June 15, 2025. – The United States and Canada wrapped up the first week of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with victories. The U.S. defeated Cuba, while Canada swept Bulgaria.
USA Survives Four-Set Battle Against Cuba in Rio
In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, the U.S. Men’s National Team secured a hard-fought 3-1 win (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23) over Cuba at the iconic Maracanãzinho stadium, claiming a crucial victory on the final day of Week 1 of the VNL.
Led by head coach Karch Kiraly, the Americans showed grit and composure to come back in several tough moments. Outside hitter Cooper Robinson led the team with 18 points (12 attacks, 4 blocks, 2 aces), playing a decisive role in the final two sets.
Middle blocker Jeff Jendryk also stood out with 13 points through strong performances both in attack and blocking, while outside hitter Taylor Champlin contributed 11 points.
After a shaky start, USA adjusted its system and capitalized on Cuba’s mistakes to take a 2-0 lead. Although the Caribbean squad bounced back in the third set, the Americans imposed their game in the fourth to seal the win with poise.
This result marks a step forward for Kiraly’s project with the men’s team, highlighting their ability to respond and perform under pressure. The United States now moves forward in Pool 2 with a valuable victory that strengthens their campaign in the 2025 VNL.
The U.S. finishes Week 1 with 2 wins and 2 losses, currently in 11th place, while Cuba ends with 1 win and 3 losses, ranked 15th.
Cooper Robinson USA
Canada Ends Week on a High Note with Sweep Over Bulgaria
Backed by 7,984 fans at the Centre Vidéotron, Canada earned a commanding 3-0 victory (26-24, 25-23, 25-19) over Bulgaria in their final match of Week 1 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.
The match lasted 1 hour and 36 minutes and showcased the Canadian team’s maturity and power, especially in crucial moments.
Head coach Daniel Lewis’s squad displayed consistency across all areas of the game. Outside hitter Eric Loeppky Hofer was the star of the night, leading the offense with 21 points, including powerful spikes and decisive aces. Opposite Ryan Sclater also played a key role with 12 points, showing precision in both attacking and serving.
Canada especially excelled in blocking (scoring 11 points in that category) and serving, while taking advantage of 24 unforced errors by Bulgaria. The Bulgarian team, after a competitive first set, was unable to maintain their level.
With this result, Canada closes the first week of the VNL with a 2-2 record, placing them in sixth place.
Canada celebrated
Women’s VNL Week 2 Begins June 18
Week 2 of the Women’s VNL begins Wednesday, June 18, across various locations. Canada and the Dominican Republic will head to Istanbul, Türkiye. Canada opens against Korea at 12:30 p.m. local time, while the Dominican Republic takes on the home team at 7:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Women’s National Team will travel to Belgrade, Serbia, where they’ll open against the host team at 8:00 p.m. local time.
June 14, 2025. – Teams from NORCECA, the United States and Canada, were unable to overcome Slovenia and France, respectively. The U.S. lost 1-3 to Slovenia, while Canada came close to an epic comeback against France but ultimately fell in a tie-break.
Canada Nearly Pulls Off Historic Comeback
Team Canada came within reach of a historic comeback against the reigning Olympic champions, France. The Canadians lost a five-set thriller, 2-3 (22-25, 27-29, 29-27, 25-21, 6-15), with the French pulling away early in the final set to secure the win.
France outperformed Canada in attacks (72-67) and blocks (8-4), while the North Americans had the edge in serving, with five aces to France’s two.
Brodie Hofer and Xander Ketrzynski led Canada’s scoring, each finishing with 15 points. Hofer scored all his points from attacks, while Ketrzynski recorded 13 attacks, one block, and one ace. Also contributing to double digits were Ryan Joseph Sclater with 14 points, Skyler Varga with 12, and Daenan Gyimah with 10.
With this result, Canada now holds 4 points from one win and two losses, placing them 10th in the overall standings.
Canada celebrated
USA Falls Short Against Slovenia
The United States, fielding a young squad, could not overcome Slovenia and suffered a 1-3 loss (22-25, 25-27, 25-20, 23-25).
Both teams were tied in attacks (54 each), with the U.S. having a significant advantage in blocking (13-4). However, the Americans were hurt by 31 unforced errors, which handed valuable points to the Slovenians. The Europeans also had the edge in serving, with eight aces compared to the USA’s three.
Kyle Hobus led the U.S. scorers with 13 points. Gabriel García followed with 12 points, while Matthew Knigge and Jordan Ewert each contributed 11 points.
The United States currently sits 15th in the standings with 2 points, from one win and two losses.
Gabriel Garcia USA
Sunday, June 15 Schedule
The final day of Men’s VNL Week 1 features: United States takes on Cuba (5:00 p.m. local time, Rio de Janeiro), and Canada against Bulgaria (6:00 p.m. local time, Quebec)
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 14, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) is pleased to announce the return of renowned Italian coach Luca Cristofani to Puerto Rico. He will collaborate directly with both the women’s and men’s National Team programs.
Cristofani, whose international career spans the highest levels of professional volleyball and national teams, will provide technical consulting, specialized observation of training sessions, and mentorship for local coaches. His focus will be strengthening the technical structure from the grassroots to the elite level, driving a comprehensive and sustainable vision for Puerto Rico’s national teams.
The FPV expects Cristofani to arrive on the island this Monday, June 16.
Luca Cristofani (Left)
Regarding this important addition, FPV President Dr. César Trabanco stated: “The return of Professor Luca Cristofani to our National Team Program reaffirms our commitment to the technical development of our teams. His international experience and formative approach will be key to strengthening both our senior and youth national teams, in both genders. We are confident that his collaboration will continue to elevate the level of Puerto Rican volleyball.”
As part of his visit, Cristofani will also offer continuing education courses for coaches and technical staff. These sessions aim to raise the level of preparation and encourage the exchange of knowledge, creating a valuable space for the growth of volleyball on the island.
“Puerto Rico has talent, passion, and a rich volleyball history. I’m excited to return and continue contributing to the growth of this sport on the island,” said Cristofani.
Luca previously visited Puerto Rico in 2023, serving as a technical advisor supporting the coaches of both the men’s and women’s national teams across all age categories.
June 13, 2025. – The Caribbean team fought until the very end but couldn’t replicate the previous day’s feat. Cuba played its second consecutive five-set match in Rio de Janeiro, but this time fell short against a surprising Ukrainian squad, who edged out a hard-fought 3-2 victory (25-22, 20-25, 25-20, 17-25, 15-12).
Cuba outperformed Ukraine from the service line (8-5) and capitalized on the Europeans’ 35 unforced errors. However, Ukraine held the advantage in attacks (51-50) and blocks (17-11).
Despite a strong offensive performance, particularly from star outside hitter Marlon Yant, who once again led all scorers with 23 points (19 attacks, 3 aces, and 1 block), Cuba was unable to close the tie-break in their favor as they did against Brazil on Thursday. Middle blocker Javier Concepción also had a solid outing, contributing 11 points (6 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace).
Javier Octavio Concepcion CUB
It was a match filled with emotion, as Cuba managed to level the score twice after falling behind in sets. But in the decisive fifth set, they couldn’t contain Ukraine’s offensive push. The physical toll of back-to-back five-set matches also played a role.
With this loss, Cuba earns its second point in the overall standings of the 2025 VNL. The Caribbean squad has shown intensity and competitiveness but still needs to improve their finishing in key moments.
Saturday, June 14 Schedule On Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, the United States faces Slovenia (1:30 PM local time) and in Quebec, Canada plays against France (16:30 PM local time).
June 12, 2025. – Cuba pulled off the surprise of the day by defeating Brazil at home in five sets. The United States came back from a 0-2 deficit to win in five sets against Iran, while Canada couldn’t hold on to a 2-1 lead and ended up falling 2-3 to Argentina.
Cuba Finish Strong and Beat Brazil Again in Rio
Cuba secured a thrilling 3-2 victory (27-25, 26-24, 21-25, 20-25, 15-13) against Brazil at the Maracanãzinho, repeating their 2024 feat. After winning the first two sets, the Caribbean squad saw Brazil tie the match but managed to come out on top in the tie-break with their powerful offense. The win earned Cuba 8.39 World Ranking points, and they now stand at one win and one loss.
It’s the second consecutive year that Cuba stuns Brazil in the Maracanãzinho during the VNL. Last year, the two teams met in the tournament opener, and Cuba won 3-1.
Cuba led in attacks 68-61, both teams scored 10 points from blocks, and Brazil dominated the serve with 7 aces to 3. However, the Cubans committed more unforced errors—34 compared to Brazil’s 28.
“It was an incredible match,” said López. “We fought for every point, and I want to congratulate the team. Each of our players contributed to this victory. We couldn’t play the way we wanted in the first match, but today we came back to win.”
Marlon Yant Herrera was Cuba’s top scorer with 23 points, all from attacks. José Israel Masso added 18 points (16 attacks, 2 blocks), while team captain Miguel Ángel López scored 18 as well (14 attacks, 2 blocks, 2 aces). Javier Octavio Concepción also reached double digits with 10 points (9 attacks, 1 block).
Marlon Yant Herrera CUB
USA Complete Reverse Sweep to Earn First VNL Victory
The Americans were down 2-0 against Iran, but showed resilience to come back and triumph.
Competing in the first week of the VNL with an inexperienced roster, the Americans had 25-year-old opposite Kyle Hobus, who plays in Austria with Hypo Tirol Innsbruck, as their leading scorer with 19 points (17 kills, two blocks).
Outside hitters Jordan Ewert, who spent the last club season in Italy with Rana Verona, and Cooper Robinson, who plays collegiate volleyball at UCLA, also delivered strong performances, contributing 17 and 14 points, respectively.
The victory against the Iranians also marked the Americans’ first win under new head coach and volleyball legend Karch Kiraly, who transitioned from the women’s national team after 12 successful seasons to lead the men’s side starting in 2025.
“The guys have so much to be proud of, that was really a true team effort,” Kiraly said. “Lots of guys came in and changed the game for us. All of us are learning together. It was great that we got better as the match went along, and all credit goes to the guys.”
The Americans outperformed Iran in attacks (58-56) and blocks (14-5), but struggled with unforced errors, committing 39 compared to Iran’s 31. Iran had the edge in aces, 9-4.
The result gave the United States their first two points in the VNL 2025 and placed them in 12th at the end of the day.
Kyle Hobus USA
Canada Fall in Five-Set Thriller
A thrilling match took place in Quebec, where the home team dropped the first set, came back to lead, but eventually lost 2-3 (22-25, 25-21, 25-14, 22-25, 8-15) to Argentina.
Canada outscored Argentina in blocks (9-6), while the South Americans led in attacks (59-58) and aces (10-4). Canada committed fewer unforced errors (25) than Argentina (31).
Four Canadian players reached double figures in scoring: Xander Ketrzynski led with 22 points, supported by Brodie Hofer with 17, Jackson Young with 16, and captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy with 12.
With this loss, Canada ends the second matchday with one win and one defeat.
Xander Ketrzynski CAN
Schedule for Friday, June 13
On Friday, Cuba will be the only team in action, facing Ukraine at 5:30 p.m. local time in Rio de Janeiro. Canada and the United States will have a rest day.
June 11, 2025.- Host country Canada kicked off the first week of the Men’s VNL with an important victory, edging Germany 3-2. Meanwhile, the United States were upset by Ukraine in a straight-set loss, and Cuba began their campaign with a 1-3 defeat to Slovenia.
Canada defeats Germany in five sets
The first five-set match of the 2025 VNL went to Canada, who came from behind twice to triumph 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23, 15-11) over Germany in the final match of the opening day, earning their first win under new head coach Dan Lewis.
Opposite Ryan Sclater and outside hitter Jackson Young led the way with 17 points each. Fellow outside hitter Brodie Hofer added 16, while Ryan Joseph Sclater and team captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy chipped in with 14 and 13 points, respectively.
Canada outperformed Germany in blocks (14-8) and service aces (8-3) and capitalized on the 36 unforced errors committed by the Europeans. Germany held the advantage in attacks (58-48).
USA suffers surprise loss to Ukraine in VNL 2025 debut
The U.S. Men’s National Team, bronze medalists at the Paris Olympic Games, suffered a surprising 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-23) loss to Ukraine in their opening match of the 2025 VNL, held in Rio de Janeiro.
With a young squad featuring just one Olympian, Jeff Jendryk, on the court, the Americans struggled to contain Ukraine’s strong serving and were outplayed in all three sets. Gabriel García and Cooper Robinson led the U.S. attack with 13 points each, but their efforts fell short.
This defeat marks a tough start for Karch Kiraly in his debut as head coach of the U.S. Men’s Team. The loss also impacted the team’s FIVB World Ranking, dropping them from third to fourth after losing 17.64 points, allowing Slovenia to overtake the podium spot.
Captain Kyle Dagostino pointed to Ukraine’s serve as the key factor: “They put a lot of pressure on us. When they serve like that, everything becomes easier for them, in both blocking and defense.”
Gabriel Garcia USA
Cuba falls in four sets to Slovenia
Cuba opened its campaign in Group 2 of the Men’s VNL in Rio de Janeiro with a 1-3 (22-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25) defeat to Slovenia, currently ranked third in the FIVB World Ranking.
Both teams were even in blocks (12 each), but Slovenia had the edge in attacks (51-44) and service aces (5-3).
Two Cuban players reached double digits in scoring: outside hitter Marlon Yant Herrera tallied 19 points (14 kills, 4 blocks, 1 ace), and opposite José Israel Massó added 12 (9 kills, 1 block, 2 aces).
Jose Israel Masso CUB
Schedule for Thursday, June 12
In Rio de Janeiro, Cuba faces Brazil (5:30 PM local time) and the United States plays against Iran (9:00 PM local time). In Quebec, Canada hosts Argentina (8:00 PM local time).
June 8, 2025 .- The first week of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) came to a close this Sunday. The United States claimed their first victory in Group 2, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Meanwhile, in Group 1, played at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario, the host team ended the week with a spectacular comeback against Serbia to win 3-2. The Dominican Republic closed their participation with a loss against undefeated Japan.
USA Gets on the Board with Win Over Korea
The United States finally broke through and ended their first week with a 3-0 victory (25-13, 28-26, 25-17) over Korea. With this win, the U.S. team finished with one win and three losses, placing 13th overall with 4 points.
The Americans outperformed Korea in attacks (43-31) and blocks (14-3). Service aces were close, with Korea edging out the U.S. 5-4. Both teams committed 17 unforced errors.
Four U.S. players scored in double digits, with middle blocker Amber Igiede leading all scorers with 16 points (7 attacks, 8 blocks, 1 ace). Opposite Madisen Skinner tallied 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace), Sarah Franklin added 14, and Logan Lednicky finished with 10.
Amber Igiede – Sarah Franklin – Saige Kaahaaina-Torres USA
Canada Rallies to Defeat Serbia 3-2
Canada pulled off a stunning reverse sweep in front of their home crowd, defeating reigning world champions Serbia 3-2 (20-25, 18-25, 25-20, 25-18, 15-12). After dropping the first two sets, the Canadians turned the table and came from behind in the fifth set to seal the win.
Opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 34 points, 24 from attacks, 1 block, and 9 service aces.
Despite Serbia leading in attacks (62-53) and blocks (18-5), Canada capitalized on the Europeans’ 34 unforced errors and Van Ryk’s phenomenal serving (Canada led 11-4 in aces). Van Ryk ended the week as the tournament’s second-highest scorer with 89 points and led all players in service aces with 15.
With this result, Canada finished 11th overall with 2 wins and 2 losses.
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
Dominican Republic Falls to Powerhouse Japan
The Dominican Republic wrapped up their week in Ottawa with a 0-3 loss (19-25, 21-25, 9-25) against a dominant Japan squad, who topped the standings with a perfect 4-0 record, all wins coming in straight sets. The Dominicans finished with 2 wins and 2 losses, placing 12th overall.
Japan outperformed the Caribbean team in attacks (51-26) and service aces (10-1), while the “Queens of the Caribbean” led in blocks (8-3). Japan committed 14 unforced errors to the Dominican Republic’s 11.
Gaila González led the Dominican scoring with 14 points (11 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace). Star player Brayelin Martínez, who didn’t shine as brightly in this match as in the previous three, still finished the week as the fourth top scorer of the tournament with 79 points (65 attacks, 12 blocks, 2 aces).
Gaila Gonzalez DOM
Men’s VNL Begins Tuesday, June 10
The Men’s Volleyball Nations League kicks off on Tuesday, June 10 in Xi’an, China, with a single match between Poland and the Netherlands. NORCECA will be represented by Canada, who will play in Quebec in Group 1, and by the United States and Cuba, who will compete in Group 2 in Rio de Janeiro.
On Wednesday, June 11, the United States faces Ukraine (11:00 a.m. local time), Canada takes on Germany (6:00 p.m. local time), and Cuba closes the day against Slovenia (6:00 p.m. local time).
June 7, 2025.– Canada suffered a tough defeat in the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. The Canadian team, playing at home, lost 0-3 (24-26, 20-25, 19-25) to Japan.
Their opposite and team captain, Kiera Van Ryk, was Canada’s top scorer with 11 points, one block, one ace, and the rest from attacks. Hilary Howe contributed 9 points (7 from attacks and 2 blocks).
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
Canada’s blocking was dominant, with an 8-0 advantage over Japan, but the Japanese team led in attacks (39-33) and service aces (7-3). The Asians also capitalized on 30 points from unforced Canadian errors.
With this loss, Canada now holds two defeats and just one win. Japan remains undefeated with three straight-set victories.
The final day of the first week of the women’s VNL will be played this Sunday, June 8. In Pool 1 action in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic faces Japan at 11:00 a.m. local time, while Canada hosts Serbia at 6:00 p.m. local time. In Pool 2, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the United States will face Korea at 4:00 p.m. local time.
June 6, 2025.- The first week of the Volleyball Nations League 2025 has been intense, but also successful for the Dominican Republic, which secured on Friday their second victory in three matches in the tournament, while the U.S. fell in dramatic five sets to Czechia in their third loss.
Dominican Republic returns to winning ways
One of the six teams competing in Pool 1, in Ottawa, Canada, the Queens of the Caribbean won their second five-setter in three days at The Arena at TD Place, taking the Netherlands down to keep their record positive.
If their opening-match five-set victory over Serbia on Wednesday featured a massive comeback for the Dominicans, their triumph over the Dutch had a different script, with ups and downs from both sides and tremendous back-and-forth before the Caribbeans prevailed 3-2 (22-25, 25-19, 28-26, 22-25, 15-13).
With two of their first three matches in Ottawa going to five sets, the Dominicans have played as many as 14 sets so far – before beating Serbia, they lost 3-1 to Bulgaria on Thursday.
Against the Dutch, the Caribbean could rely on their two main scorers as Brayelin Martínez and Gaila González combined for an impressive 51 points – the outside hitter registered 26, with 23 kills, two blocks and one ace, while the opposite produced 25, with 19 kills, three blocks and three aces.
The Dominican team outperformed the Netherlands 10-7 in blocks, and their serve was dominant, delivering 7 aces to the Netherlands’ 3.
With this victory, the Dominican Republic climbed to sixth place in the overall standings among the 18 teams competing in the 2025 VNL, with 2 wins and 1 loss for a total of 4 points.
Gaila Gonzalez DOM (2)
USA Can’t Hold the Lead, Suffers Third Consecutive Loss
The United States was unable to maintain their initial 2-0 set lead and ended up losing in five sets (25-23, 25-20, 17-25, 20-25, 25-27) to the Czechia. The final set was full of emotions—Team USA had a 10-7 lead but ultimately lost 25-27 in a set that was supposed to go to 15 points.
Despite the Czechs committing 31 unforced errors, they were superior at the net (82-66 in attacks) and in service aces (7-2). The USA led in blocks, 13-6.
Sarah Franklin was the top scorer for the U.S. with 20 points (19 attacks, 1 block), Amber Igiede added 18 points (13 attacks, 4 blocks, 1 ace), while Molly McCage and Logan Eggleston also scored in double digits with 11 points each, and Logan Lednicky added 10 points.
This marked the third loss for the United States.
On Saturday, June 7, in Ottawa, only one match will be played: Canada will face Japan at 4:00 PM local time. The Dominican Republic and the United States will have the day off.
June 6, 2025.- Expecting her first baby, the Dominican captain will be with her team for as long as she can during the tournament.
The Dominican Republic will count on an extra body on the court for at least their first matches in the Volleyball Nations League 2025 as team captain and veteran setter Niverka Marte is playing the tournament while expecting her first baby.
The 34-year-old playmaker doesn’t know for how long she’ll be able to keep playing, but she definitely wants to enjoy the moments of joy she is experiencing this first week, as the Queens of the Caribbean have faced Serbia and Bulgaria, and will play the Netherlands and Japan in Ottawa, Canada.
Even though many players who want to start a family plan to do it in the post-Olympic year, that wasn’t exactly the case with Marte. Having a baby had long been a dream of her, but the Dominican captain was struck with both surprise and intense happiness when she found out she was pregnant.
“My husband and I have been thinking about having a baby for a long time, but we always kept focused on what our priorities were at the moment and the upcoming tournaments,” she told Volleyball World in an exclusive interview. “We didn’t plan for it to happen now, but when we realized it was happening, it was a moment of incredible happiness for us. Our wonderful baby came by the grace of God and He couldn’t have picked a better time to give us this gift.”
Feeling as energized as ever and having many examples of players who continued to compete through pregnancy, including her longtime national team friends Bethania De La Cruz and Brenda Castillo, Marte had no doubts that she wanted to continue to represent her country in the VNL for as long as she could.
“I never felt better before,” she said. “I’ve been so, so happy that I’m in an unexplainable mood all the time. And I feel stronger and with a constant desire to train my body, too. I think that many people portray pregnancy as a disease and make it look like you can’t do anything. I always saw it from an entirely different perspective, and now that I’m experiencing it, I feel it in an even stronger way. Of course, my body is changing, and I need to take care of my needs and my baby’s needs, but why should I stop my entire life? I’ll adapt to it as it goes and will keep listening to my body. I feel great and would love to be with my team on the VNL. The only recommendation my doctor made was that I enjoy this moment, and that’s what I’ll do.”
One thing that makes Marte’s experience of playing through pregnancy even more special is the fact that her husband, Omar Martinez, is the physical trainer of the Dominican national team. That means the two can experience every step of her pregnancy together, supporting each other along the way.
“I’ve met him a couple of years before he joined the national team, and I’ve become better in every area of my life after that,” the setter, a three-time Olympian, added. “Having him full-time by my side is the best thing that could have happened, and it’s not a coincidence that I’ve been playing every set of every tournament for many years now. He takes care of me in every area of my life, not just sports, and that means a lot. I’m so blessed to have him by my side.”
While Marte still can’t determine for how long she’ll be able to help her teammates on the court in the VNL, the setter can already confirm she will need to sit out of the upcoming FIVB Volleyball World Championship, set to take place from August 22-September 7, in Thailand, as her pregnancy will approach its final stage.
Part of the Dominican national team since 2008 and a starter and captain for over a decade, Marte’s absence will create a void in the team both technically and from a leadership standpoint. While she’s out, Ariana Rodríguez, Yokaty Pérez, Aylin Liberato and Camila De La Rosa are the candidates to step into the starting lineup at the setter spot.
“We have over 20 players training with the Dominican national team, and we’re all different, but everyone has something to bring to the table,” Marte reflected. “So, I don’t think anyone replaces someone on the team. The opportunities have always been there and will continue to be there.”
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 5, 2025 .- In a meeting held this evening between the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) and the eight franchise owners of the Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM), it was unanimously agreed to postpone the start of the 2025 season to October 20, 2025.
The decision was made to comply with the regulations set by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and to ensure the proper development of the competition under international standards.
FPV President Dr. César Trabanco confirmed the decision and noted that further details regarding tournament planning and necessary adjustments will be announced in the coming days to guarantee a competitive and well-organized event.
“Our top priority is to meet international requirements while also delivering a high-quality tournament for our players, clubs, and fans. We’ll soon be sharing key information about the schedule and other logistical aspects,” said Dr. Trabanco.
All eight teams are confirmed to participate in the upcoming season, and each team will be allowed up to two foreign reinforcements to strengthen their rosters.
June 5, 2025.– All three NORCECA teams competing in the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) had a tough second day. In Pool 1, host nation Canada fell 1-3 to the Netherlands, while the Dominican Republic lost 1-3 to Bulgaria. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, USA suffered their second consecutive defeat, this time a 0-3 loss to Brazil.
Canada drops first match in Pool 1
Canada suffered their first loss of the 2025 VNL season, falling 1-3 (18-25, 25-22, 15-25, 23-25) to the Netherlands. In a match with few unforced errors, Canada committed 20, while the Netherlands had 24.
Canadian opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk once again led the scoring with 17 points (15 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace). The Dutch outperformed Canada in every skill, 55-48 in attacks, 13-3 in blocks, and 9-6 in aces.
With this result, Canada now holds a 1-1 record and 2 points, thanks to their win over Bulgaria the day before.
Andrea Mitrovic CAN
Dominican Republic falls in four sets to Bulgaria
Despite a standout performance from Brayelin Martínez, who scored 30 points (27 attacks, 3 blocks), and a strong effort in the second and fourth sets, the Dominican Republic was outlasted by Bulgaria 1-3 (21-25, 32-30, 19-25, 29-31).
