Year: 2023

Dominicans and Puerto Rico seek the feat in women’s volleyball against Cuba and Mexico

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 25, 2023.- The semifinals of the women’s beach volleyball tournament at the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games to be played on Monday at the beach soccer National Stadium in Costa del Sol, with two countries seeking to dethrone Cuba, the top winners in the history of the Games.

Puerto Rico’s duo of Maria Gonzalez/Allanis Nava, one of the tournament favorites, will face Mexicans Abril Flores/Atenas Gutiérrez at 4:00 p.m. Puerto Rico has only one silver medal, won during the 2010 Mayagüez, while Mexico has been a finalist in five of the six editions, winning three gold medals (1998, 2002 y 2010) and two silvers (2006 y 2014).

While Dominicans Julibeth Payano/Bethania Almanza will face Cubans Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armentero at 5:00 p.m. Dominican Republic earned a bronze medal in 2002 and Cuba has three gold medals, two of them in a row in 2014 and 2018, and also a silver medal in 1998.

Today in classification matches for positions 9 to 15, Almeida/Bennett (ISV) won 2-0 (21-16, 21-6) over Tulloch/Gaetos (CAY) and will face Ramirez/Arnold (BIZ) who won 2-0 (21-10, 21-6) against Leblanc/Calhoun (BER), for position 13 and the defeated ones will go for position 15.

Beltrand/ Moreno (COL) prevailed 2-0 (21-11, 21-12) over Joseph/Glasgow (TTO) and will play for position 9 against Williams/Araya (CRC) who beat Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith (JAM) 2-0 (21-10, 21-19) who will play for position 11.

Silva/Rodríguez (NCA) won 2-0 over Girón/Betancourt (CCS) and will face Venezuela who beat Soler/Molina (ESA) 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) for fifth place on Tuesday. El Salvador will face CCS for position 7.

Monday’s schedule

Puestos 15-16 .- CAY vs BER 8:00 a.m.

Puestos 13-14 .- ISV vs BIZ 9:00 a.m.

Puestos 11-12 .- TTO vs JAM 10:00 a.m.

Puestos 9-10 .- COL vs CRC 1:00 p.m.

Semifinals

MEX vs CUB 4:00 p.m.

CUB vs DOM 5:00 p.m.

Sunday’s results

ISV 2-0 CAY 21-16, 21-6

COL 2-0 TTO 21-11, 21-12

BIZ 2-0 BER 21-10, 21-6

CRC 2-0 JAM 21-10, 21-19

NCA 2-0 CCS (Forfeit por lesión)

Por lugar 19 SKN 2-0 LCA  21-15, 21-19

Por lugar 17 PAN 2-0 GRN 21-5, 21-16

VEN 2-0 ESA (21-12, 21-12)

NORCECA awarded a recognition to Dr. Ary Graça for his valuable support during his presidency

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PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, June 24, 2023.- The North, Central American and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA awarded a special recognition to FIVB President Dr. Ary Graça, for his valuable support to all the successful actions towards NORCECA during his presidency.

NORCECA President, Dominican Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, handed out the recognition to Dr. Graça in appreciation for all the support to the National Federations members of NORCECA during his presidency.

“There is no way to thank all the support you have given to the different initiatives presented by NORCECA to the FIVB and we’ve received their solidarity, even at hard moments, such as those during the COVID pandemic in 2020-2021”, said Marte Hoffiz.

FIVB President Dr. Ary da Silva Graça, was thankful for the recognition from NORCECA and motivated them to continue working hard, with planning and vision to keep the global volleyball family together.

PHOTO GALLERY

“We are a family, and we are always seeking the best for every actor who intervenes for a solid and robust FIVB, where innovation can reach every corner of the world” said FIVB president.

The FIVB Board of Administration, presided by its President Dr. Ary Graça, concluded this past week a productive three-day meeting in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where they discussed several important topics.

During the meeting, all members were presented with a complete report of Volleyball around the world by its General Director, Finn Taylor.

He highlighted the remarkable success of the ongoing 2023 VNL, with a 50% improvement in attendance compared to last year, as well as substantial improvement in subscribers since the beginning of the event.

Highly Successful FIVB Board Of Administration Meeting Concludes In Dominican Republic

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Updates to the composition of the FIVB Athletes’ Commission were also approved

The FIVB Board of Administration, led by FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F°, today concluded its productive three-day gathering in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with a number of important topics discussed.

During the meeting, the members received comprehensive updates on Volleyball World from its CEO, Finn Taylor. He highlighted the remarkable success of the ongoing VNL 2023, with a notable 50% increase in attendance compared to last year’s edition, as well as substantial growth in OTT subscribers since the beginning of the event.

In addition, the Board discussed and approved a number of proposals from the FIVB Commissions and Councils.

Beach volleyball Olympian Doaa Elghobashy from Egypt is now part of the Athletes’ Commission

In particular, the FIVB Board of Administration approved, with immediate effect, the following proposals of the Athletes’ Commission:

1) For Simone Anzani (ITA) to substitute resigned Samuele Papi (ITA) as an Athletes’ Commission Member

2) For Sam Deroo (BEL) to substitute Samuele Papi (ITA) as the Athletes’ Commission Secretary

3) For Doaa Elghobashy (EGY) to substitute resigned Anouk Verge-Depre as an Athletes’ Commission Member.

World champion, Simone Anzani joins the FIVB Athletes’ Commission

Moreover, Kare Mol (NOR), a head coach of the Norwegian Vikings, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, joins the Technical and Coaching Commission as an observer representing beach volleyball.

During the meeting, the Presidents of all five Continental Confederations presented their projects for the years 2023-2024, while updates on volleyball and beach volleyball events were also shared, including the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Cuba rebound to take down Bulgaria in five sets

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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 25, 2023.- Cuba rebound from falling in the first set to take down Bulgaria in five sets 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 25-20, 16-25, 18-16) in their last match of week 2 at the Volleyball Nations League on Sunday in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The victory over Bulgaria gives Cuba a breath of fresh air to enter the third week of VNL where they will travel to Anaheim where they will play against host United States, Serbia, Germany, and Iran. Cuba has a 2-6 record and eight points, in position 12.

Scoring 27 points, Cuban opposite Jesus Herrera was the top scorer in the match, with 21 kills and a match-high of six aces. Two other Cuban players finished with double digits, Miguel Angel Lopez with 19 points (17 kills, one block, one ace) and Osniel Mergarejo with 12 points (ten kills and two blocks).

Nikolov Aleksander was Bulgaria’s top scorer with 23 points.

Cuba was more productive in kills (62 to 54) and in serves (8 to 3) but committed more unforced errors than their opponents (35 to 29). Bulgaria led in blocks (13 to 8).  

Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico and Nicaragua reach CAC Games Beach Volleyball Men’s semifinals

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 23, 2023.- Cuba, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Nicaragua advanced to the men’s beach volleyball tournament semifinals of the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games.

The semifinals will be held on Monday June 26.

Noslen Diaz/Jorge Luis Alayo of Cuba had no difficulties in beating Rolando Hernández/José Gómez of Venezuela 2-0 (21-15, 21-12), thanks to Alayo’s blocking and serves, and to Diaz unstoppable kills.

Cuba will face Juan Virgen and Miguel Sarabia of Mexico who won their semifinal ticket over Daniel Dyner/Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica 2-0 (21-10, 21-17). Virgen finished second place in the last two editions of the Central American and Caribbean Games after falling to a Cuban team and the table is now served.

Nicaragua’s Ruben Mora and Jefferson Cascante qualified to semifinals for the first time in the history of the Central American and Caribbean Games after a challenging victory 2-1 (18-21, 21-14, 15-11) over Colombian duo of Juan Carlos Noriega/Yeferson De La Hoz.

Ruben Mora (1) and Jefferson Cascante (2) of Nicaragua

Mora/Cascante will face Kevin Rodriguez/ Josué Rivera of Puerto Rico, who beat the Centro Caribe team of Andy Leonardo/Luis García 2-0 (21-18, 21-9).

Results postions 9 to 21

In classification matches for positions 9 to 23, Ernest Broaster/ Gabriel Nuñez (BIZ) beat  Sebastián Simmons/ Scott Hawking (TCI) 2-0. Hayerling De Jesús/Oscar Martínez (DOM) won 2-0 (21-15, 21-5) against Jesario Ebanks/Casey Santamaria (CAY). St Clair Hodge/Shaw Seabrookes (SKN) prevailed 2-0 (21-16, 21-19) over Ryck Webb/Martin Blake (JAM).  Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen (ISV) beat Sheldon Descartes/Joseph Clercent (LCA) 2-1 (18-21, 21-14, 15-10). Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala (ESA) beat Irvens Benjamin/Joseph Olando (HAI)2-0 (21-18, 21-9).

Saturday’s Results

Cuartos de final

MEX 2-0 CRC (21-10, 21-17)

CUB 2-0 VEN (21-15, 21-12)

PUR 2-0 GUA (21-18, 21-9)

NCA 2-1 COL (18-21, 21-14, 15-11)

Juegos por posiciones del 9 al 21

BIZ 2-0 TCI 10 forfeit

PAN 2-0 MQE forfeit

JAM 2-0 SKN (21-16, 21-19)

DOM 2-0 CAY (21-15, 21-5)

ESA 2-0 HAI (21-15, 21-9)

ISV 2-1 LCA (18-21, 21-14, 15-10)

TCI – MQE (DNS)

Kevin Rodriguez (1) and Josué Rivera (2) of Puerto Rico

Sunday’s Classification matches

JAM vs CAY 10:00 a.m. C2

SKN vs DOM 10:00 a.m. CC

HAI vs LCA 11:00 a.m. C2

ANT vs VIN 11:00 a.m. CC

BIZ vs PAN 12:00 md CC

CRC vs VEN 2:00 p.m. CC

GUA vs COL 3:00 p.m. CC

ESA vs ISV 7:00 p.m. CC

Puerto Rico, México, Cuba and Dominican Republic advance to Women’s Semifinals

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 24, 2023.- Three Caribbean countries and one from the North will battle for the two tickets into the women’s finals beach volleyball tournament of the 2023 San Salvador Central American Games.

Puerto Rico with their flawless performance (velocity and strength), Mexico with their calm and effective game, Dominican Republic with their blocking reach and strong kills, and Cuba with youth and energy, are the four best teams of the Games to advance into Monday’s semifinals.

The semifinal matches will be on Monday June 24.

María González and Allanis Navas of Puerto Rico with great defense, combined with a good touch and power, dominated Gabriela Brito and Juliennis Regalado of Venezuela 2-0 (21-16, 21-16).

Mexico’s Abril Flores and Atenas Gutiérrez beat Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina of El Salvador 2-0 (21-15, 21-12) and will face Puerto Rico’s González/Navas in semifinals who are having a great season.

Abril Flores of Mexico tips the ball

Cubans Yenifer Rivera and Amanda Armenteros won their semifinal spot after defeating Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt (CCS) who couldn’t complete their quarterfinal match because Bethancourt suffered a knee injury.

Cuba’s semifinal opponents are Julibeth Payano and Bethania Almanzar of Dominican Republic who beat Nahima Silva and Lolette Rodríguez of Nicaragua 2-0 (21-14, 21-16), to set the Caribbean derby.

Yennifer Rivera of Cuba

Position matches 9-23

In classification matches for positions 9 to 23, Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith (JAM) won 2-0 (12-8, 12-10) against Lisa Leblanc/Megan Calhoun (BER). Denila/Neptune (LCA) won 2-0 (21-14, 21-9) against Edwards/Lewis (ANT); Joseph/Glasgow (TTO) beat Almeida/Bennett (ISV) 2-0 (21-18, 21-19); Beltrand/ Moreno (COL) won 2-0 (21-5, 21-5) to Tulloch/Gaetos (CAY); Honduras finished their performance in position 21. Williams/Araya (CRC) won 2-0 21-17, 21-13) to Ramirez/Arnold (BIZ).

Quarterfinal Results

MEX 2-0 ESA (21-14, 21-17)

PUR 2-0 VEN (21-16, 21-16)

CUB def CCS (injury team B)

DOM 2-0 (21-14, 21-16) NCA

Positions 9 to 23

SKN 2-0 HON (21-14, 21-17)

LCA 2-0 ANT (21-14, 21-9)

TTO 2-0 ISV (21-18, 21-19)

COL 2-0 CAY (21-5, 21-5)

JAM 2-0 (2-8, 21-10)

CRC 2-0 BIZ (21-17, 21-13)

HON 2-0 ANT (DNS)

Sunday’s schedule (Positions 5-16)

ISV vs CAY 8:00 a.m. C2

TTO – COL 8:00 a.m. CC

BER vs BIZ 9:00 a.m. C2

JAM vs CRC 9:00 a.m. CC

CCS vs NCA 1:00 p.m. CC

SKN vs LCA 4:00 p.m. CC

GRN vs PAN 5:00 p.m. CC

ESA vs VEZ 6:00 p.m. CC 

Level I Coaches Course concludes in the Dominican Republic

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 24, 2023.- With the participation of 35 coaches from the National District Volleyball Association of the Dominican Republic, the Norceca/FIVB Regional Center for Volleyball Development held a course for Level 1 Regional Volleyball Coaches.

The five-day course was conducted by Venezuelan instructors Alexander Gutiérrez Sánchez and Rómulo Hernández.

In the closing ceremony, Mr. Ángel Rivas, President of ASOVODINA, who is at the Central American and Caribbean Games in El Salvador, via zoom, expressed “our organization will spare no effort to continue preparing coaches in charge of clubs and schools all over the country”.

Ángel Rivas thanked the Juancito Sport Foundation for their support in organizing this important course, as well as FEDOVOLI and the NORCECA Confederation.

USA sweep Poland and get one step closer to the top

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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 24, 2023.- The United States scored another big win in the Volleyball Nations League 2023 on Saturday in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and continue their pursuit of Japan to get to the top of the standings.

The Americans gave no chance to FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Rankings leaders Poland, pulling out a 3-0 (25-22, 25-18, 25-19) victory in their last match in the Dutch city.

With seven victories in eight matches at the conclusion of the second week of the VNL 2023, the Americans head back home with 21 points and are within striking distance of Japan, the only undefeated side in the tournament, with eight victories and 22 points.

Outside hitter Torey Defalco played a big role in the American victory, leaving the court as the match’s top scorer with 17 points – 14 kills, two aces, one block. Fellow outside hitter Aaron Russell also reached double digits, with 11 points (eight kills, one ace, two blocks).

United States celebrates a point against Poland

Two other USA standouts were opposite Matt Anderson, who delivered nine points (seven kills, two aces), and setter Micah Christenson, who besides running the team’s offense, also produced six points himself, with one kill, one ace and a match-high four blocks.

Poland had in opposite and team captain Bartosz Kurek their most consistent player – the 34-year-old veteran produced 11 points (ten kills, one block). Middle blocker Norbert Huber contributed another seven, with four kills, one ace and two blocks.

With the two sides getting even in points scored by opponent errors (22 to 22), it came down to the actual skills to determine the winners and the Americans were most effective in all of them, outscoring the Poles in kills (38 to 29), blocks (eight to six) and aces (seven to two).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Ariel Sainz: “Beach Volleyball at San Salvador 2023, challenge overcome”

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 24, 2023.- Beach Volleyball was the first sport in action at the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games; that required a series of challenges that were overcome with the efforts of many.  

The International Technical Director for Volleyball, Cuban Ariel Sainz, NORCECA first-vice president, oversees ensuring the running of the tournament and said it has been a challenging task, but they have managed to overcome every obstacle.

“This event originally was set to be held in 2002 in Panama but given the impossibility of their National Committee to organize the Games, El Salvador came out to organize them with great quality” said Sainz.

“We’ve had long working days, there have been many obstacles along the way, but in the end, it was achieved. I consider that beach volleyball has a great competition venue, adapted, because we all know that it’s the National Beach Soccer Stadium and it was at the last minute, because we had already made inspection visits in a different venue, but the organizing committee announced they weren’t going to be ready on time”.

“I first want to thank the confidence from Centro Caribe Sports, as that of the Organizing Committee (COSSAN) and the multidisciplinary working group that were involved in the task; we have the event running, without setbacks, 100 percent satisfaction of the athletes, coaches, delegates, and that fills us with satisfaction because we can evaluate the response capacity to overcome difficulties”, added Sainz.  

Costa del Sol Stadium

It’s important, said Sainz, “to give recognition to the National Volleyball Federation of El Salvador (FESAVOL), to everyone involved in setting up the courts, Roberto García, Guillermo Polanco, Eduardo Paiz, Pedro Rivas, who one way or another have been collaborating for this event to be possible”.

NORCECA first vice-president added “we had the challenge to open the Games as one of the first sports in competition; NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, had the confidence and vision in us all, the experienced members of the Control Committee with

José Luis Jiménez Lao, Salvador Bautista, Amos Anglade, Claudia Rivera, Bertha Cuadra, Jacqueline Cowan, Julio Martínez, Martin Swasey, Donibal Alvarez, Emir Alfaro, Ernesto Beltré, all involved in the success of the event, responding and solving every inconvenience and the director of competition Ed Drakich, who has conducted the event effectively”.

“We are working, but we are enjoying the twenty fourth Central American and Caribbean Games and that for the third occasion have been held in El Salvador” he expressed.

In addition, Sainz Rodriguez said “we have also taken up the challenge of indoors, we have made two inspections to the competition and training halls during these days. The official venue is the National Sports Palace Carlos El Famoso Hernández, which we inspected this past Friday, and the construction will be finished today and the court will be installed for a successful competition at the Games”.

Host team France sweeps Canada

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ORLEANS, France, June 24, 2023.-  Canada concluded its second week of Volleyball Nations League in Orleans, France, with a 0-3 (17-25, 21-25, 21-25) loss to the home side.

France, 2020 Olympic champions, led in attack (51-38) points and blanked Canada’s block (5-0), while the teams were even on service points (4-4), and France made a couple more errors than Canada.

Stephen Maar (14) and Arthur Szwarc (13) led Canada in points; while Trevor Clevenot (17) and Jean Patry (16) were top contributors for the winning team.

Canada against France VNL 2023

Canada has two wins and six losses so far in VNL 2023. Although Canada has completed the second phase of men’s VNL, one day remains of week 2 matches.

The women’s tournament resumes on Tuesday, June 27, and Canada’s men’s team’s next phase begins July 05 in Philippines.

View all match stats here: https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/schedule/16175/

Standings: https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/standings/men/

San Salvador 2023 officially established

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SAN SALVADOR.- The XXIV Central American and Caribbean Games, San Salvador 2023, were inaugurated under a colorful atmosphere of sporting fraternity.

The President of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, welcomed each of the countries that will compete from June 23 to July 8 in the main sports event of the region.

“Welcome to El Salvador, the heart of America”, said Bukele during the opening speech of the games.

He indicated that San Salvador 2023 will serve to demonstrate the existing brotherhood between nations of Central America and the Caribbean.

He indicated that the assembly of the sports event has not been an easy task, but he pointed out that they assumed the responsibility of the assembly because it was an opportunity to show the world the change that El Salvador has had as a country.

While the President of Centro Caribe Sports, Luis Mejía Oviedo, thanked the Salvadoran people for saving and rescuing the Central American and Caribbean Games, which were affected by the economic recess caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“President Bukele, you have given us a lesson and that is to have faith and trust in ourselves”, said Mejía Oviedo, who highlighted that every time he spoke with the Salvadoran Prime Minister, he expressed confidence and trust that the games would be a reality.

“Thank you El Salvador for saving our games. Long live the Central American and Caribbean Games,” he said.

Opening ceremony 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games

He also took the opportunity to thank the Dominican Republic and the government of Luis Abinader, for opening the doors of the Caribbean nation to serve as a sub-venue for several sports.

Mejía Oviedo took the opportunity to congratulate each National Olympic Committee: “You have done a titanic job”.

The President of the Organizing Committee of San Salvador 2023 (COSSAN 2023), Yamil Bukele, detailed the adversities they overcame and how they remained optimistic in the face of the doubts and pessimism of many people.

“These games will remain for history, because where many saw difficulties, we saw opportunities”, considered the also Ad Honorem president of the National Sports Institute of El Salvador (Indes).

He thanked the collaborators and workers who worked long hours for the assembly of San Salvador 2023.

The XXIV Central American and Caribbean Games, San Salvador 2023, will be held in the Dominican Republic, which hosted seven sports disciplines.

Eight duos to battle for the Men’s Beach Volleyball semifinals at the CAC Games

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 23, 2023.- The best eight duos of the men’s Beach Volleyball Tournament at the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games are ready to win their ticket to Saturday’s semifinals, after a hard battle in the knockout round.

