GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, February 7, 2026. – The Association of Central American Volleyball Federations (AFECAVOL) created the “Marta Centeno de Sajché Golden Parchment” Award during its 2026 General Assembly, celebrating its first presentation in an emotional ceremony that recognized NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz for his outstanding contribution to the development of regional and international volleyball.
AFECAVOL President Félix Sabio emphasized the importance of honoring those who have shaped the history of volleyball in the region. “It is important to honor those who came before us and left an indelible mark on the sport, not only at the zonal level but beyond. The entire Central American volleyball family remembers Marta as one of the best leaders we have ever had. a true leader and lady who marked my life both personally and in sports,” he stated.
Regarding Marta Centeno, President Sabio recalled her leadership in organizing Central American volleyball, her role in integrating the region into international structures such as the FIVB, and her contribution to strong volleyball governance in Central America. He also highlighted that her work helped position AFECAVOL as one of the most active zonal associations within NORCECA.
The ceremony included a commemorative video honoring the legacy of Marta Centeno de Sajché, a key figure in Central American volleyball. During the event, the agreement establishing the award was read aloud, and handed to her son, César Sajché Centeno, who attended with his family.
“She lived for volleyball her entire life. She instilled the sport in all of us; now it is up to us to continue what she taught us and carry forward the legacy she leaves to the sport,” said an emotional Sajché Centeno in his remarks.
ALBÚM FLICKR ASAMBLEA AFECAVOL 2026
The Assembly presented the award to Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, recognizing his extraordinary leadership of NORCECA since 2001 and formalizing him as the first recipient of the distinction.
Visibly moved, Marte said: “I am honored to be the first recipient of this award, which also honors a sports leader with whom I had the privilege to work. Marta Centeno was the first Central American leader to reach a position on the FIVB Executive Committee, representing NORCECA with the distinguished leadership that characterized her tenure.”
Marte added: “All I have done is fulfill my duty. I hope you invite me to the AFECAVOL Assembly every year and that I can be present until the last days of my life.”
On behalf of the Central American federations, María José Corrales, President of the Costa Rican Volleyball Federation, highlighted Marte Hoffiz’s impact: “Since 2001, you have never left us alone. Working alongside someone like you sets the bar very high. I will use one of the most beautiful words in our language — ‘Thank you’ — for your leadership, your trust, and your constant support of Central American volleyball.”
Among the Assembly’s final agreements, it was approved that AFECAVOL championships will officially be designated as qualifying tournaments for international events, establishing a clear pathway for qualification to regional and continental competitions.
It was also confirmed that the next AFECAVOL Ordinary General Assembly will be held in January 2027 in Guatemala City, where the venue and date for the Elective Assembly scheduled for November 2027 will be determined.
Closing the session, Félix Sabio expressed satisfaction with the achievements: “Everything we set out to accomplish has been achieved thanks to the work of the national federations. It is not an easy task; challenging years lie ahead, and we must continue working together, dreaming big and finding creative ways to generate revenue.”
Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz also stressed the importance of the decisions made: “These have been two days of intense work. We defined what we will do this year and in the coming years within the framework of regulations and legality. Now it’s time to get to work.”
The Assembly concluded by reaffirming AFECAVOL’s commitment to strengthening Central American volleyball, honoring its history while setting new goals for regional growth.
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