Blocking was once again the Dominican team’s strongest weapon, dominating that category 16-11, but Bulgaria narrowly won in attacks 65-64 and led in service points 7-4.
The Dominican Republic now holds a 1-1 record with 2 points, following their victory over Serbia.
Brayelin Martinez DOM
USA suffers second straight loss
Brazil, the world’s second-ranked team, defeated USA, ranked third, in straight sets 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-19) in Rio de Janeiro.
The young American squad was unable to match Brazil’s power and experience and were outplayed across 38-35 in attacks, 12-4 in blocks, and both teams with 4 aces.
Logan Eggleston was the top scorer for the USA and the only player in double digits, with 13 points, including 1 block and 12 attacks from the net.
On Friday, June 6, in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic will face the Netherlands at 2:00 p.m. local time, while Canada will have a rest day. In Rio de Janeiro, the United States will take on Czechia at 6:00 p.m. local time.
June 5, 2025.- Simon leads, young stars mature, and momentum builds in Cuba’s 2025 campaign as they return for their third straight Volleyball Nations League season aiming to build on the progress of recent years. After back-to-back campaigns in 2023 and 2024, the team bring back familiar leaders and rising contributors, continuing to rely on physical strength and fast attacking play to push for a stronger finish in an expanded field.
At the heart of the squad is 37-year-old middle blocker Robertlandy Simon, who remains part of the national team setup after initially suggesting his international career was over in 2024. He is expected to join the group in the third week of the Preliminary Phase.
Alongside the top-calibre middle blocker, Cuba will count on outside hitters Miguel Angel Lopez, Marlon Yant and Osniel Melgarejo, who have shaped the team’s attack in recent seasons. Setter Christian Manuel Thondike Mejias provides continuity in distribution, while middle blockers Roamy Alonso and Javier Concepción bring speed and vertical threat at the net. Libero Yonder García anchors the backcourt and leads a defensive unit that has gained stability over the past two editions.
Robertlandy Simon of Cuba
Cuba begin the season ranked 12th in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Ranking. Their campaign opens in Rio de Janeiro from 11 to 15 June, where they will face Slovenia, Brazil, Ukraine and the United States. In Week 2 from 25 to 29 June in Belgrade, they are set to take on Germany, Serbia, Netherlands and Argentina. Then Week 3 will be held from 16 to 20 July in Gdansk, with matchups against Bulgaria, Poland, France and China.
Their development has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, which began with a six-month coaching support in 2023 valued at CHF 12,000. The support had a long-term impact, helping to strengthen the team’s technical preparation and giving the coaching staff the tools to build a more competitive unit on the international stage.
Now in their third VNL season, Cuba are no longer new to the demands of the competition. Their physical style, built around quick swings, strong blocking and high-tempo transition play, has made them a difficult team to face. Against more structured systems, Cuba’s unpredictability and athleticism continue to stand out.
A return to the Final Round remains within reach. With experienced leaders, improved depth and a style that can pose a threat to the top-ranked teams, Cuba’s purpose in 2025 is grounded in the progress they have already made. Their next step is to prove they can sustain it.
Cuba are scheduled to hold a training camp in Argentina ahead of the VNL, including friendly matches with the home side. The trip will form part of their preparations for a packed international season that also includes the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship later this year.
After rebuilding their presence on the international stage, Cuba now face a season that could define their trajectory in the next Olympic cycle. With Simon still in the fold and a more balanced lineup around him, their 2025 campaign is built to power through the pack.
June 4, 2025.- The Dominican Republic opened their 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign with an exciting five-set comeback victory over reigning world champions Serbia in Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. Host Canada also secured a five-set win over Bulgaria to start strong at home. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, the United States fell in their debut against Olympic champions Italy in Rio de Janeiro.
Dominicans complete reverse sweep against Serbia
The second match of the day in Ottawa delivered high drama as the Dominican Republic clawed back from a two-set deficit to defeat Serbia. The “Queens of the Caribbean” didn’t give up after dropping the first two sets, ultimately triumphing 3-2 (26-28, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16), marking the first tiebreak victory of the VNL’s seventh edition.
Outside hitter Brayelin Martínez led the offense with 17 points (11 kills, five blocks, one ace), joined by her sister, middle blocker Jineiry Martínez, who added 16 (14 kills, two blocks). Opposite Gaila González also contributed 16 points (11 kills, four blocks, one ace) in the epic comeback.
Blocking proved to be the Dominicans’ strongest skill, outperforming Serbia 16-11. They also capitalized on Serbian errors, with a 34-22 advantage in opponent unforced mistakes. However, Serbia led in kills (61-58) and aces (10-5).
Brayelin Martinez DOM
Canada needs five sets to beat Bulgaria
The final match of opening day action also went to five sets, with host Canada outlasting Bulgaria 3-2 (25-18, 25-12, 23-25, 19-25, 15-4) in front of their home fans. It was Canada’s first win under new head coach Giovanni Guidetti.
The Canadians were dominant in attacks (67-49) and serves (9-4), while Bulgaria held a slight edge in blocking (10-9).
Star opposite Kiera Van Ryk led all scorers with 25 points (19 kills, four aces, two blocks). Outside hitter Hilary Johnson followed with 18 (16 kills, two aces), and middle blocker Emily Maglio chipped in 14 points (eight kills, five blocks, one ace).
Kiera Van Ryk CAN
USA fall to Italy in opener
Reigning VNL champions Italy imposed their strength early, winning the first two sets comfortably. The third set saw the USA take a commanding 21-14 lead, but Italy mounted a comeback to win the set 30-28 and seal a 3-0 (25-13, 25-13, 30-28) victory in Pool 2, played in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
New American head coach Erik Sullivan fielded a very young squad, with ten players making their VNL debut against the Olympic champions. Sarah Franklin and Logan Lednicky led the USA in scoring with nine points each.
On Thursday June 5, in Ottawa, Dominican Republic faces Bulgaria at 4:00 PM local time, and Canada goes against the Netherlands at 7:30 PM local time. In Rio de Janeiro, the U.S. will meet with host Brazil at 9:00 PM local time.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, June 3, 2025.- The Haitian Volleyball Federation has been in full activity organizing successful tournaments, thanks to the tireless efforts and remarkable dedication by regional organizers.
In parts of the Northern Department, school tournaments began as early as December 2024. In 2025, hundreds of students continued to play volleyball, with championships held in Cap-Haïtien, Ouanaminthe, Hinche, Port-Margot, La Jeune, Mombin-Crochu, Pignon, and Saint-Marc.
A play sequence in the Port-au-Prince championship
Concurrently, the regular First Division tournaments were successfully held by the Ouanaminthe League, while the League in the West tournaments are currently in its final phase. These two major championships welcomed 20 clubs, with a total of approximately 300 athletes.
“I am proud that the Haitian Volleyball Federation has been able to stay the course and ensure that volleyball courts continue to be places of joy and performance for athletes during these challenging times. We recognize the many sacrifices made by both parents and athletes to keep volleyball alive across the country, bringing energy, unity, and hope to a population striving for stability.” said Jean Michel Frédéric François, President of the Haitian Volleyball Federation.
“Special thanks to all the regional leaders for their perseverance, all the institutions that championed us, and especially NORCECA for their continuous support. Seeing our youth smile, play, and push themselves beyond their limits, despite the circumstances, is the greatest triumph for Haitian sports,” concluded Mr. François.
MANATÍ, Puerto Rico, June 3, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV), led by President Dr. César Trabanco, has officially announced that the city of Manatí will host the prestigious 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four tournament, scheduled to take place from July 18 to 20 at the Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu Coliseum.
The event will bring together the national teams of Puerto Rico, Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica in an exciting round-robin format that promises high-level matchups. Additionally, this will be the first tournament to award ranking points toward qualification for the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), adding extra incentive to the competition and increasing its relevance on the international stage.
Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz, Manati
Dr. César Trabanco, President of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, expressed deep gratitude to the Mayor of Manatí, the Honorable José A. Sánchez, for his support to Puerto Rican volleyball and his commitment to the development of sports in the region.
“We greatly value the support of Mayor Sánchez and his team, who have opened the doors of the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum to host a top-tier event. Their backing is a clear demonstration of Manatí’s commitment to the growth of volleyball and the strengthening of our national teams,” said Trabanco.
He also emphasized the importance of the 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four for the Puerto Rican national team and the sport on the island:
“This tournament is a great opportunity for our players to showcase their talent and continue raising the level of volleyball in Puerto Rico. Facing strong opponents like Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica will allow us to compete at the highest level and demonstrate our team’s progress on the international stage. We look forward to an exciting event, with thrilling matches and passionate fans supporting our team as it aims to defend its title.”
As the reigning champion, Puerto Rico will look to maintain its dominance in the tournament and take full advantage of the home court to deliver an unforgettable experience for its fans.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 31, 2025. – In an event held at Cayo Caribe, The Outlets at Montehiedra, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Volleyball Pre-Selection was officially presented under the leadership of Head Coach Juan C. Núñez and his staff, including assistant coach José Mieles.
A group of athletes, made up of a mix of young talent and experienced veterans from the national program, is preparing for training sessions ahead of this summer’s international commitments.
“I’m excited and happy to be in charge of this talented group of players. It’s an excellent blend of youth and experience, with athletes returning to the program and others who will have their first opportunity to compete at this level,” said Núñez.
The preliminary group consists of approximately 19 to 22 players. As training progresses, the coaching staff will face the difficult task of making cuts to determine the final roster that will represent Puerto Rico in the upcoming summer qualification tournament.
The libero position, in particular, has multiple strong candidates, which will intensify internal competition. “For official tournaments, we must have a 14-player roster, which means eventually five or six players will be cut,” Núñez explained.
Training will begin this coming Monday at the University of Puerto Rico, with sessions open to the press. “We want everyone to be able to see the team’s preparation process. We’ll be training at 5:30 p.m. initially on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Then, we’ll add a fourth day and adjust the schedule as the weeks progress,” the coach stated.
With this preparation phase underway, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Team aims to solidify its roster and strengthen its play in anticipation of the important challenges it will face in the coming months.
Senior Women’s National Team Summer Events:
– NORCECA Women’s Final Four – Host: Puerto Rico, July 16–21
– XII Pan American Cup Women – Host: Mexico, August 1–11
– FIVB Women’s World Championship – Host: Bangkok, Thailand, August 22–September 7
– NORCECA Women’s Final Six – Host: Mexico, September 22–29
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, May 30, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation held the official presentation of the 2025 Men’s Senior National Volleyball Preliminary Roster, which will train to represent Puerto Rico in upcoming NORCECA and FIVB tournaments.
Head coach of the senior national team, Jamille Torres, inspired the players with a motivational message:
“I want to be a facilitator and help you achieve everything you set out to do because just like you have goals, I have mine too. I’d like to win the Olympics, but we must go step by step. Let’s think big, beyond the Central American Games. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I want you to make the most of it. I was once in your shoes, and one day you could be in mine. I’ll always be available to help you with anything you need.”
Meanwhile, the president of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, Dr. César Trabanco, emphasized the importance of the competitive path ahead for the team:
“Puerto Rico has the talent to position itself among volleyball’s elite. The Volleyball Nations League and the World Championship are key opportunities for international exposure and growth. Every tournament adds vital ranking points and helps with Olympic qualification. With effort, discipline, and commitment, we can compete with and beat top teams. This team has everything needed to make its mark.”
The men’s senior team will face a demanding schedule, with high-level tournaments paving the way toward the international elite:
– NORCECA Men Final Four – México, July 23-28
– XVIII Pan-American Cup – México, August 24 -September 1
– NORCECA Final Six – Puerto Rico, October 4 -13
The coaching staff and players are committed to preparation and teamwork, with a shared goal of proudly and excellently representing Puerto Rico in these events.
Men’s Preliminary Roster by Position
Outside Hitters: Omar Hoyos Pedro Molina Pele Vargas Jr. Kevin López Diego Rosich Axel Meléndez Lorenzo Rivera Antonio Feliciano
Opposites: Klistan Lawrence Jamal Ellis Gregory Torres Sebastián Negrón
Middle Blockers: Jonathan Rodríguez Antonio Elías Ismael Alomar Janluar Figueroa Ramón Rosado Iván Fernández Eliel Salva
Setters: Kevin Rodríguez Howard García Daniel Henwood Diego Estrada
Liberos: Arnel Cabrera Dennis Del Valle Luis Bertrán Noah Meléndez
Coaching Staff:
Jamille Torres – Head Coach Ramon Lawrence – Assistant Coach Felix Román – Statistician
May 28 2025.- A Canadian at the helm, a home opener and their rise mark a defining chapter for the men’s team at the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.
The 2025 Volleyball Nations League arrives at a defining moment for the Canadian men’s national team. With three Olympic appearances in the past decade and a breakthrough VNL Final Round finish in 2024, the team has turned sustained development into results. Now, with a Canadian coach on the bench and the season opening on home soil, the journey not only comes full circle — it finally hits home.
Dan Lewis, a former national team player and long-time assistant, was appointed head coach in January. His promotion reflects the federation’s focus on continuity and leadership from within. After competing for Canada as a player at the highest level and contributing from the sidelines in recent years, Lewis now leads a group he knows well into the next stage of its evolution.
The coaching shift builds on a foundation strengthened by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2020, Canada have received CHF 1.55 million in support across both volleyball and beach volleyball, through application-based and targeted projects. That backing has supported long-term coaching and technical development for the national team programmes, contributing to the progress of the men’s squad at the highest level.
The 2025 squad features players from last year’s campaigns at the Paris Olympics and the Volleyball Nations League, alongside younger talent rising through the national pathway. Under Lewis, the team will continue to rely on its physical presence, structured systems and strong team identity that shaped their breakthrough performance in 2024.
Canada’s 2025 squad is led by some of their most prominent returnees from their Paris 2024 roster, including Luke Herr, Fynn McCarthy and Nick Hoag. Their contribution and experience at the international level remain central to Canada’s goals this season.
Canada host Week 1 of the VNL from 11 to 15 June at Centre Vidéotron in Quebec, where they face Germany, Argentina, France and Bulgaria. In Week 2, Canada travel to Chicago for matchups against Brazil, United States, Poland and China from 25 to 29 June. The final week of the preliminaries takes place in Ljubljana from 16 to 20 July, where they meet hosts Slovenia, Netherlands, Serbia and Ukraine.
Canada have appeared in every edition of the VNL since its launch in 2018. After years of consistent presence, their qualification to the Final Round in 2024 confirmed their arrival among men’s volleyball’s top-tier contenders. That upward trend now continues with a renewed leadership structure and home-court spotlight.
The 2025 season will also serve as a key step in preparation for the FIVB Men’s World Championship later this year.
May 27, 2025.- The extended rosters of the 24 teams that will participate in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship have now been released and the eager volleyball fans can already find out which rising stars of world volleyball are getting ready to hit the courts in Osijek, Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia from July 2 to 13.
While at this young age, the volleyball stars of the future are still building up their fame, there are still plenty of names on the rosters that would ring a volleyball fan’s bell.
Defending U19 world champions United States, for example, will be captained by Genevieve Harris (pictured in the main photo), the Best Setter of last year’s NORCECA U19 Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship.
China’s squad is highlighted by Yang Shuming , who was selected Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Opposite of the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship as well as MVP of the 2024 AVC U18 Women’s Volleyball Asian Championship, Chen Xiaohui, who was one of the U17 Dream Team middle blockers, and another three of the players, who snatched the inaugural U17 world title last year – Guo Zhongnan, Huang Yuexin and Wang Yibo. The two continental U18 Dream Teamers – outside Zhai Yurui and middle Wang Aoqian – are also on China’s roster.
Reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria have 13 of the 14 players who conquered the continental title last year on the roster for the upcoming U19 World Championship, headlined by EuroVolley U18 MVP and Best Setter Dimana Ivanova and other Dream Teamers like outside Kalina Veneva and middle Darina Naneva.
The MVP of the 2024 CSV U19 Girls’ Volleyball South American Championship, Mikaela Hestmann, is one of the outside hitters on the list of Brazilian players for Croatia-Serbia 2025, accompanied by setter and captain Luana Vazquez and middle Lara Rodrigues, also among the individual awardees at last year’s continental event.
A number of other continental Dream Teamers are featured on the rosters of Argentina (Paula Tomasa and Julia Allub), Belgium (Liese Verhelst and Jasmine Debout), Chile (Martina Allende), Chinese Taipei (Chen Pin-Yu), Dominican Republic (Julie Arias and Caroline Rodriguez), Italy (Ludovica Tosini and Veronica Quero), Japan (Tanyama Tsubaki and Chugangi Rion), Mexico (Caroline Rodriguez), Peru (Fatima Villafuerte) and Thailand (Sasitorn Jatta).
The German team will be captained by outside hitter Leana Grozer and it is no accident that that last name also rings a loud bell. Her legendary father Gyorgy Grozer is still an active and successful volleyballer at the age of 40. For sure, there are a few other “famous” daughters who will defend the honors of their family names, like Simona Ivanova, the daughter of Bulgarian legend Evgeni Ivanov, or Arianna Bovolenta, the daughter of Italian legend Vigor Bovolenta, to name a couple…
May 27, 2025.- Defending 2023 U19 world champions and reigning 2024 U18 European champions France will play in one of the three opening games of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship set to take place from July 24 to August 3 in Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent.
The full match schedule for the pool stage of the competition has now been released, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation about how the on-court battles, involving the rising stars of world volleyball, will unfold on the way to crowning the new U19 boys’ world champions.
France will take on Canada in a Pool B game at 11:00 local time (06:00 UTC) on one of the three competition courts in Tashkent. At the same time, on the other two courts, Belgium will meet Pakistan in a Pool A fixture and Iran will face Spain in Pool C.
In a remake of the 2024 Boys’ U18 African Nations Volleyball Championship, Egypt and Tunisia will open their Pool C campaigns at 14:00 (09:00). Meanwhile, U19 South American champions Argentina will take on Puerto Rico in Pool A.
An all-European clash between Italy and Poland, silver and bronze medalists of the 2024 CEV U18 Men’s Volleyball European Championship, in Pool C, and an all-Asian duel between Japan and last year’s U18 continental champions China in Pool B will highlight the third set of three matches, serving off at 17:00 (12:00) on the first competition day. Tournament hosts Uzbekistan will also start off their campaign at that time with a Pool A fixture against Türkiye.
The entire first leg of Pool D matches will get underway at the same time, 20:00 (15:00), with 2024 U19 NORCECA champions USA entering the competition with a game against Finland.
These four time slots will apply to all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 24 through July 29, with a rest day on July 27.
The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on August 3. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.
May 23, 2025.- Empowered on the court and guided by veteran coach Giovanni Guidetti, Canada target a breakthrough season. Canada’s women’s volleyball team will open their 2025 Volleyball Nations League campaign on home soil in Ottawa, but the journey that brought them here was shaped long before the opening whistle.
After years of building stability and gaining ground internationally, Canada’s women enter VNL 2025 with experienced players, a new head coach, and a sharper sense of what it takes to close the gap on the world’s top teams.
A key driver of Canada’s rise has been sustained support through FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. Since 2020, Canada has received CHF 1.55 million in support for its programmes. That support helped in hiring a top-tier coach, the expansion of performance and medical staff, and the creation of a professional structure to strengthen athlete development and national team operations.
Brie King & Kiera Van Ryk
Canada entered the VNL in 2021 and have qualified every year since. In 2023 and 2024, they posted their best results to date, finishing 10th overall and narrowly missing out on the Final Round. Later in 2023, they came close to securing an Olympic berth, finishing third in the qualification tournament in Ningbo – their strongest bid since Atlanta 1996. These performances reflected years of growth that helped establish their rise in women’s volleyball.
The foundation for that run was laid by Shannon Winzer, who coached the team from 2020 through the Olympic qualification cycle. She now serves as Volleyball Canada’s High Performance Director, helping guide the national programme’s long-term development.
Taking her place on the bench is Giovanni Guidetti, one of the most accomplished coaches in the sport, with four Olympic campaigns on his résumé. Appointed in January, the Italian brings a track record of elevating national teams and leading top clubs to international titles. His arrival marks the start of a new mission for Canada – adding a new layer of technical leadership and competitive insight to a team that has grown steadily in recent seasons.
Canada’s core also returns. Kiera Van Ryk leads the offence with power and consistency on the right side. Brie King continues to set the rhythm with confidence and control. Their experience, combined with Guidetti’s leadership, gives Canada a solid base in a season where margins will be tight.
Canada will play their opening four matches in Ottawa from 4 to 8 June, facing Bulgaria, Netherlands, Japan and Serbia. From 18 to 22 June, they move to Istanbul to meet Korea, Türkiye, Brazil and Belgium. The final week of pool play takes place in Arlington, Texas, with matches against Germany, China, United States and Thailand from 9 to 13 July. The Final Round will be in Lodz, Poland, from 23 to 27 July.
The team will also compete at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, set to be held in Thailand later this year.
VNL 2025 comes at a time when Canada’s foundations are in place. Empowerment support has shaped the programme, experience anchors the core, and Guidetti brings a new perspective to the bench. The mission now is to keep moving forward.
SAN SEBASTIÁN, Puerto Rico, July 21, 2025.- The transfer of Pablo Guzmán to the Patriotas de Lares marks a new chapter in the journey of the two-time champions, Caribes de San Sebastián, in the Puerto Rican Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM).
The transfer was confirmed by David Chaparro Pérez, Co-Owner and General Manager of the Caribes, who emphasized the franchise’s commitment to the well-being of its players. “Our organization has stood out as one that provides opportunities to players. If we don’t reach an agreement for a season, we want every athlete to have the freedom to choose where to continue their path,” he explained.
The veteran player, MVP of the most recent finals series, was transferred to the Patriotas de Lares in exchange for financial compensation.
Pablo Guzman
Chaparro Pérez also underscored that the Caribes’ philosophy is clear: to respect players’ wishes and contribute to the development of the League. “We always aim for the best development of the League. We’re not here to hold back any player, but to strengthen the competitiveness and spectacle of Puerto Rican volleyball,” he stated.
“Pablo,” Chaparro continued, “expressed interest in relocating to a team of his preference. After discussing his options and respecting his decision, the transfer was granted. It’s important to highlight that this move was made directly at his request. As in any environment, agreements aren’t always reached on every point, but that’s part of the natural dynamic even within the best of families, though it was hard to say goodbye.”
The transfer has sparked varied reactions among fans, ranging from nostalgia over the veteran’s departure to excitement about the arrival of new talent. Chaparro Pérez confirmed that the move is part of a long-term strategic plan. “This change is part of a three-year restructuring process, during which we’ll incorporate new blood and gradually adjust the roster to maintain the team’s high level.”
Thus, Guzmán’s departure is part of a forward-looking vision aimed at ensuring the Caribes continue setting the standard in top-level volleyball, with the goal of strengthening the League and delivering the best possible show to the fans.
The regular season is set to begin on June 6, with the Gigantes de Adjuntas visiting the Caribes de San Sebastián, and the Changos de Naranjito facing the Gigantes de Carolina.
The 2025 LVSM will feature eight competing teams: Caribes de San Sebastián (two-time champions), Mets de Guaynabo, Plataneros de Corozal, Patriotas de Lares, Changos de Naranjito, Gigantes de Carolina, Gigantes de Adjuntas, and Cafeteros de Yauco.
May 21, 2025.- With veteran leadership and continued Empowerment support, the Dominican Republic squad aim to turn years of top-level consistency into their first Final Round appearance in the Volleyball Nations League.
Dominican Republic have long been one of the most consistent forces in women’s volleyball, and since the launch of the VNL, they’ve remained a steady presence among the world’s top contenders. In 2025, they return with a veteran lineup, strong leadership and one goal still just out of reach.
Head coach Marcos Kwiek
The build-up of their high-performance system has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, with over CHF 940,000 in support since 2021. This has strengthened the foundation of the national team, providing long-term coaching stability, technical development, and the ability to remain internationally competitive across multiple Olympic cycles.
Head coach Marcos Kwiek remains at the helm in 2025, leading a squad that has dominated their continent in recent years. Dominican Republic won the NORCECA Final Six in both 2022 and 2024, claimed gold at the 2023 Pan American Games, and were crowned continental champions again in 2023. These results have underlined their dominance in continental play and reinforced their readiness to compete for bigger feats on the international stage.
Dominican Republic have been part of every VNL edition since the tournament began, but a Final Round appearance has remained out of reach. Their performances have kept them competitive across multiple seasons, yet that next-level finish continues to be the goal.
Brayelin Martínez
That pursuit continues in 2025 with a group of established stars still leading the charge. Libero Brenda Castillo, widely regarded as one of the most decorated defensive players in international volleyball, anchors the squad alongside standouts Jineiry and Brayelin Martínez. All three bring extensive VNL and major tournament experience, forming a foundation that has carried the team through multiple cycles.
Dominican Republic will start VNL 2025 Week 1 in Ottawa, facing Serbia, Bulgaria, Netherlands and Japan from 4 to 8 June. In Week 2, they move to Istanbul to meet hosts Türkiye, Belgium, Brazil and Korea and from 18 to 22 June. The Preliminary Round wraps up in Week 3 in Arlington, where they will take on China, United States, Thailand and Germany from 9 to 13 July.