Juan Virgen and Miguel Sarabia of Mexico won 2-0 (21-15, 21-9) over Ryck Webb/Martin Blake of Jamaica and advanced to meet Daniel Dyner/ Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica who left behind 2-0 (21-17, 21-19) St. Clair Hodge/Shwa Seabrookes  (SKN).

In the other bracket, Noslen Diaz/Jorge Luis Alayo of Cuba, had no complications in beating Dominicans Hayerling De Jesús/Oscar Martínez 2-0 (21-7, 21-14) and they are set to face Rolando Hernández/José Gómez of Venezuela in quarterfinals, who earlier won 2-0 (21-9, 21-8) against Jesario Ebanks/Casey Santamaria (CAY).

Cuban monster block against Dominican Republic

Kevin Rodriguez/ Josué Rivera of Puerto Rico won 2-0 (21-17, 21-17) over the home team of  Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala (ESA) and will look for their semifinal spot against the team of Centro Caribe Sports, Andy Leonardo/Luis García, who defeated Hati’s  Irvens Benjamin/Joseph Olando 2-0 (21-11, 21-19).

Colombians Juan Carlos Noriega/Yeferson De La Hoz prevailed 2-0 (21-13, 21-10) over Sheldon Descartes/Joseph Clercent of St. Lucia and will play in quarterfinals against  Rubén Mora/Jefferson Cascante of Nicaragua who earlier overcame  Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen of US Virgin Islands 2-0 (21-12, 21-12).

Friday’s Results

MEX 2-0 (21-15, 21-9) JAM

CRC 2-0 (21-17, 21-19) SKN

CUB 2-0 (21-7, 21-14) DOM

VEN 2-0 (21-9, 21-8) CAY

PUR 2-0 (21-17, 21-17) ESA

GUA 2-0 (21-11, 21-19) HAI

NCA 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) ISV

COL 2-0 (21-13, 21-10) LCA

Kevin Rodriguez of Puerto Rico spikes

Saturday’s schedule

Quarterfinals

MEX vs CRC 2:00 p.m. CC

CUB vs VEN 3:00 p.m. CC

GUA vs PUR 6:00 p.m. CC

COL vs NCA 7:00 p.m. CC

Matches for positions 9-23

BIZ vs TCI 10 :00 a.m. CC

PAN vs MQE 10:00 a.m. C2

JAM vs SKN 11:00 a.m. CC

DOM vs CAY 11:00 a.m. C2

HAI vs ESA 2:00 p.m. C2

ISV vs LCA 3:00 p.m. C2

Battles for a ticket into women’s semifinals are ready

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 23, 2023.- The quarterfinal round to win a ticket into the semifinals of the women’s Beach Volleyball Tournament at the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games are ready.

Abril Flores/Atenas Gutiérrez of Mexico beat Teisha Joseph/Apphia Glasgow of Trinidad and Tobago 2-0 (21-8, 21-6) to advance into quarterfinals where they will face Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina of El Salvador. Soler/Molina prevailed 2-0 (21-14, 21-10) against Cristina Almeida/Amber Benneth of US Virgin Islands.

Puerto Rico’s Maria Gonzalez/Allanis Navas  defeated Ana Maria Beltrand/Yaleny Moreno of Colombia 2-0 (21-12, 21-13) and their quarterfinal opponent is Gabriela Brito/Juliennis Regalado of Venezuela who came from a 2-0 (21-6, 21-4) victory over Deajra Tulloch/Chlouie Gaetos (CAY).

Nahima Silva of Nicaragua

The team of Centro Caribe Sports -CCS -(Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt) dominated Lisa Leblanc/Megan Calhoun of Bermudas 2-0 (21-5, 21-4) and will battle for a semifinal spot against  cubans Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armenteros who earlier beat Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith of Jamaica 2-0 (21-15, 21-9).

Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodríguez of Nicaragua recovered from falling in the first set and came on top 2-1 (19-21, 21-15, 15-11) to Angel Williams/Kianny Araya of Costa Rica. Nicaragua’s next opponent is Dominican Republic of Julibeth Payano/Bethania Almanzar who beat Nelissa Ramirez/Shantell Arnold of Belize 2-0 (21-8, 21-8).

Friday’s results

ESA 2-0 (21-14, 21-10) ISV

MEX 2-0 (21-8, 21-6) TTO

PUR 2-0 (21-12, 21-13) COL

VEN 2-0 (21-6, 21-4) CAY

CCS 2-0 (21-5, 21-4) BER

CUB 2-0 (21-15, 21-9) JAM

NCA 2-1 CRC (19-21, 21-15, 15-11)

DOM 2-0 (21-8, 21-8) BIZ

Maria Gonzalez of Puerto Rico reaches to spike

Quarterfinal schedule, Saturday June 24

MEX vs ESA 12:00 md CC

PUR vs VEN 1:00 p.m. CC

GUA vs CUB 4:00 p.m. CC

NCA vs DOM 5:00 p.m. CC

Posiciones del 9 al 22

HON vs SKN. 8:00 a.m. CC

LCA vs ANT 8:00 a.m. C2

TTO vs ISV 9:00 a.m. CC

COL vs CAY 9:00 a.m. C2

BER vs JAM 12:00 a.m. C2

CRC vs BIZ 1:00 .m. C2

Financial And Legal Presentations Discussed At The FIVB Board Of Administration Meeting

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FIVB accounts 2022 approved alongside some changes to the FIVB Regulations

The FIVB Board of Administration meeting continued today with the 2022 Accounts and legal presentations, as well as the reiteration of the initial decision, in line with the latest IOC recommendations, regarding the participation of the national teams from Russia and Belarus in international and continental events.

During the meeting, the Board of Administration approved the Business Report 2022 – Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet, as well as the report of the FIVB Controller 2022 and the Deloitte External Auditors’ Report 2022.

Additionally, the Board of Administration was presented with the legal presentation and proposals of the Legal Commission, which included changes to a number of FIVB Regulations, the appointment of the FIVB Disciplinary Panel and approval of the CAVB Constitution.

Following the detailed review of the FIVB Legal Commission, the FIVB Board of Administration also reiterated its previous decision that all Russian and Belarusian national teams, clubs, officials and beach volleyball and snow volleyball athletes are not eligible to participate in all international and continental events until further notice, which is in line with the latest IOC recommendations. It has also been decided not to display Russia and Belarus in the World Rankings for the duration of their non-participation at events as their ranking points remain frozen as per the decision of the FIVB Board of Administration in October 2022.

France defeats Cuba in Men’s VNL

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ORLEANS, France, June 23, 2023.- The home team France defeated Cuba 3-0 (25-18, 25-20, 25-20) on week 2 of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League in Orleans, France.

Cuba is 1-6 and on Saturday they will face NORCECA opponent Canada 2-5 once again in this years’ edition of VNL.

Both France and Cuba scored on 32 kills and four aces. Cuba led in blocks (eight to five) but benefited France with their huge number of unforced errors (34-14).

Outside hitter Miguel Angel López led Cuba with 12 points on nine kills and three aces and outside hitter Marlon Yant contributed with 10 points on seven kills and three blocks. Middle blocker Javier Concepción added 8 points.

Strong serving keys U.S. Men VNL win over Iran

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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 23, 2023.-  The U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Iran 3-0 (25-22, 25-18, 25-23) for its third consecutive victory in Week 2 of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) preliminary round in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The U.S. Men (6-1) return to the court at 4 a.m. PT to face the world’s top-ranked team, Poland (5-1).

The U.S. Men finished the match with 13 service aces, registering at least four in each set. Outside hitter Aaron Russell led the way with seven aces, and outside hitter Thomas Jaeschke and middle blocker David Smith each added a pair.

Opposite Matt Anderson and middle blocker Taylor Averill each totaled a team-high 13 points. Anderson had a .500 hitting efficiency with 13 kills and two errors in 22 total attacks. Averill hit a phenomenal .769 with 10 kills and no errors in 13 attacks, adding two blocks and a service ace. Setter Micah Christenson led the team to an overall hitting efficiency of .352.

Matt Anderson of USA serves

“We practice hard together. These guys are amazing professional volleyball players. They play all year long and they are starters,” libero Eric Shoji said about the team’s ability to put multiple lineups on the floor and be successful after contributing six digs and four successful receptions. “We are comfortable with anyone going in there and today was a great win.”

The U.S. recorded four service aces in each of the first two sets for a 2-0 advantage. Russell served three consecutive aces midway through the second set to extend the lead to seven, 16-9.

Iran jumped out to a 5-2 lead in the third set, but the U.S. responded with four points in a row following a timeout by Head Coach John Speraw. Iran regained three-point leads at 16-13 and 20-17, but the U.S. finished the match on an 8-3 run.

“Iran is a great team. They pushed us in the third set,” Shoji stated. “We just wanted to stay with them point by point and catch them at the end, which is what we did.”

Men’s Beach Volleyball at the CAC Games reaches the round of 16

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, 22 de junio de 2023.- With intense and battled matches, the men’s beach volleyball tournament of the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games has reached the most exciting phase, with 16 teams qualified to the knockout round to reach the quarter finals, semifinals and finals.

Juan Virgen and Miguel Sarabia of Mexico beat Kevin Rodriguez/ Josué Rivera (PUR) 2-0 (21-16, 21-11) to finish first place in pool A and will face Ryck Webb/Martin Blake (JAM).

In pool B, Juan Carlos Noriega/Yeferson De La Hoz (COL) prevailed 2-0 (21-19, 21-15) over Hayerling De Jesús/Oscar Martínez (DOM) and took first place in pool B; they will face Sheldon Descartes/Joseph Clercent (LCA) who beat Small Jahmal/Cluevvan Cumberbath (VIN) 2-0 (21-11, 21-3) in the last match of the day.

The Central Caribe Sports team, Andy Leonardo/Luis García, topped pool C after defeating St Clair Hodge/Shaw Seabrookes (SKN) 2-0 (21-09, 21-16) and in the match that qualifies them to the quarterfinals they will play Irvens Benjamin/Joseph Olando (HAI).

Luis Garcia of CCS (GUA) in action against SKN

Rolando Hernández/José Gómez (VEN) defeated Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen (ISV) 2-0 (21-10, 21-15) to lock pool D and will face Jesario Ebanks/Casey Santamaria (CAY).

Noslen Diaz/Jorge Luis Alayo (CUB), beat Rubén Mora/Jefferson Cascante 2-0 (21-19, 21-12) a Rubén Mora/Jefferson Cascante (NCA) and as top place in pool E they will face De Jesús/Martínez (DOM) second of B.

In pool F Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala (ESA) prevailed 2-1 (21-18, 22-24, 21-19) against Daniel Dyner/ Jhostin Varela (CRC) to face Puerto Rico in the next round who finished second place in pool A.

Dyner/Valera (CRC), second in pool F, will meet second place of pool C, St Clair Hodge/Shaw Seabrookes (SKN) in the round of 16. While Mora/Cascante (NCA), second in pool E, will clash with Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen (ISV), second in pool D.

Noslen Diaz of Cuba against Nicaragua

Resultados del jueves

Virgen/Sarabia MEX      2-0 (21-16, 21-11)        Rodriguez/Rivera PUR 

Noriega/Yeferson COL 2-0 (21-19, 21-15)  De Jesus/Martinez DOM     

Blanco/Garcia L. CCS 2-0 (21-9, 21-16) Hodge/Seabrookes SKN

BOSQUI/BRICE MQE    0-2 (0-0, 0-0) Forfeit of team A Small/Cluevvan VIN

Peter/Tigrito VEN         2-0 (21-10, 21-15)  Lomeli/Austin ISV 

Hawkins/Simmons TCI  0-2 (2-21, 4-21)  Bonnie/Cairon ANT

Mora/Cascante NCA      0-2 (19-21, 12-21) Diaz/Alayo CUB        

Broaster/Nunez BIZ      0-2 (14-21, 17-21)  Webb/Blake JAM

FLORES/Guatemala ESA 2-1 (21-18, 22-24, 21-19) D. Dyner/Varela CRC         

Gonzalez/Quintero PAN 1-2 (16-21, 21-15, 13-15)         Sheldon/Clercent LCA

Bonnie/Cairon ANT       0-2 (11-21, 3-21)  Webb/Blake JAM

Small/Cluevvan VIN     0-2 (12-21, 18-21) Sheldon/Clercent LCA

Juegos del viernes

MEX vs JAM 11:00 a.m. Cancha central

SKN vs CRC 11:00 a.m. Cancha 2

CUB vs DOM 12:00 md. CC

CAY vs VEN 12:00 md. C2

PUR vs ESA 3:00 CC

GUA vs HAI 3:00 p.m. C2

ISV vs NCA 4:00 p.m. CC

LCA vs COL 4:00 p.m. C2

Women’s Beach Volleyball Round of 16 decided at 2023 CAC Games

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 22, 2023.- The round of 16 teams that are battling to reach the quarterfinals in the women’s beach volleyball tournament of the San Salvador 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games is ready.

After an intense day of competition, with challenging matches, the best ranked teams of each pool are seeded for the knockout round.

Abril Flores/Atenas Gutiérrez of Mexico booked their ticket after defeating the Jamaican duo of Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith 2-0 (21-16, 21-6) in Pool A.

In the round of 16, Flores/Gutiérrez will face Teisha Joseph/Apphia Glasgow of Trinidad and Tobago who prevailed over Grenada in the qualifier match.

In Pool B, Julibeth Payano/Bethania Almanzar (DOM) beat Ana Maria Beltrand/Yaleny Moreno of Colombia (21-18, 21-15) and are ready to face Nelissa Ramirez/Shantell Arnold of Belize.

Julibeth Payano and Bethania Almanzar of DominicanRepublic

The Central Caribe Sports -CCS- team of Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt won 2-0 (21-10, 21-10) against Cristina Almeida/Amber Benneth (ISV). Girón and Bethancourt will meet Lisa Leblanc/Megan Calhoun of Bermuda in the eight-finals, they finished third place in Pool B.

Gabriela Brito/Juliennis Regalado (VEN), defeated Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodríbuez of Nicaragua 2-0 (21-13, 21-14) to top Pool D and advance into the eight-finals where they will face Deajra Tulloch/Chlouie Gaetos of Cayman Islands, third in pool A.

Maria Gonzalez/Allanis Navas of Puerto Rico beat Angel Williams/Kianny Araya of Costa Rica 2-0 (21-14, 21-9) for first place in Pool E and face in the round of 16 Ana Maria Beltrand/Yaleny Moreno of Colombia, who ended second place in Pool B.

Cuba’s Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armenteros were first place of Pool F after beating Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina of El Salvador 2-0 (21-17, 21-16).

Cuba will play against Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith of Jamaica, second place in Pool A, while Soler/Molina (ESA) will face Almeida/Benneth (ISV), second in Pool C to move into the round of sixteen.

Silva/Rodríguez (NCA) and Williams/Araya (CRC) will meet in the Central American derby for the round of eight teams, both finishing second place in Pools D and E respectively.

Natalia Girón of Centro Caribe Sports (GUA)

Thursday’s results

Flores/Gutierrez           MEX     2-0 (21-16, 21-6)    Kelly/Smith JAM    

Beltran/YAleny             COL      0-2 (18-21, 15-21) Payano/Almanzar DOM 

Frankel/Tammenga      SUR     0-2 Forfeit of team A LeBlanc/Calhoun BER       

N. Giron/Betancourt (CCS)       2-0 (21-10, 22-20)  Almeida-Anz/Bennett ISV    

Wilson/Cuero               PAN      2-0 (21-14, 21-8)    Edwards/Lewis ANT 

Gabi/Juliennis VEN      2-0 (21-13, 21-14)  Silva/Lolette NCA     

Thornia/Stafford           GRN     2-0 (27-25, 22-20)  Allen/Lake SKN        

Gonzalez/Navas           PUR      2-0 (21-17, 21-9)   Williams /Quesada CRC        

Murillo/Bruhier HON     0-2 (16-21, 14-21)  Joseph/Glasgow TTO

Soler/Molina                 ESA      0-2 (17-21, 16-21) Rivera/Amanda CUB             

Ramirez/Arnold            BIZ       2-0 (21-17, 21-12)  Denila/Neptune LCA            

Thornia/Stafford           GRN     0-2 Forfeit of team A Joseph/Glasgow TTO        

Wilson/Cuero               PAN      0-2 (12-21, 20-22)  Ramirez/Arnold BIZ             

Edwards/Lewis             ANT      2-0 Forfeit of team B  Frankel/Tammenga SUR

Friday’s matches

MEX vs TTO 9:00 a.m. CC

ISV vs ESA 9:00 C2

PUR vs COL 10:00 a.m. CC

CAY vs VEN 10:00 a.m C2

GUA vs BER 1:00 p.m. CC

JAM vs CUB 1:00 p.m. C2

NCA vs CRC 2:00 pm. CC

BIZ vs DOM 2:00 p.m. C2 

Cuba losses to Slovenia in four sets

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ORLEANS, France, June 22, 2023.- Cuba lost to Slovenia in four sets 1-3 (25-22, 15-25, 16-25, 19-25) on Thursday in Pool 4 of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League in Orleans, France.

Slovenia responded strongly after losing the first set, overpowering Cuba with 50-45 advantage in kills, a huge 10-2 in blocks and 5-4 margin in serves. Cuba handed out 32 points from unforced errors against 24.

Opposite hitter Jesus Herrera and outside hitter Marlon Yant led Cuba producing 13 points each. Tine Urnaut of Slovenia was the leading scorer of the match with 19 points.

Cuba is in fifteenth position with a 1-5 win-loss record.

On Friday Cuba faces the home team France.

Canada defeats Bulgaria in VNL action  

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ORLEANS, France, June 22, 203.-  A solid team effort contributed to Canada’s 3-1 (22-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-20) win today over Bulgaria at Volleyball Nations League in Orleans, France.

The win was important as Bulgaria is also a VNL challenger team that could face relegation for finishing last among these countries.

“This was a very, very important victory,” said Canada’s head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo. “It gives us confidence. Of course, there are still areas where we need to improve, but today we had improved in our attacking and were more efficient. We still must play better in block and defense (Bulgaria had 11 block points; compared with Canada’s seven).

“What I liked is how we handled those moments when we were leading. We had some leadership on the court to stay calm and focus on the next rally. How we handle these moments is an important part of our path….  We all know this victory is important, but our focus is on getting better!”

Match action Canda v Bulgaria VNL 2023

Outside hitter Stephen Maar was the top scorer of the match with 16 points, including an ace and a block. Middle blocker Danny Demyanenko had three aces and two kill blocks towards a 15-point total. Opposite Arthur Szwarc also finished with 15 (two aces, one block).

Up-and-comer Aleksandar Nikolov of Bulgaria was that team’s top scorer with 15 points.

View all match stats here: https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/schedule/16175/

Standings: https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/standings/men/

FIVB Executive Committee confirms commitment to innovation in sport

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, June 21, 2023.- The FIVB Executive Committee, led by FIVB President Dr Ary S Graça F°, today met in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic, to discuss further innovations and opportunities for the sport and its development all over the world.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the Executive Committee to discuss the agenda planned for the Board of Administration meeting, set for 22-24 June 2023, as well as several other important topics. These included the timeline for the Continental Confederations’ Congresses 2024 and the change of National Federation of Origin requests.

Opening the meeting, the FIVB President said:

“The FIVB will never stop innovating and providing more opportunities for our sport. During this week’s Board of Administration meeting, we will present a number of important innovations that will be the next major milestones for our sport and I am delighted that the Executive Committee is fully aligned in its support for these projects.”

Intense day of Men’s Beach Volleyball at the CAC Games 2023

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 21, 2023.- The men’s Beach Volleyball tournament of the Central American and Caribbean Games San Salvador 2023 started with the right foot with several duos showing as teams to beat at the event. 

In pool A, Kevin Rodriguez/ Josué Rivera (PUR) prevailed 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) over Jesario Ebanks/Casey Santamaria (CAY) and are ready to face Juan Virgen and Miguel Sarabia of Mexico (who earned a bye) on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. to decide who will end in first place.

In pool B, Hayerling De Jesús/Oscar Martínez (DOM) beat Irvens Benjamin/Joseph Olando (HAI)  2-0 (21-9, 21-12) and on Thursday will face Juan Carlos Noriega/Yeferson De La Hoz of Colombia, who didn’t play today either.

St. Clair Hodge/Shaw Seabrookes (SKN) scored 2-0 (21-9, 21-14) against Small Jahmal/ Cluevvan Cumberbatch (VIN) and will decide pool C against Andy Leonardo and Luis García (CSC) who won after a now show of Martinique.

In pool D, Rolando Hernández/José Gómez (VEN) defeated Turks and Caicos  2-0 (21-1, 21-while Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen (ISV) beat Dwight Bonnie /Cairon David (ANT) 2-0 (21-15, 21-16); the winners will face each other to advance in a better position to the next round.

