no accident that that last name also rings a loud bell. Her legendary father Gyorgy Grozer is still an active and successful volleyballer at the age of 40. For sure, there are a few other “famous” daughters who will defend the honors of their family names, like Simona Ivanova, the daughter of Bulgarian legend Evgeni Ivanov, or Arianna Bovolenta, the daughter of Italian legend Vigor Bovolenta, to name a couple…
May 27, 2025.- Defending 2023 U19 world champions and reigning 2024 U18 European champions France will play in one of the three opening games of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship set to take place from July 24 to August 3 in Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent.
The full match schedule for the pool stage of the competition has now been released, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation about how the on-court battles, involving the rising stars of world volleyball, will unfold on the way to crowning the new U19 boys’ world champions.
France will take on Canada in a Pool B game at 11:00 local time (06:00 UTC) on one of the three competition courts in Tashkent. At the same time, on the other two courts, Belgium will meet Pakistan in a Pool A fixture and Iran will face Spain in Pool C.
In a remake of the 2024 Boys’ U18 African Nations Volleyball Championship, Egypt and Tunisia will open their Pool C campaigns at 14:00 (09:00). Meanwhile, U19 South American champions Argentina will take on Puerto Rico in Pool A.
An all-European clash between Italy and Poland, silver and bronze medalists of the 2024 CEV U18 Men’s Volleyball European Championship, in Pool C, and an all-Asian duel between Japan and last year’s U18 continental champions China in Pool B will highlight the third set of three matches, serving off at 17:00 (12:00) on the first competition day. Tournament hosts Uzbekistan will also start off their campaign at that time with a Pool A fixture against Türkiye.
The entire first leg of Pool D matches will get underway at the same time, 20:00 (15:00), with 2024 U19 NORCECA champions USA entering the competition with a game against Finland.
These four time slots will apply to all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 24 through July 29, with a rest day on July 27.
The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on August 3. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.
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