The team will also use the VNL to further integrate younger players emerging from its development system – a long-term priority supported by Empowerment funding. While the veterans remain central to the squad’s identity, the next wave of talent is expected to gain experience during the 2025 season.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 20, 2025 .- The Dominican Republic’s National Women’s Volleyball Teams Project and Grupo GBC Farmacias have announced the renewal of their strategic alliance for a second consecutive year. Through this agreement, GBC Farmacias remains the official sponsor of the “Reinas del Caribe” for all international competitions during the 2025 season, including the Volleyball Nations League and the FIVB World Championship.
The announcement was made during a press conference led by Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, President of the National Teams Project, and Raymond Rodríguez, Executive Vice President of Grupo GBC Farmacias.
Lic. Cristóbal Marte
During the event, Marte Hoffiz unveiled the new uniforms the Reinas del Caribe will wear in 2025, designed by the renowned Japanese brand Mizuno Corporation. He also emphasized that the financial resources generated through the agreement will be allocated as stipends for athletes across the four national women’s teams: U19, U21, U23, and the senior team.
Several players from the national program, along with members of the coaching staff, were present at the event.
“In 2025, the Dominican Republic will, for the second time, become the only country in the world to qualify for the U19 World Championship in Croatia, the U21 World Championship in Indonesia, the Youth Olympic Games (IOC) in Paraguay in the U21 category, and additionally, the Reinas del Caribe will compete in the Nations League and the FIVB World Championship in Thailand,” Marte Hoffiz stated. He added that in previous years, only Brazil had achieved a similar feat.
Lic. Raymond Rodríguez Junior
Marte also highlighted the academic focus of the program: “Most of our athletes are pursuing university degrees, both locally and abroad. Currently, we have six players on 50% scholarships in Japan, and the first among them was Alondra Tapia.”
For his part, Raymond Rodríguez, President of the GBC Foundation and Vice President of the business group, expressed his pride in continuing to support the team. “We are thrilled to extend this agreement and continue being part of the Reinas del Caribe family — a team that inspires hundreds of young girls to chase their dreams,” he said. “The National Teams Project has more than three decades of tireless work behind it and has become a model of success. Hopefully, other sports can follow this example.”
Rodríguez also emphasized the company’s social commitment: “As a foundation and as GBC Farmacias, we are proud to keep contributing so that many girls can dream of one day becoming a Reina del Caribe.”
The event was also attended by prominent figures from the national volleyball community and the corporate sector, including Milagros Cabral, General Director of the volleyball project; Francisca Santana, GBC’s Marketing Manager; and journalist Vargavila Riverón, Communications Advisor for Grupo GBC.
May 20, 2025: Volleyball Canada has announced its Senior and Next Gen indoor men’s national teams for the 2025 season.
The senior team will compete in Volleyball Nations League kicking off in Quebec City, Quebec – presented by Desjardins – on June 11 and then travel to the United States and Slovenia in hopes of qualifying for the finals, to be held in China. In 2024, the senior men finished ranked sixth after making the VNL Finals and then going on to compete in Paris at the Olympic tournament.
After VNL, the team will prepare for the 2025 Men’s World Championship in September, with a Team Canada roster to be announced at a later date.
Leading the senior team will be head coach Dan Lewis in his first season in this position.
“With a small group of returning Olympians, this year’s senior team will also showcase athletes who are looking to shine and gain valuable experience on the world stage leading up to LA2028,” said Julien Boucher, Volleyball Canada’s men’s indoor high-performance director. “The Next Gen team lineup shows depth and the hard work that goes into preparing athletes to compete at the highest level.”
The Next Gen squad, under the guidance of head coach Dave Preston, features up and coming talent from across the country. This team will be focused on training and competing at the NORCECA Pan Am Cup, August 24 to September 1, in Mexico.
Senior Team Athletes Landon Currie – Libero – Coldstream, BC Max Elgert – Setter – Edmonton, AB Jesse Elser – Outside Hitter – Calgary, AB Daenan Gyimah – Middle Blocker – Scarborough, ON Luke Herr – Setter – Winnipeg, MB Isaac Heslinga – Outside Hitter – Orangeville, ON Nicholas Hoag – Outside Hitter – Gatineau, QC Brodie Hofer – Outside Hitter – Langley, BC Xander Ketrzynski – Opposite – Toronto, ON Justin Lui – Libero – Pickering, ON Fynn McCarthy – Middle Blocker – Lake Country, BC Jordan Schnitzer – Middle Blocker – Surrey, BC Ryan Sclater – Opposite – Port Coquitlam, BC Skyler Varga – Outside Hitter – Muenster, SK
Alternate Athletes Mason Greves – Setter – Calgary, AB Jackson Howe – Middle Blocker – Calgary, AB Matthew Neaves – Opposite – Calgary, AB Cory Schoenherr – Middle Blocker – Waterloo, ON Jackson Young – Outside Hitter – Toronto, ON
Staff Dan Lewis – Head Coach Joao Paulo Bravo – Assistant Coach Jason Haldane – Assistant Coach Alberto Varela Frontier – Statistician Michael Cook – Strength & Conditioning Coach, IST Lead Schad Richea – Athletic Therapist Nicholas Poelman – Chiropractor Melissa Healy – Medical Coordinator Kyle Paquette – Mental Performance Coach Donna McDonagh – Mental Health Practitioner Ashley Armstrong – Sport Dietician Cassandra Nicol – Team Manager, Coordinator Julien Boucher – High-Performance Director
NextGen Team Athletes Jordan Canham – Opposite – Avonmore, ON Jackson Corneil – Middle Blocker – Surrey, BC Cole Duncanson – Middle Blocker – St Catharines, ON Zachary Hollands – Libero – Victoriaville, QC Liam Kristjanson – Middle Blocker – Oak River, MB Jeremy Love – Setter – Dauphin, MB Brendan Mills – Opposite – London, ON Liam Pauls – Outside Hitter – Balmoral, MB Darian Picklyk – Libero – Winnipeg, MB Jacob Sargent – Outside Hitter – Lethbridge, AB Kaden Schmidt – Outside Hitter – Mississauga, ON Erik Siksna – Outside Hitter – Markham, ON Tomas Sorra – Setter – Toronto, ON Zachary van Geel – Setter – Calgary, AB Jonas Van Huizen – Outside Hitter – Langley, BC Matthys Weststrate – Middle Blocker – Kelowna, BC
Staff Dave Preston – Head Coach Scott Koskie – Assistant Coach John Barrett – Assistant Coach Grant Wilson – Assistant Coach Matthew Harris – Assistant Coach Raphael Poulin – Strength & Conditioning Coach Michael Cook – IST Lead Meredith Waisman – Sport Physiotherapist Melissa Healy – Medical Coordinator Brendan Dinsdale – Mental Performance Coach Donna McDonagh – Mental Health Practitioner Ashley Armstrong – Sport Dietician Cassandra Nicol – Team Coordinator Georges Laplante – Team Manager Julien Boucher – High-Performance Director
May 16, 2025.- The excitement ahead of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship set to get underway on July 2 is about to build up further with the announcement of the match schedule for the pool stage of the competition. Osijek in Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja in Serbia will host two pools each, running concurrently on four courts with three games per pool on each competition day.
In what is probably the most interesting among the four opening matches, reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria will be challenged by another powerful European team, Poland, who finished fourth at the continental championship. It is a Pool C game to be played in Osijek, starting at 15:15 local time (13:15 UTC) on July 2.
In the other three opening matches that will serve off simultaneously, Egypt will meet Canada in Osijek’s Pool A, Argentina will face Puerto Rico in Vrnjacka Banja’s Pool B, and Japan will take on Belgium in Pool D, also in Vrnjacka Banja.
Co-hosts Croatia and Serbia will start their campaigns against Germany in Pool A and against Chinese Taipei in Pool B, respectively, later that day, at 18:15 (16:15 UTC).
The United States will start the defense of their 2023 U19 world title with a Pool C game against Spain at 21:15 (19:15 UTC).
These three time slots will apply to all four pools on all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 2 through July 7, with a rest day on July 5.
The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on July 13. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 16, 2025. – The Dominican Volleyball Association in Puerto Rico, which is part of the Dominican Volleyball Federation, recently held its second Independence Cup, an event that brought together six teams and celebrated the achievements of the Dominican community in Puerto Rico.
The tournament took place at the Bayamón Military Academy, with the team from Villa Tapia emerging as the champions.
“We successfully held the second Independence Cup with the participation of six teams, two of which came from Villa Tapia in the Dominican Republic. The Villa Tapia teams were led by José Francisco Fernández, treasurer of the Dominican Federation. It was an excellent event,” said Rafael Paniagua, President of the Association.
Paniagua was joined by other Association members, including Yeye Ventura, Juan Garabito Matos, Cristian Cruz, Dr. Carlos Pérez, and Dr. Ángeles Alonso.
As part of the Association’s ongoing activities, a triangular tournament will take place on May 17 and 18 at the Bayamón Military Academy, featuring two visiting teams from the Dominican Republic.
“We’ll have two teams from Monte Plata, one men’s and one women’s. Matches will be played Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. This is part of our programming for the enjoyment of our community in Puerto Rico,” Paniagua added.
The local teams participating include Las Primas (women’s), Team Chercha (men’s), and Voly Rumba (both divisions).
Additionally, in July, the Association will conduct a second talent identification initiative for Dominicans and their descendants up to the third generation, across both genders and various age categories.
May 15, 2025.- Following an exciting season that culminated with the Paris Olympics in 2024, the biggest men’s international volleyball stars are ready to return to action with their national teams during the Volleyball Nations League 2025.
The rosters of the 18 national teams that will take part in the seventh edition of the event were released and published on the tournament’s website, further increasing the excitement for the initial week of competition, from June 11-15.
Reigning VNL and Olympic champions France will have the entire roster that took them to the top of the podium in Paris available for head coach Andrea Giani, including two-time Olympic MVP and star outside hitter Earvin Ngapeth. Other key players in the French squad are setter Antoine Brizard, middle blocker Barthélémy Chinenyeze, outside hitter Trévor Clévenot, opposite Jean Patry and libero Jenia Grebennikov.
Robertlandy Simón de Cuba
FIVB World Ranking leaders Poland is bringing the majority of their stars back in 2025, with outside hitter Wilfredo Leon, opposite Bartosz Kurek and middle blocker Jakub Kochanowski standing out in the list produced by head coach Nikola Grbić.
World champions Italy also preserved the core that took the team to the top of the world in 2022, having outside hitters Alessandro Michieletto and Daniele Lavia, setter Simone Giannelli and libero Fabio Balaso as key pieces.
Paris bronze medalists the United States will take a different approach, entering the VNL with a squad mostly formed by exciting young players, who will have the opportunity to represent their country and show what they are about in the VNL. Leading the team managed by new head coach Karch Kiraly on the court will be libero Erik Shoji, appointed as the captain, middle blocker Jeffrey Jendryk, setter Micah Ma’a and opposite Kyle Ensing.
Brazil is another country that will have new faces on the court with the absences of longtime pillars Bruno Rezende, Lucas Saatkamp and Yoandy Leal. The only returning player from the Brazilian winning campaign at the Rio 2016 Olympics, star outside hitter Ricardo Lucarelli will be one of the faces of the new squad, alongside opposite Darlan Souza, middle blocker Flavio Gualberto and setter Fernando ‘Cachopa’ Kreling.
With a new coach at the helm in Laurent Tillie, Japan will try to continue its recent rise in the international scene having outside hitters Yuki Ishikawa and Ran Takahashi and libero Tomohiro Yamamoto as their top players.
International volleyball stars are spread out among every VNL team, including Argentina’s Agustin Loser, Bulgaria’s Aleksandar Nikolov, Canada’s Ryan Sclater, China’s Zhang Jingyin, Cuba’s Robertlandy Simón, Germany’s György Grozer, Iran’s Amin Esmaeilnezhad, the Netherlands’ Nimir Abdel-Aziz, Serbia’s Drazen Luburić, Slovenia’s Tine Urnaut, Türkiye’s Adis Lagumdzija and Ukraine’s Yurii Semeniuk.
Head coaches will have until next week to make last-minute changes in the list, with up to substitutions allowed per team. For each week of the VNL, a team line-up of 12-14 players and up to four reserve players is selected among the 30 on the long list.
The men’s VNL 2025 will start from June 11-15, will pools held in Xi’an, China, Quebec, Canada, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 15, 2025. – The 2025 Men’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSM) will kick off on June 6 with the participation of eight teams: Caribes de San Sebastián (defending champions), Mets de Guaynabo (runners-up), Plataneros de Corozal, Patriotas de Lares, Changos de Naranjito, Gigantes de Carolina, Gigantes de Adjuntas, and Cafeteros de Yauco.
This season highlights the highly anticipated return of the Patriotas de Lares and the renewed rivalry between the Caribes and the Mets de Guaynabo, who played an electrifying championship series last year that went to a thrilling seventh match.
While the Caribes will aim for their third consecutive title, the Mets are back with one goal: to rewrite history and claim the championship.
Meanwhile, the Changos de Naranjito have added national team players Arturo Iglesias and Omar Hoyos to their roster.
The Gigantes de Carolina arrive with a revamped squad, featuring Rickyto Vega and Jonathan Rodríguez, both acquired in a trade with Naranjito.
The Plataneros de Corozal announced on their social media that Ramón “Monchito” Hernández Cruz will continue as head coach, assisted by Raúl Papaleo and Carlos Rodríguez. The team will feature players such as Dennis Del Valle, Luzgardo “Galdi” Liciaga, and Arnaldo Torres, among others. Their home court will be the Juan C. Berríos gym in Barranquitas while repairs are finalized at the Coliseo Carmen Zoraida Figueroa in Corozal.
The Gigantes de Adjuntas continue their preparations under the leadership of team owner Salvador Pérez, while the Cafeteros de Yauco are gearing up with a new international reinforcement. It’s a renewed team with the same ambition.
This season will be dedicated to Gregorio “Goyito” Mejill Vega and Francisco “Frankie” Santana Quiñones in recognition of their impact on Puerto Rican volleyball.
“This new edition of the LVSM reflects the passion and growth of our sport. We are proud to honor two great figures in Puerto Rican volleyball and to welcome back the Patriotas de Lares. We also look forward to another thrilling battle among all teams. Without a doubt, we will witness how the level of our league continues to rise.” — Dr. Trabanco, President of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation.
May 8, 2025.- A long line of international stars of the highest caliber headline their national team rosters for the upcoming edition of the women’s Volleyball Nations League 2025.
As the 30-player team lists were finalized and published on the VNL competition website, a number of stellar names attract the fans’ attention in exciting anticipation of the first major event on the 2025 volleyball national team calendar.
Defending VNL champions Italy will once again be led by two-time VNL Most Valuable Player Paola Egonu, who was also named MVP of the Paris 2024 Olympic volleyball tournament. In fact, most of the reigning Olympic champions are back on coach Julio Velasco’s squad, including Olympic Dream Teamers Alessia Orro, Anna Danesi, Myriam Sylla and Monica De Gennaro.
In the absence of retired Sarina Koga, VNL 2024 runners-up Japan will be led by new captain Mayu Ishikawa. Rising star Yoshino Sato is also on the team. VNL 2024 Dream Team libero Manami Kojima is among the many other stars in new coach Ferhat Akbas’s selection.
The Best Middle Blocker of last year’s edition, Agnieszka Korneluk, highlights the stellar squad of bronze medalists Poland, along with the likes of fabulous Magdalena Stysiak and rising star Martyna Czyrnianska.
Brazil, who finished fourth in VNL 2024 and took bronze at the Olympics, will feature a long line of outstanding athletes, headlined by their charismatic captain Gabriela Guimaraes, a Paris 2024 Dream Team outside hitter, and featuring quality players like Julia Bergmann, Kisy Nascimento, Rosamaria Montibeller, Macris Carneiro, etc.
Three-time VNL champions and Paris 2024 Olympic silver medalists USA are putting forward a very strong line-up as usual, highlighted by Jordyn Poulter, Avery Skinner, Alexandra Frantti and many others.
The reigning crown bearers of the last two editions of the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship Serbia will be spearheaded by prominent opposite Tijana Boskovic, while her powerful Turkish counterpart Melissa Vargas will lead the reigning European champions and semifinalists at Paris 2024. Among more experienced players like Teodora Pusic, Katarina Lazovic and Maja Aleksic, younger-generation athletes like Hena Kurtagic are expected to shine on Zoran Terzic’s squad, while Daniele Santarelli seems to have kept a core of established Turkish players like Zehra Gunes, Hande Baladin, Ebrar Karakurt, Cansu Ozbay, etc.
Asian champions Thailand, who are getting ready to host the World Championship later this year, are set to offer a solid presence in the VNL with the likes of Chatchu-On Moksri, Pimpichaya Kokram or captain Ajcharaporn Kongyot on the squad. NORCECA champions Dominican Republic will also rely on their top-caliber stars like Brayelin and Jineiry Martinez, Yonkaira Pena or Brenda Castillo.
There will be plenty of world-class talent on the other nine teams as well – Belgium’s Britt Herbots, Bulgaria’s Zhana Todorova, Canada’s Kiera Van Ryk, China’s Gong Xiangyu, Czechia’s Helena Grozer, France’s Helena Cazaute, Germany’s Anna Pogany, Korea’s Kang Sohwi, or Netherlands’ Nika Daalderop, to name a few.
The current lists of 30 players per team are not completely final, as the head coaches can make up to two replacements within the next week. Then, for the participation in each competition week of the VNL, a team line-up of 12-14 players and up to four reserve players is selected among the 30 on the long list.
Jamaica, May 6, 2025.- The Jamaica Volleyball Association’s 2025 Club League concluded in thrilling fashion over the weekend, with the University of the West Indies (UWI) women and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) men emerging Champions in the finals held at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport.
In the Women’s division, reigning champions University of the West Indies (UWI) successfully defended their title, securing a dominant victory over the Mico Old Students Association (MOSA) in straight sets 25-15, 25-10, 25-17.
UWI Women
The Men’s final featured a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s championship showdown between the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).
In what proved to be a fiercely contested final that went the distance and culminated in a nail-biting fifth set, Jamaica Defence Force emerged victorious once again, retaining their championship crown, winning 3 sets to 2 (25-23, 21-25, 25-21,19-25, 15-9).
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 4, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas were crowned champions of Puerto Rico’s Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) this Sunday, dethroning the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, in Game 6 of the KIA Finals Series held at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan.
Caguas sealed the title with a 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-13, 25-21) victory, clinching the series four games to two and securing the 15th championship in franchise history.
With the match tied at one set apiece, the Criollas tightened their net defense and pulled ahead, reaching the second technical timeout with a 15-7 lead following an attack by Temi Thomas Ailara off Santurce’s block. They then extended the lead to 16-7 after a hitting error by Helena Grozer into the antenna.
Santurce never recovered. Caguas reached set point at 24-13 after a hitting error by the Cangrejeras and closed the set on the next play due to a double contact by setter Mynelis Rivera.
In the fourth and final set, Caguas led at both technical timeouts, narrowly at 8-7 in the first, and 16-13 in the second, helped by a hitting error from Andrea Rangel.
Santurce tied it to 18 with a spike from Rangel, but the Criollas held firm. Kristin Lux kept the pressure on from the service line and closed out the match, and the championship, with back-to-back aces.
Lux scored 30 points (26 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces) and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Finals Series. Temi Thomas and Kath Bell added 16 and 15 points, respectively.
For Santurce, Andrea Rangel led with 25 points, followed by Kara McGhee with 15 and Helena Grozer with 12.
In overall stats, Caguas outperformed Santurce in attacks (62-57), blocks (9-3), and aces (7-1). However, Santurce led in digs (96-91), receptions (41-38), and assists (21-16).
The Cangrejeras were without their captain, Debora Seilhamer, who was absent due to a medical emergency.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 4, 2025.- What should have been a vibrant and emotional celebration for the Criollas de Caguas and their fans, after winning the KIA Finals Series of the LVSF, was marred by an unexpected incident that sparked outrage and concern.
As the team and its supporters celebrated their championship, secured in four sets over the Cangrejeras de Santurce, the lights at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum were abruptly turned off, disrupting the award ceremony and jeopardizing the safety of those in attendance.
Dr. César Trabanco, president of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, addressed the situation, emphasizing that beyond the interruption of the trophy presentation, his main concern was the safety of everyone present, especially children and the elderly, who were suddenly exposed to a potentially hazardous situation due to the sudden loss of lighting. “This isn’t just about a disrupted event, it’s about an act that put the well-being of those there to celebrate at risk. Safety must be the top priority at any sporting venue, and incidents like this should never happen under any circumstances,” Trabanco stated, visibly concerned.
The sound system also went out, affecting the Cangrejeras de Santurce, who were waiting to receive their runner-up trophy.
While the exact cause of the blackout remains unclear, reports confirmed there were no electrical failures in the area that could justify the interruption. This makes the incident even more troubling, as it is not considered an isolated case. A similar situation occurred during the 2023 finals held at the same venue, in a series against Corozal.
The continued lack of corrective measures to ensure uninterrupted award ceremonies leaves a poor impression and raises doubts about commitment to safety and respect for the sport.
Additionally, the live broadcast of the match on the digital platform Island Hub, used by the Cangrejeras’ management to stream games online via a pay-per-view model, was interrupted multiple times during the match. Paying fans voiced their frustration, as they invested in the service and were unable to watch the end of the game.
A night that was meant to honor the effort and talent of the Criollas ended on a sour note.
The Federation, teams, and fans all deserve celebrations that are carried out with respect and safety, upholding the spirit of the sport and its positive impact on the community.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 2, 2025. – The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, kept their title hopes alive on Friday night by sweeping the Criollas de Caguas (25-18, 25-21, 25-21) in the KIA Finals Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
Coming into the match down 1-3 in the series and having lost the previous three matches in straight sets, Santurce faced a packed Roger Mendoza court ready to witness a championship celebration.
Up two sets, the Cangrejeras maintained their rhythm and took a 16-14 lead in the third set thanks to a successful attack by Andrea Rangel from zone two, going off Stephanie Enright’s block. Later, Rangel delivered an ace followed by a back-row attack from Tamara Otene to extend the lead to 19-15. Caguas struggled to recover.
Santurce reached set point at 24-20 with a block on Enright, and it was Otene who sealed the victory with a clean attack from zone two.
After the match, Cangrejeras setter Andrea Fuentes praised her team’s character, saying they overcame the 1-3 series deficit with determination: “Coming here tonight, to a court ready to celebrate, and being able to win in straight sets shows how much character we have,” said the young setter from Caguas.
Fuentes highlighted team unity and mental composure as key factors in the win. She also stated that she feels no internal conflict playing against Caguas, explaining that at this stage of her career, she prepares to face any opponent with the same mindset.
Meanwhile, Criollas middle blocker Diana Reyes acknowledged her team’s struggles at the net and with passing but emphasized that the series is not over yet: “Now we just need to go to practice tomorrow (Saturday), focus on what went wrong, fix it, and head into Sunday ready,” she concluded.
Offensively, Andrea Rangel led Santurce with 22 points (14 attacks, 3 blocks, and 5 aces). Tamara Otene added 15, Kara McGhee scored 14, and Helena Grozer chipped in with 11 points.
No player from Caguas reached double digits; Kath Bell was their top scorer with 9 points.
The Cangrejeras dominated in all facets of the game; 47-34 in attacks, 12-3 in blocks, 7-4 in aces, 54-51 in digs, 43-34 in passes, and 18-10 in assists.
The series now returns to the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, home of the Cangrejeras, for Game 6, scheduled for Sunday at 6:12 p.m.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 30, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas earned their third victory over the Cangrejeras de Santurce, moving just one win away (3-1) from claiming the Kia Final Series title of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico.
Caguas won in straight sets, 3-0 (27-25, 25-18, 26-24).
With the visitors up two sets, both teams split the technical timeouts in the third set. Santurce led the first one 8-7, with Neira Ortiz performing effectively through the middle. Caguas took the second technical timeout at 16-15 thanks to an attacking error by Helena Grozer, whose hit from zone four got caught in the net.
Kath Bell of Criollas
Attacking from zone four, Santurce’s Andrea Rangel committed an error that gave the Criollas a three-point lead (18-15). Santurce responded with pressure, showing strong net play and defense. After trailing 21-24, they rallied with three consecutive points to tie the set and force extra points. However, their surge wasn’t enough to extend the match.
The Criollas earned set point at 25-24 when Sofía Victoria broke through the Cangrejeras’ block. On the next play, Temi Thomas Ailara sealed the win for Caguas with an attack from zone four.
Following the victory, Criollas libero Okiana Valle De Jesús said:
“This series isn’t over yet; we have to come out and play again on Friday. That’s our focus. It’s not over until the final point is played and the whistle blows.”
She revealed that Caguas’ key to success, winning nine straight sets so far, has been staying focused on the present:
“We’re not thinking about the future or the championship. We’re going game by game, point by point, trying to do our best and make adjustments in the moment to win the first set, then the second, and the third, and ultimately the match. Most of all, we hope to close the series in Caguas and enjoy it,” she concluded.
The top scorers for Caguas were Kath Bell with 18 points, followed by Temi Thomas Ailara with 15, and Kristin Lux with 11.