Casey Santamaria of CAY

Noslen Diaz/Jorge Luis Alayo (CUB), earned a 2-0 (21-9, 21-10) victory against Ryck Webb/Martin Blake (JAM) and on Thursday will play Ruben Mora/ Jefferson Cascante (NCA) who beat Ernest Broaster/Gabriel Nuñez (BIZ) 2-0 (21-10, 21-10) in pool E.

In pool F, Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala (ESA) beat José González/Jason Quintero (PAN) 2-0 (21-19, 21-15) while Daniel Dyner/ Jhostin Varela (CRC) battled three sets to overcome Sheldon Descartes/Joseph Clercent (LCA) 2-1 (22-24, 21-18, 15-9).

Thursday schedule – pool-play

MEX vs PUR 10:00 a.m.

COL vs DOM 11:00 a.m.

CCS vs SKN 2:00 p.m.

TCI vs ANT 3:00 p.m.

NCA vs CUB 6:00 p.m.

BIZ vs JAM 6:00 p.m.

ESA vs CRC 7:00 p.m.

PAN vs LCA 7:00 p.m.

Women’s Beach Volleyball started at the CAC 2023 Games

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 21, 2023.- The Women’s Beach Volleyball tournament of the Central American and Caribbean Games San Salvador 2023 started with pool-play in all six pools, where teams showed their different abilities to try and reach the podium.

In Pool A, Kelly /Smith of Jamaica prevailed over D. Tulloch/C. Gaetos of Cayman Islands  2-0 (21-15, 21-10) and will play for first place Flores/Gutiérrez of Mexico, who earned a bye on Wednesday.

Beltran/Yanely of Colombia and Dominicans Payano/Almanzar will meet on Thursday at 9:00 am to decide the winner of Pool B after both won to their respective opponents; Beltran/Yanely defeated Suriname (no show) and Payano/Almanzar overpowered Leblanc/Calhoun of Bermudas (21-4, 21-4).

In Pool C, the Centro Caribe Sports team -CCS -(Girón/Bethancourt) came out on top Wilson/Cuero of Panama 2-0 (21-14, 21-11) and Almeida/Benneth of the U.S. Virgin Islands did the same against Antigua and Barbuda of Edwards/Lewis (21-09, 21-12). Centro Caribe Sports and the U.S. Virgin Islands will decide who advances as first in their pool.

Gabi/Juliennis of Venezuela and Silva/Lolette of Nicaragua were the winners in Pool D, facing Thornia/Stafford of Grenada (21-10, 21-10) and St. Kitts and Nevis of Allen/Lake (21-9, 21-12) respectively, and tomorrow they will decide who takes the lead.  

Costa Rica’s Williams/Quesada beat Joseph/Glasgow of Trinidad and Tobago (21-16, 21-13);  while Puerto Rico’s Gonzalez/Navas did their thing over Murillo/Bruhier of Honduras 21-8, 21-6 and will face each other to lead Pool E.

Yvonne Soler of El Salvador celebrates

Results Wednesday

JAM def 2-0 CAY (21-15, 21-10) ; COL def 2-0 SUR (forfeit); DOM def 2-0 BER (21-4, 21-4); CCS def 2-0 PAN (21-14, 21-11); ISV def 2-0 ANT (21-09, 21-12); VEN def 2-0 GRN (21-10, 21-10); PUR def 2-0 HON (21-8, 21-6); CRC def 2-0 TTO (21-16, 21-13); NCA def 2-0 SKN (21-9, 21-12); ESA def 2-0 BIZ (21-17, 21-13); CUB def 2-0 LCA (21-9, 21-15)

Thursday schedule

MEX vs JAM 8:00 a.m.

COL vs DOM 9:00 a.m.

GUA vs ISV 12:00 MD

VEN vs NCA 1:00 p.m.

PUR vs CRC 4:00 p.m.

ESA vs CUB 5:00 p.m.

SUR vs BER 9:00 a.m.

PAN vs ANT 12:00 MD

GRA vs SKN 1:00 p.m.

HON vs TTO 4:00 p.m.

BIZ vs LCA 5:00 p.m.

Women’s Teams

Zellene Edwards/Josanne Lewis, de ANT. Lisa Leblanc/Megan Calhoun de BER. Nelissa Ramirez/Shantell Arnold de BIZ. Deajra Tulloch/Chlouie Gaetos de CAY. Ana Maria Beltrand/Yaleny Moreno, de COL, Angel Williams/Kianny Araya, de CRC. Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armenteros de CUB; Julibeth Payano/Bethania Almanzar, de DOM.  Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina, de ESA; Thornia Mitchell/Renisha Stafford de Granada. Natalia Jirón/Estefanie Bethancourt de GUA; Xue Nicole Murillo/Reizel Bruhier, de HON; Cristina Almeida/Amber Benneth, de ISV; Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith, de JAM; Denila Prospere/Kerin Neptune, de LCA; Abril Flores/Atenas Gutierrez, de MEX; Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodriguez, de NCA; Ingrid Lezcano/Hashlyn Cuero de PAN; Maria Gonzalez/Allanis Navas, de PUR; Brenda Allen, Genelle Howell, de SKN; Chagnaz Frankel/Janneke Tammenga, de SUR; Teisha Joseph/Apphia Glasgow, de TTO; Gabriela Brito/Juliennis Regalado, de VEN.

U.S. Men Sweep China to Move to 5-1 in VNL

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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 21, 2023.- The U.S. Men’s National Team earned its second Volleyball Nations League (VNL) preliminary round win of week two on Wednesday with a 3-0 (28-26, 25-22, 25-18) blanking of China in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The U.S. Men (5-1) have a day off before playing Iran (2-4) on June 23 at 7:30 a.m. PT.

Outside hitter Thomas Jaeschke led the U.S. with 15 points on 12 kills, two blocks, and one service ace. Once again, the U.S. men featured a balanced attack with outside hitter T.J. DeFalco (11), opposite Jake Hanes (10), and middle blocker Taylor Averill (nine) all adding high kill totals. Middle blocker Max Holt contributed five kills in six attacks as the U.S. finished with a 51-40 team advantage in kills.

Match action United States v China VNL 2023

“It’s very special being part of this team because we have so many options at any given time,” DeFalco said. “I’m very fortunate to be part of a team that has those options we can roll out on any night.”

The U.S. got off to a slow start and trailed 18-12 before rallying to tie the first set. China scored consecutive points for a 23-21 lead and eventually had two set points, but the U.S. kept fighting back and took the opener. The U.S. Men led most of the competitive second set though China tied it late. In each of the first two sets, Head Coach John Speraw substituted in setter Micah Christenson and opposite Matt Anderson late in the set and the U.S. finished strongly in each set.

Canada to regroup after loss to Slovenia

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ORLEANS, France, June 20,  2023 .- Slovenia outplayed Canada’s squad today 3-0 (25-23, 25-22, 25-14) at the men’s second week of Volleyball Nations League in Orleans, France.

“Today we played two decent sets, especially the first one,” said Canada’s men’s team head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo. “We wanted to give some of the players that haven’t the opportunity to play a chance today – to feel the court and to learn, and the guys answered well. We were there in the first set, the second was a similar story… but in the third we lacked in our attack and we couldn’t side-out. We couldn’t stop Slovenia’s offense.”

Canada plays Bulgaria, another team that is in the VNL “challenger’ category, on Thursday.

Match action Canada v Slovenia VNL 2023

“What is important now is to focus on tomorrow and take good things from this game to prepare. We know this game against Bulgaria is important.”

Today, Slovenia’s Rok Možič led all scoring with 19 points. Canada’s Arthur Szwarc led Canada in points with 11.

View all match stats (& photos/video) here:
https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/schedule/16169/

Cuba starts VNL Week two falling to Japan

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ORLEANS, France, June 21, 2023.- In a Pool 3 game in Orleans on Wednesday, Japan stayed undefeated with a convincing 3-0 (25-21, 25-16, 25-21) shutout of Cuba.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

The Cubans managed to outblock (8 to 3) and outserve (3 to 0) Japan, but committed far too many unforced errors during the match (30 against 17).

Their outsides Miguel Lopez and Marlon Yant finished with 10 points apiece.

Match action Cuba v Japan VNL 2023

Japan stormed the match on a 4-0 run. Cuba caught up at 9-9, but it was only momentary. With opposite Yuji Nishida spearheading the attack, the Asians broke away again and cruised on to close the first set at 25-21 on an off-the-block hit by Ran Takahashi. Japan clearly outplayed Cuba in the second set as well, especially with their first-tempo offence, with middle blocker Akihiro Yamauchi leading the way. He spiked to bring in set point and, upon his serve that followed, the opponents committed an error that closed the set at an emphatic 25-16. The third set was the most hard-fought of the three, with Cuba maintaining control of the scoreboard for most of the first half, while Marlon Yant dominated at the net. However, taking advantage of the abundant Cuban unforced errors and with Takahashi keeping the fire burning in offence, Japan regained control on the court and cruised on to close the match at 25-21.

On Thursday, Cuba will face Slovenia.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Beach Volleyball start the CAC Games San Salvador 2023

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SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 21, 2023.- The Beach Volleyball tournament start the actions of the XXIV Central American and Caribbean Games, San Salvador 2023, at Costa del Sol on Wednesday June 21.

Beach Volleyball begins two days prior to the Opening Ceremony, scheduled for June 23 at 7:00 p.m. (local time) at the Jorge “El Mágico” González National Stadium.

The first sport will be women’s beach volleyball, at 8:00 a.m. with the Cayman Islands’ duo of Deajra Tulloch and Chlouie Gaetos against Jamaica’s Chauna Kelly and Petal Smith, at central court of the Costa del Sol National Stadium.

At 9:00 a.m., Colombian duo of Ana Maria Flores and Yaleny Moreno is scheduled to face the representatives of Suriname, Chagnaz Frankel and Janneke Tammenga.

Men’s beach volleyball will begin at 10:00 a.m., with Puerto Rico’s duo of Kevin Rodriguez and Josue Rivera, against Jesario Ebanks and Casey Santamaria of Cayman Islands.

Beach volleyball will be played until 7:00 p.m. in both genders.

For live results of all sports, visit the CAC Games website sansalvador2023.com.

Women’s Beach Volleyball kicks off at 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 20, 2023.- The Women’s Beach Volleyball Tournament at the 2023 San Salvador Central American and Caribbean Games will start on Wednesday at 8:00 a.m. (local time) with 23 tandems aiming for gold.

The winner of the gold medal at last year’s Junior Sea and Beach Games in Santa Marta, Colombia, Allanis Navas and María González of Puerto Rico have their minds set to top the podium.

Allanis, who finished fourth place at the previous Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, Colombia said “we’ve had a great preparation plan; we’ve completed the entire program planned by our coach and that’s given us good results. This tournament will be a close competition, there are good duos, but we hope to keep our momentum and improve our performance from our previous tournaments”.

Cubans Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armenteros, inherit the dynasty of Leila Martinez, alongside Lianma Flores and later with Mailen Deliz, who won for Cuba the past two editions of the CAC Games. Cuba has overall three gold medals as does Mexico.

“We are a young pair, very new, but we’ve been performing well. In the Junior Sea Games, we lost the gold medal match to Puerto Rico, and we believe we can do better. We are focused and ready to keep on giving our best,” said Rivera.

Ivonne Soler of El Salvador is back at the Central American and Caribbean Games after 21 years, “my first Games and my first important event was here in 2002, and it’s exciting and an honor representing my country, with my people. We hope they will come out to support us, to motivate us because we are willing to give our all for them to be proud of us”.

There are 23 countries competing in the women’s beach volleyball event, divided in 6 pools.

Costa Rica during oficial registration

Composición de Grupos

Pool A: Mexico, Cayman Islands, Jamaica.

Pool B: Colombia, Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Suriname

Pool C: Guatemala, U.S. Virgin Islands, Antigua & Barbudas, Panama

Pool D: Venezuela, Nicaragua, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada

Pool E: Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, Honduras

Pool F: El Salvador, Cuba, St. Lucia, Belize

The first and second places from each pool will advance to the eight finals, while the last positions will play a consolation round.

Wednesday schedule

CAY vs JAM 8:00 a.m.  Central Court

COL vs SUR 9:00 a.m.

DOM vs VER 9:00 a.m. Court 2

GUA vs PAN 12:00 Central Court

ISV vs ANT 12:00 Court 2

Women’s Teams:

Zellene Edwards /Josanne Lewis, de ANT. Lisa Leblanc/Megan Calhoun de BER. Nelissa Ramirez/Shantell Arnold de BIZ. Deajra Tulloch/Chlouie Gaetos de CAY. Ana Maria Beltrand/Yaleny Moreno, de COL, Angel Williams/Kianny Araya, de CRC. Yenifer Rivera/Amanda Armenteros de CUB; Julibeth Payano/Bethania Almanzar, de DOM.  Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina, de ESA; Thornia Mitchell/Renisha Stafford de Granada. Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt de GUA; Xue Nicole Murillo/Reizel Bruhier, de HON; Cristina Almeida/Amber Benneth, de ISV; Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith, de JAM; Denila Prospere/Kerin Neptune, de LCA; Abril Flores/Atenas Gutierrez, de MEX; Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodriguez, de NCA; Ingrid Lezcano/Hashlyn Cuero de PAN; Maria Gonzalez/Allanis Navas, de PUR; Brenda Allen, Genelle Howell, de SKN; Chagnaz Frankel/Janneke Tammenga, de SUR; Teisha Joseph/Apphia Glasgow, de TTO; Gabriela Brito/Juliennis Regalado, de VEN. 

22 Countries in Men’s Beach Volleyball at CAC Games San Salvador

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COSTA DEL SOL, El Salvador, June 20, 2023.- The men’s Beach Volleyball Tournament at the San Salvador 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games will start on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. (local time) with 22 pairs battling to top the podium.

Cuba, winners of the past two editions of the Games, is ready to defend their title, but with the new duo of Noslen Díaz/Jorge Alayo.

“We are prepared to reach the podium and give our country another joy. We’ve been playing together in several events this year, including in Brazil and we believe we can continue the winning streak at these Games”, said Noslen.

Mexican Juan Virgen, who is playing in his fourth CAC Games, winner of two silver medals and one bronze, said that this will be a competitive tournament. “There are good teams, we are all aiming for the podium, I have won several medals in previous tournaments and the goal is to continue, despite the good teams in the competition”.

Armando Guatemala, a player of the host country who will defend El Salvador’s honor said “we have trained hard because we want to have a good performance. We are aware it will be challenging, we have difficult matches, but we want to put our country’s name in high, even more while playing at home with the support of our people”.

The competition schedule divided teams in six pools, four of them with 4 tandems and two with three. The first and second places will advance to the eight finals, while the last positions will play a consolation round.

Puerto Rico during oficial registration

Pool Composition

Pool A: Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cayman Islands

Pool B: Colombia, Dominican Republic, Haiti

Pool C: Guatemala, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Martinique

Pool D: Venezuela, U.S.Virgin Islands, Antigua & Barbuda, Turks & Caicos

Pool E: Nicaragua, Cuba, Jamaica, Belize

Pool F: El Salvador, Costa Rica, St. Lucia, Panama

Wednesday morning schedule

PUR vs CAY     10:00 a.m. central court

DOM vs HAI    11:00 a.m.

GUA vs MQE   2:00 p.m.

SKN vs VIN      2:00 p.m. (court 2)

Equipos Hombres:

Dwight Bonnie /Cairon David, de ANT; Ernest Broaster/ Gabriel Nuñez, de BIZ; Jesario Ebanks/Casey Santamaria, de CAY; Juan Carlos Noriega/Yeferson De La Hode COL; Daniel Dyner/ Jhostin Varela, de CRC; Noslen Diaz/Jorge Luis Alayo, de CUB; Hayerling de De Jesus/ Oscar Martinez de DOM; Franklin Flores/Armando Guatemala de ESA; Andy Leonardo/Luis García, de GUA; Irvens Benjamin/Joseph Olando de HAI; Marc Lomeli/Austin Pippen de ISV; Ryck Webb/Martin Blake, JAM; Sheldon Descartes/Joseph Clercent de LCA; Juan Virgen/Miguel Sarabia, de MEX; Martel Bosqui/Brice Hardy de MQE; Rubén Mora/ Jefferson Cascante, de NCA; José González/Jason Quintero, de PAN; Kevin Rodriguez/ Josué Rivera de PUR; St Clair Hodge/Shaw Seabrookes de SKN; Scott Hawkins/Sebastian Simmons, de TCI; Rolando Hernández/José Gómez, de VEN; Small Jahmal/ Cluevvan Cumberbatch de VIN

U.S. Men Open VNL Week 2 With Win Over Serbia

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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 20, 2023.- The U.S. Men’s National Team opened the second week of Volleyball Nations League (VNL) preliminary round play with a 3-1 (22-25, 25-19, 25-19, 25-21) victory over Serbia in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The U.S. Men (4-1), ranked fifth in the world, come right back tomorrow to face China (1-3) at 7:30 a.m. PT.

Four players registered double-digit kills totals with outside hitter T.J. DeFalco leading the way with 14. He added a block and two service aces for a team-high 17 points. Outside hitter Aaron Russell finished with 13 kills, while outside hitter Matt Anderson and middle blocker Jeff Jendryk each added 10.

“They are all beasts, they are all incredible attackers,” captain and setter Micah Christenson said about setting the U.S. hitters. “There is no wrong decision on this team because they can all put the ball away with one, two, or three blocks up.”

Anderson added four blocks and two aces, and middle blocker David Smith recorded a match-high six blocks as the U.S. carved out a huge advantage in blocking, 11-4.

United States celebrates against Serbia

After dropping the first set, the U.S. started serving tougher and jumped out in front in the second set. An ace from DeFalco gave the U.S. a six-point advantage,16-10, and Serbia never got closer than three points the remainder of the set as the U.S. evened the match.

The U.S. Men continued their strong play in the third set and when DeFalco put an overpass straight down, they led 21-14 and went on to take a two set to one lead. The fourth set was more of the same as the U.S. clinched the match despite a gallant effort from Serbia, who fought off three match points.

“I think we executed really well, even in the first set. We’ve got to give Serbia a lot of credit for that first set. They did a great job in transition,” Christenson explained. “It felt like it was coming together and 25 came just a little too fast. If we stayed out on the court a little longer, we were confident we were going to get that and it showed in the second, third, and fourth sets.”

The U.S. Men will host the third round of preliminary play in Anaheim, California, on July 4-9.

Canada begins men’s VNL week two in France

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ORLEANS, France, June 20, 2023.-  Canada’s men’s team kicked off the second preliminary phase of Volleyball Nations League against a tough Japanese side in Orleans, France, today.

Japan’s attacking power made a difference in the 3-1 (25-22, 25-17, 24-26, 25-14) win over the Canadians.

Stephen Maar and Arthur Szwarc both had 17 points each for Canada. Japan’s captain Yuki Ishikawa was the match top scorer providing 19 attack points; as well as three aces and a block point.
 
View all match stats (& photos/video) here:
https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/schedule/16160/

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV
 
Canada meets Slovenia on Wednesday; followed by Bulgaria the next day. The team wraps up this week on Saturday against the host team, France.

 Japan continues to sit at the top of the VNL leaderboard with five wins as of today.

Beach Volleyball at Central American and Caribbean Games 2023

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SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 19, 2023.  – The Beach Volleyball competition at the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador, El Salvador will run from June 21-27 in Costa del Sol, a discipline that has been dominated by Cuba men and equally divided between Mexico and Cuba in women.

Cuba has won the men’s event on four occasions since the inception of the Central American Games in 1998 in Maracaibo, Venezuela, two of them in a row (Veracruz, Mexico 2014 and Barranquilla, Colombia 2018).

Cubans Sergio González and Nivaldo Díaz earned the men’s title in the past two editions in Veracruz and Barranquilla.

Mexico men have stepped on the CAC podium in each of the six tournaments, where the biggest NORCECA medalist, Olympic Juan Virgen has earned two silver medals, at Mayagüez, Puerto Rico 2010 and Barranquilla, Colombia 2018, and a bronze medal in Veracruz, Mexico 2014.

In the women’s field, both Mexico and Cuba have won three gold medals each, and as well as in the men’s competition, Cuba has back-to-back gold medals in the past two editions of the Games.

Leila Martinez won both gold medals, first with Lianma Flores in Veracruz 2014 and in Barranquilla 2018 pairing with Mailen Deliz.

All these Cuban medalists have now stepped down for a new generation of Cuban athletes to take on their legacy.