For Santurce, Tamara Otene led with 15 points, followed by Neira Ortiz with 12, and Kara McGhee with 10.
The series returns to Caguas this Friday at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum at 8:00 p.m.
Las Cangrejeras de Santurce are the defending champions.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 27, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas defeated the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-23) in the third match of the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
With a two-set lead, the Criollas opened the third set with a 4-0 run, including two service aces. Two consecutive attacks by Temi Thomas-Ailara, one from zone four to zone four, and another to zone one, gave the Criollas the first technical timeout with an 8-4 lead. They also reached the second technical timeout with the same four-point advantage, 16-12, thanks to an attack error by Helena Grozer of the Cangrejeras.
A kill by Diana Reyes pushed Caguas ahead by five points (18-13), prompting Santurce’s coach Pascual Saurin to call his second timeout of the set.
Temi Thomas Ailara of Caguas
A surge from Santurce closed the gap (19-20) and later (23-24), but their hopes ended there, under the guidance of Spaniard Pascual Saurin and Puerto Rican Javier Gaspar.
Kristin Lux attacked from zone four, breaking through the Cangrejeras’ block to seal the victory and give Caguas a 2-1 lead in the series.
The series will pause until Wednesday, April 30, when the Cangrejeras will host Caguas at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum starting at 8:12 p.m.
Caguas’ offense once again leaned on their three imports, with Kristin Lux leading the way with 14 points, followed by Kath Bell with 12, and Temi Thomas-Ailara with 11.
For the Cangrejeras, Helena Grozer scored 14 points, Kara McGhee contributed 12, and Neira Ortiz added 11.
After the match, Cangrejeras assistant coach Javier Gaspar said:
“It’s sad because we couldn’t get it done. The effort was there; we just didn’t execute. Credit must be given to Caguas; they made the necessary adjustments and were consistent, particularly in K-2, where we were not, and that was the difference in these two games here in Caguas.”
Regarding the return to the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, Gaspar added:
“We’ll meet to work on a few things, prepare for the next match, defend our home court, and even the series.”
Meanwhile, Caguas assistant coach Juan Albarrán commented:
“We have done a good job with our service. I think we have caused some positive things with that skill, and our reception, unlike that first match in Santurce, has remained quite stable, especially Okiana, who has maintained over 70% in reception. So, reception has kept us in it and has allowed us to distribute the offense better. We defended our home court, which was our goal for these two matches.”
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 26, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas tied the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) by defeating the Cangrejeras de Santurce 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-17) at home, the Roger Mendoza Coliseum.
With a two-set lead, the Criollas took the first technical timeout of the third set 8-5 and pulled ahead 13-9 after an attack error by Kara McGhee, prompting Spanish head coach Pascual Saurín to call his first timeout.
The home team maintained a stable passing and took the second technical timeout 16-11 following another attack error by the Cangrejeras.
Kath Bell attacked from the back row to extend the lead, and Diana Reyes served an ace that pushed Caguas ahead 18-12, a gap from which Santurce never recovered.
The Criollas reached set point at 24-16 with an effective attack from Kristin Lux on the outside (zone 4). After one point from Santurce, Lux struck again to seal the victory with another precise attack.
The series will continue Sunday at the same venue, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Caguas celebrated
After the match, Cangrejeras head coach Pascual Saurín said:
“You never expect to lose. I always come to play expecting to win. What I knew was that it would be difficult and tough, this is going to be the final series: two strong teams, two evenly matched teams, and the home-court advantage will likely play a big role. We knew today would have an atmosphere like this. Caguas came out to give it their all, and we weren’t comfortable on the court. We tried, but in the end, it just didn’t happen for us.”
Regarding what the Cangrejeras did successfully in the first match but not in this second one, the Spanish coach added:
“It’s simply about having the right sensations. In the first match, we blocked a lot. Today, our blocking wasn’t effective, mainly because we didn’t serve well. Our serving was very weak, very soft, and they, on the other hand, served very well and felt comfortable. They blocked us quite a bit. Tomorrow is another match. First, we need to recover well, and we’ll surely see a different match than what we saw today.”
Caguas head coach Juan Carlos Núñez commented:
“We didn’t come looking for a 3-0 sweep; we just came to do what we had to do: defend our home court. We needed to improve a lot from the way we played the first day because statistically, nothing worked for us. We had to find a way to serve better, be more effective at the net, and offensively match up with them. Things worked out for us today. We matched their energy through our defense, and it turned out pretty well.”
As for the plans for tomorrow’s match, Núñez concluded:
“The series is now tied. We’re heading into a third match, and we’ll keep doing what we have to do: defend our home court.”
The Criollas’ offense was well distributed among their three foreign players. Kath Bell led the team with 17 points (15 kills and 2 blocks), followed by Kristin Lux with 12 points and Temi Thomas-Ailara with 11.
For Santurce, Tamara Otene was the only player in double digits with 13 points (12 kills and 1 block).
Caguas outperformed Santurce in attacks (42-35), blocks (10-7), aces (2-0), and digs (58-57). Santurce led in receptions (48-28) and assists (26-19).
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 24, 2025.- The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, capitalized on their home-court advantage at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum to take the opening match of the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), edging out the Criollas de Caguas in an exciting five-set battle (23-25, 25-13, 25-20, 24-26, 15-7).
Holding a 2-1 set lead, the home team took the first technical timeout of the fourth set 8-4 after a block by Kara McGhee on Alba Hernández. Caguas responded with a 12-7 run and clinched the second technical timeout by a narrow margin following a service error from Santurce.
Both teams continued in a fierce back-and-forth, testing each other’s serve reception. A deflected attack by Temi Thomas Ailara gave Santurce a two-point edge at 21-19. However, the Criollas regrouped, tied the set at 22 after an attack error by Andrea Rangel, and snatched the set 26-24 thanks to an ace by Thomas and a clean finish from Kath Bell.
Andrea Rangel of Cangrejeras
In the fifth and deciding set, Santurce jumped ahead 6-3 and reached the side switch with an 8-4 lead, boosted by a service ace from Tamara Otene. Caguas was unable to recover.
Following the win, Cangrejeras captain Débora Seilhamer stated:
“We knew it was going to be an extremely tough game. We were prepared to go to the full five sets. Obviously, it’s going to be a hard-fought series from start to finish.”
The series now moves to Caguas at the Roger Mendoza court for back-to-back matches on Saturday and Sunday. About this, the veteran Seilhamer added:
“We need to prepare physically for that. Caguas has a deep bench, so they can rotate players more. We need to manage ourselves better, take care of our bodies, and try to steal one or two games in Caguas.”
Criollas captain Raymarielys Santos commented:
“We must keep working. Every night there will be a battle, so we must continue improving in every area. I believe the next practice will be very important. We need to keep studying Santurce and improve our serving. It’s going to be a long series, and we have to keep going.”
On offense for Santurce, standouts included Tamara Otene with 27 points, Helena Grozer with 20, Andrea Rangel with 18, and Kara McGhee with 15.
For Caguas, Temi Thomas Ailara led with 21 points, followed by Kristin Lux with 12 and Kath Bell with 11.
Santurce dominated the stats: 64-51 in attacks, 17-13 in blocks, 9-3 in service aces, 119-110 in digs, 48-40 in receptions, and 41-25 in assists.
The series is a best-of-seven; the first team to win four games will be crowned champion.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, April 20, 2025. – In a thrilling battle last Thursday night, the Criollas de Caguas secured their spot in the finals of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (25-19, 20-25, 25-20, 26-24) at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum.
With this victory, the Criollas broke the home-court trend and sparked an outburst of celebration among their fans. They claimed the semifinal series 4-2.
The Criollas de Caguas will now face the defending champion, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, in the Gran Serie Final KIA.
Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in attacks (56-53), blocks (17-11), and service aces (3-2). The Mets led in digs (62-54), receptions (40-34), and assists (39-14).
Standout offensive contributors for the Criollas included Kath Bell with 20 points (19 kills and 1 block), followed by Temi Thomas Ailara with 16 points and Kristin Lux with 14. Alba Hernández led the net defense with 6 of the team’s 9 blocks.
For the Mets, Chiaka Ogbogu shined with 20 points, and Rebecca Latham added 19.
KIA Finals Series Schedule
The Gran Serie Final KIA will be played as a best-of-seven. The first team to reach four wins will be crowned champion:
Tuesday, April 22: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Thursday, April 24: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
Saturday, April 26: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Monday, April 28: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
If necessary:
Wednesday, April 30: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Friday, May 2: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
Sunday, May 4: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 7:00 PM (NEUTRAL VENUE)
April 15, 2025.- The countdown is on, as the venues for volleyball and beach volleyball at the Olympic Games LA28 have now been confirmed.
The City of Long Beach, a 2028 Venue City, will showcase Beach Volleyball at the iconic Alamitos Beach. Volleyball will be held at the Arena in Anaheim, a premier entertainment and sports venue that will undoubtedly provide the perfect Olympic stage for an unforgettable volleyball experience.
This announcement follows the extraordinary success of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 – widely celebrated as the most successful Games ever for volleyball and beach volleyball. From record-breaking viewership, incredible performances on the field of play and iconic backdrops, the sports captured unprecedented global attention.
Building on this momentum, the FIVB is confident that the LA28 Games, set to take place from 14-30 July 2028, will continue to raise the bar for volleyball at the Olympic level, and that these landmark locations will offer a spectacular setting for the world’s best volleyball athletes to compete on sport’s greatest stage.
“We are extremely excited by the confirmation of these venues and the opportunity they represent to showcase our sports at the Olympic Games LA28.” said FIVB Secretary General Hugh McCutcheon. “The Paris 2024 volleyball competitions showed volleyball and beach volleyball at their absolute best, and we are confident LA28 will continue that legacy. The FIVB looks forward to continuing to work closely with the LA28 Organizing Committee, the IOC, and all of our partners in the lead-up to what promises to be an outstanding Games.”
Puerto Rico, April 12, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas are now just one win away from the Final after defeating the Mets de Guaynabo in Semifinal A, while the Cangrejeras de Santurce swept the Atenienses de Manatí on Saturday in Semifinal B of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico.
Home teams continue to dominate in Semifinal Series A of the LVSF. On Saturday night, the Criollas de Caguas moved one step closer to the Final with a straight-sets victory (25-23, 29-27, 25-13) over the Mets de Guaynabo at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas.
The Criollas’ offense was led by Diana Reyes and Kristin Lux, who both scored 15 points. They were followed by Sofía Victoria and Stephanie Enright, who each added 11 points.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham led the scoring with 13 points, while Paola Santiago contributed 10.
The series will continue on Wednesday, April 16, at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Cangrejeras de Santurce swept the Atenienses de Manatí in Semifinal B on Saturday with another dominant 3-0 victory (25-15, 25-17, 25-18) at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum. With this win, the Cangrejeras advance to their third consecutive final.
Santurce faced the Pinkin de Corozal in the 2023 final, where Corozal came out on top. In 2024, Santurce defeated the Atenienses de Manatí, and now they await the winner of Caguas vs. Guaynabo.
The Cangrejeras had three players in double digits: Andrea Rangel (16), Tamara Otene (14), and Kara McGhee (10).
For Manatí, last season’s runners-up, Karla Santos and Jovyrelis Ayala scored 14 and 10 points, respectively.
Puerto Rico, April 10, 2025. – While the Mets were evening up Semifinal A with two wins apiece against the Criollas de Caguas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, captured their ninth consecutive set in Semifinal B against the Atenienses at the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum in Manatí.
The Mets defeated the Criollas 3-1 (20-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-15).
The series now moves to the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas this Saturday, April 12, for Game 5, in a matchup that has so far favored the home teams.
Guaynabo outperformed Caguas in attacks (53-51), aces (10-2), and digs (87-77). Both teams finished with 11 successful blocks, while Caguas led in receptions (40-28) and assists (24-20).
Guaynabo’s offense featured three players in double figures: Rebecca Latham (28 points), Paola Santiago (17), and Valeria Flores (16). For Caguas, Kristin Lux tallied 15 points, followed by Sofía Victoria with 13, and Diana Reyes and Alba Hernández with 12 each.
In Game 3 of the other semifinal series, the Cangrejeras de Santurce moved within one win of advancing to the LVSF Final after sweeping the Atenienses de Manatí 3-0 (25-17, 29-27, 25-18).
Manatí has yet to win a single set in the series. Santurce will look to complete the sweep at home this Saturday.
On offense, Santurce was led by Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer with 14 points each, along with Andrea Rangel who contributed 10 points. For Manatí, Karla Santos scored 12.
The semifinals are best-of-seven series, with the first team to win four games advancing.
Puerto Rico, April 8, 2025.– In the semifinals of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico, the Criollas de Caguas successfully defended their home court at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum against the Mets de Guaynabo to regain the lead (2-1) in Series A, while the Cangrejeras de Santurce continue to dominate in Series B (2-0).
The Criollas secured the victory with set scores of 25-21, 26-24, 22-25, and 25-16.
Kristin Lux led the Criollas’ offense with 24 points, followed by Sofía Victoriá with 22. Diana Reyes and Stephanie Enright each contributed 12 points. For Guaynabo, Valeria Flores tallied 22 points, and Rebecca Latham added 18.
In Series B, the Cangrejeras de Santurce once again overpowered the Atenienses de Manatí at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in straight sets, 3-0 (25-20, 25-15, 25-23). Manatí has yet to win a set in the series.
Tamara Otene led Santurce’s offense with 22 points, on 17 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. Andrea Rangel contributed 16 points, while Helena Grozer chipped in 11. For Manatí, Solimar Cestero stood out with 10 points.
The series continue on Thursday, April 10, when Santurce visits Manatí at the Juan Aubín Cruz Abreu “Bincito” Coliseum at 8:30 p.m., while Guaynabo will host Caguas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum starting at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, April 6, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo successfully defended their home court, the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, defeating the Criollas de Caguas 3-1 (25-17, 28-26, 20-25, 25-18) in the second match of Semifinal Series A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF).
The series is now tied 1-1 and will continue on Tuesday at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas.
Rebecca Latham led with 22 points, followed by Paola Santiago with 17, Valeria Flores with 15, and Alejandra Argüello with 10. For Caguas, Diana Reyes contributed 14 points, while the team committed 25 attack errors.
Maria Carvalhaes
The home team dominated the first set from the start and held off a late surge by the Criollas. The second set was a fierce battle, eventually won by Guaynabo thanks to a key block by Alejandra Argüello. Caguas responded by taking the third set, but the Mets sealed the victory with a strong finish in the fourth.
Guaynabo outblocked Caguas 13 to 8, edged them 77 to 76 in digs, and led 40 to 30 in receptions. Both teams finished with 53 attacks and 7 aces. Caguas had the edge in excellent digs, 20 to 18.
In the other semifinal, the Santurce Cangrejeras took the first match against the Manatí Atenienses in straight sets (25-21, 25-23, 25-18), led by standout performances from Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer with 16 points each, along with 12 from Andrea Rangel and 10 from Kara McGhee.
For Manatí, in a losing effort, Tristin Savage and Solimar Cestero each scored 13 points.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 4, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas kicked off Semifinal A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) on the right foot, defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (25-19, 15-24, 26-24, 25-23) at home in the Roger Mendoza Coliseum.
With the match tied at one set apiece, both teams battled point-for-point in the third set, with ties at 21, 22, 23, and 24.
Caguas closed the set with back-to-back points: Raymariely Santos surprised the defense with a second touch, and Lauren Matthews followed with a strong spike off the Mets’ block.
Criollas celebrated
In the fourth set, the Criollas once again came from behind. Guaynabo pulled ahead 11-5 and led 16-12 at the second technical timeout, after a successful spike from Valeria Flores on the left wing (zone four).
The Mets couldn’t hold on to their 18-12 lead, and the Criollas responded with a 7-1 run to tie the score to 19, capped by a service ace from Lauren Matthews.
The teams remained tied up to 23-all. Caguas earned set point with a back-row attack by Ivania Ortiz and sealed the victory in the next play with a solid kill from Matthews on the right side (zone two).
Lauren Matthews led the Criollas’ offense with 19 points (14 attacks, 3 blocks, and 2 aces), followed by Kristin Lux with 14 and Diana Reyes with 13.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham scored 24 points, Paola Santiago added 17, and Valeria Flores contributed 15.
Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in blocks (13-11), aces (6-3), and assists (21-17). The Mets had the edge in attacks (59-51), digs (87-71), and receptions (46-43).
The next match of this best-of-seven series (first to four wins) will take place on Sunday, April 6, at the Mario Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, starting at 5:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 30, 2025.– The Mets de Guaynabo became the fourth semifinalist of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after dominating Section A of the quarterfinals with a third consecutive victory over the Changas de Naranjito.
The Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Changas de Naranjito 3-0 (25-20, 26-24, 25-23) on Sunday at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum. Despite the loss, Naranjito fought until the last play of each set.
In the semifinals, the Mets de Guaynabo will face the Criollas de Caguas in Series A. Meanwhile, Series B promises to be a memorable battle between the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, and the runners-up of the last tournament, the Atenienses de Manatí. The semifinals will begin on April 4.
During the quarterfinal match, the Changas were close to taking the second set with a 23-20 lead, but a 6-1 run by the Mets denied them the opportunity. In the third and decisive set, Naranjito came within 23-24, but a service error cost them the match and ultimately their postseason hopes.
Naranjito ended the season without securing a single road victory, including this quarterfinal series.
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham with 16 points, supported by Valeria Flores and Paola Santiago, who each contributed 14 points.
For Naranjito, the top scorer was Genesis Collazo with 11 points.
Statistically, Guaynabo dominated in key areas, holding advantages in attacks (41-38), blocks (10-8), aces (8-2), digs (51-48), receptions (31-29), and assists (18-14).
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, March 29, 2025. – The Cangrejeras de Santurce swept their quarterfinal series in Section B of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) against the Valencianas de Juncos after securing their third consecutive victory.
The Cangrejeras defeated the Valencianas 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-17) on Saturday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan.
With two sets in their favor, the Cangrejeras sealed the victory after dominating the second technical timeout of the third set with a 16-13 lead. Neira Ortiz attacked through the middle, Helena Grozer scored from zone four, and Ortiz struck again with two consecutive attacks. A block on Markenzie Benoit extended the lead to 20-13, a deficit that Juncos could not recover from.
Santurce reached set point at 24-17 with a powerful cross-court attack from Tamara Otene in zone four, then secured the win on the next play with an ace from Cristina Martínez.
Helena Grozer led the Cangrejeras with 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, and 1 ace). Andrea Rangel contributed 14 points, while Tamara Otene added 13. For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge stood out with 16 points.
The Cangrejeras outperformed the Valencianas in attacks (46-33), blocks (9-7), and assists (18-12). Juncos had the advantage in aces (5-2), digs (45-38), and receptions (31-27).
In the semifinals, the Cangrejeras will face last season’s runners-up, the Ateniensesde Manatí, who advanced directly to this stage after finishing second in the regular season.
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, March 29, 2025.– In the continuation of the Section A quarterfinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), held at the legendary Gelito Ortega court in Naranjito, the Mets de Guaynabo secured their second consecutive victory over the Changas de Naranjito, putting them just one win away from the semifinals.
The Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Changas de Naranjito 3-1 (25-19, 17-25, 26-24, 25-23).
With the match tied at one set apiece, the third set proved to be the most intense, extending into extra points, where the visiting team emerged victorious by holding off the home team’s surge.
In the fourth set, Naranjito refused to back down, making a strong push in the final phase, but was unable to complete the comeback. Guaynabo reached set point (24-19) with a powerful spike from Rebecca Latham. Although Changas scored four consecutive points, a hitting error by Génesis Collazo sealed the match.
Rebecca Latham once again stood out as Guaynabo’s key player, scoring 27 points, including 25 attacks and two blocks. Paola Santiago contributed 20 points, while Valeria Flores added 13.
For Naranjito, Adanna Rollins led the scoring with 27 points, followed by Aury Cruz with 14 and Génesis Collazo with 13.
The Mets dominated in attacks (62-50) and digs (80-60). Both teams recorded three aces, while the Changas led in blocks (17-13), receptions (42-35), and assists (23-16).
The Section B quarterfinals between the Cangrejeras de Santurce and the Valencianas de Juncos will continue with their third match on Saturday, March 29, at 8:12 PM at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum. Santurce leads the series 2-0, and a victory would send them to the semifinals against the Atenienses de Manatí.
If necessary, a fourth match would be played at the Rafael G. Amalbert court in Juncos on Monday, March 31, at 8:30 PM.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, March 27, 2025. – Defending champions Cangrejeras de Santurce are just one victory away from advancing to the semifinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after defeating Valencianas de Juncos 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-19) at the Rafael G. Amalbert court.
With a two-set lead, the Cangrejeras maintained control in the third. After the second technical timeout, a block against Emily Elliot put them ahead 19-15.
Juncos closed the gap to 18-19 thanks to an attack from Kelly Sánchez from zone four, but two errors by the home team allowed the Cangrejeras to regain a 21-18 lead, never looking back.
Santurce secured the set with two consecutive blocks, reaching 23-18. They earned match point at 24-18 after an off-target attack by Emily Elliot and sealed the victory at 25-19 with an attacking error from Hodge in zone four.
The statistics reflected Santurce’s dominance: 31-28 in attacks, 10-4 in blocks, 5-4 in aces, 52-47 in digs, and 12-11 in assists. Juncos had led in receptions (30-18).
On the offensive side, Andrea Rangel and Tamara Otene led the Cangrejeras with 14 and 11 points, respectively. For Juncos, only Emily Elliot reached double digits, scoring 11 points.
The next match in this Section B quarterfinal series will take place on Saturday, March 29, at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, home of the Cangrejeras de Santurce, starting at 8:12 p.m.
In the other quarterfinal series, corresponding to Section A, the Mets de Guaynabo (1-0) will face the Changas de Naranjito (0-1) this Friday, March 28, at the legendary Gelito Ortega court at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 27, 2025 .– The Mets de Guaynabo kicked off Section A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) quarterfinals on the right foot by defeating the Changas de Naranjito 3-1 (25-19, 25-23, 20-25, 25-17).
Facing two sets down, the Changas managed to maintain a more solid passing game, allowing them to execute a fast attack from the wings and extend the match to a fourth set.
The top scorers for the Mets victory were Rebecca Latham, who tallied 28 points (25 in attacks, 2 blocks, and one ace); Paola Santiago with 20; Valeria Flores with 15; and Alejandra Argüello with 11.
Maria Clara Carvalhaes of Guaynabo
For Naranjito, which has yet to secure a win on the road this season, the best scorers were Adanna Rollins with 23 points, Génesis Collazo with 16, and Taylor Trammell with 11.
Guaynabo was superior in attacks (63-56), blocks (14-9), digs (96-89), and receptions (38-33). Naranjito led in aces (4-3) and assists (31-20).
Series A will continue next Friday at the legendary Gelito Ortega court in Naranjito, starting at 8:00 p.m.
In Section B, the quarterfinals will resume on Thursday, March 27, at the Rafael G. Amalbert court in Juncos, where the Valencianas will host the Cangrejeras de Santurce, who claimed victory in five sets in their first encounter.
March 26, 2025.- Mexico’s women’s volleyball team is moving forward with a new sense of purpose. The program is gaining better coaching, stronger training and more opportunities to grow through the support of FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. The goal was not only to improve results, but to also build a system where athletes feel supported and confident – an approach that is already making a difference on and off the court.
The women’s program is experiencing a shift driven by new ideas and renewed direction. The Empowerment initiative has provided the platform to introduce structural improvements, focused development plans and a stronger framework for long-term growth. What once felt fragmented is gradually being shaped into a clearer pathway for players and staff alike.
“For years our national women’s team has been nurtured by very talented young people who have trained from the youth categories at the national and international level,” said Mexican Volleyball Federation (FMVB) President Jesús Perales Navarro.
“We’ve always been known for having young and very brave teams across all categories. One of our biggest challenges was losing experienced players who had stood out at the professional level. But thanks to the excellent work of coach Nicola Negro, the national team – made up of very young girls playing in the NCAA – developed a new style of play and strong potential for the future.”
Mexico’s Key Achivements with Volleyball Empowerment
Since 2020, Mexico has received more than CHF 1 million in Empowerment support from FIVB, focused primarily on technical leadership. In 2023, the program delivered CHF 108,000 through application-based support and CHF 274,000 in targeted support. In 2025, the Empowerment support has entered its most significant phase yet, with CHF 320,000 allocated for a further 12 months of coaching support.
“For us as a country, this marked a turning point in Mexican volleyball,” Perales said. “It was a radical change from the start, as we had always relied on local coaches to lead our national teams. When Petry arrived, we began to see a new way of working – how we trained, how we prepared for competitions, and how we approached match analysis. Later, when Nicola and his team joined, this transformation grew stronger. The demands on the team increased, the players’ commitment to the national team deepened, and both the pace and quality of training improved. It created a new mindset and a stronger sense of belonging among our athletes.”
Perales said the arrival of experienced coaching and consistent support helped reshape the program.
“The Empowerment program has made a real difference, especially through coaches who adapted their training systems across all categories. The support, including materials and funding for experienced coaches, has transformed the national team,” he said. “This support has helped us build a stronger foundation, which we hope will shape our future senior team. We have young players with great potential and physical ability who will strengthen the team.”
“The work, discipline and clear objectives of each team member, all guided by coach Nicola Negro, helped our team reach a higher level with the support of the Empowerment program. We trained in better conditions, and this brought us closer to our coach’s system and style of play,” he added.
As the team prepares for the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship, Perales said the program is focused on every detail.
“We have worked together with the technical team to prepare for the start of the season,” he said. “The physical trainer monitors each athlete’s progress daily, and we’re organising tournaments at home to help create the best possible conditions for the team before the World Championship. We’re also planning pre-camps and friendly matches.”
He said Negro’s tactical approach has brought a new rhythm and identity to the team.
“Nicola Negro gave another perspective to our game, taking advantage of and playing with the physical conditions that our team presents, adapting a faster game that makes it more complicated when playing against our country.”
Mexico’s results are already telling the story. Since 2021, the team has participated in three editions of the Women’s Pan American Cup, the NORCECA Senior Continental Championship and the Central American and Caribbean Games.
From 2023 onwards, their performances have stepped up. Mexico secured a silver medal at the U23 Pan American Cup in 2023, bronze at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, silver at the 2024 NORCECA Women’s Final Four and bronze at the 2024 NORCECA Women’s Final Six. Several players have earned places in tournament Dream Teams, including awards for best blocker, best attacker and notably best setter at the 2023 Pan American Games.
“It has had a major impact and is very important for our national team. The Mexican Olympic Committee (COM) and the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport (CONADE) continue to support international events in our country because they recognize our team’s potential and what it can achieve,” said Perales.
“The support has given us the tools to evaluate the current state of our program, and from there, start building with stronger foundations,” he added. “We are now working to define roles and responsibilities within the program to build a stronger structure for the future. This has helped players feel more supported and confident. The change in direction is giving athletes a better environment to grow. It’s not just about training harder — it’s about training smarter, knowing our goals, and trusting that there’s a system behind them guiding the way.”
Athletes themselves recognize the shift.
“In my opinion, it had a big impact, and all for the better,” said Grecia Castro. “From the very beginning, when we were able to bring in a new staff, it had an impact because it gave us the chance to see volleyball in a different way than what we were used to. I’m preparing in the same way I always have – with consistency and a lot of sacrifices, staying focused and always trying to bring out the best version of myself. Because I feel that having learned so much has opened the door to new teams for me.”
“The FIVB Volleyball Empowerment support has helped us in the best way possible, as it gave us the opportunity to have a highly professional foreign coach, with a lot of experience, and we’ve seen quite a few changes since he joined the Mexican women’s national team,” captain Jocelyn Urias said.
“We’ve significantly improved our level. With the preparation for the World Championship, I feel we will be much better prepared than in previous years, as there have already been more Mexican players abroad, whether in universities or professionally, and that expands our level. Having the support and connections within our own staff members has helped many players who have been able to experience leaving the country and increasing their level.”
Mexico already has its eyes on the next challenges.
“The team is seeking to qualify and be on the podium in the following Central American and Caribbean Games in 2026,” said Perales. “The qualification for the second edition continues to the Pan American Games and we seek to reach the podium again, as well as the qualification for LA28.”
He said the wider impact of the program is already being felt. “It has grown considerably, as the young people of our country see our players as an example to follow. It has opened a great door for women of all ages, since in our country there is an immense number of teams in each city and this has increased the number of female teams in our maximum event, which is the Youth Festival. We have also been able to identify future talents for the national teams.”
“We are working on this to constantly improve our women’s team, seeking sponsorship and reviewing areas of opportunity to improve the teams,” he added.
“We appreciate this great support, and we are aware of how much this support has meant for the development of our national team in recent years. We are working on creating a professional league, which we know will create a great opportunity for future generations who have not yet managed to establish themselves in a team abroad. This will ensure that, by staying in constant competition, each athlete’s performance will continue to improve.”
With a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, the Mexican women’s team is transforming their game from within.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, March 25, 2025. – The Cangrejeras de Santurce claimed victory in the opening match of Section B in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) quarterfinals, defeating the Valencianas de Juncos 3-2 (29-27, 22-25, 26-24, 19-25, 15-12) at home in the Roberto Clemente Coliseum.
The Cangrejeras showcased resilience and skill in a match defined by intensity and strategic play.
The offensive leadership of players like Tamara Otene and Andrea Rangel proved crucial, especially in the final points of each set. Meanwhile, Juncos demonstrated strong blocking but failed to maintain key leads, allowing Santurce to capitalize on opportunities and take control of the game.
Santurce’s offense was led by Tamara Otene with 25 points, Andrea Rangel with 20, Kara McGhee with 17, and Helena Grozer with 16.
For the Valencianas, Jaylen Hodge recorded 30 points, followed by Emily Elliott with 22, Kelly Sánchez with 14, and Adriana Rodríguez with 10.
Santurce outperformed Juncos in attacks (73-68), aces (6-5), digs (94-86), receptions (57-51), and assists (22-16). The Valencianas led in blocking (12-5).
The quarterfinal series will be played in a best-of-five format, with the first team to secure three victories advancing to the semifinals.
Quarterfinal action continues with Section A as the Mets de Guaynabo take on the Changas de Naranjito on Wednesday, March 26, at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 18, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo secured fourth place in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after defeating the Valencianas de Juncos, setting up a quarterfinal matchup against the Changas de Naranjito.
The Mets claimed a dramatic 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 15-10) victory over the Valencianas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum.
Guaynabo outperformed Juncos in attacks (62-58), service aces (5-3), and digs (84-69). Juncos, on the other hand, led in blocks (14-13), receptions (58-50), and assists (14-12).
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham, Paola Santiago, and Valeria Flores, who scored 28, 20, and 19 points, respectively.
Despite the loss, Juncos earned one point and finished with a 5-14 record and 15 points. Their top offensive player was Jaylen Hodge, who scored 32 points: 27 in attacks, four in blocks, and one service ace.
Quarterfinal Matchups Set
The teams ranked 3rd to 6th in the regular season have advanced to the quarterfinals, divided into two sections:
Section A: Mets de Guaynabo (4th) vs. Changas de Naranjito (5th)
Section B: Cangrejeras de Santurce (3rd) vs. Valencianas de Juncos (6th)
The Criollas de Caguas (1st) and Atenienses de Manatí (2nd) have a bye to the semifinals.
The quarterfinal series will be played in a best-of-five format, with the first team winning three matches advancing to the semifinals.
The LVSF regular season will conclude on Saturday, March 22.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, March 16, 2025. – The Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) now has two teams directly qualified for the semifinals following Saturday night’s results.
At the Roger Mendoza Court in Caguas, the Criollas made a comeback against the Mets de Guaynabo, pushing the match to an exciting fifth set, which secured their first-place finish in the standings. Caguas had already guaranteed its direct spot in the semifinals.
With the victory, the Criollas earned two points, solidifying their record at 14-5 and reaching 42 points in the standings. The win was sealed 3-2 (21-25, 25-20, 14-25, 25-17, 15-13).
Kristin Lux led the Criollas with 16 points (13 attacks and 3 blocks), followed by Paulina Pérez with 13 points and Alba Hernández with 11.
For Guaynabo, Valeria Flores led with 23 points on offense. Despite the loss, Guaynabo earned one point, holding an 8-11 record and 23 points in fourth place.
Statistically, Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in blocks (13-8) and assists (26-21), while the Mets dominated in attacks (70-52), aces (7-3), digs (108-83), and passes (48-35).
Atenienses Sweep Cangrejeras
At the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the Atenienses de Manatí defeated the Cangrejeras de Santurce in straight sets (25-21, 25-20, 25-23).
This victory granted Manatí three points, securing second place in the standings with a 12-7 record and 38 points, thus earning a direct spot in the semifinals. Santurce, on the other hand, did not add any points and remains in third place with a 10-8 record and 30 points.
Karla Santos was the key player for the Atenienses with 20 points, followed by Dariana Hollingsworth, who contributed 12. On the Cangrejeras’ side, Tamara Otene led with 15 points.
Valencianas Dominate Changas
The Valencianas de Juncos secured a 3-0 victory (25-15, 25-22, 25-23) on the road against the Changas de Naranjito at the legendary Gelito Ortega Court.
Jaylen Hodge stood out as the top scorer of the match with 23 points for the Valencianas, while Emily Elliot added 19. For the home team, Aury Cruz contributed 10 points.
With this result, Juncos improved its record to 5-13 and accumulated 14 points in the standings, while Naranjito, in fifth place, now holds a 7-12 record and 21 points.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, March 14, 2025. – In an intense Thursday night of action in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Cangrejeras de Santurce, Atenienses de Manatí, and Mets de Guaynabo secured crucial victories in their respective matchups.
This week, the final stretch of the regular season, promises to be electrifying as the Cangrejeras and Atenienses fiercely battle for a direct semifinal berth.
Cangrejeras and Criollas in an Epic Showdown
At the iconic Roger Mendoza court, the Cangrejeras de Santurce allowed little room for the already-qualified Criollas de Caguas, claiming a four-set victory (25-21, 21-25, 25-16, 25-23) and securing all three points at stake.
Santurce’s superiority was evident in attack, leading 67-48 in kills, and in aces, with a 6-3 advantage. They also dominated in digs (76-64), receptions (35-31), and assists (22-19). However, Caguas had the edge in blocks, outscoring Santurce 9-7.
The Cangrejeras’ offense was commanded by Tamara Otene, Andrea Rangel, Helena Grozer, and Kara McGhee, who scored 23, 19, 17, and 15 points, respectively. For Caguas, Kristin Lux stood out with 13 points, while Diana Reyes and Paulina Pérez contributed 10 each.
With this victory, Santurce improved to a 10-7 record and 30 points, securing third place. Meanwhile, Caguas remains atop the standings with a 13-5 record and 40 points.
Cangrejeras block
Atenienses Claim Three Points Against Valencianas
At the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, the Atenienses de Manatí edged closer to the top spot held by the Criollas after sweeping the Valencianas (25-15, 29-27, 25-21), earning three crucial points and improving their record to 11-7 with 35 points.
Manatí did not have any players reaching double digits in scoring, with Dariana Hollingsworth, Kjersti Strong, and Karla Santos each tallying nine points. For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge was the standout performer with 24 points.
Juncos remains in last place with a 4-13 record and 11 points.
Mets Defeat Changas at the Quijote
The Mets de Guaynabo secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory (25-19, 25-19, 12-25, 25-23) at home in the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum against the Changas de Naranjito.
Rebecca Latham led Guaynabo’s offense with a stellar 24-point performance, followed by Valeria Flores, who added 17 points.
For Naranjito, Génesis Collazo was the top scorer with 19 points, while Aury Cruz, Adanna Rollins, and Taylor Trammell contributed 17, 16, and 10 points, respectively.
With this victory, Guaynabo climbs to fourth place with an 8-10 record and 22 points, while Changas drop to fifth place with a 7-11 record and 21 points.
A Decisive Weekend Ahead
LVSF action continues Saturday with three thrilling matchups.
The Atenienses de Manatí will visit the Cangrejeras de Santurce in a showdown that could determine second place or bring Santurce closer to securing the desired spot. The match is scheduled for 8:12 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Criollas de Caguas, needing just one point to clinch first place, will host the Mets de Guaynabo. Additionally, the Valencianas de Juncos will travel to the legendary Gelito Ortega court to take on the Changas de Naranjito. Both matches are set to begin at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 12, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo and the Criollas de Caguas delivered a thrilling showdown for their fans at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, with Caguas securing a 3-1 victory (28-26, 27-25, 21-25, 28-26). This win makes them the first team to qualify directly for the semifinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
Caguas earned three points, improving their record to 13-4 with a total of 40 accumulated points.
The Atenienses de Manatí (10-7, 32 points) and the Cangrejeras de Santurce (9-7, 27 points) will battle for second place, which grants another direct spot in the semifinals.
Caguas had the edge in attacks (64-63) and blocks (14-9), while the Mets dominated in aces (7-2), digs (86-82), and receptions (46-41). Both teams finished with 24 assists.
The Criollas’ offense was led by Stephanie Enright with 24 points, including 20 kills, 2 blocks, and 2 aces. Kristin Lux followed with 19 points, and Sofía Victoriá added 18.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham scored an impressive 37 points, with 33 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces.
With this victory, the Criollas now lead the head-to-head series against the Mets 2-1.
Newly signed Paola Santiago, who recently played in Turkey, did not see action in the match.
The Women’s Volleyball Superior League continues this Thursday, March 13, with three matches:
Santurce visits Caguas at 8:00 p.m.
The Mets de Guaynabo host the Changas de Naranjito at 8:00 p.m.
The Atenienses de Manatí travel to the Rafael G. Amalbert court to face the Valencianas de Juncos at 8:30 p.m.
March 11, 2025.- With 32 teams vying for the prestigious world champions title, the tournament will feature 64 thrilling matches over 14 competition days, hosted across four iconic cities: Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima.
The tournament will commence on August 22 with an exciting pair of opening matches at 16:00 local time (09:00 UTC). Czechia meets Argentina in Pool D while Puerto Rico faces France in Pool C. An hour later, action in Pools A and B will begin with the Netherlands meeting Sweden and Belgium competing against Cuba.
Reigning Volleyball Nations League 2024 champions and Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalists Italy will open their Pool B campaign against Slovakia in Phuket at 20:30 (13:30 UTC)
Host nation Thailand will wrap up a historic opening day, meeting Pool A opponent Egypt in front of a passionate home crowd also at 20:30 local time, but in Bangkok. Thailand, known for their fast-paced and energetic style of play, will be looking to capitalize on home-court advantage and deliver strong performances in front of their fans.
Defending world champions Serbia, aiming for a third consecutive title, will instead begin their campaign in Pool H against Ukraine on August 23 at 20:30 (13:30 UTC).
Competition in the first phase will see each pool play on alternate days, with Pools A, B, C, and D competing on August 22, 24, and 26, while Pools E, F, G, and H take the court on August 23, 25, and 27.
Following the conclusion of the pool stage, the top two teams from each of the eight pools will advance to the knockout phase, starting with the Round of 16 from August 29 to September 1. The Quarter-Finals will be held on September 3 and 4, followed by the Semi-Finals on September 6. The tournament will culminate on September 7 with the bronze medal match at 15:30 (08:30 UTC), leading into the final gold medal match at 19:30 (12:30 UTC) in Bangkok, where the next world champions will be crowned.
As the host nation, Thailand is set to provide a vibrant and unforgettable experience for players and fans alike. With top-tier volleyball action and an electric atmosphere, the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 – the first-ever to be held in Southeast Asia – promises to be a landmark edition of the sport’s premier event.
Watch the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 live on VBTV.
Puerto Rico, March 9, 2025. – The results from Sunday night in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) are starting to highlight just how tight the battle for the top two spots will be, as these teams will advance directly to the semifinals.
At the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum, the Atenienses added three more points after defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (18-25, 25-19, 25-15, 25-16), closing in on the tournament leaders, the Criollas de Caguas, who lost to the Changas de Naranjito without earning any points.
The Atenienses now hold a 10-7 record with 32 accumulated points, just five behind Caguas. Manatí won two matches this week, both in four sets.
Manatí’s offense was evenly distributed among Dariana Hollingsworth with 19 points (14 attacks and 5 blocks), Ariana Pagán with 15, Karla Santos with 13, and Tristin Savage with 11.
The Atenienses outperformed the Mets in attacks (51 to 43), blocks (13 to 8), digs (82 to 71), receptions (38 to 30), and assists (29 to 13). Both teams recorded four service aces.
For Guaynabo (7-9, 19 points), now in fifth place, Rebecca Latham led with 23 points.
Santurce Closes the Week with Three Consecutive Wins
The Cangrejeras de Santurce dominated the Valencianas de Juncos 3-1 (25-18, 23-25, 25-17, 25-19) at the Rafael G. Amalbert court, improving their record to 9-7 with 27 points, securing third place with four matches left in the regular season.
Santurce’s top scorer was Tamara Otene with 21 points (20 attacks and 1 block), while Andrea Rangel and Kara McGhee each contributed 14 points, and Neira Ortiz added 10.
Santurce outperformed Juncos in attacks (48 to 44), blocks (17 to 8), and digs (70 to 57). The Valencianas led in service aces (5 to 3) and receptions (34 to 28). Both teams finished with 10 assists.
For Juncos (4-12, 11 points), the top scorers were Jaylen Hodge with 17 points, Emily Elliot with 13, and Adriana Rodríguez with 10.
The Cangrejeras had a perfect week, securing wins against Guaynabo, Naranjito, and Juncos.
Changas Defeat Criollas Again
The Changas de Naranjito once again defeated the Criollas de Caguas in their legendary home court, this time 3-1 (28-26, 25-20, 18-25, 29-27). The head-to-head series between both teams ended in a 2-2 tie.
With the victory, the Changas moved up to fourth place with a 7-10 record and 21 points, while the Criollas failed to add points this week, finishing with a 1-2 record, standing at 12-4 with 37 total points.
Caguas remains the tournament leader.
All of Naranjito’s wins were at home.
Andrea Serra, Aury Cruz, and Génesis Collazo led Naranjito’s offense with 19, 16, and 14 points, respectively.
For Caguas, Stephanie Enright led with 21 points, followed by 11 points from Kristin Lux and Diana Reyes, along with 10 from Alba Hernández.
Naranjito was superior in digs (103 to 88), receptions (55 to 38), and assists (28 to 26), while Caguas dominated in attacks (58 to 51) and blocks (13 to 10). Both teams recorded six service aces.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, March 5, 2025. – While the Cangrejeras de Santurce dominated the Mets de Guaynabo at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey to claim the Metropolitan Cup, the Criollas de Caguas secured their twelfth victory of the season at the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum, maintaining their position as the absolute leaders of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League.
The Criollas de Caguas defeated the Valencianas de Juncos 23-25, 25-22, 27-25, and 25-20, earning all three available points from the match and moving closer to a direct berth in the semifinals with a 12-2 record and 37 points accumulated.
Juncos did not earn any points from the result and now holds a 3-11 record with 9 points, remaining at the bottom of the standings.
For the Criollas, Stephanie Enright and Diana Reyes both reached double digits with 14 points each, followed by Kristin Lux with 13 points. Raymariely Santos contributed 26 assists.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge, Adriana Rodríguez, and Lindsay Stalzer scored 22, 13, and 10 points, respectively.
Caguas outperformed Juncos 27-18 in assists. Juncos led in attacks (53-50), service aces (5-4), defenses (78-75), and receptions (54-40). Both teams finished with 12 successful blocks.
Cangrejeras Dominate the Mets
The Cangrejeras de Santurce secured a commanding 3-0 (25-21, 25-23, 25-17) victory over the Mets de Guaynabo.
With this win, the Cangrejeras lifted the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Metropolitan Cup, an award born from an alliance between both franchises that recognizes the team with the best record in their head-to-head series.
Andrea Rangel and Tamara Otene led Santurce’s offense with 15 points each.
For the Mets, Rebecca Latham stood out with 18 points, but her effort was not enough to prevent the defeat.
Santurce claimed all three available points and now sits in third place with a 7-7 record and 21 points accumulated. Guaynabo holds the same record but trails by three points, sharing fourth place with the Changas de Naranjito at 18 points.
February 3, 2025.– Over the weekend in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), the Cangrejeras de Santurce caused a three-way tie, while the Valencianas de Juncos defeated the Changas de Naranjito.
On Sunday, the Cangrejeras secured a 3-1 victory (25-22, 25-17, 19-25, 25-22) over the Atenienses de Manatí at the Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu Coliseum, creating a three-way tie with the Mets de Guaynabo and the Changas de Naranjito. Each team now has 18 accumulated points.
Santurce holds a record of 6-7 with 18 points. Manatí did not add any points and remains in second place with a record of 8-7 and 26 points.
The Cangrejeras’ offensive effort was evenly distributed, with Kara McGhee scoring 14 points, while Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer contributed 13 points each, and Neira Ortiz added 12.
For Manatí, Dariana Hollingsworth and Karla Santos each recorded 20 points.
Santurce dominated in blocks (12-6), while Manatí led in attacks (52-48), aces (7-4), digs (72-65), and receptions (51-41). Both teams ended with 17 assists.
On Saturday, the Valencianas de Juncos fought hard to defeat the Changas de Naranjito in a five-set thriller (25-21, 15-25, 22-25, 25-22, 15-6).
With this result, both teams earned points. The Valencianas claimed two points, breaking a four-game losing streak. Despite still being at the bottom of the standings, they improved their record to 3-10 with 9 points.
This victory marked the first win for their new head coach, Juan “Juanchi” Figueroa, who replaced Gerardo De Jesús following his resignation. Figueroa now holds a 1-1 record.
Juncos had not won since February 9, when they defeated the Atenienses de Manatí at their home court, the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum. All of the Valencianas’ victories have come at home.
The Changas earned one point and now stand at 6-9 with 18 points, tying for third place with the Mets de Guaynabo. Naranjito has yet to win an away game.
Juncos’ offensive leaders were Jaylen Hodge with 32 points (31 in attacks and one ace), followed by Emily Elliott with 23 points and Adriana Rodríguez with 12. For the Changas, Adanna Rollins led with 21 points, while Génesis Collazo contributed 18.
Juncos outperformed Naranjito in attacks (67-49), digs (81-49), receptions (51-34), and assists (17-15). Both teams registered 10 successful blocks, while Naranjito had the edge in aces (7-6).
LVSF action continues on Wednesday, March 5, with two matches: the Criollas de Caguas will visit the Valencianas de Juncos at 8:30 p.m., while Santurce will host the Mets de Guaynabo in a match set to begin at 8:12 p.m.
February 27, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas, Changas de Naranjito, and Atenienses de Manatí secured victories on Thursday in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
At the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the “Dominican Night” took place, during which the Cangrejeras’ management gave away 3,000 tickets for the match. The Consul of the Dominican Republic in Puerto Rico, Mr. César Cedeño, performed the honorary first serve.
Caguas earned a hard-fought 3-1 (26-24, 22-25, 25-22, 25-23) victory over the Cangrejeras de Santurce.
The win improved Caguas’ record to 11 wins and only 2 losses, accumulating 34 points to remain at the top of the tournament standings. Meanwhile, the Cangrejeras dropped to fifth place with a 5-7 record and 15 points.
For the Criollas, Sofía Victoria led the offense with 20 points, followed by Kristin Lux with 13 and Julie Oliveira Souza with 10.
On Santurce’s side, Tamara Otene scored 26 points, Andrea Rangel added 19, and Helena Grozer contributed 14.
Changas Get Revenge on Mets at the Gelito
At the Gelito Ortega Coliseum, the Changas de Naranjito avenged their previous loss to the Mets de Guaynabo by sweeping them in straight sets.
Naranjito claimed a 3-0 (25-15, 25-22, 25-16) victory, securing all three available points from the match. With this win, they improved their record to 6-8 with 17 points, moving up to fourth place.
Guaynabo failed to earn any points, remaining in third place with a 7-6 record and 18 points.
The Changas’ offensive leaders were Génesis Collazo (13 points), Adanna Rollins (12), and Andrea Serra (11).
Atenienses Spoil Juan Figueroa’s Debut
The Atenienses de Manatí spoiled the debut of Juan Figueroa, the new head coach of the Valencianas de Juncos, who replaced Gerardo De Jesús. Manatí secured a 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-16) victory.
Manatí’s double-digit scorers included Dariana Hollingsworth with 13 points, Tristin Savage with 12, and both Karla Santos and Kjersti Stong with 11 each.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge was the only player to reach double digits, scoring 15 points.
Manatí collected three points to maintain second place with an 8-6 record and 26 points. Juncos remains at the bottom of the standings with a 2-10 record and 7 points.
February 26, 2025.- Volleyball Canada is pleased to announce that Kingston in Ontario, Canada, will be the host city of the women’s U19 Pan American Cup, which will take place at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre, June 24 to 29, 2025.
The local organizing committee will include Tourism Kingston, Queen’s University and the Kingston Rock Volleyball Club.
The U19 Pan Am Cup will bring together eight teams (TBA) of top age-class athletes from NORCECA – the North, Central, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation. Many of these young athletes will go on to represent their country at the senior level at events such as the World Championships and Olympic Games.
The event was last held in Puerto Rico in 2023 and saw the U.S. win gold, followed by Mexico with silver, and host Puerto Rico winning bronze. This year, Team Canada will get to play on home soil, joining its zonal rivals for the five days of competition. Team Canada will host a week-long training camp for 18 athletes prior to competition at Queen’s University. The team will also use this training camp and tournament to prepare for the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship to be held in Croatia and Serbia in July.
With an active, growing volleyball community in Kingston and with support from the Ontario Volleyball Association, excitement for this event is expected to be significant. Queen’s Athletics & Recreation Centre offers an excellent host facility, fresh off hosting the 2024 U SPORTS Men’s Volleyball National Championships and with strong, nationally ranked varsity volleyball programs.
Kingston’s successful bid to host the U19 Pan Am Championships was announced to volleyball supporters this past weekend at the Queen’s Gaels men’s & women’s volleyball home playoff games.