Men’s Podiums

1998Rossell/Chambers CUBJackson/Sotelo MEXDe Jesús/Velasco PUR
2002Hernández/Papaleo PURRodríguez/Hernández MEXVásquez/Rodríguez VEN
2006Álvarez/Villar CUBHenríquez/Hernández VENOntiveros/Ontiveros MEX
2010Hernández/Villafañe VENMiramontes/Vírgen MEXIrizarry/Rodríguez PUR
2014González/Díaz CUBVillafañe/Henríquez VENVírgen/Ontiveros MEX
2018González/Díaz CUBVírgen/Ontiveros MEXMurray/Manjarres COL

Composite Medals

CountryGoldSilverBronzeTotal
CUB4004
VEN1124
PUR1023
MEX0426
COL0011

Women’s Podiums

1998Amaral/Huerta MEXFerrer/Blanco CUBAbreu/Zambrano VEN
2002García/Gaxiola MEXRodríguez/Cova VENBonilla/Santos DOM
2006Fernández/Larrea CUBVírgen/Revuelta MEXRodríguez/García VEN
2010Candelas/García MEXAcevedo/Santiago PURGalindo/Galindo COL
2014Flores/Martínez CUBCandelas/Revuelta MEXPazo/Agudo VEN
2018Leila/Maylen CUBYuli/Diana COLAgudo/Gabi VEN

Composite Medals 

CountryGoldSilverBronzeTotal
MEX3205
CUB3104
VEN0145
PUR0101
DOM0011
COL0112

Canada wins gold at Beach Pro Tour Challenge in Jurmala

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JURMALA, Latvia, June 18, 2023.-  Canada’s Brandie Wilkerson and Melissa Humana-Paredes won their first Beach Pro Tour gold medal as a team in Jurmala, Latvia, today.

Canada defeated Switzerland’s Zoé Vergé-Dépré and Esmée Böbner 2-0 (21-17, 21-17).

Although the Swiss duo put pressure on Canada with their serve, Canada out blocked (5-1) their opponents, led in attack points and made fewer errors.

“It was a really solid week of consistent play by us. We stuck together, overcoming some adversity and really enjoyed playing each point,” said Humana-Paredes, who won this event last year with previous partner, Sarah Pavan.

“It’s been a long time on the road and we’re excited to go home to celebrate with our loved ones and get ready for the next one!”

Brandie Wilerson CAN blocks during gold medal match

Brandie/Melissa also won a bronze medal at the Elite 16 in Ostrava, Czech Republic, earlier this month.

“I am so happy, this team has been working hard so it’s so good to see it come out as a gold medal,” Wilkerson said in the post-match interview. “Every point we played as if it was the first point of the game until the very end. Our opponents are talented, and had a great tournament, so it was an effort to play against them.”

Earlier today, Canada’s team also beat home country favourites Anastasija Samoilova and Tina Graudina in the semifinal 2-0 (21-17, 21-16) to advance to the gold medal match. Latvia ended up winning the bronze medal over Brazil’s Tainá/Victoria in a tie break (21-11, 20-22, 15-13).

For more information on the Beach Pro Tour, which counts towards Olympic qualification points, see the Beach Volleyball World website: https://en.volleyballworld.com/beachvolleyball/competitions/beach-pro-tour/

Dominant Americans silence the crowd and sweep Brazil

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BRASILIA, Brazil, June 18, 2023.- The United States had a strong and immediate answer to their first defeat in the Volleyball Nations League 2023 and secured a convincing victory against Brazil in front of 10,000 fans in Brasilia on Sunday to end their Week 2 campaign on a high.

Less than 24 hours after they were upset by Japan, the Olympic champions returned to the court at the Nilson Nelson Stadium and looked like an entirely different team, topping the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Ranking leaders 3-0 (25-22, 25-19, 25-22) to end the second week of competition in strong fashion.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

The victory propelled the Americans, who are guaranteed in the 2023 VNL Finals as the host country, to second place in the standings with seven wins and 19 points, one behind leaders Poland.

Dominant from start to finish, the Americans had an excellent team performance, with all starters and the players that came off the bench delivering and producing in the offensive system ran by setter and team captain Micha Hancock.

Tokyo Olympic champion opposite Jordan Thompson was again in great form, leading the team with 15 points (13 kills, two aces). The 26-year-old Thompson registered 15 or more points in three of the four matches played by the Americans in Brasilia, with the exception being the defeat against Japan, in which she just came off the bench in a few plays.

United States in front of 10,000 fans in Brasilia

“We have so much respect for Brazil and we always know it’s going to be a battle when we play them,” Thompson commented. “It was a fun, high-energy match and although each win in the VNL is important, this one is different because it’s nice to play such a fun team. The energy was electric and we really enjoyed this atmosphere. Our coaches had a great scouting plan for us today. We tried to force them into things that they weren’t so comfortable with and I think we did a good job with that. Our blocking and defense were very good and Micha was just putting us in great spots to score.”

Also contributing to the American offense in the victory against Brazil were outside hitters Kathryn Plummer and Khalia Lanier, who registered 14 and 12 points respectively.

Outside of blocking, where the Brazilians had the most success with nine points to six, the Olympic champions were better in all other areas of the game, scoring more points in kills (46 to 43), aces (seven to two) and opponent errors (16 to nine).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

The Olympic champions will be in Suwon, Korea, where they will face Poland, Bulgaria, Germany and China for the third and final week of the VNL 2023 Preliminary Phase, from June 27- July 2.

Dominican Republic closes week 2 of VNL in four-set loss to Türkiye

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HONG KONG, China, June 18, 2023.- The Dominican Republic closed the second week of the Volleyball Nations League falling to Türkiye 1-3 (23-25, 19-25, 25-23, 20-25)  on Sunday in Hong Kong, China.

The Turks completely outblocked the Dominicans with 16 kill blocks against three. Gaila Gonzalez scored 17 times for Dominican Republic, alongside Jineiry Martinez (16 points) and Yonkaira Peña (13 points).

Dominicans win-loss dropped to 3-5 and they stand 11th on seven points.

In the final week of the VNL 2023 Preliminary Phase, from June 27- July 2 Dominican Republic will travel to Suwon, Korea where they’ll face the host country, Germany, China and Serbia.

Japan hands USA Women first VNL Loss

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BRASILIA, Brazil, June 17, 2023.- The U.S. Women’s National Team suffered its first 2023 Volleyball Nations League loss of the preliminary round, 3-2 (23-25, 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 15-6) to Japan on Saturday in Brasilia, Brazil. It marked the second consecutive year that Japan has handed the U.S. its first VNL defeat.

The U.S. Women, currently ranked second in the world, will have a quick turnaround time before meeting the host and world’s top-ranked team, Brazil, at 6 a.m. PDT on Sunday, June 18.

Opposite Danielle Cuttino scored eight points in the opening set to lead the U.S. to a two-point victory. Despite losing three set points, Japan returned the favor with a two-point victory in the second set.

Six service errors contributed to a third-set loss for the U.S. In a highly competitive fourth set, the U.S. team took its first lead midway through the set and took its first two-point lead with back-to-back points with the set tied at 19. After Japan fought off two set points at 24-21, the U.S. sent the match to a fifth set with a kill from setter Ashley Evans.

United States vs Japan VNL 2023

Japan opened the final set with six consecutive points and cruised to the deciding set win to earn their first five-set victory in this year’s VNL. The U.S. women played their fourth five-set match in the preliminary round.

Outside hitter Khalia Lanier paced the U.S. with 20 points (15 kills, three blocks, two service aces) and Cuttino led the team with 17 kills. Outsider hitter Avery Skinner contributed 12 kills and middle blocker Anna Hall hit .500 with 11 kills.

The U.S. finished with 11 blocks to eight for Japan. Seven different U.S. players recorded at least one block with Lanier’s three leading the way.

The United States will host the 2023 Women’s VNL Final Round on July 12-16 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, which means the U.S. automatically qualifies.

Dominican Republic beat NORCECA rival Canada in five sets at VNL

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HONG KONG, China, June 17, 2023.- Dominican Republic beat NORCECA rival Canada 3-2 (22-25, 25-13, 25-17, 23-25, 15-10) on Saturday on week 2 of the Volleyball Nations League in Hong Kong.

Dominicans improved 3-4 in position ten and will face Türkiye on Sunday to conclude week two of the event. Canada ends this phase in ninth place with 3-4 record.

Thanks to Dominican Republic’s huge 20-9 margin in blocks, they prevailed in a match where both teams scored 57 points from attacks, and Canada ended with a 3-1 advantage in serves.

Yonkaira Peña DOM ready for the kill

Dominican Yonkaira Peña led her team with 20 points (18 kills, two blocks), one point less than Canadian Alexa Gray who scored a match-high of 21 (19 kills, one block, one ace).

Also contributing to the win, Jineiry Martinez with 18 points including the most blocks (7), Brayelin Martinez and Gaila Gonzalez added 17 points each.

On Canada’s side, Hilary Howe scored 15 points, Emily Maglio with 11 and Kiera Van Ryk with 10.

NORCECA Mourns Passing of Volleyball Referee Hernán Casamiquela

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 16, 2023.- The NORCECA Confederation is deeply saddened by the loss of Argentinean Referee Hernán Casamiquela who passed away in Brasilia, Brazil.

Hernán Casamiquela was currently in Brasilia fulfilling his  referee duties at the Volleyball Nations League and passed away for natural causes.  

Casamiquela had a remarkable career as a national and international referee, with a long trajectory at World Championships and Olympic Games; he was current director of the National Refereeing Secretariat in Argentina.

NORCECA extends its deepest condolences to the international refereeing family, the Argentinean Volleyball Federation, and his loved ones during this difficult time.

Canada loses to Türkiye; looking ahead to next VNL contest

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HONG KONG, China, June 16, 2023.-  In today’s Volleyball Nations League action, Türkiye got the best of Canada’s women’s team in a 3-0 (25-15, 25-22, 25-20) sweep in Hong Kong.
 
“Türkiye is a very strong team, they controlled first contact well and were more physical than us…  and it was not our best showing today,” admitted head coach Shannon Winzer. “We are capable of putting top teams under more pressure than we did today. We now need to focus on our next game vs Dominican Republic. This is a team we know well and have had some good battles with; both of us being challenger teams I think it will be an exciting match up.”
 
Alexa Gray led Canada in offense with 17 attack points.

Canada meets Dominican Republic, a familiar team from the NORCECA confederation, at 1:30 am ET (13:30 local time) to wrap up women’s week 2 of VNL in Hong Kong. 

Olympic Qualifier Tournament Host Cities Unveiled

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

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

Pool A – Ningbo, China

Pool B – Tokyo, Japan

Pool C – Lodz, Poland

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

Pool A – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Pool B – Tokyo, Japan

Pool C – Xian, China

POOL COMPOSITION

Women’s Tournament

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

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

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

Men’s Tournament

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

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

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

OLYMPIC QUALIFICATION EXPLAINED

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

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

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

USA make it six in a row and top Thailand

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BRASILIA, Brazil, June 15, 2023.- Reigning Olympic champions the United States became the second national team to get to six victories in the Volleyball Nations League 2023 on Thursday in Brasilia, Brazil.

The undefeated Americans took care of business against Thailand at the Nilson Nelson Stadium, producing a 3-0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-16) victory that elevated them to second place in the standings, just two points behind leaders Poland.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

Head coach Karch Kiraly’s strategy of integrating some more experienced players into the young squad that played in the opening week for Pool 4 this week in Brazil has proven to be a successful one as the Americans relied on that mix to overcome the Asians, who have two wins in six matches and sit in tenth place.

Olympic champion opposite Jordan Thompson followed up on a strong VNL debut against Croatia on Tuesday, leading all scorers against Thailand, with 15 points (14 kills, one block). Other new faces this week, Olympic champion middle blocker Haleigh Washington and outside hitter Kathryn Plummer also scored in double digits, registering 11 and ten points, respectively.

The trio got great help from a pair of VNL rookies, Avery Skinner and Asjia O’Neal, who also had great performances, with the outside hitter delivering 14 points (13 kills, one block) and the middle blocker adding another 13, with eight kills and a match-high five blocks.

United States vs Thailand

“Thailand run a really fast offense, so we were just trying to focus on our blocking,” O’Neal commented. “We were just dialed in on what we could do and controlling our side of the court. We tried to stay calm at the net, they have a lot of players coming at you every play, but we knew that at one point, one of them would go into our zone.”

The Americans won the match despite giving away twice as many points from errors as the Thai (15 to seven). The Olympic champions, however, were much better offensively, with 54 kills to 29, and also had the edge in blocks (11 to nine) and aces (three to two).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

The Americans will have a full day off before playing Japan on Saturday, at 17:30 local time (20:30 UTC).

Dominican Republic loses to VNL reigning champion Italy in five-set thriller

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HONG KONG, China, June 15, 2023.- Dominican Republic lost a five-set thriller 2-3 (16-25, 25-16, 25-21, 22-25, 10-15) to VNL reigning champion Italy on Thursday in Hong Kong.

Dominican Brayelin Martinez continues to be a dominant force leading her team with 18 points (14 kills, three blocks, one ace), accompanied by sibling Jineiry with 16 points (12 kills, three blocks, one ace).

Three more Dominicans scored double-digits, Yonkaira Peña (15pts), Gaila Gonzalez (14pts) and Sthefany Gonzalez (12pt).

Dominicans were better in blocks (16-13) and aces (3-1) while Italy led 60-56 in kills and committed fewer errors (23-28).

Dominican Republic stands with a 2-4 record and will face NORCECA rival Canada (3-3) on June 17 at 13:30 local time in Hong Kong.

Canada dominates in win over Bulgaria in VNL action

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HONG KONG, China, June 15, 2023.-  In a match between two Volleyball Nations League challenger teams, an efficient Canadian side came on top 3-0 (25-15, 25-13, 25-15) over Bulgaria today in Hong Kong.
 
Challenger teams must avoid relegation by not coming last among that category.
 
Head coach Shannon Winzer was decidedly pleased with Thursday’s team performance: “Today we played very clean. Serving has been up and down for us throughout the tournament this far and today we did an excellent job from the baseline. Our consistent pressure on serve allowed our blockers to do their jobs well and I think Bulgaria struggled to find any offensive rhythm. Today was great to build on as we face a very strong Turkish team tomorrow.”
 
Canada dominated in all areas, with opposite Kiera Van Ryk ending up contributing 15 points; Hilary Howe 13 and Alexa Gray 11, including two aces.
 
Canada plays Türkiye on June 16; and NORCECA rivals Dominican Republic on June 17 – both at 1:30 am ET (13:30 local time in Hong Kong).

U.S. Women start VNL Week 2 by defeating Croatia

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BRASILIA, Brazil, June 13, 2023.- The U.S. Women’s National Team moved to 5-0 in Volleyball Nations League (VNL) preliminary round play with a 3-1 (17-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-15) victory over Croatia in Brasilia, Brazil.

The U.S. Women have Wednesday off before facing Thailand (2-2) on June 15.

Croatia earned its first set win in this year’s VNL in the opening frame. The U.S. Women rallied to take a close second set before rolling to victories in the third and fourth.

“After the first loss, we had to make some adjustments with our blocks and defense systems,” said outside hitter Ali Frantti, who was making her 2023 VNL debut. “We also talked about serving more aggressively. They were very comfortable in serve receive, so it was important to try to get them off the net.”

Frantti and opposite Jordan Thompson, who was also making her VNL debut this season, combined for 29 kills. Frantti led the U.S. team with 15 kills with a .419 hitting percentage, and Thompson registered a .541 hitting efficiency with 14 kills.

Jordan Thompson USA

“It was a surreal moment to step back on the court wearing the USA jersey. It’s something I never take for granted,” Frantti described. “Playing with these women is an absolute dream for me. All of us have the same goal and we all push ourselves to be better. Everyone steps up when they need to and that’s the beauty of a team sport.”

Outside hitter Khalia Lanier contributed 12 kills, while middle blockers Brionne Butler (six) and Asjia O’Neal (three) totaled nine kills without an error in 13 attacks.

The U.S. totaled 14 blocks to Croatia’s six, led by Butler’s five.

The United States will host the 2023 Women’s VNL Final Round on July 12-16 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, which means the U.S. automatically qualifies.

Canada opens VNL week 2 falling to China

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HONG KONG, China, June 13, 2023.-  Canada’s women’s team opened week 2 of Volleyball Nations League on Tuesday in Hong Kong with a 3-0 loss to China 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 29-27).
 
“China is a formidable opponent. In the first two sets, we struggled with first contact and struggled from the baseline. In the third, we started hitting our serves and stayed in system more, as a result we were able to go point for point with one of the strongest teams in this competition,” said head coach Shannon Winzer.
 
Although Canada led in attack points (41-39), China had the advantage in other categories (7-3 blocks) and (5-2 serves), and benefited from Canada’s errors (28-13).

Team captain Alexa Gray (13 points), Hilary Howe (12 points) and Kiera Van Ryk (10 points) led Canada offensively.
 
“It’ll be important for us to learn from this game how we responded as a team and individually when things got away from us, but not dwell on this loss,” explained Winzer. “We now need to look forward to our next game versus Bulgaria (June 15) which is an important match up against another challenger team.”
 
VNL Challenger teams can be relegated and would have to qualify to have a place in the tournament. 

Dominicans fall to Poland in first match of VNL week 2

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HONG KONG, China, June 13, 2023.- Dominican Republic fell against Poland 1-3 (23-25, 28-30, 25-23, 17-25) on Tuesday in Hong Kong.

Poland led 61-55 in kills and 14-8 in blocks; both teams scored three points from serves and Dominican Republic committed fewer errors 25-27.

Outside hitter Brayelin Martinez led Dominican Republic’s attacks scoring 21 points on 19 kills and two blocks. Other two players collected double digits, opposite hitter Gaila Gonzalez with 19 points (17 kills, one block, one ace) and outside hitter Yonkaira Peña with 14 (12 kills, one block, one ace).

Dominican Republic will get back on court on Thursday June 15 against VNL 2022 champion Italy.

Pedro Rangel the Most Valuable Player MVP at NORCECA Men’s Final Four

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 11, 2023.- Setter and team captain of Mexico, Pedro Rangel, was selected as the Most Valuable Player MVP of the NORCECA Men International League Final Four that finished on Sunday at Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, Mexico.

Pedro Rangel was a key player for his team to win the championship undefeated and qualified to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup.

Rangel received the MVP honors during the awarding ceremony along with other players of the champion team, they were Josué López recognized as the first best spiker, Victor Parra the award of second best blocker and Diego González the best opposite of the event.   

Dominican Republic, second place, lined-up the first best blocker, Luther Rosario, Henry López the distinction of best server and Enger Mieses received the awards of best libero, best defense and best receiver.

From Puerto Rico, third place of the tournament, Pedro Molina was granted the award to the second best spiker and best scorer, joined by his teammate Juan Ruiz as best setter.

MVP Pedro Rangel of Mexico

Mexico qualifies to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 11, 2023.- After five grueling sets host Mexico beat Puerto Rico 3-2 (20-25, 25-22, 25-18, 22-25, 15-12) to win the Men’s NORCECA International League Final Four on Sunday in Durango and qualify for the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup.

The FIVB Challenger Cup is the qualifying tournament to the Volleyball International Nations League (VNL), the premier annual FIVB tournament that gathers the top 16 best teams in the world.

Mexico finished the event undefeated 3-0 for first place, followed in second place by Dominican Republic (2-1 and 9 points) and Puerto Rico third place (2-1 and 8 points). Guatemala (0-3) was fourth place.

Puerto Rico’s sizeable unforced errors (51 to 35) was a decisive element in Mexico’s victory, who led by a slight 9-8 margin in blocks. Puerto Rico was better in kills 54-44 and in serves 6-3.

Outside hitter Josue Lopez led Mexico’s offense with 17 points (16 kills, one ace), accompanied 15 points from opposite hitter Diego Gonzalez (11 kills, four blocks) and outside hitter Mauro Fuentes with 12 points.

On Puerto Rico’s side, team captain Pedro Molina was the match leading scorer with 25 points on 19 kills, two blocks and four aces. Opposite Klistan Lawrence added 14 points all from kills.

Victor Parra #5 celebrating

Jorge Azair, head coach of Mexico indicated “Puerto Rico knew if they could win 3-0 they were the ones to qualify to the Challenger, they came out strong in the first set and we were anxious. In the second set we were calmed down, we committed fewer errors and we got the serves on court. My guys showed their courage; they qualified to the World Championship and had a good performance, now they qualify to the Challenger to battle for the VNL, they are worth gold, I am proud of them”.

Head coach of Puerto Rico, Jamille Torres expressed to be proud of his group, “we didn’t practice that much, as we warmed up, we were much better and that was the goal. Our improvement is notorious, and we’ll be ready to defend our title at the Central American Games”.

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Dominican Republic ends Final Four Men with victory over Guatemala

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 11, 2023.- Dominican Republic won 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-21) over Guatemala in their last match at the NORCECA Men’s Final Four on Sunday at Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, Mexico.