“Kingston Rock Volleyball Club is thrilled to welcome Volleyball Canada and an international competition to our city. With a strong community of athletes, coaches, and supporters, our club continues to grow, providing opportunities for over 400 athletes between the ages of seven and 18 to develop their skills and love for the game. This event is an exciting milestone, and we can’t wait to showcase the energy and talent that make Kingston a fantastic volleyball destination”, stated Matt Somerville – Executive Director, Kingston Rock Volleyball Club.
“The U19 Pan Am Cup offers an exciting opportunity for our rising stars to compete against top opponents from across the region. This event will also serve as excellent preparation for the upcoming FIVB U19 World Championships in Croatia and Serbia following this event. Any time we play in Canada it’s special. Hosting an international tournament on home soil allows us to showcase our country’s commitment to the sport, while giving athletes the chance to gain memorable exposure and experience in front of friends, family, and the wider volleyball community”, expressed Shannon Winzer, Volleyball Canada High Performance Director (Women’s indoor)
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, February 25, 2025. – In the only match of Tuesday’s schedule in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Guaynabo Mets comfortably defeated the Naranjito Changas 3-0 (25-19, 25-13, 25-14) to claim sole possession of third place in the standings.
Guaynabo secured all three available points from the match, improving their record to 7-5 with 18 points, breaking a tie they previously held with the Santurce Cangrejeras. Naranjito failed to earn any points and remains in fifth place with a 5-8 record and 14 points.
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham with 17 points, while Legna Hernández and Valeria Flores each contributed 15 points. For Naranjito, Génesis Collazo finished with 10 points.
Guaynabo outperformed Naranjito in attacks (50-23), blocks (7-5), aces (6-4), digs (76-52), and assists (21-8). Naranjito had the advantage in receptions (32-22).
The Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) action continues Thursday, February 27, with three matches:
Puerto Rico, February 24, 2025. – In last weekend’s matches of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Mets de Guaynabo closed out the sixth week with a perfect record, while the Changas de Naranjito ended the winning streak of the Criollas de Caguas.
On Sunday at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Atenienses de Manatí 3-2 (22-25, 25-21, 25-20, 15-25, 15-10).
With this result, both teams earned points: the Mets secured two points, tying for third place with the Cangrejeras and improving their record to 6-5 with 15 points. Meanwhile, Manatí earned one point to remain in second place with a 7-6 record and 23 points, trailing the Criollas de Caguas.
Guaynabo’s top scorers were Rebecca Latham with 36 points (34 in attacks, 1 block, and 1 ace), followed by Valeria Flores with 17 points and Legna Hernández with 10.
For the Atenienses, Dariana Hollingsworth and Karla Santos each contributed 20 points, while Chareika Carrión added 16 and Tristin Savage 15.
Guaynabo outperformed Manatí in aces (8-4), while Manatí led in attacks (64-62), blocks (12-7), digs (78-64), receptions (45-44), and assists (15-13).
On Saturday, the Changas de Naranjito ended the Criollas de Caguas’ winning streak with a five-set victory (25-22, 25-22, 20-25, 22-25, 15-10) at the legendary Gelito Ortega court.
The Changas earned two points, improving to 5-7 with 14 points and moving into fourth place behind the Cangrejeras de Santurce.
The winning offense featured several players in double figures, led by Adanna Rollins with 24 points (21 in attacks and 3 in blocks), followed by Génesis Collazo with 19 and Taylor Trammel with 13.
For Caguas, Julie Oliveira Souza tallied 27 points (24 in attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace), followed by Paulina Pérez with 16 and Diana Reyes with 11.
Naranjito outperformed Caguas in blocks (22-9), while Caguas had the edge in attacks (67-53), digs (96-92), receptions (48-34), and assists (21-18).
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, February 20, 202. – In Thursday’s action in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), the Mets, Criollas, and Cangrejeras all secured victories.
At the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, the Mets de Guaynabo edged out the Valencianas de Juncos 3-2 (13-25, 25-19, 19-25, 25-23, 25-23).
With this result, both teams earned points. Guaynabo picked up two points, improving to a 5-5 record with 13 points overall, moving up to fourth place. Juncos remains in last place but gained a point despite the loss, now standing at 2-9 with seven total points.
Rebecca Latham led the Mets’ offense with 32 points, including 28 kills and four blocks. She was followed by Valeria Flores with 19 points and Legna Hernández with 10.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge registered 30 points, with 27 kills and three blocks, while Lindsay Stalzer and Adriana Rodríguez contributed 16 points each.
Criollas Unstoppable
At the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum in Manatí, the Criollas defeated the Atenienses 3-1 (26-24, 25-22, 14-25, 25-20), earning their 10th win of the season.
The Criollas de Caguas have not lost a match since January 30. They hold a 10-1 record with 30 accumulated points, maintaining their position at the top of the standings.
The Atenienses, currently in second place, now have a 7-5 record with 22 points.
This marks the third time Caguas has defeated Manatí this season, all in four sets.
Caguas’ offense was powered by Sofía Victoriá, Kristin Lux, and Alba Hernández with 14, 12, and 11 points, respectively.
For Manatí, Dariana Hollingsworth, Kjersti Strong, Karla Santos, Tristin Savage, and Chareika Carrión contributed 21, 16, 15, 11, and 10 points, respectively.
Caguas outperformed Manatí in blocks (14-8). Both teams recorded 90 digs, while Manatí led in kills (63-48), aces (5-4), receptions (52-24), and assists (30-28).
Cangrejeras Secure Sole Possession of Third Place
At the legendary Gelito Ortega Court, the Cangrejeras defeated the Changas de Naranjito in straight sets (26-24, 25-23, 25-17), earning all three available points and securing sole possession of third place in the standings.
The Cangrejeras’ offensive efforts were led by Helena Grozer with 15 points, followed by Andrea Rangel and Gina Prososki with 11 each, and Neira Ortiz with 10.
With this win, the Cangrejeras improved to a 5-6 record with 15 points, while the Changas failed to earn any points, dropping to fifth place with a 4-7 record and 12 points overall.
The Cangrejeras outperformed their opponents in kills (40-30), blocks (11-7), digs (64-53), and receptions (47-34). Both teams finished with 12 assists, while Naranjito had the edge in aces (4-3).
HAVANA, Cuba, February 19, 2025. – The NORCECA/FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center has inaugurated the International Level 2 Coaching Course in Havana, Cuba.
A total of 32 coaches from Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, and Cuba are participating in the course. They attended the opening ceremony, presided over by Mrs. Teresa Yamila Méndez Álvarez, Deputy Minister of the National Institute of Sports of Cuba; Yumilka Ruíz, Volleyball Commissioner; Osvaldo de Martinez, President of the Cuban Volleyball Federation; Professor Nelson José Ramírez, Director of the NORCECA/FIVB Volleyball Development Center based in the Dominican Republic; and FIVB instructor Luis Muchaga from Spain, who is also the course director. Muchaga will be joined by lecturers Enrique Pacheco from Puerto Rico and Gilberto Herrera, as well as FIVB instructors Francisco Cruz Jiménez and Justo Morales. Additionally, Dr. Lenin Hernández will present on medical aspects, while Rusber Campos from Venezuela will discuss current volleyball statistics.
Prof. Nelson Jose Ramirez
Classes will be held at the facilities of the National Institute of Sports and the Cuban Volleyball Federation’s National Training Center until Sunday, February 23.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Teresa Yamila Álvarez expressed gratitude to NORCECA and the International Volleyball Federation FIVB for their support of this initiative. She encouraged all coaches to apply the knowledge they acquire in service of their countries, especially the local participants, to ensure that Cuba remains a global volleyball reference.
Professor Nelson José Ramírez emphasized that the Volleyball Development Center is dedicated to addressing the needs of all countries, following a policy established by Cristóbal Marte. He affirmed, “NORCECA is committed to all the initiatives of the Development Center to provide training in all areas of volleyball.”
February 18, 2025.- The host cities for the highly anticipated 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Finals have been announced. The Women’s Finals of this year’s landmark edition will take place in Łódź, Poland, at the renowned Atlas Arena from 23 to 27 July 2025, while the Men’s Finals are scheduled for 30 July to 3 August 2025, and are set to take place at the Ningbo Beilun Sports and Arts Center, in Ningbo, China.
The selection of Łódź as the host city for the women’s finals is a testament to Poland’s history as a powerhouse in international volleyball, with its passionate fanbase and strong volleyball ecosystem. Poland also has an exceptional track record when it comes to hosting major international volleyball events – including the men’s final of the VNL last year.
In what was a record-breaking VNL 2024 globally, which witnessed a remarkable 13% growth in attendance from 2023, a cumulative audience of 46 million in Poland tuned in to catch the electrifying action, with 409 hours of live broadcast on the Polsat network. The Women’s VNL match between Poland and Germany was the second-highest sports programme on the channel for 2024. With a revamped VNL in 2025, the stage is set for yet another record-breaking competition!
The VNL will also return to China in 2025. Having hosted two stops of the Women’s VNL last year, China achieved exceptional viewership numbers, making it one of the biggest sporting events of the year in the country. There was a cumulative audience of 268 million with 168 hours of live broadcast on China Central Television (CCTV).
Moreover, the VNL was the second-highest sports broadcast in China for 2024, with peak viewership reaching 23.6 million. Having played host to continental competitions and qualifying rounds for the Olympic Games Paris 2024, Ningbo will no doubt put on another spectacular show in 2025.
With its expanded format, intensified competition and new opportunities for more volleyball nations, the 2025 VNL promises to be the most exciting edition yet. Fans can expect a true celebration of the sport as the best teams in the world battle for VNL glory!
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, February 16, 2025.– In the only match on Sunday in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Cangrejeras de Santurce 3-1 (26-24, 25-19, 15-25, 25-16) at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum to take a 2-1 lead in their head-to-head series at the Metropolitan Cup.
With this victory, the Mets secured all three available points and improved their record to 4-5 with 11 accumulated points, remaining in fifth place in the standings. Santurce stays in third place with a 4-6 record and 12 points, tied with the Changas de Naranjito.
Guaynabo’s top scorers were Rebecca Latham, Legna Hernández, Valeria Flores, and Alejandra Argüello, with 23, 15, 12, and 11 points, respectively.
For Santurce, Helena Grozer, Andrea Rangel, and Neira Ortiz contributed 20, 15, and 12 points, respectively. Newly signed reinforcement Tamara Otene added 10 points, all from attacks.
Guaynabo outperformed Santurce in blocks (11-9), digs (75-66), and assists (22-18). Santurce led in receptions (35-28). Both teams finished with 51 attacks and five service aces.
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, February 15, 2025. – In Saturday’s action in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Changas de Naranjito defeated the Atenienses de Manatí to tie for third place in the standings with the Cangrejeras, while the Criollas de Caguas secured their ninth victory of the season by defeating the Valencianas.
The Changas de Naranjito defeated the Atenienses de Manatí 3-1 (20-25, 25-20, 25-22, 25-19) at the iconic Gelito Ortega court.
With this victory, Naranjito improved to a 4-6 record with 12 points, tying with the Cangrejeras for third place. Both teams have the same number of wins and points, but the Cangrejeras hold one less loss.
Opposite hitter Génesis Collazo led the Changas’ offense with 18 points, including 14 attacks and four blocks. She was followed by Adanna Rollins with 14 points and Andrea Serra with 11.
For the Atenienses (7-4, 22 points), Chareika Carrión was the top scorer with 18 points, all on attacks. Karla Santos added 17 points, Tristin Savage contributed 11, and both Kjersti Strong and Dariana Hollingsworth finished with 10 points each.
Naranjito outperformed Manatí in blocks (15-13) and service aces (2-1), while Manatí led in attacks (57-43), digs (70-66), receptions (51-29), and assists (20-11).
Third Victory for Caguas Over Juncos
The Criollas de Caguas successfully defended their home court at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum, defeating the Valencianas de Juncos in straight sets (25-23, 25-17, 28-26).
This marked Caguas’ third win over Juncos this season, solidifying their position at the top of the standings with a 9-1 record and 27 points.
Caguas’ offense was led by French player Julie Oliveira Souza, who recorded 16 points, 13 on attacks and three from blocks. Diana Carolina Reyes followed with 13 points, including 12 attacks and one block.
For Juncos (2-8, 6 points), Jaylen Hodge led with 21 points, the only player on her team to reach double digits.
Caguas outperformed Juncos in attacks (46-43), blocks (6-5), digs (58-49), and assists (19-16). Meanwhile, Juncos led in receptions (42-29).
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, February 13, 2025. – The Changas de Naranjito, Atenienses de Manatí, and Criollas de Caguas each secured three points in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF).
At the legendary Gelito Ortega court, the Changas de Naranjito defeated the Valencianas de Juncos 3-0 (25-23, 25-18, 25-20), moving up to fourth place in the standings. This marked the seventh loss of eight matches for the Valencianas, placing them at the bottom of the standings with a 2-7 record and six points.
The Changas, now at 3-6 with nine points, were led offensively by Génesis Collazo and Adanna Rollins, who each contributed 13 points. Taylor Trammel followed with 10 points.
Naranjito outperformed Juncos in digs (47-43), while Juncos led in assists (16-14). Both teams were tied in attacks (39), blocks (8), and aces (7).
Atenienses Overcome Cangrejeras
At the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the visiting Atenienses de Manatí defeated the Cangrejeras de Santurce 3-1 (24-26, 25-21, 26-24, 25-20).
Manatí outperformed Santurce in attacks (60-52), blocks (12-10), aces (6-5), digs (104-99), receptions (59-51), and assists (30-18).
Karla Santos, Dariana Hollingsworth, Chareika Carrión, and Tristin Savage led the winning team with 27, 19, 11, and 10 points, respectively.
For Santurce, Andrea Rangel scored 19 points, while Neira Ortiz and Helena Grozer each added 15 points, and Gina Prososki contributed 13.
The Atenienses remain in second place with a 7-3 record and 22 points, while Santurce holds third place at 4-5 with 12 points.
Criollas Win Rematch Against Mets
The Criollas de Caguas avenged their only loss of the season, handed to them by the Mets, by defeating them 3-1 (16-25, 25-22, 25-13, 25-11).
With the match tied at one set apiece, the Criollas had a strong start in the third set, taking a 7-1 lead and securing the first technical timeout at 8-2 with a successful attack from French player Julie Oliveira Souza. They also won the second technical timeout 16-6 after a failed attack by Rebecca Latham.
From that point on, it was all Caguas, including the next set, where they recorded 21 blocks compared to just nine by the visitors.
Both teams ended the match tied in attacks (42), blocks (4), and assists (18). The Mets had the edge in digs (86-85) and receptions (35-24).
Diana Reyes led the Criollas’ offense with 16 points,11 on attacks, four on blocks, and one ace. She was joined by Sofía Victoriá (15), Julie Oliveira Souza (14), and Alba Hernández (12), who registered eight blocks.
For the Mets, Rebecca Latham was the top scorer with 22 points.
Caguas remains at the top of the standings with an 8-1 record and 24 points, while the Mets drop to fifth place with a 3-5 record and eight points.
ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay, February 10, 2025.- Two wildcats have been chosen to represent the energy, passion, and spirit of perseverance of the more than 4,000 athletes who will take part in the most important youth sports celebration on the continent.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña.
A new era has begun! On February 10, at the iconic Port of Asunción, the official presentation of the mascots for the Junior Pan American Games ASU2025 took place.
The event was filled with excitement and was attended by the country’s top authorities, including the President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña; Minister of Sports, César Ramírez Caje; President of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee and IOC member, Camilo Pérez López Moreira; General Director of ASU2025, Victor Pecci; Deputy General Director of ASU2025, Larissa Schaerer; national athletes, members of the press, influencers, and the stars of the night, the official mascots.
“Today, we take another step toward the Games that will be a milestone for our country. Tito and Tika embody the energy, passion, and spirit of perseverance of our athletes. We hope that people will feel represented by them and welcome them with open arms”, said Camilo Pérez López Moreira, President of the Olympic Committee and IOC member.
The official mascot is the soul of every Games, representing the essence, culture, and history of the host city. It serves as a cultural ambassador, bringing together the country’s residents, athletes, delegations, volunteers, and everyone who chooses to be part of the event. That’s why each edition introduces a unique mascot that aims to leave a lasting legacy.
“The official mascots connect us with our essence, our wildlife, and the fighting spirit of every athlete coming to ASU2025”, expressed Larissa Schaerer, Deputy General Director of ASU2025.
Tirika, the beloved mascot of the 2022 Odesur Games and the current official representative of Team Paraguay, went on a scouting mission across the country in search of new talent for ASU2025. After countless adventures, a few stumbles, and a nostalgic journey back to Chaco, he found the perfect candidates: Tito and Tika, two wildcats with an unmistakable spark and attitude that only he could recognize.
His sharp feline instincts left no room for doubt, they were the chosen ones. These two are not only full of energy but also fully committed, eager to have a great time, and with hearts already beating for the Games.
Tito and Tika, the ASU2025 rookies, are the yin and yang
Tito loves to have fun, but at the same time, he keeps an eye on everything. If something isn’t right or if he sees Tika about to get into trouble, he’s there, taking charge and making sure their mischief doesn’t get out of hand. He is responsible, careful, and knows how to restore order when things get a little chaotic.
Tika, on the other hand, doesn’t worry too much about limits. She has that mischievous spark that leads her to do unpredictable yet fun things, keeping everyone on their toes and wondering what she’ll come up with next.
Both share the same physical abilities, they can practice all sports, are agile, know how to dance, and enjoy social media.
The Smallest Feline of the Chaco
The official mascots embody a mix of cleverness, adventure, and mischief, inspired by a characteristic animal of the Paraguayan Chaco: The Leopardus guttulus, or wildcat, commonly known as the tiríka. This small feline inhabits jungles, tropical and subtropical forests, ranging from sea level up to 4,500 meters in altitude.
Its distribution is limited to the central and eastern regions of the Neotropics in South America, covering countries such as Paraguay, Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina. The tiríka is a solitary and nocturnal animal but also shows a significant amount of activity during the day.
There are three species of this feline: Leopardus geoffroyi (the species chosen for the Junior Pan American Games mascots), Leopardus guttulus, and Leopardus wiedii. Unfortunately, the latter two species are endangered due to illegal capture for the fur trade.
Road to ASU2025
With the unveiling of its Official Mascots, ASU2025 solidifies itself as an event that goes beyond sports. The countdown has begun, and each day brings us closer to the continent’s biggest youth sports gathering.
ASU2025 is already in motion. From August 9 to 23, more than 4,000 athletes from across the continent will compete in 28 sports and 42 disciplines. But before the official opening, we will feel the pulse of the Games month by month, unveiling key elements of this major sporting event.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, February 9, 2025. – In Sunday’s matchups of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Mets de Guaynabo ended the Cangrejeras’ three-game winning streak by defeating them in straight sets at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum. Meanwhile, the Valencianas and Atenienses battled in a thrilling five-set encounter at the Rafael G. Amabert Coliseum.
Guaynabo secured their victory over the Cangrejeras de Santurce with set scores of 25-22, 28-26, and 25-16.
The winners’ offensive effort was led by Rebecca Latham, who recorded 21 points, all from attacks. Valeria Flores and Legna Hernández also reached double figures, scoring 17 and 14 points, respectively.
For the Cangrejeras, Gina Prososki stood out with 14 points, followed by Andrea Rangel and Lindsay Stalzer, who both contributed 11 points.
Guaynabo claimed all three available points from the match, improving their record to 3-4 and accumulating 8 points, moving up to fourth place in the standings. Santurce, despite not earning any points, remains in third place with a 4-4 record and 12 points.
Guaynabo outperformed Santurce in attacks (56-38), digs (85-59), and assists (18-15). The Cangrejeras led in blocks (5-4) and receptions (36-30).
Juncos Prevails in Five-Set Thriller
The Valencianas de Juncos and the Atenienses de Manatí delivered an electrifying five-set battle, ensuring both teams earned points regardless of the outcome. Juncos emerged victorious 3-2 (25-16, 22-25, 23-25, 25-14, 15-9).
The decisive set was tied up to point 6, before Juncos gained the court switch at 8-6 following a Manatí attack error through the middle and a successful spike by Seliann Concepción from zone four.
Juncos claimed two points from the victory, improving their record to 2-6 and accumulating 6 points, tying for fifth place with the Changas de Naranjito. The team also snapped a three-match losing streak.
Meanwhile, Manatí added one point despite the loss, remaining in second place with a 6-3 record and 19 points.
For the Valencianas, Jaylen Hodge delivered a stellar performance with 34 points, 33 on attacks and one from a block. She was supported by Alexia Khuel (12), Kelly Sánchez (11), and Elissa Alcántara (10).
On the Manatí side, Dariana Hollingsworth led with 27 points, including 18 attacks, 7 blocks, and 2 aces. Chareika Carrión and Tristin Savage added 12 points each.
Juncos outperformed Manatí in attacks (72-49) and digs (106-81). However, Manatí had the advantage in blocks (17-11), aces (5-2), receptions (53-39), and assists (23-19).
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, February 7, 2025. – In Friday’s action in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Criollas de Caguas, Atenienses de Manatí, and Cangrejeras de Santurce emerged victorious, maintaining their positions in the league’s top three.
At the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas, the Criollas, after losing the first set, adjusted their strategy to defeat the Changas de Naranjito 3-1 (21-25, 25-20, 26-24, 25-21).
Caguas remain at the top of the standings with a 7-1 record and 21 accumulated points. Naranjito, unable to collect points from the loss, stays in fourth place with a 2-6 record and six points.
Caguas outperformed Naranjito in attacks (57-44) and receptions (53-38). Naranjito led in blocks (12-9), digs (87-81), and assists (25-2). Both teams registered three service aces.
Caguas’ offensive effort was led by Sofía Victoria, Kristin Lux, Diana Reyes, and Stephanie Enright, who contributed 17, 14, 12, and 11 points, respectively. For Naranjito, Adanna Rollins and Génesis Collazo each scored 17 points.
Manatí Earns Three Points Against Mets
The Atenienses de Manatí defended their home court at the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum, overcoming the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (25-27, 25-20, 25-22, 25-19).
Juliana Askew distributed her sets effectively among Dariana Hollingsworth, Tristin Savage, Ariana Pagan, and Chareika Carrión, ensuring all four reached double-digit scoring with 25, 13, 12, and 10 points, respectively. Askew recorded 24 assists, averaging six per set.
Rebecca Latham once again led the Mets’ offense with 17 points, while Valeria Flores and Legna Hernández contributed 15 and 10 points, respectively.
Manatí secured all three available points to hold onto second place, improving to a 6-2 record with 18 accumulated points. Guaynabo failed to earn points and now holds a 2-4 record with five accumulated points, placing them fifth in the standings.
The Atenienses outperformed the Mets in attacks (52-44), blocks (16-11), digs (81-75), service aces (6-5), and assists (24-23). Guaynabo led in receptions (49-39).
Santurce Secures Third Consecutive Win
The Cangrejeras de Santurce defeated the Valencianas de Juncos on the road at the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum with a 3-0 sweep (26-24, 25-23, 31-29).
This marked the third consecutive victory for the Cangrejeras, while Juncos suffered their sixth loss of the season in seven matches, three of them in a row. Santurce’s offense was led by Andrea Rangel, Helena Grozer, and Neira Ortiz, who scored 13, 12, and 11 points, respectively.
For Juncos, Jaelyn Hodge contributed 16 points, followed by Elissa Alcántara, Alexia Khuel, and Adriana Rodríguez, each with 10 points.
Santurce improved to a 4-3 record with 12 accumulated points, holding onto third place in the standings. Juncos remains in last place with a 1-6 record and four points. The Cangrejeras dominated in blocks (12-4) and digs (73-69).
The Valencianas had the advantage in attacks (51-38), service aces (6-3), receptions (41-33), and assists (20-15).
The Women’s Volleyball Superior League will take a break on Saturday and resume on Sunday, February 9, with two matches, both scheduled for 5:00 PM: Santurce vs. Guaynabo and Manatí vs. Juncos.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, February 6, 2025. – While the Cangrejeras de Santurce secured their third victory of the season in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum—their second consecutive win—the Criollas de Caguas defeated the Atenienses de Manatí for the second time this season at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum, claiming sole possession of first place in the standings.
The Cangrejeras swept the Changas de Naranjito 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-23), led by Helena Grozer with 18 points (13 attacks, 5 blocks). Andrea Rangel, Gina Prososki, and Neira Ortiz contributed 15, 13, and 12 points, respectively.
For Naranjito, Génesis Collazo and Adanna Rollins topped with 11 points each.
Santurce outperformed Naranjito in attacks (48-31), digs (77-72), and receptions (42-34). Meanwhile, Naranjito led in aces (5-2) and assists (26-13). Both teams recorded 11 successful blocks.
With the three points from this win, Santurce improved to a 3-3 record with 9 total points, securing third place in the standings.
Naranjito failed to add points and now sits in fourth place with a 2-5 record and 6 total points.
The series between the two teams is now tied at one win apiece.
Caguas Remains in the Lead
The Criollas de Caguas defended their home court at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum, defeating the Atenienses de Manatí for the second time this season in four sets.
The scores were 25-9, 25-22, 23-25, and 26-24. After a dominant first set in which Caguas played flawlessly at the net and on defense, the remaining sets were highly intense and nerve-wracking.
In the first set, Caguas recorded 5 blocks and 25 digs.