Dominican Republic finished their Final Four campaign with a 2-1 win-loss record and 9 points; Guatemala 0-3. Dominicans will have to wait for their final standing after the result between host Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Guatemala kept the scores close, pressing the Dominican Republic but their 14-7 margin in blocks and 4-0 serves were enough to overcome the Central Americans’ spirited performance. Dominicans also led in kills 39-30 but handed out more points from errors than Guatemala (25 against 18).

Three Dominican outside hitters scored double digits. Wilfrido Hernández once again led Dominican Republic’s offense scoring 15 points on 14 kills and one block, Henry Lopez contributed with 12 points (10 kills, two aces), and  Hector Cruz added 10 (8 kills, two blocks).

Opposite hitter Erik Flores of Guatemala scored a match-high of 16 points on 14 kills and two blocks. Team captain Carlos Lopez joined in with 11 points on 8 kills and three blocks.

Chacon from GUA facing DOM blockers

Alexander Gutiérrez, coach of Dominican Republic said to be happy “we finished in the same second position as last year with a transitional team. We gained experience and we continue to give a chance to players to get experience with tournaments like this one. Our goal is to continue to add, and we hope one day to battle to be in the VNL in the future”.

Reider Lucas,  Guatemala’s coach indicated the team played well despite not having five players here “we came to compete, to develop athletes for the Central American Games. We are glad, we fought every single set, the team had a good level of play, but the other teams here have a much higher one than ours, with more experience and more maturity. The team did their job, we would’ve liked to win a set, but we were limited with our substitutions”.  

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Wilmarie Rivera MVP at 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four

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JUANA DIAZ, Puerto Rico, June 11, 2023.- Puerto Rico’s setter Wilmarie Rivera was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four that concluded on Sunday in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico.

Rivera received the recognition during the closing ceremony after Puerto Rico won the gold medal defeating Costa Rica in straight sets.

In other recognitions to Puerto Rico’s players, Paola Rojas was the first middle blocker.  Also from Puerto Rico, Alba Hernández was the second middle blocker.

From Trinidad and Tobago, Channon Thompson was recognized as the best scorer and best spiker of the tournament. Krystle Esdelle (TTO) was awarded the best service.

From Costa Rica, María José Castro distinguished digger, best receiver and libero. Castro was accompanied by teammates Melissa Campos was awarded as the best setter and opposite hitter Tatiana Sayles Marin the second spiker of the tournament. Captain Marcela Araya, second best spike.

MPV Wilmarie Rivera of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico won a ticket to the FIVB Volleyball Challenger Cup 2024

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JUANA DÍAZ, Puerto Rico, June 11, 2023.- Puerto Rico claimed the gold medal and defeating Costs Rica 3-0 (25-23, 25-10, 25-7) at the 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four at Dolores Martínez Coliseum in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico finished first place undefeated (3-0) and Costa Rica in second place (2-1).

The Puerto Rican team dominated 33-22 in attacks, 13-1 in blocks and 8-1 in serves.

Opposite hitter Génesis Collazo scored nine points for the Puerto Rico, on eight attacks.

Outside hitter Alondra Vázquez also contributed in the win with eight points on six kills, and one ace; and Paola Rojas with seven points, five in blocks.

Costa Rica was led by captain Marcela Araya with 10 points.

Costa Rica fails blocking Génesis Collazo #15 PUR

Fernando Morales, coach of Puerto Rico: “It was important to win this tournament and not just win this tournament, it was to do what we have practiced with this new group, which for the first time will have the group the entire summer. We played and won the gold medal against the best team in this tournament; and, winning the ticket to the VCC is a new opportunity to qualify for the VNL (Volleyball Nations League), because last year we couldn’t do it in Croatia. With the complete team, we understand that we have a much better chance of qualifying for the VNL.”

Shara Venegas, captain of Puerto Rico: “Shara Venegas, captain of Puerto Rico: “This victory and this medal mean satisfaction. As a team we are getting along and we have completed our first objective, which was to win the gold medal here at home and with our people. It has been a very beautiful moment that God has given us. It is my first gold medal in Puerto Rico and I want to celebrate and enjoy it with my family. This medal is for Puerto Rico and for my town of Toa Baja.”

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “It was a participation that shows excellence on the part of our players because we have gone through many difficulties at the level of injuries, at the level of preparation, and I think that they, with the little we received and with the little we have, we have achieved a lot. This silver medal means a lot and I think we showed today, at least in the first set, that we can fight against these types of teams at this level; and this is important to us because our next competition is the Central American and Caribbean Games. I’m very excited to continue preparing for what’s to come.”

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Canada ends first week of VNL action in Ottawa

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Ottawa, ON (June 11, 2023) – Canada’s men’s team ended its first week of Volleyball Nations League action with a 1-3 (25-20, 17-25, 21-25, 21-25) loss to Germany on Sunday at Ottawa’s Arena at TD Place.

The German attack proved decisive in the match as both teams finished with one win and three losses. Canada’s win came over Cuba in five sets in their 2023 tournament debut.

Ryan Sclater and Stephen Maar led Canada with 16 and 12 points, respectively. Tobias Brand (20 points) Böhme (19) were lethal from the German side.

Canada returns to the court in the second week of the tournament in France, where they will play Japan (June 20th), Slovenia, Bulgaria and the host team, the 2021 Olympic champions.

More results: https://en.volleyballworld.com/volleyball/competitions/vnl-2023/

USA drops first VNL match to Brazil

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 11, 2023.- Brazil stopped the United States’ three-winning streaks  3-1 (25-19, 21-25, 25-15, 25-21)  in the 2023 Volleyball International Nations League on Sunday in Ottawa, Canada.

United States finishes the first week with a 3-1 record.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

The United States, who suffered their first loss in the VNL 2023, had opposite Jake Hanes and outside hitter Cody Kessel as their leading scorers with each of them leaving the court with 11 points.

The higher numbers of American errors (32 to 20) played a big role in the Brazilian victory, but the South Americans also did better with their blocking (nine points to five) and serving (five aces to four). The Americans were slightly better offensively, getting 51 kills to Brazil’s 50.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results 

Trinidad and Tobago wins the bronze medal in straight sets

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JUANA DÍAZ, Puerto Rico, June 11, 2023.- Trinidad and Tobago won the 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four bronze medal defeating US Virgin Islands in straight sets 3-0 (25-10,25-23, 25-20) on Sunday at Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum in Juana Díaz.

Trinidad and Tobago (1-2) closed the match with advantages in attacks 64-19, in blocks 8-5 and 9-0 in aces.

Opposite hitter Channon Thompson of Costa Rica topped all scorers with 17 points from 13 kills and three aces. Also contributing to the win, middle blocker, and team captain Jalicia Ross-Kydd with 11 points and Krystle Esdelle with nine points.

Opposite hitter Anne Gillens of US Virgin Islands with nine points on eight kills.

Captain of TTO, Jalicia Ross-Kydd

Jalicia Ross-Kydd, captain of Trinidad and Tobago: “We are feeling very excited and pleased to be here and play against USVI and win. We work together and we build from the first two matches against Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. We brought that momentum into this match because we have to play against them on top of the Caribbean in July and August. This is what we are stepping stones together. We are very excited and proud of ourselves”

Saleen Ali, coach of Trinidad and Tobago: “It’s great because as I said before, our program has now started two months ago. Our main objective in this cycle is the Caribbean Volleyball Championships and USVI is one of our main rivals. So, we’re here. It’s psychological and also good for us going into the championships”.

Isaac Raphael, coach of US Virgin Islands: “I really enjoyed ourselves with everything was very smooth. The final game there was a bigger team than us. We need to learn to execute but the experience was great for us here at this level. The more we play at this level, the better we will do. It was the first time for many of my players. I would like to win but we’re getting better, that’s what matters”.

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Alejandro Miguel González (Cuba) MVP at U21 Pan American Cup

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LA HABANA, Cuba, June 10, 2023.- Alejandro Miguel González, of Cuba’s team, new champion of the U21 Men’ s Norceca Pan American Cup was named the Most Valuable Player and the best opposite hitter.

Also, from the host team were included in the honor roll José Ramón Gómez, second spiker; Alexis Wilson and  Jakdiel Cotreras, best blockers in that order, and Yonni Iglesias, the most outstanding setter.

Jacob Sargent, of Canada, bronze medal, took the first spiker award, Puerto Rico’s Fernand Albaladejo, best receiver, and Alex Meléndez, best server, and Dominicans Ronny Molina the best scorer and Angelkis Mesa, the distinguished digger and libero.

Cuba led the standings undefeated with five victories, joined by the United States with a record of 4 wins and 2 losses, and Canada (4-1). Followed by Puerto Rico (3-2), Nicaragua (3-3), Dominican Republic (3-3), Guatemala (1-4) and Haiti (0-5).    

Alejandro Miguel González MVP

Cuba is the new U21 Men’s Pan American Cup Champion

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 10, 2023.- Cuba is the new U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American champion after beating defending champion United States in a sensational gold medal match 3-2 (21-25, 21-25, 30-28, 25-15, 15-11) in  heated two hours and 16 minutes in front of hundreds of fans at the city’s coliseum.

It seemed that the visitors would return home again with the title, the hosts reacted, they moved ahead winning the second and third sets to seal in the fifth, not before a great battle from both teams, in which the home team held advantage in kills  (52-47), but in blocks (17-16) and serves (9-8) it was by a slight margin.

Opposite hitter Alejandro Miguel González once again showed his leadership as the leading scorer with 26 points and was joined in the offense by outside hitters Bryan Camino (22) and José Ramón Gómez (10), and middle Jakdiel Contreras (10), while other middle, Alexis Wilson, added 8.

In the previous edition the United States defeated Mexico in the title match, who wasn’t in the event, while Canada took the bronze medal over Cuba. On this occasion, Canada finished in the same position, but beating Puerto Rico.

Cubans celebrate gold medal win

Jesús Cruz, host head coach said “first we achieved our goal of improving last year’s fourth place. We had a meeting to study that we weren’t going to lose today, we came to win, there was no need to reserve anything, nothing to take care of, it was only one match to give our best and if the opponent was successful, it was with the best version of Cuba. Things didn’t work in the first two sets, but we were able to recover, the best thing this group had in the tournament was the possibility for change. If the opponent changed its tactics we would as well and that’s how we kept the entire match. In the end it turned out better for everyone”.

The team leader, Alejandro Miguel González, expressed “we had the opportunity, and we took advantage of winning games in tie-break, we grew facing difficulties and that’s why we’re celebrating the gold medal match. From 2022 to now all the players have grown, before we were more dependent on each other, this time around we all pushed the same and deserved the awards. We played as a team”.

Veteran coach of the United States, Andy Read, said “we wanted to finish the match in the third set, which we almost did because we were up 2-0, but we didn’t. The crowd supported their team in their win. A close game was expected and the way it went it could have gone either way. I am glad to see how my players performed and how they faced the tournament”.

Nyerovwome Omene, U.S. captain expressed “facing Cuba and in Cuba is always good and fun. We also had the opportunity to meet in pool-play and we enjoyed both matches. We are happy about that, despite the loss. Now we must continue to the U21 World Championship”.

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Dominican Ronny Molina, from Cibao, new scoring record at U21 Pan Am Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, 10 de junio de 2023.- “I didn’t play to break a record, I simply play for my team and that’s what I did, but I would have preferred to win the game and keep fifth place form last year, but this is a team effort”, said Dominican Ronny Molina, who scored 39 points against Nicaragua a new scoring record for a match at this age-group.

Outside hitter erased from the booked the 33 points from Estakend Beauvoir of Haiti, also against Nicaragua in 2022 here at Ciudad Deportiva.

He said before the clash against Nicaragua that his coaches told him to enjoy the game without thinking about individual awards, “that’s what I did, I wanted my team to win. When the match ended, assistant Francisco Lerebours confirmed the announcement of the new scoring record in a match and I was happy, of course I was happy”.

With his shiny eyes more than ever, Ronny smiled like a child with a new toy. “I was surprised and happy. I thank God, my coaches, my team, because without them this couldn’t be possible”.

This is the most outstanding performance for the Dominican player, who was here in Havana during the 2022 edition in September when he was 18 years old and being part of the junior team for a year, finishing in sixth among the best scorers.

“In our junior national championship, I used to score between 40 and 47 per match, in four days I totaled more than 200 points”, he shared, while saying that thanks to volleyball he won a scholarship at Universidad Evangélica of Santo Domingo, where he studies nutrition.

“I used to play basketball, but I was convinced to play volleyball and I was determined to be part of the junior national team which I did on June 22 of 2021. We are having good results, thanks to our coaches, especially to Alexander Gutiérrez, I have improved to this level of play”.

“My dream is to be in the senior team, play professional volleyball, help my family and always serve my country and for that you need discipline, that’s a must to reach our goals in life” he was excited to say while commenting he was born far from the capital at north of Dominican Republic, in Villa Los Almácigos, in the Cibao region.  

“Thank you to everyone who came to enjoy volleyball here at the Coliseum, I enjoy playing and will go on working for good performances and earn a spot at the U23 team and come back to Havana in July for the Pan American Cup. I will continue working to be in the senior team, I have lots of desire to continue training and give my best for this sport”.

Mexico remains undefeated at NORCECA Men’s Final Four

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 10, 2023.- Mexico kept their undefeated mark with a straight set win over Dominican Republic 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-20) on the second day of competition at the NORCECA Men’s Final Four at Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, Mexico.

Mexico and Puerto Rico will close the event on Sunday and with the current results, Mexico is only one set away from qualifying to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC).

In the first two sets the score reached 16 points even before Mexico could prevail and play a third set jumping to a six-point lead (20-14).

Mexico was better in kills  (40-34) and aces (3-1); both teams finished with eight points from blocks. Mexico handed out 18 points on unforced errors and Dominican Republic 24.

The leading scorer of the match was opposite hitter Diego González of Mexico with 18 points on 16 attacks and two blocks. Outside hitter Josué López contributed with 13 points on 10 kills and two blocks for the Mexican win, as did Mauro Fuentes with 8 points.

Outside hitter Wilfrido Hernández was Dominican Republic’s best scorer with 17 points on 14 kills and three blocks.

Diego Gonzalez spikes against Dominican Republic

Mexican Diego González, the leading scorer of the match “Dominican Republic imposed their rhythm for moments and took us out of system. With patience we came out on top. Tomorrow, we want to win the gold medal, we are aware that Puerto Rico is not an easy opponent, so we will fight with our all”.

“We lacked focus in the beginning, it’s a big responsibility playing at home and even more for what we’re fighting for” said Mexican coach Jorge Azair. “The guys were patient, determined and brave. I am glad for the job we’ve done, and we still have one match left”.

From Dominican Republic, its top scorer Wilfrido Hernández said “despite the loss, we played well with a young team against an opponent like Mexico that battles strong. Today we used another line-up because we are preparing for future tournaments”.

Head coach of Dominican Republic, Alexander Gutiérrez spoke about their goal “we want more depth in our team, everyone should play because we are preparing for the Central American Games. Yesterday we won and today we didn’t, it’s a learning process”.

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Costa Rica is undefeated at Women’s Final Four

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JUANA DÍAZ, PUERTO RICO, June 10, 2023.- Costa Rican is undefeated at 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four by winning in straight sets (25-13, 25-18, 25-12) against the US Virgin Islands.

With this victory, Costa Rica will face Puerto Rico tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. for the only ticket available in this tournament for the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC), which offers the opportunity to qualify for the Volleyball Nations League, the FIVB’s most important annual international tournament with the participation of the best 16 teams of the world.

Costa Rica dominated the US Virgin Islands in attacks (44-22), as well in aces (3-2). The US Virgin Islands led (5-3) in blocks.

Tatiana Sayles Marín was the best scorer for Costa Rica with 16 points (14 kills, one block, one ace), María Fernanda Alfaro had 10 points, and Marcela Araya with eight. For the US Virgin Islands, I’tania Taylor with eight points, Anna Gillens with six, and Jala Dixon with five.

Costa Rica celebrates undefeated record

“It is important for our confidence. Our preparation has been good, but if we get here and we don’t take action, it’s useless. The girls have applied everything in a very disciplined and meticulous way. We are already prepared for the last exam, which is the most difficult”, said Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica. “We know that Puerto Rico has historically been superior to us, but the girls are very excited to face them. We are going to continue studying Puerto Rico and find a way to decipher them and compete at a high level with them.”

Tatiana Sayles Marín, from Costa Rica, said that “we are very happy to have won today. We follow the directions of our technician. Our plan for this tournament was to come compete, and we are succeeding. For tomorrow’s game we are psyched up. Every match is different. The mentality is to come with everything, and we are going to prepare to give our best”.

The coach of the US Virgin Islands, Isaac Raphael, said that “They (Costa Rica) played very well. We do not attack aggressively. I think we will continue to improve and learn. Tomorrow, we go with Trinidad & Tobago, which is a great team with experience, and we hope to win”.

Puerto Rico earns first win at Men’s Final Four

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 10, 2023.- Puerto Rico earned their first win at the 2023 NORCECA Men Final Four beating Guatemala 3-0 (25-22, 25-18, 25-22) on Saturday at Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, Mexico.

Puerto Rico improved its record 1-1 and Guatemala is now 0-2.

Puerto Rico had to recover from a four-point deficit the entire third set where Guatemala reached atop 20-16 until Puerto Rico ended in a three-set win.

The winners led with a sizeable 44-29 advantage in kills, as well as in blocks with 10-4. Both teams scored three points from serves while Guatemala benefited from 26 opponent errors against 18.

Three players from Puerto Rico ended with double digits, led by team captain Pedro Molina 16 points (13 kills, one block, two aces), middle blocker Jonathan Rodriguez 13 points (9 kills, four blocks) and opposite Klistan Lawrence 10 points (9 kills, one block).

Guatemala’s team captain Carlos Lopez led his team with 15 points on 13 kills, one block and one ace, followed by opposite hitter Erik Flores and middle blocker Jason Hernandez with 9 and 6 points respectively.

On the last day of the event, Puerto Rico plays against host Mexico and Guatemala faces Dominican Republic.

PUR setter Garcia battleing the ball over the net facing GUA’s block from Chacon

Puerto Rico’s captain Pedro Molina said “this is a new team, with little practice and we are trying to improve, focusing only on our side of the court no matter who is our opponent. We came from behind to close in three sets still finding our rhythm”.

El capitán de Puerto Rico Pedro Molina dijo “este es un equipo nuevo, con poco tiempo de práctica y estamos tratando de mejorar, enfocándonos en nuestro lado de la cancha sin importar el rival. Venimos de abajo para cerrar en tres sets”.

“We are committing too many errors, it’s evident that we lack practice” indicated coach Jamille Torres of Puerto Rico. “The good thing today was that we came from behind in the first and third sets, we advanced with character. Tomorrow we are going to war against Mexico”.

Erik Flores opposite hitter of Guatemala expressed it was a good match and with good moments but “we lacked rhythm to close the sets, mostly in the third which we led the entire time, with ups and downs; the team here is not complete and we don’t have changes so new legs can come in to  stabilize the group” .

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Anderson on fire as USA remain perfect against Canada

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 10, 2023.- The Americans endured the pressure of playing in a packed TD Place, with almost every fan supporting the Canadians, and secured their third 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-20) victory in the VNL 2023 counting on 18 points from their star opposite to remain with a perfect campaign in Pool 1.

The United States will enter the final day of the opening week of the Volleyball Nations League 2023 as one of just three undefeated national teams after the Americans overcame NORCECA rivals and hosts Canada on Saturday, in Ottawa.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

A Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medalist, 36-year-old opposite Matt Anderson was a key player in the American victory. He was a reliable scoring option for the team during the entire match and improved from the seven points he had scored against Italy on Wednesday to 18 against the Canadians, tallying 14 kills, one ace and three blocks.

Fellow Olympic medalist Aaron Russell also had a productive night against the Canadians, trailing only Anderson in points with 17. The 30-year-old outside hitter had 16 kills and one ace during the match.

United States beat Canada at VNL

On the Canadian side, opposite Arthur Szwarc was the leading scorer, with 13 points (12 kills, one block). He had one more than outside hitter Stephen Maar, who registered eight kills, one ace and three blocks.

The Americans benefited from their offensive efficiency (46 kills to Canada’s 36) to create the separation they needed to win the match – they also led in aces by five to one. Canada got one more point from opponent errors (19 to 18) while each side registered six blocks.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Cuba with first victory at VNL

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 10, 2023.- Cuba obtained their first victory at the Volleyball Nations League playing in Pool 1 at the TD Place in Ottawa, Canada. 

After three straight losses, the Caribbean upset Brazil, beating the South Americans in five sets (25-16, 22-25, 27-29, 25-22, 20-18).

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

Opposite Jesús Herrera starred in the Cuban triumph, contributing 30 points to the result. Cuban outside hitter Marlon Yant added 19, with Brazil counting on 23 points from opposite Abouba Dramé and 20 from outside hitter Ricardo Lucarelli.

Cuba overpowered Brazil in every element of the game, leading 70-67 in kills, 14-8 in blocks and 5-2 in aces. Both committed similar number of unforced errors, Cuba (33) and Brazil (30).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results\

Anderson on fire as USA remain perfect against Canada

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 10, 2023.- The Americans endured the pressure of playing in a packed TD Place, with almost every fan supporting the Canadians, and secured their third 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-20) victory in the VNL 2023 counting on 18 points from their star opposite to remain with a perfect campaign in Pool 1.

The United States will enter the final day of the opening week of the Volleyball Nations League 2023 as one of just three undefeated national teams after the Americans overcame NORCECA rivals and hosts Canada on Saturday, in Ottawa.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

A Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medalist, 36-year-old opposite Matt Anderson was a key player in the American victory. He was a reliable scoring option for the team during the entire match and improved from the seven points he had scored against Italy on Wednesday to 18 against the Canadians, tallying 14 kills, one ace and three blocks.

VNL match action United States and Canada

Fellow Olympic medalist Aaron Russell also had a productive night against the Canadians, trailing only Anderson in points with 17. The 30-year-old outside hitter had 16 kills and one ace during the match.

On the Canadian side, opposite Arthur Szwarc was the leading scorer, with 13 points (12 kills, one block). He had one more than outside hitter Stephen Maar, who registered eight kills, one ace and three blocks.

The Americans benefited from their offensive efficiency (46 kills to Canada’s 36) to create the separation they needed to win the match – they also led in aces by five to one. Canada got one more point from opponent errors (19 to 18) while each side registered six blocks.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Cuba with first victory at VNL

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 10, 2023.- Cuba obtained their first victory at the Volleyball Nations League playing in Pool 1 at the TD Place in Ottawa, Canada. 

After three straight losses, the Caribbean upset Brazil, beating the South Americans in five sets (25-16, 22-25, 27-29, 25-22, 20-18).

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

Opposite Jesús Herrera starred in the Cuban triumph, contributing 30 points to the result. Cuban outside hitter Marlon Yant added 19, with Brazil counting on 23 points from opposite Abouba Dramé and 20 from outside hitter Ricardo Lucarelli.

Cuba overpowered Brazil in every element of the game, leading 70-67 in kills, 14-8 in blocks and 5-2 in aces. Both committed similar number of unforced errors, Cuba (33) and Brazil (30).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results\

Canada beat Puerto Rico to repeat the bronze medal at the U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 10, 2023.- Canada defeated Puerto Rico 3-1 (25-15, 25-21, 21-25, 25-16) to stay at the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American podium with the bronze medal just like last year here at Ciudad Deportiva in Havana.

The Northern team prevailed over Puerto Rico in every line to reach advantages in kills  (56-35), in blocks (10-5) and serves (7-4) but ended with more unforced errors (23-33).

Canada’s strong offense was led by opposite and team captain Jacob Sargent with 24 points, followed by Brendan Mills (19), Kaden Schmidt  and Jonah Dueck, both with 12 points.

For the Caribbeans, the only player that scored double digits was opposite hitter Gregory Torres, with 17 tallies.

Jacob Sargent CAN against Janluar Figueroa and Jamal Ellis PUR

Canada’s coach, German Arnd Ludwing, said “today we had a better match mostly in blocks, that was able to break our opponents defense and we managed tempo better. We are glad, but the key matches against the United States and Cuba are those to improve. We wanted more than bronze, but I’m happy”.

Jacob Sargent, the North captain, said “it was good to recover from our semifinal match against the United States yesterday. We had some mental mistakes, concentration, as well as serves and other technical elements and Puerto Rico took advantage of them. Havan is a good host and we have won two bronze medals here, we are glad, but honestly, we wanted to improve third place”.

Coach Carlos Rodríguez of Puerto Rico expressed “except the first set, we tried to battle more than we could, it’s possible our physical condition hurt us a bit, but we battled and despite the final score we gave a good performance and there was a good level of play”.

Gregory Torres, the most productive of Puerto Rico said “it turned out to be a good match, we started off a bit weak, but we adjusted and fell on occasions, and then we won the third set. In the fourth we came out short. They also played very well and we gave everything we have, and that’s what’s important”. 

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Nicaragua snatched fifth place from Dominican Republic at U21 Pan Am Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 10, 2023.- Nicaragua snatched the fifth place to Dominican Republic in over two hours of an exciting five close win (27-25, 18-25, 29-31, 25-22, 23-21) on closing day of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup.

Dominicans ended in front in kills (80-74) and serves (10-4), but the Central Americans were better in blocking (16-10) and with fewer errors (24-28) in Nicaragua’s best result in the history of this age-group.

The winners had a better-balanced offense between five players with double digits, led by Yesdy Pacheco (27). However, Dominican Republic has the new scoring record in a match with outside hitter Ronny Molina who produced 39 points to erase the 33 points scored by Estakend Beauvoir, in 2022 against Nicaragua.

From the winners, Evan Solis and Denis Espinoza added 16 each and Yader León as well as Rafael Hernández tallied 11. On the Caribbean side, Adrian Figueroa scored 25, Blendy Tavares 14 and Jeremy Pichardo 10.

In the 2022 edition of the event, here at the Havana Coliseum, Nicaragua lost every single match to finish at the bottom of the rankings, while Dominicans beat Chile in a tie-break for fifth place, but the history changed today after these two team’s performances.

Adrian Figueroa DOM against Rafael Hernandez-Cristhoper Castillo NCA

Jorge Luis Mena, Central American coach said “having character is a positive thing, I told my team that they had to believe that they could reach the fifth place, we did what we could and for us this feat is like winning the tournament. We worked mentally with the guys, so that they didn’t have to be scared of the Dominican Republic, and we made it”.

Outside hitter Yesdy Pacheco said “our goal was to be in the top five, it wasn’t easy, everyone had to work, and we trained for that, thank God it was a good result. We won the fifth set because we left our bodies on the court, we pushed back to every single ball, we were all better relaxed than our opponents until we scored point 23 for the victory. We are glad”.

Dominican coach Dante Mañón recalled “they say that being too confident is dangerous, Nicaragua believed in the win despite their short height, they defended more, they picked up every kill and the worse was that the libero sold the ball twice while trying to close the set. We committed simple errors and that cost us the match”.

Their productive captain Ronny Molina did not enjoy his performance. “We shouldn’t have lost, but Nicaragua picked up everything and our blocker didn’t help that much, our opponents scored everything. We also failed in receiving and that damaged us a lot. But we must continue, work and compete more, there will be other tournaments”.   

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Guatemala seventh place at U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 10, 2023.- Guatemala finished seventh place after beating Haiti in five sets (25-21, 22-25, 14-25, 25-23, 15-11) on the last day of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

The Central Americans were superior in kills (61-50) and in serves (5-1), while the Caribbeans produced more blocks (13-5). The winners committed fewer unforced errors (41-30).

Outside hitter Yeferson Zaval was the most productive for Guatemala with 26 points, while the leading scorer of the match was spirited Estakend Beauvoir of Haiti with 27.

Other players with double digits were outside hitter Daniel Delgado (16) and middle Leonardo Molina (12). From Haiti, outside hitter Steevenson Senat (16).

Head coach of Guatemala, Luis Castañeda considered that “we suffered, we began winning, but the opponent improved their play and moved forward. We came back in the fourth set and then we put pressure with our serves and won. We didn’t want to finish last, and seventh place is not bad because we are missing five athletes of this age-group and it’s always important to try improving in ranking”.  

Zavala, leader of the match, manifested “we came out to play with our all, it was our last chance of winning a match, we had ups and downs, we managed to control the fourth set by a considerable advantage, and we improved to come back and get the victory. We aren’t happy leaving in seventh place, but we are glad for our effort in every match”.

Dieulengy Relis, Caribbean captain was sad of not keeping the seventh place of 2022. “It was a match we should have won, we never imagined that the fourth set was going to get difficult, because we had a good third one, but Guatemala’s players have good defense and today they did it better than ever”.

Lesly Larrieux, coach of Haiti expressed “it has been a total disappointment, we had worked to win this match today, but my team lost energy in the third set and didn’t fight any more. It ‘s not been a year since we won the Caribbean championship, this tournament has been a fatality”.

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Battle of the undefeated in Juana Díaz

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JUANA DÍAZ, PUERTO RICO, June 10, 2023. – Puerto Rico (2-0) and Costa Rica (2-0) will meet in the last match of the 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four at the Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum in Juana Díaz for the gold medal and the only ticket available for the Volleyball Challenger Cup (VCC).

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago (0-2) and the US Virgin Islands will meet for the bronze medal at 6:00 p.m.

Puerto Rico’s goal is to win the gold medal and the ticket to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC).

They took a step towards that goal by beating Trinidad & Tobago in straight sets, 25-14, 27-25, 25-9 on Saturday at Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico had to work hard against Trinidad & Tobago, who, with their experienced players, were able to put up a fight and lead the set to extra points. The Puerto Ricans won the technical times, 8-5 and 16-11. Trinidad & Tobago came from behind to tie the set (22-22). Puerto Rico recovered and took the set, 27-25.

Dariana Hollingsworth, from Puerto Rico, was the best scorer of the match with 16 points (14 kills, one block and one ace), Karla Santos had nine points (seven kills), and Paola Santiago with eight. For Trinidad & Tobago, Channon Thompson with 13 points (11 kills, two blocks); Esdelle Krystle with six points (five kills) and Destiny León with five (two aces).

In the first game, Costa Rica winning in straight sets (25-13, 25-18, 25-12) against US Virgin Islands.

Costa Rica dominated the US Virgin Islands in attacks (44-22), as well in aces (3-2). US Virgin Islands led (5-3) in blocks.

Tatiana Sayles Marín was the best scorer for Costa Rica with 16 points (14 kills, one block, one ace), María Fernanda Alfaro had 10 points, and Marcela Araya with eight. For the US Virgin Islands, I’tania Taylor with eight points, Anna Gillens with six, and Jala Dixon with five.

Puerto Rico defeated the US Virgin Islands

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JUANA DIAZ, Puerto Rico, June 9, 2023.- Puerto Rico defeated the US Virgin Islands team in the last match of the first day of the 2023 Women’s NORCECA International League Final Four at the Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum.

Puerto Rico dominated the match from start to finish with sets 25-13, 25-22 and 25-16.

Alba Hernández and Karla Santos with 10 points each for the locals, Dariana Hollingsworth with nine points, and Paola Santiago with seven. For US Virgin Islands, Anna Gillens with 11 points and I’tiana Taylor with eight points.

Libero Shara Venegas, team captain Puerto Rico

“It is always important to start with a win. The nerves of the young players were seen a bit, but it was a great game to get rid of those nerves. We go from less to more. Tomorrow, we go against Trinidad & Tobago, and then comes Costa Rica. It is a great victory, but a lot to study and improve for the next two games”, Fernando Morales, coach of Puerto Rico said.

“It was fun. Puerto Rico is a good team. We are going to improve. We are learning the game and understanding it a little more and I had a good time. It was, you know, nobody wants to lose, but if I’m going to lose, I lose well. Tomorrow, we have Costa Rica. That is a different game. I hope we come here and play well tomorrow. We hope to come out with a win,” said Isaac Raphael, coach of the US Virgin Islands.

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México earns a straight set win at NORCECA Final Four Men opening

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DURANGO, M3xico, June 9, 2023.- Mexico earned a straight set win 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-22) over Guatemala in their opening match at the Men’s NORCECA International League Final Four that started on Friday at Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, México.

Mexico’s blocking (17-2) was the key skill to stop Guatemala who led by three points (14-17) in the second set and put pressure over the host country in the third.

México also led 36-31 in kills, but Guatemala was more effective in serves (5-1), while committing fewer unforced errors (15-18).

The leading scorers were outside hitter Josué López of Mexico and opposite hitter Erick Flores of Guatemala, both scoring 12 points on 11 attacks and one block.

Also, contributing to Mexico’s victory was Luis Hernández with 9 points (6 kills, 3 blocks) and Diego González with 8 points (7 kills, one block).

Guatemalan captain, Carlos López added 11 points on 10 kills and one block and middle Brandon Chinchilla scored a match-high of 4 aces.

On day two of competition, Mexico (1-0) will face Dominican Republic (1-0) and Guatemala (0-1) meets Puerto Rico (0-1).

Mauro Isaac from Mexico spikes facing triple block from GUA

Mexican captain Pedro Rangel said it’s not unusual to have ups and downs in the first match “after practicing for a long time and not competing there are things to improve for the next two matches that will be harder. Observing the Dominican Republic, we saw that they have height, their blocking is well established and in addition to attacking strong they put pressure with serves which is what we must do to have advantage over them”.

Jorge Azair, head coach of Mexico expressed “what’s important is the win, but tomorrow we need to work better because we had too many errors in serves, but we can’t stop being aggressive in that aspect of the game. We are beginning the season and we need to find our rhythm, our contact with the ball”.

Carlos López, captain of Guatemala spoke about the difficulties of putting the team together for the competition “some of our players couldn’t travel because of issues with their visa. Some members on our team have more training, but I think we looked good and that gives us confidence for the two matches we have left”.

Head coach Reider Lucas of Guatemala explained that his team is not complete, “some players had to be called at the last minute, with few days of preparation and we don’t have substitutions. Our goal is for the guys to play, to develop and to give a great spectacle, taking advantage of the opportunity of competing. I am confident in my team; we know how to compete and the fans liked the good match we gave”. 

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Dominicans prevail against Puerto Rico to open Men’s NORCECA Final Four

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 9, 2023.- Dominican Republic prevailed 3-1 (25-22, 22-25, 25-23, 25-20) against Puerto Rico to open the Men’s NORCECA International League Final Four at on Friday at the Auditorio del Pueblo in Durango, Mexico.

The opening match was a close battle between the two Caribbean teams of the tournament, won by Dominican Republic who was able to push away until the fourth and final set.

Dominicans topped Puerto Rico on a comfortable 15-7 margin in blocks, as well as in aces (9-4) and scoring on 27 opponent errors against 21. Puerto Rico led 56-46 in kills.

Outside hitters Henry Lopez and Hector Cruz led Dominican Republic with 22 and 21 points respectively. Lopez on 12 kills, three blocks and a match-high of seven aces and Cruz on 19 kills, one block and one ace.

Three outside hitters of Puerto Rico scored 14 points each, Vidal Lawrence (13 kills, one block), Omar Hoyos (12 kills, one block, one ace) and Pedro Molina (11 kills, two blocks, one ace).

The Dominican Republic will face Guatemala on Saturday and Puerto Rico goes against host Mexico.

Dominican Republic triple block

Captain of Dominican Republic, veteran Henry Lopez expressed “I loved our first match, we hope for more victories. We had great communication, we supported each other the entire match”.

“It’s important to start with a victory” indicated Alexander Gutriérrez, head coach of Dominican Republic. “Despite the youth we have more consistency, which is difficult, we are still missing details, but we must continue to work. My players were able to keep up after losing a set, they didn’t lower their level and that’s a good sign of growth”.

Jamille Torres, head coach of Puerto Rico explained that it showed that they have a short time practicing, “I hope to go on and play a bit better; we had difficulties to start, I think we couldn’t recover from several errors, they served well from the floor and that made the difference”.

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Victorious Costa Rica against Trinidad & Tobago

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JUANA DÍAZ, PUERTO RICO, June 9, 2023. – Tonight, Costa Rica claimed its first victory of the 2023 Women’s Norceca International League Final Four at the Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum by defeating Trinidad & Tobago.

The Ticas won 20-25, 25-19, 25-17, 25-16.

Trinidad & Tobago surprised Costa Rica in the first set by dominating, 25-20. Costa Rica was able to adjust their game and take the victory.

Marcela Araya was the best scorer for Costa Rica with 18 points, Tatiana Sayles Marín and Mónica Castro Castro with 16 points each. For Trinidad & Tobago, Channon Thompson led all scorers with 20 points, 16 in kills, three in blocks and an ace. Krystle Esdelle with 16 points and Kelly-Anne Billingy with six points.

Melissa Campo and teammates celebrate Costa Rica’s victory over TTO

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica said: “It is very important to start with a victory. And more than a victory, what we focused on was how we played. We played very well on an offensive tactical level. We knew that our first offensive weapon would be the serve. The first set we did very well, we just lowered the intensity a bit in our attack. We improve it in the second. It is important for us to start off on the right foot and improve with each game”. Rica

“It is the first game for many players in several years. In the first set we started on high. Then we lower the pass. We are going to go game by game, day by day,” Trinidad & Tobago coach Saleen Ali said.

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USA will defend their title after beating Canada in semifinals at U21 Pan Am Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 9, 2023.- The United States will defend their title on Saturday after dominating Canada 3-1 (25-17, 25-21, 21-25, 25-16) in the second semifinal of the Men’s U21 Norceca Pan American cup at coliseo Ciudad Deportiva.

Tournament favorites managed to control their neighbors of the north, without despair after falling in the third set. In the next set they improved effectiveness and sealed the game to battle to keep their 2022 title like they did in this same venue against Mexico, absent in this edition.

Canada will battle once again for the bronze medal they won last year after beating Cuba. The local team, with evident progress on their team, will have the Americans on the other side of the net, who they previously beat in the tournament.

The Americans, with eight players with a height over two meters, held advantage over the Canadian team in kills (52-43) and in blocks (10-5), while the opponents dominated in serves (7-3), who committed more unforced errors (31-24).

Its best man, outside hitter Alexander Rottman, with 20 tallies, accompanied by opposite George Bruening (15), and outside hitter Trenton Mose (14). From the opponents with double digits Kaden Schmidt (12) and opposite hitter Brendan Mills (10).

United States celebrates against Canada

Andy Read, coach of the defending champion, said “we wanted every technical part to work out, but it was our blocking which stood out, I believe we have one of the best blockings in the world in this age-group. When you win two sets to a team, in the third they will always respond and that happened. We then responded in the fourth”.

George Bruening, one of the outstanding players of the winning team, said “this semifinal match was a perfect example of good volleyball, things turned out well and we came out to make it all positive in the match. We did a good job in passing and over the net with blocking, and of course the energy we do together as a team”.

German Arnd Ludwig, coach of Canada, said “United States had a good match, we played much better in the third, but our opponent knew how to close in the fourth and we couldn’t tie the match, despite trying. Tomorrow against Puerto Rico we will battle to win it, just like every match”.

Team captain Jacob Sargen said “we prepared for this match, but not always things turn out like you expect them to. We are aware that this wasn’t our best performance, but tomorrow we will try to prevail over Puerto Rico. We were hoping for a better match, we committed errors and against a team like the United States you pay the price”.

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Canada stopped by Olympic medalists Argentina in VNL 

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 9, 2023.-  After their opening win on home court on Tuesday over Cuba, Canada was stopped by Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medalists Argentina in four sets on Friday (21-25, 25-21, 21-25,16-25) in the first week of Volleyball Nations League action in Ottawa today. 

The opening set stayed even with the score tied at 16 points. Argentina’s solid defense and attack gave them the upper hand as they secured the win 25-21.

The South American squad kept the momentum early in the second set, but the hosts fought back and erased a three-point deficit to reach 12 points by side. Stephen Maar and Ryan Sclater  produced two aces to pave the way for a 25-21 win to tie the game.

The on-court battle remained even throughout the third set. With the score equal at 19, Argentina displayed a strong block, defense, and attack to claim victory 25-21.

The Olympic  bronze medallists kept the momentum in the fourth set. The attack and defense proved decisive as they built a sizable lead and went on to seal the set and match victory 25-16.

Next,  NORCECA duel between hosts Canada and the United States, at 20:00 local time (00:00 UTC, Sunday). 

The World champions Italy topped Cuba 3-1 in Ottawa

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 9, 2023.- The World champions topped Cuba 3-1 (25-20, 25-19, 20-25, 25-18) at the Volleyball Nations League at the TD Place, in the Canadian capital.

Cuba had three players reaching double digits in scoring, with outside hitters Miguel Ángel López and Marlon Yant registering 14 and 11 points respectively and middle blocker Javier Concepcion adding another ten.

The efficiency of the Italian offense provided the difference the Europeans needed to top Cuba as they scored 52 points from kills to Cuba’s 41. The two teams were pretty similar in everything else, with the winners doing slightly better in aces (five to three) and opponent errors (30 to 29) and the Cubans getting more blocking points (nine to eight).

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Cuba concludes their schedule in Ottawa on Saturday, with the Caribbean meeting Brazil at 16:30 local time (20:30 UTC).  

Cuba the first finalist at U21 Norceca Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 9, 2023.- Cuba became the first candidate to win the gold medal of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup beating Puerto Rico in semifinals without setbacks in straight sets 25-20, 25-14 and 25-21.