In the second set, Manatí failed to hold onto an 18-14 lead, allowing Caguas to rally with an 8-4 run that tied the set at 22, thanks to effective sliding attacks from Diana Reyes. The Criollas’ surge continued as Reyes blocked Chareika Carrión for the 23rd point, Dariana Hollingsworth of Manatí committed an attacking error, and Stephanie Enright sealed the set with an ace.
Manatí fought back, withstanding a late push from Caguas to win the third set and extend the match.
In the fourth set, the Atenienses were unable to hold onto leads of 23-20 and 24-23, eventually falling in extra points. Paulina Pérez secured the victory for Caguas with consecutive plays—first blocking Carrión and then scoring off Manatí’s block.
Caguas’ top scorers were Stephanie Enright (17 points), Kristin Lux (14), and Sofía Victoriá (13).
For Manatí, which played without Karla Santos, Dariana Hollingsworth led with 24 points, followed by Chareika Carrión with 12 and Tristin Savage with 11.
Caguas outperformed Manatí in attacks (56-50), blocks (15-12), aces (3-2), and digs (86-80). Manatí had the edge in receptions (42-20) and assists (22-17).
With this win, Caguas improved to a 6-1 record with 18 points, while Manatí remains in second place with a 5-2 record and 15 total points.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, February 4, 2025. – In the only match scheduled at the start of the fourth week of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), held at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Mets de Guaynabo fought hard to defeat the Valencianas de Juncos 3-2 (25-17, 13-25, 25-16, 20-25, 15-10).
This was the first match of the season to extend to five sets.
With a 2-1 set advantage for the Mets, the Juncos team responded with solid net play and improved defensive performance. They led the technical timeout 16-11 with an attack from zone four by Gabby Gonzales. From that point on, they maintained control to push the match into a decisive tie-break.
In the fifth set, a direct service ace by Legna Hernández gave the Mets a 4-1 lead, and they switched sides ahead 8-3 after a failed attack into the antenna by Kelly Sánchez from zone four.
Guaynabo secured the victory by extending the lead to 12-6 with a strong attack off the Juncos block by Rebecca Latham. They reached match point at 14-7 following a service error by the visiting team and sealed the win 15-10 with another powerful attack from Latham from zone two.
The top scorers for the Mets de Guaynabo were Rebecca Latham with 32 points, including 27 kills, 4 blocks, and one ace. She was followed by Valeria Flores and Legna Hernández with 13 and 9 points, respectively.
For Juncos, Jaelyn Hodge led with 27 points, while Alexia Khuel and Elissa Alcántara contributed 10 and 9 points, respectively.
With the win, the Mets earned two points and improved their record to 2-3 with a total of 5 points. Juncos, despite the loss, gained one point and now stands at 1-5 with 4 points.
The Mets outperformed Juncos in blocks (11-6) and assists (27-19). Juncos, however, led in attacks (62-53), aces (3-2), digs (84-79), and receptions (45-34).
The match between the Valencianas de Juncos and the Atenienses de Manatí, originally scheduled for Sunday, February 9, at 7:00 p.m. at the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, has been rescheduled to 5:00 p.m.
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, February 1, 2025. – The Atenienses, Cangrejeras, and Criollas wrapped up the third week of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) with victories.
The Atenienses de Manatí secured three points by defeating the Changas de Naranjito at the legendary Gelito Ortega court with a 3-1 (23-25, 25-13, 25-20, 25-20) victory on Saturday night.
Dariana Hollingsworth led the winning offense with 23 points, including 19 attacks and 4 blocks, followed by Tristin Savage and Chareika Carrión with 16 points each. On the other side, Naranjito’s top scorer was Genesis Collazo, who tallied 23 points, 20 in attacks and 3 in blocks.
The Atenienses now have a 5-1 record with 15 points, while the Changas de Naranjito stand at 2-4 with 6 points.
Manatí outperformed Naranjito in attacks 62-34, digs 75-59, and receptions 41-37. Both teams recorded 4 aces and 12 assists, while Naranjito had a slight edge in blocks 13-12.
In another match, The Cangrejeras de Santurce, led offensively by Mexico-born Andrea Rangel with 26 points, defeated the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (23-25, 25-21, 24-26, 25-20) in the first match of the Metropolitan Cup between the two teams.
Aside from Rangel’s double-digit performance, Santurce also had Gina Prososki, Neira Ortiz, and Helena Grozer with 21, 13 and 11 points respectively. Ortiz had an outstanding defensive night with 9 of the Cangrejeras’ 17 total blocks.
For the Mets de Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham led all scorers with 30 points, all from attacks. Valeria Flores followed with 13 points, while Alejandra Argüello added 11.
Santurce improved to a 2-3 record with 6 points, while Guaynabo remains at 1-3 with 3 points.
Statistically, Santurce led in attacks 56-55, blocks 17-11), and aces 6-4. Guaynabo, however, led in digs 101-75, receptions 42-41 and assists 26-11.
At the Rafael G. Amalbert court in Juncos, the Criollas de Caguas bounced back from an early setback to defeat the Valencianas de Juncos 3-1 (23-25, 26-24, 33-31, 25-23), earning three points.
With the match tied at one set apiece, the Valencianas missed their chance to close out the third set after leading 24-22. A misplay by Caguas’ Kristin Lux on an attack from Zone 2 sent the set into extra points. From there, both teams battled until 31-31, when Lux redeemed herself with a successful attack from Zone 2, followed by a failed attack from Jaylen Hodge, sealing the set for Caguas.
A similar scenario played out in the fourth set. Juncos led 23-20 after Hodge scored freely from Zone 2, seemingly pushing the match to a deciding fifth set. However, Caguas had other plans, mounting a 5-0 run capped off by consecutive blocks from middle blocker Alba Hernández to secure the win.
Caguas had four players in double digits, led by Sofía Victoria with 18 points (15 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace). She was followed by Alba Hernández, Kristin Lux and Stephanie Enright with 15, 14 and 13 points respectively.
Jaylen Hodge was the standout performer for the Valencianas de Juncos with 28 points.
Caguas had the advantage in blocks 13-11 and aces 6-3, while Juncos led in attacks 75-73, digs 91-88, receptions 54-30, and assists 25-21.
With this victory, Caguas now holds a 5-1 record with 15 points, tying Manatí for first place in the standings. Meanwhile, Juncos falls to 1-4 with 3 points.
LVSF action continues on Tuesday, February 4, with a single match as the Valencianas de Juncos visit the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum to face the Mets de Guaynabo at 8:00 PM.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, January 30, 2025.- In Thursday’s action of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League, the Valencianas de Juncos and the Mets de Guaynabo secured their first victory of the season while defending their home court.
At the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum, the Valencianas defeated the Changas de Naranjito with scores of 25-23, 25-19, and 25-18.
In the first set, the last tie occurred at 18-18. After that, a 6-0 run by the Valencianas took them to set point. Elissa Alcántara successfully attacked from zone 4, Adanna Rollins was blocked, and then Naomi Cabello capitalized on an overpass by the Changas. Two aces by Gabby Gonzales, along with another attack from Alcántara, secured the set for Juncos. The home team sealed the set at 25-19 with a key block on Aury Cruz.
In the second set, Juncos reached set point at 24-18 with Alexia Khuel attacking through the middle. They later withstood a late push from the Changas, closing the set with a block by Khuel on Cruz from Naranjito.
The third set was less competitive than the previous ones, also favoring Juncos.
With this victory, the Valencianas improve to 1-3 with 3 accumulated points, while Naranjito remains at 2-3 with 6 points, having failed to add to their tally.
Juncos outperformed Naranjito in blocks (10-5), aces (10-2), and digs (60-52). Meanwhile, the Changas had the edge in attacks (38-37), receptions (38-30), and assists (17-11).
For the Valencianas, the offensive standouts were Jaylen Hodge, Gabby Gonzales, and Adriana Rodríguez with 14, 13, and 10 points, respectively.
For the Changas, Adanna Rollins, Taylor Trammel, and Aury Cruz contributed 13, 11, and 10 points, respectively.
Mets de Guaynabo End Criollas de Caguas’ Undefeated Streak
On a memorable night at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Mets de Guaynabo ended the Criollas de Caguas’ four-game winning streak with a dominant 3-0 victory (25-17, 25-21, 25-20), showcasing their superiority on the court.
Rebecca Latham led Guaynabo with an outstanding performance, scoring 22 points and guiding her team to their first win of the season. On the Criollas’ side, Kristin Lux and Stephanie Enright both reached double digits with 10 points each, but they couldn’t stop the Mets’ momentum.
With this victory, Guaynabo improves to 1-2 and adds 3 points in the standings. Meanwhile, Caguas, which failed to score any points, remains tied for first place with the Atenienses de Manatí, both holding a 4-1 record with 12 points.
The Women’s Superior Volleyball League action continues Saturday, February 1, with three matches:
MANATÍ, Puerto Rico, January 29, 2025. – In the only match on the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) schedule, the Atenienses de Manatí, last season’s runners-up, claimed victory in four sets (25-23, 21-25, 26-24, 25-20) over the defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, at the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum.
With the win, the Atenienses earned three points, improving their record to 4-1 and accumulating 12 points, tying for first place with the Criollas de Caguas, who also have 12 points and four wins but remain undefeated.
Santurce, which did not add any points, now holds a 1-3 record with three accumulated points, remaining in fourth place in the standings.
With the match tied at one set apiece, both teams entered the final stretch of the third set evenly matched. Manatí reached set point first at 24-23 with an ace from Juliana Askew.
After another tie, Manatí sealed the set 26-24 with two consecutive attacks, one from zone four and another through the middle.
Manatí secured the fourth set early, reaching the technical timeout with an 8-4 lead thanks to a block by Kjersti Strong on Andrea Rangel, who attacked from the back row.
For the remainder of the set, the runners-up displayed a highly organized and defensive game. They reached the second technical timeout with a 16-10 lead following a missed serve by the visitors.
The Atenienses arrived at set point with a comfortable 24-16 lead after a service error by Andrea Fuentes and sealed the victory at 25-20 following another service error by the Cangrejeras, this time from Helena Grozer.
The top scorers for the winning team were Karla Santos with 21 points, followed by Tristin Savage and Chareika Carrión with 16 points each, and Kjersti Strong with 15.
For Santurce, Andrea Rangel, Lindsay Stalzer, and Helena Grozer contributed 25, 12, and 11 points, respectively.
Manatí outperformed Santurce in attacks 63 to 45, digs 91 to 86, receptions 54 to 44, aces 5 to 3, and assists 35 to 23. Both teams finished with 11 successful blocks.
LVSF action continues Thursday, January 30, with two matches. The Changas de Naranjito will visit the Valencianas de Juncos at the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, marking the home opener for the Valencianas at 8:30 p.m. Meanwhile, the undefeated Criollas de Caguas will travel to Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum to face the Mets de Guaynabo (0-2, 0 points) at 8:00 p.m.
January 27, 2025.- Volleyball Canada is excited to announce that Dan Lewis will be the senior men’s indoor team head coach.
Most recently Lewis was Canada’s Next Gen coach and is head coach of the professional team, Alterna Stade Poitevin, based in Poitiers, France.
Lewis is originally from Oakville, Ontario and a University of Manitoba graduate. He played professionally in Europe for many years and was a libero for the Canadian National Team until 2016.
He was an assistant coach for Canada’s Men’s National Team, including at the Tokyo Olympics, as well as Next Gen head coach. In 2023, he led Canada to a gold medal at the NORCECA Pan Am Cup and guided the men’s National Excellence Program (NEP), among other achievements.
“I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the athletes and staff involved with Team Canada,” said Lewis. “The international men’s game requires us to continue to grow and pursue execution at its highest level. I look forward to working with everyone towards this common goal.”
Lewis fills the role after the departure of head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo, who guided the team to a Paris 2024 Olympic berth and the quarterfinals of Volleyball Nations League in 2024.
Volleyball Canada men’s indoor high-performance director, Julien Boucher, said: “Dan has worked closely with many top coaches and has gained valuable international experience over the past several years since he retired as a player. He will be a great fit to assume this role and build on what Tuomas and former coach Glenn Hoag accomplished as the team prepares for the World Championships this year and works toward an LA 2028 berth.”
The senior men start the international competitive season in Quebec City at the Centre Videotron for week one of Volleyball Nations League 2025.
Lewis and his family live in the Gatineau, Quebec, area, where the team is based, and he splits his time between France and Canada.
NARANJITO,Puerto Rico, January 26, 2025. – On Sunday night in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), matches concluded in straight sets for the second consecutive evening.
At the legendary Gelito Ortega Court, the Changas de Naranjito returned to the winning path, defeating the Mets de Guaynabo with scores of 25-14, 25-14, and 25-23.
The winning offense was led by Adanna Rollins with 17 points, 15 from attacks and 2 from blocks. She was followed by Genesis Collazo with 15 points and Taylor Trammel with 12.
With the victory, Naranjito improves to 2-2 in this young season, accumulating 6 points, while the Mets de Guaynabo remain winless and no points after two matches.
In the third set, the Mets couldn’t capitalize on a slim 22-20 lead, which quickly disappeared after a 3-0 run by the Changas. The run included an overpass from the Mets that allowed Genesis Collazo to attack effectively against their block to take the lead.
The set saw one more tie before Naranjito blocked Legna Hernández to reach set point, prompting the Mets to call a timeout. On the subsequent play, the Changas secured the win with a powerful attack by Adanna Rollins from position four.
For Guaynabo, their offensive efforts were led by reinforcements Rebecca Latham and Savanna Kjolhede, who scored 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Naranjito outperformed Guaynabo in attacks (40-30), blocks (13-11), aces (3-0), digs (62-59), and assists (21-14). Guaynabo led in receptions (32-23).
Adanna Rollins Changas
Atenienses Secure Back-to-Back Wins
The Atenienses de Manatí handed the Valencianas de Juncos their third loss of the season in as many outings, defeating them at the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum in Manatí with scores of 25-15, 25-22, and 25-18.
Manatí excelled in attacks (41-31), aces (6-0), digs (53-46), and assists (18-13). Juncos led in blocks (4-3) and receptions (36-29).
It was the second consecutive victory for the runner-up Atenienses, who now hold a 3-1 record with 9 points, placing them second in the standings.
The winning offense saw Dariana Hollingsworth and Karla Santos each score 14 points. For Juncos (0-3 and 0 points), Jaelyn Hodge contributed 11 points, all from attacks.
Criollas Stay Undefeated
The Criollas de Caguas delivered another outstanding performance in the blocking department, amassing 10 blocks to secure their fourth win of the season. They remain at the top of the standings after defeating the defending champion, Cangrejeras de Santurce, 3-0 (25-19, 25-15, 25-16) at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum.
With the victory, Caguas has now won 9 consecutive sets after dropping the first set of their second match of the season.
Caguas dominated Santurce in attacks (40-27), blocks (10-4), aces (6-4), digs (72-57), and assists (17-12). Santurce led in receptions (38-20).
The Criollas’ offensive efforts were led by Kristin Lux, Alba Hernández, and Sofía Victoriá, who scored 13, 11, and 10 points, respectively.
For Santurce, no players reached double digits. The team remains with 3 accumulated points and a 1-2 record.
The Women’s Superior Volleyball League action resumes on Wednesday, January 29, when the Cangrejeras de Santurce visit the Atenienses de Manatí at the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum at 8:30 PM.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, January 24, 2025. – At the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Atenienses de Manatí returned to winning ways by spoiling the season opener for the Mets de Guaynabo. Meanwhile, at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the Cangrejeras de Santurce swept the Valencianas de Juncos, and the Criollas de Caguas maintained their undefeated streak, overcoming the Changas de Naranjito at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas.
Atenienses Prevail Over Mets in a Close Match
The Atenienses edged the Mets in straight sets, 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-23), with a balanced offensive effort. Dariana Hollingsworth led the charge with 20 points, including 16 kills, 3 blocks, and one ace. Karla Santos added 15 points to the winning tally.
For the Mets, the top scorers were Rebecca Latham with 16 points, Legna Hernández with 14, and Valeria Flores with 13.
Statistically, Manatí outperformed Guaynabo in digs 73-71, receptions(36-27, aces (5-1), and assists 25-15. The Mets led in attacks 45-44, while both teams recorded 6 blocks each.
The Atenienses now hold a 2-1 record with 6 points, placing them second in the standings. Guaynabo starts their campaign with a 0-1 record and no points.
Defending Champions Cangrejeras Start Strong at Clemente
The Cangrejeras de Santurce, led by Andrea Rangel with 18 points, Gina Prososki with 13, and Helena Grozer with 10, secured a 3-0 victory (26-24, 25-8, 25-20) over the Valencianas de Juncos at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey.
Juncos, now 0-2 with no points, saw Jaelyn Hodge lead their offense with 12 points.
Santurce improved to 1-1 with 3 points and outperformed Juncos in attacks 35-29, blocks 10-5, aces 7-5, and digs 49-44. Juncos led in receptions 20-16 and assists 18-13.
Criollas Stay Undefeated
The Criollas swept the Changas de Naranjito 3-0 (25-10, 25-9, 25-13), dominating with 12 blocks to 4. They also led in attacks 47-20, aces(4-0, digs 75-46, and assists 22-16, earning their third consecutive win of the season.
Offensively, the Criollas were led by Kristin Lux with 19 points, while Alba Hernández and Stephanie Enright added 13 points each. Lux and Hernández contributed 4 blocks each out of the team’s total of 10.
Caguas now holds a 3-0 record with 9 points, leading the standings.
For the Changas, no player reached double digits. They hold a 1-2 record with 3 points.
The action of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League continues Sunday, January 26, with three matches:
Juncos vs. Manatí | 7:00 PM | Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz
Caguas vs. Santurce | 7:00 PM | Coliseo Roberto Clemente
Guaynabo vs. Naranjito | 7:00 PM | Coliseo Gelito Ortega
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, January 22, 2025.- In the only scheduled match of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) this Wednesday, the Changas de Naranjito triumphed on their opening night over the defending champion, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, in four sets (25-21, 25-17, 26-28, 26-24).
With the victory under the guidance of Jamille Torres, the former head coach of the Cangrejeras last season, the Changas secured all three points available from the match, reaching a record of 1-1 and three points. Meanwhile, Santurce sits at 0-1 with no points.
After winning the first two sets, the Cangrejeras pushed to their limit in the third set. Taking advantage of a misdirected back row attack from Naranjito and a successful spike down zone four, they extended the match to an additional set.
In the fourth set, when it seemed Santurce would force a tiebreaker by securing a 23-20 lead, Naranjito adjusted their serve strategy and scored four consecutive points to reach match point first.
The set saw another tie before Santurce committed a serving error, paving the way for American reinforcement Adana Rollins to seal the victory for Naranjito with a decisive attack through zone four.
The Changas had three players in double digits: Adana Rollins with 25 points (21 kills, 2 blocks, and 2 aces), Taylor Trammel with 12 points, and Genesis Collazo with 11 points.
For Santurce, Andrea Rangel and Helena Grozer led with 19 points each, followed by Neira Ortiz with 13 points and Gina Prososki with 10 points.
The Changas outperformed the Cangrejeras in aces (4-3) and assists (26-14). However, Santurce led in kills (56-53), blocks (10-8), digs (97-92), and receptions (49-46).
LVSF action continues this Friday, January 24, with three matches on the schedule:
Naranjito vs. Caguas | 8:00 PM | Coliseo Roger Mendoza
Juncos vs. San Juan | 8:00 PM | Coliseo Roberto Clemente
Manatí vs. Guaynabo | 8:00 PM | Coliseo Mario “Quijote” Morales
January 21, 2025.- Volleyball Canada is pleased to confirm that Giovanni Guidetti will assume the role of head coach of Canada’s women’s senior national team, effective at the beginning of the international season, while Shannon Winzer moves into high-performance director role.
“I always admired and respected the way Canada played volleyball and improved so much in the last years. The number eight in the world ranking is an amazing result and now a great starting point aiming at the Los Angeles Olympic Games. I believe Canada has top level international players and the young generations are very promising, so I am really excited to start this new journey,” said Guidetti.
Guidetti is arguably one of the most successful coaches in women’s volleyball.
Originally from Italy, Giovanni Guidetti has been the head coach of Turkish powerhouse Vakıfbank Spor Kulübü since 2008, transforming the club into one of the most dominant in women’s volleyball. Under his leadership, Vakıfbank has won multiple Turkish League titles, five FIVB Club World Championship golds, and five CEV Champions League titles, including a historic undefeated season.
Internationally, Guidetti most recently led the Serbian National Team to a seventh-place finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics in women’s indoor volleyball. Before that, he guided Türkiye’s women’s national team from 2017 to 2022, where he helped them qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, reaching the quarterfinals, and secured multiple podium finishes in European competitions.
Earlier in his career, Guidetti worked as assistant coach for the Italian National Team between 1997-2000 and participated in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Guidetti coached the Bulgarian team at the 2003 European Championship and the German national team for nearly a decade (2006–2015), earning a World Grand Prix bronze medal, two EuroVolley silver medals, and both gold and silver in the CEV European League. He then took over the Netherlands national team (2015–2017), leading them to a World Grand Prix bronze, a EuroVolley silver, and a fourth-place finish at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
“We’re excited to welcome Giovanni Guidetti as the head coach of our women’s senior national team. Giovanni’s extensive experience and success at the highest levels will be instrumental as we build towards LA 2028. This is an exciting time for Canadian women’s volleyball, and we’re eager to see his impact on the program,” said Shannon Winzer, Volleyball Canada’s new women’s indoor High Performance Director.
The Canadian women’s team will begin their season in June in Ottawa, Ontario, in the first week of Volleyball Nations League.
Guidetti takes over the head coach position from Winzer, who led the team to its highest-ever world ranking of eighth and its most successful finishes at the Volleyball Nations League and World Championships in recent history. Under her leadership, the program achieved historic milestones, narrowly missing qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Kerry MacDonald, Volleyball Canada’s Chief Sport Officer, said: “Shannon Winzer has been a transformative leader for our women’s indoor volleyball program. Under her guidance, the senior national team has seen remarkable growth, but her impact extends far beyond the senior level. Shannon has driven the establishment of a robust development system, ensuring a clear pathway for athletes to reach the highest levels of competition. It’s incredibly exciting to now have her in the role of High Performance Director, where she can continue to shape and strengthen our high-performance pathway for the women’s national team program as we build towards future Olympic success.”
January 21, 2025.- Canadian Volleyball is rewriting its story, with the women’s squad rising as a force in world volleyball, driven by an FIVB Empowerment initiative that has elevated excellence at every level.
The resurgence of the women’s team began in earnest in 2021 when the targeted Empowerment initiative focused on identifying and nurturing young talent through a structured pathway. This effort culminated in the Next Gen program, designed to seamlessly transition emerging talents into the senior national team framework.
Under the leadership of head coach Shannon Winzer, the women’s team began to reach unprecedented milestones. In 2022, they secured their highest-ever finish at the Volleyball Nations League, placing 12th, and went on to achieve a Top 10 finish at the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship. These results were driven by standout performances from players such as Alexa Gray, Kiera Van Ryk and Brie King.
Each player brings a unique story of development and achievement. Alexa Gray, known for her powerful attacks and strategic gameplay, has become a symbol of the team’s aggressive style.
Kiera Van Ryk’s serve, one of the most feared in the international circuit, has turned games in Canada’s favor multiple times, underscoring the technical competence the Empowerment program has cultivated.
Brie King, as the setter, orchestrates the play with a calm precision that has matured significantly under the program’s tutelage.
The momentum was sustained into 2023, proving their consistency at the elite level. The ongoing success has not only solidified Canada’s reputation as an emerging powerhouse in international volleyball but it also inspired a wave of young athletes looking to follow in the footsteps of their current stars.
The women’s volleyball team’s latest achievements are complemented by the accomplishments in beach volleyball, highlighted by Melissa Humana Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson winning a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This monumental success underscored the depth of Canada’s talent in other disciplines and its ability to achieve on the world’s biggest stages.
The men’s volleyball and beach volleyball programs of Canada have also proven that they can compete with the best in the world.
The Empowerment program’s influence on this initiative for the women’s team has been extended as it has unified the volleyball and beach volleyball disciplines under a single framework of success, demonstrating how a strategic and holistic approach can elevate an entire sport. This unified vision has allowed Canada to develop a robust pipeline of talent, ensuring sustained growth and success in the years to come.
MANATÍ, Puerto Rico, January 19, 2025. – In the only scheduled match of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Criollas de Caguas defeated the runner-up Atenienses de Manatí at the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum, 3-1 (18-25, 26-24, 25-23, 25-18).
It was the second win of the season for the team coached by Juan C. Núñez. The Criollas secured all three points from the match, improving to a 2-0 record with 6 points, placing them alone at the top of the standings in this early phase of the season.
The Atenienses, who failed to earn any points, now hold a 1-1 record with 3 points.
In the first set, Manatí dominated at the net and delivered strong serves, securing the set with a block and a strong-willed attack from Ivania Ortiz in zone two, winning 25-18.
Caguas rebounded in the second set. When it seemed like Manatí would seal the set with a 23-20 lead following a block on Stephanie Enright, the visitors rallied for three consecutive points, including a direct service ace by Alba Hernández, tying the set.