Efficient blocking and a strong serve were the two lethal weapons used by the host against Puerto Rico, in a match where they were also better in kills (37-25) y blocks (15-5), and committed fewer unforced errors (19-22), a difficulty for this team. Puerto Rico was successful with 6 aces against one from their opponent.

The offence of the home team was balanced between its setter Yonni Iglesias and three players who scored double digits, outside hitters José Ramón Gómez (18) and Bryan Camino (12), and opposite hitter Alejandro Miguel González (10). The most productive player of Puerto Rico was opposite hitter Jamal Ellis with 14 tallies.

With this performance the host team improved that of 2022 when they finished fourth place after losing the bronze medal to Canada.

Gregory Torres of Puerto Rico against Alexis Wilson of Cuba

Jesús Cruz, Cuban coach, said that when playing a semifinal there is always tension y even more with young players, “but the match ended like we forecast during the meeting when we studied our opponent. The boys followed instructions, our blocking worked perfectly, and we committed fewer errors in serves”.

Outside hitter Gomez said “in the beginning we weren’t accurate,  while starting every set we were close, but then we moved forward and held the advantage we needed to stay calm. We followed the instructions of our coaching staff, and we carried out the tactical plan. We are satisfied and with all the energy to battle for the gold tomorrow”.

Puerto Rico’s coach Carlos Rodriguez said “we couldn’t control the emotions during the first set, we were 19-19. The emotion and lack of focus made us commit errors, after dominating the first set. I believe Cuba pushed in blocking and serves which hurt us a bit, we tried to keep adjusting and we were able to find something in the third set, but then again, their force damaged us. Now to fight for the bronze”.

Antonio Luis Feliciano, captain of Puerto Rico, said “we started well and with lots of energy, but we lost concentration at the end of the first set, and it followed the rest of the game. We were aware that Cuba is a tall team, very athletic and with strength, we prepared well, however our lack of focus made us get away from the match. Nevertheless, our heads are still high to battle for the bronze medal”.

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Dominicans defeated Guatemala at U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 9, 2023.- Dominican Republic took the best part after sweeping Guatemala 25-21, 25-22 and 25-23 in a classification match for the fifth place of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup at Coliseo Deportivo.

Dominicans were superior in attacks (51-39) and serves (6-3) and tied in blocks (3-3).  Both teams committed 18 unforced errors.

Outside hitter Elixander Gómez led all scorers with 16 points. Also with double digits were outside hitter Ronny Molina (13) and opposite hitter Adrián Figueroa (12). On the opposing side, outside hitter Yeferson Zavala scored 14 for his team.

Adrian Figueroa of Dominican Republic spikes

Dominican coach Dante Mañón said “when my team got on court they were happy and I told them that was good, today you’re going to win and fortunately the blocks worked well, but in attacks we are at the same level as Guatemala”.

Team captain Ronny Molina was happy to express “it was because we came to win this game and we did thanks to a team effort, despite being overconfident once again and the opponent took advantage in the third set, but we came back. Tomorrow, against Nicaragua or Haiti, we can’t be too confident”.

Luis Castañeda, coach of the Central American team said “we always try to do things well, it wasn’t so today, we lacked in receiving and deciding in the last balls, the athletes lack experience, but we are going to continue to fight, we have one match left and I hope they will give their all and make it”.

Luis Mendizabal, Guatemalan middle blocker sadly said “we could have won the match, but we had to perform harder, and we didn’t. We had technical issues, and it was difficult to work. On Saturday we must come out for the win to not finish at the bottom”.

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Haiti on this occasion couldn’t against Nicaragua at the U21 Pan American Cup in Havana

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 9, 2023.- Nicaragua battled for the win against Hait in five sets (25-23, 22-25, 25-14, 21-25, 15-11) in almost two hours a Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum and will play for the fifth place against Dominican Republic on the last day of competition of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup.

The Central Americans were determined to not repeat what happened last year in this same venue when they fell twice against the spirited Caribbean team who did better in blocking (9-6), but not in serves (5-6), while in kills both ended with 56. Nicaragua added 40 unforced errors against 28 from their opponents.

Nicaragua’s offence was led by outside hitter Yesdy Pacheco (21), Denis Espinoza (13) and Evans Solís (10), however the leading scorer of the match was opposite hitter of the opponent team Estakend Beauvoir with 23 points, followed by outside hitters  Seraphin Antoine (16) and Relis Dieulengy (12).

Nicaragua celebrate against Haiti

Jorge Luis Mena, Nicaraguan coach said that in the past tournament here in Havana, “this team beat us twice, but this time we were determined to get the victory and not fall to the seventh or eighth place. I made some adjustments with the middles for them to improve the defense and it worked. Haiti has a powerful attack, reach and height which exceeds us”.

Central American Evans Antonio said “we knew it was going to be hard, they are an opponent that takes advantage if you let them. Their serves made our reception hard, but our coach was constantly guiding us where to stand and thanks to the teams’ job we were able to win”.

Lesly Larrieux, coach of Haiti, lamented “we always enter these matches with desire to perform and win, but we always have a percentage of the refereeing against us, I am aware of the errors, and they don’t correct them. It’s always the same with Haiti”.

Caribbean captain Relis Dieulengy said “Nicaragua is used to playing; they have more time to prepare, and they can play a five-set match easier than us. We are happy because we always learn something in these tournaments”.

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Puerto Rico, USA, Canada and Dominican Republic Women qualify to the World Championship

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, June 8, 2023.- The women’s teams Puerto Rico, the United States, Canada and the Dominican Republic qualified to the World Championship in Tlaxcala, Mexico at the NORCECA Continental Qualifying Beach Volleyball Tournament, that concluded on Thursday on the sand courts at Los Corales Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Puerto Rico’s Allanis Navas/María González took the top honors after beating Kelley Kolinske/Hailey Harward of the United States in gold medal match 2-1 (18-21, 21-17, 15 -11).

Shanice Marcelle/Sophie Bukovec of Canada won the bronze medal match defeating Bethania Almanzar/Julibeth Payano of the Dominican Republic (4th place) 2-0 (21-19, 21-11).

María González (PUR) spikes, Kelley Kolinske (USA) blocks

Fifth place went to Amanda Armenteros/Yenifer Rivera of Cuba after defeating Ximena Núñez/Kianny Araya of Costa Rica (6th place) 2-1 (19-21, 21-11, 15-8), while seventh place went to Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt from Guatemala who beat Socorro López/Lolette Rodríguez from Nicaragua (8th place) 2-0 by forfeit.

Yvone Soler/Laura Molina from El Salvador finished ninth place beating Melanie Valenciana/Bailey Foy from the U.S. Virgin Islands (10th place) 2-0 (21-18, 21-13) and iChauna Kelly/Petal Smith of Jamaica finished eleventh over Chlouie Gaetos/Deajra Tulloch (12th place) 2-1 (21-10, 15-21, 15-10).

The 2023 Beach Volleyball World Championship will take place in Tlaxcala, Mexico from October 6 to 15.

Cuba, Nicaragua, USA and Canada Men win berths to World Championship

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, June 8, 2023.- Cuba, Nicaragua, the United States and Canada Men won the four berths to the World Championship in Tlaxcala, Mexico, granted by the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Continental Qualifying Tournament, which concluded with success this Thursday on the sand courts at Los Corales Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Jorge Alayo/Noslen Díaz of Cuba were crowned champions of the Tournament after defeating 2-0 (21-12, 21-10) over the duo of Rubén Mora/Dany López from Nicaragua in gold medal match of the event.

Samuel Schatchter/Daniel Dearing of Canada won bronze due to an injury of Andrew Benesh with teammate Miles Partain of the United States (4th place).

Jorge Alayo digging

Andy Blanco/Luis García from Guatemala won the match for fith place, after it was suspended because  Hayerling De Jesús accompanied by Oscar Martínez of Dominican Republic (6th place) presented a muscle cramp and had to retire from the game in the third set.

Danier Dyner/Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica finished seventh, defeating Garrett Bucklin/Robert Cronshaw of Virgin Islands (8th place) who withdrew.

In ninth place were Joseph Clercent/Sheldon Descartes from Saint Lucia after beating Franklin Flores/Armando Guatemala from El Salvador (10th) 2-1 (8-21, 23-21, 15-13), the eleventh position went to Mark Blake/Javian Smith of Jamaica who defeated Jesario Ebanks/Stephen Watson of Cayman Islands (12th place).

The 2023 Beach Volleyball World Championship will take place in Tlaxcala, Mexico from October 6 to 15.

Puerto Rico moves into semifinals over Nicaragua at U21 Pan American Cup

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LA HABANA, Cuba, June 8, 2023.- Puerto Rico beat Nicaragua in straight sets 25-19, 25-15 and 25-21 to get into the semifinals of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

Puerto Rico was superior in every element of the game with a difference in attack 36-22, in block 10-7 and in service 13-3. The winners committed 33 unforced errors against 16 from their opponent.

Leading all scorers was Ramón Andrés Rosado with 12 tallies, escorted by teammates opposite Gregory Torres and outside hitter Axel Meléndez, both with 10, the only ones with double digits, and Nicaragua’s top scorer was outside hitter Denis Espinoza who collected eight.

Ramon Rosado (PUR) against Yader Leon (NCA)

Carlos Rodríguez, coach of Puerto Rico thanked Nicaragua’s players for the great game they offered.  «It was a match with some anxiety, but we knew how to take it and get the victory, which moves us into the semifinal where our opponent is the home team, who has a great level of play. We will go into the next stage with respect for the others, I think these are the four teams that should be in the finals”.

Puerto Rico’s captain, Antonio Luis Feliciano expressed “Nicaraguans are Warriors, they play with heart, it took us some time to adjust in the first set, but we focused and won. The incorporation of the two middles since yesterday helped us a lot on the court, in addition to what it means emotionally to the team”.

Outside hitter Dennis Espinosa recognized that “as every game we must work a lot, in the beginning we had good rhythm, but when they score us five or six points in a row, we lose concentration and we make mistakes that we shouldn’t commit, because it’s in basic things. Puerto Rico is a good team and it helped us because we learn from their players”.

The Central American coach, Jorge Luis Mena said “we were aware it was a hard game, but we gave our all, we were low only in the second set. Tomorrow, we face another difficult match and we are going to prepare mentally after this loss because we want to battle for fifth place”.

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USA beat Dominican Republic, advance to U21 Pan American Cup Semifinals

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 8, 2023.- Defending champion United States beat Dominican Republic 3-1 (22-25, 25-19, 25-15, 25-10) and obtained a spot in Friday’s semifinals at the U21 Men’s Pan American Cup at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

Defending champions will meet with Canada on Friday, winner of pool A qualifying directly into the semis.

Dominicans came out aggressive and jumped to an early lead in the first technical time 16-10, which Americans couldn’t catch up.

However, the water calmed down and USA prevailed with their height and technical-tactical performance with difference in attack (47-34), block (10-3) and service (9-7).

Outside hitter Trenton Moser finished as the leading scorer with 22 points, while his teammates middle Owen Rose and outside hitter Alexander Rottman added 10 points each.

For the Dominicans, opposite Adrian Figueroa with 15 points and outside hitter Ronny Molina with 14 carried their team after a happy beginning but then giving up in the next three sets.

Micah Wong (USA) and Jeremy Pichardo (DOM) battle the ball

Veteran USA coach Andy Read valued that “Dominican Republic started better and played a good first set. We didn’t, but in the end of that same beginning we recovered and in the next we managed to keep up and win the game. Tomorrow we must face Canada in the semifinals, I will simply do my job on the table and my players will do the rest”.

Libero Ryan Merk spoke about the Dominican team “it was hard, they served well, mostly in the first set, the rest of the match we were better to finish with the win”.

Dante Mañón, the opponents’ coach, said “the team is made of young players with others with some experience, they can’t keep the rhythm of play, sometimes they can’t believe it, they play freely and fall in a hole, they get stuck and that’s when the others score consecutive points. We don’t have a setter that shows respect, I am the one who must call out the playa and that’s fatal. We must fix this problem”.

Captain Ronny Molina expressed that “despite losing I felt happy because the team began aggressive, I loved the first set, but as usual, we can’t keep the same focus, we don’t know how to keep up playing well and that is why we can’t win. It’s not lack of practice, we do it twice a day, sometimes three times a day, however when our opponents move away, we give up and that puts us out of system, it hurts us”.

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Teams ready for 2023 Women NORCECA International League Final Four

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JUANA DIAZ, Puerto Rico, June 8, 2023. – Coaches of the teams at the 2023 Women Norceca International League Final Four are determined to win the only ticket available for the FIVB Volleyball Challenge Cup (VCC).

International League Final Four NORCECA Women 2023 will be played from June 9 to 11 at the Dolores “Toyita” Martínez Coliseum with the participation of Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The 2023 Women NORCECA International League Final Four is a qualification tournament to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC) that offers the opportunity to qualify to the Volleyball Nations League the premier annual tournament of the FIVB with the participation of the top 16 teams in the world.

PABLO ACUÑA, coach of Costa Rica: “We have all the players who have been working since the beginning of the year. We’re very excited to compete. We have three good groups in front. We are prepared and we are ready to represent the country in the best way. Our expectations are to get a medal. We would like to have the best possible medal of the tournament and for that we’re working”.

FERNANDO MORALES, coach of Puerto Rico: “It is a young team that will be working all summer. They are players with a lot of energy and with the level to win this tournament, which are our expectations. We want to qualify for next year’s Challenge to get into the VNL”.

SALEEM ALI, coach of Trinidad & Tobago: “Basically we have a very young group together with some experienced players who have come back to participate in the volleyball championships. We are using this tournament as a preparation. We look forward to defeating the US Virgin Islands team and playing well against Costa Rica and Puerto Rico”.

ISAAC RAPHAEL, coach of U.S. Virgin Islands: “We are very happy to be here for the first time. Our team is a mix of young and veteran players. We are looking to have a great tournament. We are going to fight hard. We would love to win this tournament, like everyone else, but we are focused on developing our program and making our players better.”

USA top world champions Italy as veterans return in top form

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 8, 2023.- The United States claimed their second victory in the Volleyball Nations League 2023 on Thursday, in Ottawa, Canada, when the Americans had no trouble overcoming reigning world champions Italy in Pool 1.

With Olympic medalists Matt Anderson and Max Holt both making their first appearances in the VNL 2023, the Americans secured a 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 25-19) win over the Italians and continue with a perfect campaign of two wins and no sets dropped.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

Outside hitter Torey Defalco, who had scored 13 points in the team’s opening match against the Netherlands, on Wednesday, was again the American leading scorer, leaving the court with 15 points (nine kills, four aces, two blocks).

United States vs Italy at VNL 2023

Head coach John Speraw also got excellent production from veterans Holt and Anderson as the 36-year-old middle blocker tallied ten points (seven kills, one ace, two blocks) and the 36-year-old opposite produced another seven (six kills, one ace). Outside hitter Garrett Muagututia, with nine points, and middle blocker Taylor Averill, with eight, also had strong performances.

“Our passing has been very good and I think that has helped us play that well in these first two matches,” setter and team captain Micah Christenson said. “It’s made my job a lot easier than it has to be, so all the credit to those guys. Having good depth and experience are two of our main strengths right now. We can insert guys here and there and we don’t really lose a step. We can still improve technically and in terms of connections and I’m sure it will clean up as we continue.”

The Americans were dominant in every aspect of the game, outscoring the Europeans in kills (33 to 30), aces (ten to four) and blocks (seven to one), besides also benefiting from more opponent errors (22 to 17) to build their victory.

The United States will get back on court on Saturday to face host Canada.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Cuba falls to the Netherlands at Volleyball Nations League

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 8, 2023.- The Netherlands served Cuba their second consecutive loss at the Volleyball Nations League 3-0 (28-26, 25-23, 25-18) on Thursday in Ottawa, Canada.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

Cuba had opposite Jesús Herrera as their main scorer with 12 points, followed by middle blocker José Masso and outside hitter Miguel Ángel López, who produced ten each.

The Netherlands led in attacks (42-34), in blocks (6-5) and committed 25 errors against 29 from Cuba who led in aces (3-1).

Cuba will face the top world champions Italy on Friday.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

NORCECA Final Four a great way to kick off the 2023 season

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 8, 2023.- Coaches at the NORCECA Final Four expressed that this is a great way to open the 2023 season which has great competitions ahead and battling for the ticket to the FIVB Challenger Cup will be a great challenge.

Streaming of the event available on Facebook Live Instituto Estatal del Deporte

Alexander Gutierrez, Head coach of Dominican Republic: “This tournament gives us the opportunity to evaluate what we are doing ahead of the Central American Games. Our goal is to prepare for the Games; if we can win this event, we will try to do so. The group has young players with some veterans, the team has grown and last year we finished second at this tournament. This is a year to grow”.

Reider Lucas Mora, Head coach of Guatemala: “This is the second occasion in a row that we are in this event, we are glad to be at this strong level of competition. We will battle every match and it will help us to prepare for the Central American and Caribbean Games, as well as our zonal event,  the Central American Championship”.

Jorge Azair, Head coach of Mexico: “This is our first event and for me the most important of the year because it gives us a shot of climbing to another level of competition, the FIVB Challenger. We have been training and now it’s time to see them play. We have seven official senior events, a tough year, we will battle hard the entire year”.

Jamille Torres, Head coach of Puerto Rico: “We’re bringing a young team making a transition of generation and with the goal of improving our level of play to repeat the gold medal at the Central American Games. We think we’ll have a great tournament and try to be ready for the Central American Games”.

Durango Sports Institute supporting NORCECA Final Four

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 8, 2023.- The Sports Institute of Durango is welcoming the NORCECA Final Four event supporting the Mexican National Volleyball Federation and the NORCECA Confederation.

César Cárdenas Reyes, Director of the Sports Institute of Durango (IED) attended the teams’ preliminary inquiries with members of his work team to welcome the members of the NORCECA control committee and the four teams competing at the event.

Director César Cárdenas Reyes indicated that he and his team are committed to bring to Durango a highly competitive international event, “we are excited to host an event that gives Mexico the opportunity to qualify to another level of play and that the people of Durango will enjoy good volleyball. The entire Sports Institute is involved for this to be a successful event”.

The official welcoming for the participating teams will be at the opening ceremony scheduled before Mexico’s first match this Friday June 9.

Alberto Arreola, president of the NORCECA control committee and competition director expressed his gratitude to the IED Director and to the State of Durango in receiving an  event of great quality “Durango welcomes us once again with great professionalism, the authorities of the Sports Institute and especially its Director had offered all the necessary facilities for teams to compete at a high level of play and I am sure we’ll have three successful days of competition”.

USA, Canada and Puerto Rico Women undefeated at NORCECA World Qualifier

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, June 7, 2023.- Women duos of the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico advanced undefeated to the quarterfinal round of the NORCECA Continental Beach Volleyball in Punta Cana, a Qualifier tournament to the 2023 World Championship.

USA’s duo of Kelley Kolinse and Haley Harward easily defeated Cubans Amanda Armenteros and Yenifer Rivera 2-0 (21-10, 21-10) in Pool A. Then they controlled two Central American tandems, that of Yvonne Soler and Laura Molina of El Salvador 2-0 (21-4, 21-8), and Guatemalans Natalia Giron and Estefanie Bethancourt 2-0 ( 21-17, 21-20).

Canadians Shanice Marcelle and Sophie Bukovec went undefeated in Pool B, first defeating Chlouie Gaetos/Deajra Tulloch of Cayman Islands 2-0 (21-7, 21-7), then over Lolette Rodriguez and Socorro Lopez of Nicaragua 2-0 (21-13, 22-20), followed by a 2-0 (21-10 , 21-9) victory against Ximena Núñez and Kianny Araya of Costa Rica.

Shanice Marcelle (2) and Sophie Bukovec (1) of Canada

In Pool C, Allanis Navas alongside Maria Gonzalez started their campaign with two solid wins. First with a 2-0 (21-11, 21-5) win over Chauna Kelly and Petal Smith of Jamaica, followed by a 2-0 (21-4, 21-6) against Melanie Valenciana and Bailey Foy of U.S. Virgin Islands. Dominicans Bethania Almanzar and Julibeth Payano were resilient in the end, but Navas and Gonzalez pulled off their third win 2-0 (21-12, 23-21).

Also advancing into the quarterfinal round are Bethania Almanzar/Julibeth Payano (DOM), Ximena Núñez/Kianny Araya (CRC), Amanda Armenteros/Yenifer Rivera (CUB), Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt (GUA), y Socorro López/Lolette Rodriguez (NCA).

The quarterfinal competition starts this Thursday at 8:30 am (local time) on the sand courts located at Los Corales Beach in Punta Cana, the winners will qualify to the 2023 World Championship in Tlaxcala, Mexico and will advance into semifinals.

Cuba defeated the USA and is the other semifinalist of the U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 7, 2023.- The Cuban team took the sting out of the 2022 match against the United States by winning in five sets (22-25, 25-22, 25-22, 21-25, 15-11) to dominate group B undefeated and became the other semifinalist of Men’s U-21 NORCECA Pan American Cup. Before, Canada advanced in Pool A. 

The hosts showed a happy and confident game against a difficult rival who came to defend their crown with its quality of their game, although this time they could not smile despite beating the winners in blocking (16-10) and finishing balanced in aces (6-6) since the locals were superior in attacks (54-49).

In the 2022 edition, the clash also ended 3-2 (25-21, 25-14, 20-25, 24-26, 15-12), but the success went to the Americans and, like this Wednesday, the fans of the capital came to support the home team and returned home very happy after the victory.

Opposite Alejandro Miguel González was the top scorer of the game with 27 points, escorted by the outside hitters Bryan Camino and Jose Ramon Gomez, both with 14 points. For the Americans, outside hitter Trenton Moser added 26, followed by Owen Rose and Alexander Rottman, with 11 each.

In group B, Cuba (3-0),  United States (2-1), Nicaragua (1-2) and Guatemala (0-3).

Nyerovwome Omene of USA blocking Cuba

 Cuban coach Jesus Cruz considered that “the United States always has good volleyball, because of its population they can change players and not lose the competitive level. It continues to be a force, we have grown and arrived with more experience. We went to the Alba Games where they played to a full room, these are elements that help us be better in this cup. This year we made fewer mistakes than in 2022 and the defense improved, but we are not satisfied, the blocking stops balls, but when we are behind in score, they don’t always get up. That was what our opponent did.”

One of the main players, Gómez, assured that “the team went out to fight, we had been preparing since we found out that the United States was going to be in our group, we revealed the tactical plan and the guidelines of the technical group, and we went out with all the grit and strength to win”.

Andy Read, coach of the United States, stated that “I am very proud of my boys, they did different things as we had planned in preparation and of course enjoying the game, the fans and playing against the locals, which is a merit. Our opponents had a more consistent game and Alejandro Miguel played a pretty strong game. Ours [game] is evolving in the tournament, it is improving step by step”.

The outstanding player of United States, Moser, valued that “today we found a team that is always strong, but much more concentrated and focused, they did a lot of damage with defense and when it came to defining the decisive points. It was a good match. We are evolving as the event goes on, from less to more”.

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USA, U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada Men advance undefeated at NORCECA World Qualifier

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, June 7, 2023.- Teams from the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada won all three of their preliminary round matches to advance undefeated to the quarterfinals of the NORCECA Continental Beach Volleyball World Championship Qualifier in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Andrew Benesh and Miles Partain of the United States in Pool A easily defeated Jesario Ebanks/Stephen Watson of Cayman Islands 2-0 (21-4, 21-4) and dominated Oscar Martinez/Hayerling Goris of the Dominican Republic 2-0 (21-15, 21-14). Benesh and Partain’s most battled performance was overcoming Cubans Jorge Alayo and Noslen Diaz (21-19, 26- 24) who also move into the quarterfinals.

Garrett Bucklin and Robert Cronshaw of the U.S. Virgin Islands managed two beat the two Central American tandems in Pool C, first they overpowered Danier Dyner/Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica 2-0 (21-18, 21-19) and Andy Blanco/Luis Garcia of Guatemala 2-0 (21-13, 21-17), followed by their third victory against Jamaica´s Mark Blake/Javian Smith 2-0 (21-12, 21- 5).

Sam Schachter of Canada digging

Canadians Sam Schachter and Daniel Dearing had no setbacks in their three Pool B victories. Sam and Dan first defeated Joseph Clercent/Sheldon Descartes of Saint Lucia 2-0 (21-8, 21-10), followed by a 2-0 (21-12, 21-14) over Franklin Flores/Armando Guatemala of El Salvador and closing the day 2-0 (21 -18, 21-16) against Ruben Mora and Dany Lopez of Nicaragua.

In addition to Dominicans Oscar Martinez/Hayerling Goris, three Central American pairs will also compete in quarterfinals, Danier Dyner/Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica, Andy Blanco/Luis Garcia of Guatemala and Rubén Mora/Dany López of Nicaragua.

Winners of the quarterfinals that start at 8:30 (local time) on Thursday, will win the ticket to the 2023 Beach Volleyball World Championship and will advance to semifinals here at Los Corales Beach in Punta Cana.

Juana Diaz welcomes the Women’s  NORCECA Final Four

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JUANA DIAZ, Puerto Rico, June 7, 2023. – Juana Diaz in Puerto Rico welcomes the Women’s NORCECA Final Four International League from June 9-11 at the Dolores “Toyita” Matinez Coliseum with the participation of Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, U.S. Virgin Islands and hots Puerto Rico.

The NORCECA Final Four event is a qualification tournament to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC) that offers the opportunity to qualify to the Volleyball Nations League the premier annual tournament of  the FIVB with the participation of the top 16 teams in the world.

Teams arrive in Juana Diaz on June 7 and the round-robin competition starts on June 9, with the top ranked team at the end of the competition earning the ticket to the FIVB Challenger.

Mexico won the past edition of the NORCECA Final Four after beating Puerto Rico, Cuba and Costa Rica.

Competition Schedule

June 9

18:00 Costa Rica v Trinidad & Tobago

20:00 Puerto Rico v U.S. Virgin Islands

June 10

18:00 U.S. Virgin Islands v Costa Rica

20:00 Puerto Rico v Trinidad & Tobago

June 11

18:00 Trinidad & Tobago v U.S. Virgin Islands

20:00 Puerto Rico v Costa Rica

Men’s NORCECA Final Four to start in Durango

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DURANGO, Mexico, June 7, 2023. – The Men’s NORCECA Final Four International League will be held in Durango, Mexico at the Auditorio del Pueblo from June 9-11 with the participation of Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and host Mexico.

The NORCECA Final Four event is a qualification tournament to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup (VCC) that offers the opportunity to qualify to the Volleyball Nations League the premier annual tournament of  the FIVB with the participation of the top 16 teams in the world.

Teams will face each other in a round-robin competition that starts on June 9, with the top ranked team at the end of the competition earning the ticket to the FIVB Challenger.

Cuba won the past edition of the NORCECA Final Four and then when on to win the FIVB Challenger Cup making their debut in this year’s Volleyball Nations League.

Competition Schedule

June 9

18:00 Puerto Rico v Dominican Republic

20:00 Mexico v Guatemala

June 10

18:00 Puerto Rico v Guatemala

20:00 Mexico v Dominican Republic

June 11

18:00 Dominican Republic v Guatemala

20:00 Mexico v Puerto Rico

U.S. Men hold off Netherlands to Open VNL

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 7, 2023.- Netherlands kept pushing but the U.S. Men’s National Team pushed back harder and won their opening Volleyball Nations League match 3-0 (25-19, 25-23, 25-21) on Wednesday in Ottawa, Canada.

The U.S. Men (1-0) will be back in action on Thursday when they will face world No. 4 Italy (0-1) at 1:30 p.m. PT.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

The U.S. Men led Netherlands in kills (41-36), blocks (8-2) and aces (6-3). The U.S. scored on 20 Netherlands errors while giving up 22 points on errors.

“That was the first match of the season. It looked like it,” U.S. Head Coach John Speraw said. “Even though we didn’t play as smooth volleyball as we will later in the season, I thought we still had a lot of confidence, a lot of poise. Guys didn’t seem very rattled at any point when they put a little pressure on us, which they did in the second and third sets.”

Outside hitter T.J. DeFalco led the U.S. Men with 13 points on 10 kills and three aces, which came in a row during the first set. Opposite Jake Hanes added 12 points on eight kills, two blocks and two aces.

Outside hitter Aaron Russell scored 11 points on nine kills and two blocks. Middle blocker David Smith scored 10 points on eight kills and two blocks. Middle Jeff Jendryk totaled five points on five kills.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

Nicaragua claimed a spot in quarterfinals at the U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 7 , 2023.- Nicaragua defeated Guatemala 3-0 (25-23, 26-24, 25-15) to claim a spot in the quarterfinal round of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup, set for Thursday at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

 All the players put their effort into the victory. Their coach got the support of each member of the team to not let the dream victory escape, especially in the second set when they came back from 1-8.

They managed to win with an advantage in attacks (35-32), blocking (11-8) and service (4-2). With this win, the Nicaraguans concluded the preliminary round in third place of group B with a record of one win and two setbacks, while Guatemala finished fourth with a 0-4 record.

Outside hitter Evans Solis was the top scorer of Nicaragua with 12 points, followed by outside hitters Guzmán Pacheco and Yader Leon, both with 10 points.

Nicaragua celebrate scoring against Guatemala

Archila Delgado, Guatemala’s leading player, was the top scorer of the game with 14 points, followed by middle blocker Yeferson Zavala with 13.

Jorge Luis Mena, Nicaragua’s coach, said excited “we are very happy. The bench players did their job, they took the responsibility. We did adjustments with our setters and outside hitters, and it worked out. It’s almost a fact that we’ll meet again for fifth place, but we will battle once more to win”.

The team’s captain said  “it was a great match, we performed well, our coach knew how to move each  player, the bench players did their job, the plays that we needed, and we got the victory. Coming from behind 1-8 in the second set helped us”.

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Canada reaches the U21 Pan American Cup semifinals undefeated

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 7, 2023.- Canada beat Dominican Republic in straight sets 25-17, 25-14 and 25-22 to top pool A undefeated and advance directly into the semifinals of the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup, to be held on Friday at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

The North Americans didn’t give any chances to Dominican Republic with a strong serve that put their reception in difficulties, while they had good combinations in attacks. In this skill they held a 44-25 advantage, in blocking 7-5 and in aces 7-1, but committed too many errors  (22-17).

Opposite Brendan Mills and outside hitter Jacob Sargent were the top scorers of the match with 14 points each, followed by outside hitter Kaden Schmidt with 12. On the opponents’ side, only their team captain Ronny Molina tallied 10 points, the only one with double digits.

Canada’s German coach Arnd Ludwin said “we played well, in the middle of the set we had some problems, but we solved them. Dominicans are always battling. Tomorrow we will rest, that’s good for their recovery, and we will practice in the afternoon, while we wait to see who will be our opponent in Friday’s semifinal”.

Jacob Sargent, Canada captain, expressed “I am very happy for the match and finish first in our pool. Dominican Republic is a team that is always battling, we came out to give our all with good blocking and other actions to come out with the win”.

Dante Mañón, Dominican coach, said with happiness “this has been our best match, they were loose, without pressure and I gave bench players an opportunity in this last preliminary match. It was as we expected, we played stronger than yesterday. There is no doubt they did their best”.  

Dominican captain Ronny Molina said “we got together a little while ago, it’s the second time we played all together and I think we did it very well. We are anxious to reach our goals and we still haven’t, but I hope that we will adjust well. I like the way Canada plays, they are a great opponent, they fight, they have a tall block and make the match difficult. They are always good coaches”.

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Puerto Rico secures second place in pool A at U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 7, 2023.- Puerto Rico defeated Haiti in straight sets (25-23, 25-12, 25-15) and secured second place in pool A at the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup being held at Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

Puerto Rico finished the preliminary round with two victories and one loss, while their neighbors had no wins in three games.

Nevertheless Haiti have shown a lot of fight during the tournament and against Puerto Rico it was no exception, mostly in the first set when they were ahead in the scores.

The difference was that Puerto Rico led (12-0) in serves, but in blocking they were close (7-5) but in attacks Haiti was behind (36-21) .

Opposite Gregory Torres was the top scorer with 13, joined by outside hitters Axel Meléndez (12) and Jamal Ellis (11). On the opponents’ side, opposite hitter Estakend Beauvoir scored the most with 8.   

Gregory Torres (PUR) aginst Haiti block

Carlos Rodríguez, coach of Puerto Rico, said “we cannot underestimate Haiti, they have many human resources, and if they keep on working, they will be a powerful team in some years. I had to ask my team to be patient because Haiti is a team that jumps a lot, they attack well long balls and when other team’s breakout the systems of others that are better in system, while adjusting there’s some controversy in the level of play, but we were able to do so and capitalize little by little”.

Team captain Antonio Luis Feliciano said, “it was a great match, Haiti came with a lot of energy for the win, defending well, with surprising attacks, but with perseverance and keeping relaxed we won”.

Relis Dieulengy, the leader of Haiti , regretted that as a country they don’t have the conditions to practice. “We practice under the sun and on cement, we try to keep up with the competition”

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24 teams ready to compete at NORCECA Beach Volleyball World Championship Qualifier

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PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic, May 6, 2023.- A total of 24 teams from 13 countries will see action starting this Wednesday at the NORCECA Continental Beach Volleyball Qualifying Tournament in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Twelve teams in each gender registered during the preliminary inspections on Tuesday aiming to advance from the preliminary round pool-play that begins this Wednesday at 8:00 am (local time) on the sand courts located in Los Corales beach in Punta Cana.

This Tuesday the Technical Meeting of the Tournament was also held, attended by the Honorable Governor of the province of La Altagracia, Lic. Martina Pepén; Lic. Iván Güilamo, Regional Director of Sports who is also Vice President of the eastern volleyball region as well as President of the Volleyball Association of the province of La Altagracia; Frigate Lieutenant Bido Medina, in charge of the Navy in the El Cortesito area, and Mr. Oscar de la Cruz from the Punta Cana area Tourism Promotion office.

The tournament grants 4 berths per gender for the 2023 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship to be held in October in Tlaxcala, Mexico.

18 matches per gender will be held on day one of the event.

Saint Lucia in the preliminary meeting

Men’s teams:

CAN Samuel Schachter/Daniel Dearing, CRC Danier Dyner/Jhostin Varela, CUB Jorge Alayo/Noslen Díaz, GUA Andy Blanco/Luis Augusto, CAY Jesario Ebanks/Stephen Watson, ISV Garrett Bucklin/Robert Cronshaw, JAM Mark Blake/Javian Smith, NCA Ruben Mora/Dany Lopez, USA Andrew Benesh/Miles Partain, ESA Franklin Flores/Armando Guatemala, LCA Joseph Clercent/Sheldon Descartes, DOM Oscar Martinez/Hayerling Goris.

Women’s teams:

CAN Shanice Marcelle/Sophie Bukovec, CRC Ximena Núñez/Kianny Araya, NCA Socorro López/Lolette Rodríguez, ESA Yvone Soler/Laura Molina, ISV Melanie Valenciana/Bailey Foy, CAY Chlouie Gaetos/Deajra Tulloch, JAM Chauna Kelly/Petal Smith, CUB Amanda Armenteros/Yenifer Rivera, PUR Allanis Navas/María González, USA Kelley Kolinske/Haley Harward, GUA Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourth, DOM Bethania Almanzar/Julibeth Payano.

Sclater shines as Canada beat Cuba in five-set thriller in Ottawa

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OTTAWA, Canada, June 6, 2023.-  A new era has started well for the Canadian men’s national team as the North Americans defeated NORCECA rivals Cuba in the tie-breaker in their debut in the Volleyball Nations League 2023 on Tuesday to win their first official match under the guidance of new head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo.

Pushed by thousands of home fans that packed the TD Place, in Ottawa, and created a fantastic atmosphere, the Canadians won a five-set (25-21, 26-28, 25-21, 22-25, 15-13) thriller to begin their VNL 2023 campaign on the right foot.

Watch Volleyball Nations League 2023 live on VBTV

The match was the first official encounter of the team with Sammelvuo, who was hired at the end of the 2022 season. The former Finnish player had coached the team in a pair of friendly matches against Brazil last week, getting a win and a loss.

Opposite Ryan Sclater was a key piece in the Canadian victory, leading the team’s offense with 27 points (22 kills, one ace, four blocks). The 29-year-old player also scored the game-winning point in the tie-breaker.

“We want this fighting spirit to be a part of our identity”, Sclater commented. “We always want to keep fighting through the ups and downs of any game, so that was good to see. It’s fun to be that scrappy team that just loves to fight. Playing at home this week has been really fun. It’s going to be an amazing week.”

Canada celebrates victory over Cuba

Outside hitters Stephen Maar and Nicholas Hoag also had strong performances, delivering 18 and 13 points, respectively. Middle blocker Danny Demyanenko also had a solid showing at the net, producing four blocks in his ten-point performance.

Cuba had the match’s top scorer in opposite Jesus Herrera, who beat Sclater by one point and ended the match with 28 (24 kills, two aces, two blocks). Outside hitters Miguel Angel Lopez and Marlon Yant tallied 15 points each, three more than middle blocker Javier Concepcion.

The Canadian blocking produced 17 points to Cuba’s six and strongly helped the winners make up for the Caribbean advantage in kills (75 to 58). The North Americans also benefited from more opponent errors (35 to 24), while both sides ended the match with three aces registered.

Volleyball Nations League 2023: full schedule and results

The second day of action in Pool 1 in Ottawa, Wednesday will have two more matches, with the United States and the Netherlands battling at 16:30 local time (20:30 UTC), and Brazil and Germany clashing at 20:00 local time (00:00 UTC, Thursday).

Cuba without difficulties against Nicaragua at U21 Pan Am Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 6, 2023.- The host team had no setbacks in beating Nicaragua 3-0 (25-16, 25-11, 25-16) and earning their second victory in pool B at the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup being held at the space full Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

The stats are a reflexion of the easy win with significant differences kills (44-24), blocks (12-0) and serves (9-1). But Cuba committed much more errors (18-10).

Opposite Alejandro Miguel González, who made his debut during this season in the Brazilian league, was again the top scorer with 16 tallies, and was accompanied by middles Alexis Wilson (13) and Yusniel Martí (13).

From their opponents, outside hitter Evans Solís was the only one with double digits scoring 10 points.

Cuban Jose Gomez receives

Jesús Cruz, Cuban coach, described the match as “relaxed, the team was better than yesterday, mostly in the first two sets, we performed with little errors especially in serves, which have always been a problem. But it worked as we’ve been practicing, all is set for tomorrow’s match against the United States to determine first place of pool B”.

Middle Alexis Wilson gave his opinion saying “it turned out to be an easy match, Nicaraguans can play but they don’t hace the physical condition nor the strength we have. I felt relaxed, happy because last year I was on the bench and in this tournament I am a starter. Tomorrow we must be prepared to face the United States”.

Nicaraguan coach Jorge Luis Mena said “despite everything we played better today than yesterday, the boys weren’t scared of Cuba, a tall team, very hard to break their blocks because of their height and we do what we can. Guatemala is very important and the advantage is that they aren’t afraid”.

Denis Espinoza, outside hitter said, “for me it’s a great experience representing my country and play against a powerhouse like Cuba, I liked it a lot and it serves us to learn. At the end we weren’t able to coordinate well, but we started united and supporting one another, in which we must continue to work on, as well as in reception”.

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Close USA win over Guatemala at U21 Pan American Cup

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HAVANA, Cuba, June 6, 2023.- Despite not being able to dominate the United States, Guatemala was the surprise on the second day of competition at the U21 Men’s Norceca Pan American Cup forcing their opponents to close in three straight tight sets 32-30, 27-25 and 25-21.

The Central Americans were resistant from the start, which presumably was going to be easy for the Americans, without a doubt the tournament favorites.

However they used all their squad, but what most damaged did to Guatemala were serves, where USA held a 12-4 advantage, as well as a considerable difference in attacks

(51-30). Blocking was 3-4 in favor of the losers, who committed fewer unforced errors than the Americans (38-18).

Opposite Shane Wetzel led all scorers with 18 points, joined by outside hitters Alexander Rottman (12) and Kyle Teune (11).

For Guatemala, outside hitter Yeferson Zavala was the only player with double digits (15).

Yeferson Zavala of Guatemala, against Owen Rose and Tyler Morgan, of USA

Andy Read, coach of the winning team, praised Guatemala’s players. “They did well, but our players battled and needed to grow to win. The first thing we did was to win a point and try to win the next and secure at critical moments to close the win. Tomorrow against Cuba we are expecting the home crowd with their exciting support for the host and we like to perform in that atmosphere, we love a crowd, it was like that last year and I hope it will be again”.

Outside hitter Alexander Rottman expressed «I am really impressed with Guatemala’s performance, things weren’t coming out right for us, we had fun and I an glad for these marches I’d played in which are my international debut”.

Luis Castañeda, Guatemalan coach, said «the boys wanted to have a good match because yesterday it wasn’t that pretty, but we came out to battle no matter who the opponent was, all teams are strong here they prepare well. We were close to winning the first two sets, but that’s the way volleyball is. We worked well in serves, which was crucial for us as well as our outside hitters. We are proud of our boys».

Middle Leonardo Molina of the Central American team said to be glad “we did well, we performed at a very high level of play. We had difficulties in receiving because the American serves were difficult”.

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