Manatí reached set point at 24-23, but the Criollas responded with three straight points to claim the set. Ariana Pagán’s service error, a block on Karla Santos, and her subsequent attack error in zone four gave Caguas the set.
The third set was a tight battle, with the last tie at 22. The Criollas clinched the set point with an attack by Diana Reyes and a block by Alba Hernández on Tristin Savage. They closed the set 25-23 with Sofía Victoriá breaking through the block with an attack in zone two.
Caguas gained momentum in the fourth set, creating a 16-9 lead following a service error by Karla Santos and a back-row attack by Sofía Victoriá that they never hand over.
The Atenienses came as close as 16-18 after a successful block, but Caguas reached set point at 24-17 with a block by Sofía Victoriá, sealing the victory at 25-18 with another attack from Victoriá.
The LVSF action continues on Wednesday, January 22, with two matches: Cangrejeras de Santurce visiting Changas de Naranjito at 8:00 PM at the Gelito Ortega, and Juncos hosting Guaynabo at 8:30 PM.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, January 17, 2025.- While at the Roger Mendoza Court in Caguas, the Criollas de Caguas paid a posthumous tribute to one of their players, Pilar M. Victoriá López, dedicating the season to her and winning in four sets, the Atenienses de Manatí, last season’s runners-up, defeated the Changas de Naranjito in the same number of sets at the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum.
In the Turabo Valley, the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation and the Criollas’ management honored Pilar Marie, who passed away in August 2024 of natural causes in Türkiye. Before the match began, Dr. César Trabanco, president of the FPV, and attorney José Servera presented Pilar’s parents, Luis Ernesto and Pilar Eledys, with a plaque bearing an emotional message.
Criollas de Caguas
Criollas’ Victory
The Criollas secured a 3-1 victory (25-20, 23-25, 25-17, 25-19), claiming all three available points and successfully defending their home court.
In the first set, Caguas used strong serving to disrupt the Valencianas’ reception, securing the set after reaching a 20-16 lead. The set point at 24-16 came from a serving error by Juncos’ Gabby Gonzales, closing the set at 25-20.
In the second set, the Valencianas withstood a late surge from the home team. After leading 17-12, they saw their advantage slip away as the score evened at 20. Nevertheless, Juncos managed to push through to 23 points. The Criollas regrouped in the following two sets to clinch the victory.
After the match, team captain Raymariely Santos shared her thoughts: “Happy with the win. There’s a lot to improve on but starting with a victory gives us the confidence to keep improving and working as a team.”
Caguas had four players scoring in double digits: Kristin Lux with 15 points, followed by Stephanie Enright with 14, Diana Reyes with 11, and Ivania Ortiz with 10. Raymariely Santos contributed 31 assists.
For Juncos, who earned no points, the standouts were Adriana Rodríguez and Gabby Gonzales with 12 points each, along with Jaelyn Hodge’s 11 points. Naomi Cabello tallied 30 assists.
Atenienses Defend Their Olympus
In another match, the Atenienses de Manatí triumphed on their home court, the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum, defeating the Changas de Naranjito in four sets (25-17, 24-16, 25-13, 25-17).
Karla Santos and Tristin Savage led Manatí’s offense with 18 points each, while Génesis Collazo exceled for Naranjito with 13 points.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, January 10, 2025.– In a successful press conference held this Friday, January 10, at the Puerto Rican Olympic Committee, the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV), represented by its president, Dr. Cesar Trabanco, unveiled the exciting details of the 2025 season of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF).
The head table featured Dr. Cesar Trabanco, FPV Secretary Gerardo Negrón, Tournament Director José Servera, Esq., and COPUR President Sara Rosario.
Dr. Cesar Trabanco opened the event by stating: “Undoubtedly, we know the tournament’s quality will be excellent. We are coming off an exceptional men’s tournament, and we expect the women’s tournament to be just as good or even better. We have international players from various countries, not just the United States, with some returning and others making their debut. We are competing with other leagues, but it doesn’t matter, I trust our own. The competition will be healthy and geared toward growth. We will see young talent rising from the first and second generations. We are back on Channel 6 WIPR. Each team will broadcast two games during the regular series, while the Cangrejeras de Santurce will have additional broadcasts for their games”.
This season, the Pinkin de Corozal team will not participate. However, as Tournament Director José Servera highlighted, their players will strengthen other teams.
The participating teams for the 2025 season are, Cangrejeras de Santurce (defending champions); Atenienses de Manatí (2024 runners-up); Valencianas de Juncos; Criollas de Caguas; Changas de Naranjito and Mets de Guaynabo.
Tribute to Pilar Marie Victoriá López
The 2025 season will be dedicated posthumously to Pilar Marie Victoriá López in honor of her brilliant volleyball career. From an early age, Pilar Marie devoted herself with passion and dedication to the sport, establishing herself as one of the most outstanding players of Puerto Rico’s National Team. Her legacy and contributions to Puerto Rican volleyball will always remain in our hearts and be remembered with admiration.
The tribute provided by Pilar’s family highlighted her exceptional abilities as a player and her impact as an extraordinary human being who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
“In Puerto Rico, Pilar Marie excelled with the Criollas de Caguas, one of the island’s most iconic teams, and proudly represented her country in numerous international competitions, including the 2018 Barranquilla Central American Games, the 2019 Pan American Cup in Peru, the 2022 Women’s Volleyball World Championship in the Netherlands and Poland, and the 2023 Pan American Games in San Salvador.
In every tournament, her dedication, joy, and competitive spirit elevated her team and made Puerto Rico proud. She embodied the spirit of camaraderie, resilience, and love for life, reminding us that true triumph lies not only in victory but in the impact we leave on others. Her legacy is not just that of an extraordinary athlete but of a person whose light will continue to inspire young volleyball players to dream, strive, and achieve their goals both on and off the court”.
Pilar Marie’s number will be retired, and all teams will honor her by wearing the number 21 on their uniforms, the number she wore in the LVSF.
Her parents, Pilar López and Luis Victoriá, along with her sister Sofía, expressed their gratitude for the recognition of Pilar Marie. They thanked the FPV and the volleyball community for the tribute, sharing their pride and emotion for the season’s dedication to their daughter.
Expectations for the Season
Each team, represented by its coach and captain, shared their expectations and goals for the 2025 season. The teams emphasized the competitiveness and sportsmanship that characterize the LVSF, promising a season filled with excitement and unforgettable moments.
Calendar Details: 2 back-to-back matches; 4 rounds; 5 matches per round per team; 20 total matches per team; 10 home games and 10 away games per team; 60 total games in the regular series.
The 2025 Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) season will officially begin on Friday, January 17.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, January 6, 2025.- USA Volleyball is proud to announce the appointment of Erik Sullivan as the new head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Sullivan, a seasoned coach with a wealth of experience at the women’s collegiate level, succeeds Karch Kiraly, who led the team to three Olympic medals and a World Championship title. Sullivan takes the reins at a critical time, with the first serve for the 2025 Volleyball Nations League season set to begin on June 4 in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.
The search for the new head coach began with a clear sense of urgency. “With the Women’s National Team season set to begin in less than six months, we knew we had to move quickly but thoughtfully,” said John Speraw, President and CEO of USA Volleyball. “It was critical that we made the right decision, but we also had to act expeditiously to give the new coach enough time to get to know the team, develop a game plan, and integrate seamlessly into the program.”
As part of the hiring process, USA Volleyball prioritized candidates with the unique skillset required to lead at the international level. “The role of National Team head coach is unlike any other coaching position,” Speraw said. “It’s not about recruiting or fundraising—it’s about elite-level strategy, understanding the nuances of international competition, and managing a high-performance environment. We needed someone who could hit the ground running and bring that specific expertise, and Erik was the clear choice.”
Sullivan’s reputation as a master of defensive systems, his ability to develop top-tier talent, and his experience in high-pressure environments made him the ideal candidate to lead the U.S. Women’s National Team. For the past 14 years, he has served as associate head coach at the University of Texas, where he played a pivotal role in guiding the Longhorns to eight NCAA Final Four appearances and three national titles.
“We were also focused on how well the new coach would align with the team’s established dynamics,” Speraw added. “The U.S. Women’s National Team is a close-knit group with a history of collaboration and success. Cultural fit was a non-negotiable factor for us. We needed a coach who could integrate seamlessly into this dynamic and continue to build on the team’s established culture of excellence, and Erik’s coaching philosophy and values align perfectly with that.”
Sullivan brings more than just a proven track record in collegiate volleyball—he has firsthand experience on the international stage. A two-time Olympian, Sullivan represented the U.S. as a libero in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games. His international playing career, which also included stints in professional leagues across Europe and the U.S., has given him a deep understanding of the global volleyball landscape and the demands of international competition.
“I’m honored and excited to take on this new responsibility as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team,” said Sullivan. “Karch Kiraly has left an incredible legacy, and I’m committed to continuing the work he has done with this amazing team. My goal is to build on a strong foundation and create an environment where our athletes can develop to their fullest potential while competing at the highest level. I look forward to working alongside this talented group of athletes as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”
Sullivan served as the team leader for the U.S. Men’s National Team at the last three Olympic Games and has been a consultant coach for the squad for many years. He’s also part of the National Team Development Program Scouting Network for indoor girls. In 2011, he led the U.S. Women’s Junior National Team to a fourth-place finish at the World Championship. His collegiate coaching experience also includes time as an assistant coach at both Nebraska and Colorado.
“I’m thrilled that Erik Sullivan will be the next head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team,” said two-time Olympian Chiaka Ogbogu. “The team will continue its tradition of being led by a world-class coach, and Erik’s experience as an Olympian will be invaluable. The volleyball knowledge I gained from him continues to shape my game, but the leadership lessons he taught me—about upholding a gold-medal standard—are what I’m most grateful for.”
Sullivan will assume the role in preparation for the upcoming international season, with a primary focus on building toward the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. He will work closely with the team and the coaching staff to ensure a smooth transition and continued success on the international stage.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, December 23, 2024.- With the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) set to begin its 2025 season on January 17, the league’s teams are strengthening their rosters and adjusting their strategies for the competition. From international signings to the hiring of renowned coaches, the LVSF promises a season full of excitement and a high level of play.
Cangrejeras de Santurce: Defending Champions
The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, have announced the addition of outstanding American attacker Lindsay Stalzer and the return of star player Helena Grozer. Grozer, who played last tournament under the name Helena Havelková, was a key player for the Cangrejeras’ 2024 championship. During last season, she performed impressively with 297 attacks for points, 51 blocks, 365 passes, 264 defenses and 19 aces.
Stalzer, known for her power and versatility on offense, will bring experience and offensive strength to the team. She has played for several teams outside of Puerto Rico, including:
San Diego Mojo (United States) during the 2023-2024 season
Athletes Unlimited Pro League (United States) for the 2023-2024 season
Apollon Limassol (Cyprus) for the 2022-2023 season
F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (Philippines) for the season 2022-2023
Jakarta BNI46 (Indonesia) in the 2018-2019 season
Petron Blaze Spikers (Philippines) in the 2016-2017 season
Cignal HD Spikers (Philippines) in the 2013-2014 season
Lindsay Stalzer has had a very active international career, playing in various leagues around the world.
In addition, the Cangrejeras have named experienced Spanish coach Pascual Saurín as their new head coach. Saurín brings with him a vast experience of coaching teams in Europe, promising to implement new strategies and tactical approaches to maintain the team’s dominance in the league.
Atenienses de Manatí (Runner-Up): Talent and Promising Youth
The runners-up, Atenienses de Manatí, have signed talented American middle blocker Kjersti Strong. With her impressive height and blocking ability, Strong will be a formidable addition to the team’s defense. During her senior season at Saint Mary’s College in 2023, she was the team’s offensive and defensive leader, racking up 308 attack points and 161 blocks, averaging 1.50 blocks per set.
This is effectively her first experience as a professional player.
Criollas de Caguas: Strengthening the Offense
Criollas de Caguas, one of the most competitive teams in the league, have strengthened their attack with the signing of American attacker Kristin Lux. Lux, known for her consistency and offensive ability, is expected to bring her experience and energy to the team. The Criollas’ management has expressed their enthusiasm for the addition of Lux, confident that her presence will elevate the level of play and help them achieve their goals for the season.
Juncos Valencianas: New Talents and University Promises
Among other notable signings, the Juncos Valencianas are enriched by the arrival of promising college players such as Jaelyn Hodge and Alexia Kuehl. Hodge, coming from the University of Arizona, and Kuehl, from the University of Colorado and Central Florida, are ready to show their talent at the professional level.
Jaelyn Hodge played in 31 matches during her final season at the University of Arizona (2023), leading the team with 309 points and 2.73 points per set. Hodge plays as an outside hitter.
Alexia Kuehl played at the University of Colorado and most recently at the University of Central Florida. In her final season (2024), she excelled in blocking and attacking. Kuehl, a middle blocker, is known for her blocking ability and dominant presence at the net.
Naranjito Changas re-sign Rollins
Changas de Naranjito have reinforced their team with the addition of American Adanna Rollins, who was the second highest scorer in the tournament last year with 416 points (367 attacks, 42 blocks, 7 serves) in 96 sets, averaging 4.33 points per set.
Guaynabo Mets with new coach
The Guaynabo Mets announced in their networks the hiring of María Clara Carvalhaes and Rebecca Latham.
Maria Clara Carvalhaes, born September 28, 2003, is a Brazilian volleyball player who currently plays as a setter for Osasco Volleyball Clube in Brazil. She is known for her precision and speed in the game, and her dynamic and strategic style makes her a key player for her team.
Rebecca Latham, born June 23, 1997, is an American volleyball player who currently plays as an opposite hitter in the Athletes Unlimited Pro League in the United States. Latham is known for her power and versatility, excelling both on the attack and in the front court.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, December 19, 2024. – The Changas de Naranjito roster for the upcoming Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) season, which begins Friday, January 17, features a deep lineup filled with experience and a group of players who play the game the right way. This creates a culture of responsibility and mutual respect.
Jamille Torres Rosario, returning to his hometown to coach women’s volleyball, shared: “When we talk about experience, everyone thinks of Aury. Having her back is essential for us because, in addition to the experience and seriousness she brings to the game, she provides control, something we lacked last year. But aside from this great veteran, we have players like Génesis Castillo, Jennymar Santiago, and Stephanie ‘Bebi’ Salas, who also bring emotional stability. This year, we’ll have Génesis Collazo from the start of the season, one of the best opposite hitters on the team. Young talent can’t be overlooked either; we have promising players like Kiaraliz Pérez and Andrea Serra, who had a great season last year, and we hope she can improve even more this year.”
Torres Rosario, who previously led the Changas in 2021, has been focusing these past weeks on the physical and technical aspects of the players to ensure they’re ready for the next phase of preparation. Along with the coaching staff, they’ve also been working on finalizing the official team roster.
Jamille Torres
Proud to Return Home
How did your return to lead the Changas in your hometown come about, and how does it feel? “Well, Hec Rivera and I have been friends for years and have worked together at the BMA for a long time. When we were approached about managing the team, he asked me if we should do it together, and I didn’t hesitate to say yes. Coaching in Naranjito is special; you feel that unique love from the people who have watched you grow. Coaching for my hometown is always a big deal. I was a fan, just like the people of my town, and I know the great responsibility that comes with wearing a jersey that represents volleyball in NARANJITO.”
Rollins Returns to the Changas
For this season, Naranjito has already signed its first of three reinforcements: American Adanna Rollins. Regarding this, Jamille elaborated: “I think the fact that teams will have three reinforcements raises the league’s level significantly since any team strengthens with these additions, making it a highly competitive tournament. We’ve already signed Adanna Rollins, who was a champion with the Pinkin and last year’s second-highest scorer in the tournament. We hope she can repeat that performance. We’ve also signed a high-level setter with NCAA experience, who we’ll announce in the coming days. We’re recruiting a middle blocker as our third reinforcement. For us, it’s crucial to make the right choices with our reinforcements to achieve success. This evaluation will be done carefully because it could be the key to our success.”
Currently, the Changas practice on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. With the Christmas holidays approaching, changes to the schedule are expected. On holidays, practices will be held earlier. Regarding this plan, Torres concluded: “When you look at the calendar, you think there are three or four weeks left until the season starts, but when you have the holidays, we’re just around the corner from the start of the season.”
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, December 17, 2024.- USA Volleyball is embarking on an exciting new chapter as legendary coach and three-time Olympic gold medalist Karch Kiraly announces two key additions to the U.S. Men’s National Team coaching staff. Luka Slabe and Javier Weber will join Kiraly in his quest for Olympic success at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
The announcement comes just ahead of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Convention, where both Kiraly and Slabe will lead educational sessions for coaches and volleyball professionals.
“We are fortunate to have these two good men and great coaches join our program,” Kiraly said. “My mission is to help this team play this game better than it has ever played it before. Both Luka and Javi embody that pursuit of excellence—through their passion, expertise, drive to help others, and strong work ethic. They will be indispensable as we aim to set new standards on the road to LA28.”
Luka Slabe: A Return to USA Volleyball
Slabe, who returns to USA Volleyball after five successful years as head coach of the NC State women’s volleyball team, previously worked with Kiraly as an assistant coach on the U.S. Women’s National Team from 2018-2021. There, he played an integral role in the team’s historic achievements, including three consecutive Volleyball Nations League titles and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medal—the first in U.S. women’s volleyball history.
During his tenure at NC State, Slabe led the Wolfpack to a 78-55 overall record and a 50-39 record in ACC play.
“Luka’s coaching prowess and passion were key to our staff’s success in securing the first-ever Olympic gold medal for the U.S. Women’s Team,” Kiraly said. “When I think about the people I’d want on our side in battle, there’s nobody better. His experience at the highest level, combined with his time as head coach of a European men’s national team, will be invaluable in our pursuit of mastery.”
A native of Ljubljana, Slovenia, Slabe played as an outside hitter for BYU from 2000-03, contributing to the Cougars’ 2001 NCAA Division I-II Men’s National Collegiate Championship title. After graduating, he played professionally in Europe before transitioning to coaching in 2008. From 2008-15, Slabe coached four different European men’s pro teams and spent two years as head coach of the Slovenian men’s national team. He also served as an assistant coach with the BYU men’s volleyball team from 2015-18.
“I am thrilled to be back with Karch and USA Volleyball,” Slabe said. “My family and I have incredible memories from our journey with the Women’s National Team and the Tokyo Olympics. I am ready and excited to conquer all the challenges ahead of our Men’s National Team, leading to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.”
Javier Weber: Continuing His Legacy with U.S. Men’s National Team
Weber, a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, returns for his fourth season with the U.S. Men’s National Team after joining in 2022 under head coach John Speraw. During Weber’s time with the team, the U.S. Men earned two silver medals in the Volleyball Nations League and a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
A former Olympic medalist and setter for Argentina, Weber represented his country in three Olympic Games, winning a bronze medal in 1988. His distinguished playing career also included five World Championships, as well as successful stints in professional leagues in Argentina and Italy.
“Javi has earned exceptional praise from players and staff alike for the huge impact he’s had on the men’s program since joining in 2022,” Kiraly said. “In the past few months, I’ve gotten to know much more about Javi and his innovative volleyball concepts – the more I learn, the more I like and respect. It was imperative to secure his involvement for another Olympic cycle.”
With extensive professional coaching experience, Weber began his coaching career in 2002 with Brazilian club Unisul. He has since coached several teams internationally, including Indykpol AZS Olsztyn in Poland, Panathinaikos Athens in Greece, Bolívar Voley in Argentina, and Dynamo Krasnodar in Russia. He served as head coach of the Argentine men’s national team from 2009-13 and is currently the head coach of the JT Thunders Hiroshima in Japan.
“It’s a great honor to continue as coach in this incredible family that is USAV,” Weber said. “I am very excited to work with Karch in this huge challenge that is Los Angeles 2028. All together everything is possible. Let’s go, USA!”
The Road to LA28
The U.S. Men’s National Team will kick off the 2025 season in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from June 11-15 for the first round of the Volleyball Nations League. Under the leadership of Kiraly, Slabe and Weber, the team will continue its pursuit of excellence on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
December 17, 2024.- The first matchups of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, the highlight of next year’s international calendar, were determined on Friday in Bangkok, when the Drawing of Lots for the event was held.
The 32 qualified teams that will compete in Thailand from August 22 to September 7 were split into eight pools of four for the start of the tournament:
Pool A: Thailand, Netherlands, Sweden, Egypt in Bangkok Pool B: Italy, Belgium, Cuba, Slovakia in Phuket Pool C: Brazil, Puerto Rico, France, Greece in Chiang Mai Pool D: USA, Czechia, Argentina, Slovenia in Nakhon Ratchasima Pool E: Türkiye, Canada, Bulgaria, Spain in Nakhon Ratchasima Pool F: China, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Mexico in Chiang Mai Pool G: Poland, Germany, Kenya, Vietnam in Phuket Pool H: Japan, Serbia, Ukraine, Cameroon in Bangkok
Having Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket and Chiang Mai as the host cities, pool play will determine the 16 national teams that will advance to the knockout rounds – the top two sides in each pool move forward. Starting in the Round of 16, the single-elimination phases will all be held in Bangkok.
The 2025 World Championship will be the first in the ‘new era’ of the tournament. Starting in this edition, the tournament will be held biannually and will have an expanded field, featuring 32 national teams per gender.
MANAGUA, Nicaragua, December 15, 2024. – On the fifth and final day of competition, Costa Rica defeated Nicaragua 3-1 (25-15, 21-25, 25-15, 26-24) to claim the title as undefeated champions in the inaugural Central American “Invitational” U15 Girls’ Volleyball Championship, held at the Volleyball Gymnasium of the Nicaraguan Sports Institute (IND).
Costa Rica finished the event with a perfect 5-0 record, Belize secured second place with a 4-1 record, and El Salvador took third place with a 3-2 record.
Guatemala finished in fourth place with a 1-4 record, while Honduras closed the competition in fifth place without any victories in five matches.
Costa Rica
In other matches played on the final day, Belize defeated Guatemala 3-0 (25-14, 25-16, 25-20) and El Salvador 3-0 (25-15, 25-23, 25-12).
During the awards ceremony, the following individual recognitions were presented:
Sofía Quesada of Costa Rica, MVP and Second Best Spiker
Kelliany Rodriguez of Costa Rica, Best Setter
Emaun Marin of Belice, First Best Spiker and Best Scorer
Charlotte Martínez of Costa Rica, First Best Blocker
Gabriela Salter of Nicaragua, Second Best Blocker
Adriana Vargas of El Salvador, Best Opposite
Kimberly Silva of Nicaragua, Best Digger and Best Libero
Jamielee Espejo of Belice, Best Service and Best Receiver
MANAGUA, Nicaragua, December 14, 2024.- Costa Rica triumphed in a hard-fought battle against Belize, winning 3-0 (26-24, 25-19, 25-23) to move within reach of the championship at the inaugural U15 Central American “Invitational” Girls’ Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at the Volleyball Gymnasium of the Nicaraguan Sports Institute (IND).
With this victory, Costa Rica secured its fourth consecutive win, having previously defeated Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
Costa Rica are now preparing to conclude their participation in grand style, taking on hosts Nicaragua this Sunday at 6:00 p.m.
In another intense match, El Salvador overcame Guatemala 3-1 (25-9, 25-23, 21-25, 25-10) to stay in contention for a medal. This marked El Salvador’s third victory, along with one loss. El Salvador has defeated Nicaragua and Guatemala but fell to Costa Rica.
Nicaragua also delivered a standout performance, remaining in the hunt for a podium finish after defeating Honduras 3-0 (25-9, 25-17, 25-14).
The final day of competition features a pending match between Guatemala and Belize at 8:00 a.m. Additionally, Belize will face El Salvador at 2:00 p.m., and Guatemala will take on Honduras at 4:00 p.m.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 14, 2024.- Panama’s opposite hitter Víctor Pérez was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the XV AFECAVOL U19 Central American Men’s Volleyball Championship, the final official tournament of 2024 in the region.
Pérez was one of the tournament’s top scorers, finishing with 26 points in the championship match against Guatemala. He led Panama to a historic title, breaking a nearly 40-year drought after falling short in the finals in 1986 and 1996, where they earned silver medals.
The best players
The Panamanian standout Víctor Pérez was also the tournament’s Top Scorer and the Second Best Spiker.
Guatemala’s players also excelled, with Santiago Mena earning the Best Server award, Josué González recognized as the Best Receiver, and Christian Álvarez as the Second Best Blocker.
From Belize, Lawrence Mahler was named the Best Setter, while Orion Butler claimed the award for Best Blocker. David Garbutt was recognized as the Best Digger and Best Libero.
Nicaragua’s Devin Hooker received the award for Best Opposite, while Costa Rica’s Ignacio Morales was named the Best Spiker.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 14, 2024.- Panama overcame a tough challenge, battling through a dramatic five-set match to defeat Guatemala 3-2 (13-25, 25-19, 32-30, 14-25, 15-10), and claim an undefeated championship title in the XV AFECAVOL U19 Central American Men’s Volleyball Championship.
With this victory, Panama stamped its name as champions in the category for the first time. Previously, Panama had earned two silver medals in 1986 and 1996, and two bronze medals in 2009 and 2017.
Second Place
The top three places of the tournament were confirmed with Panama finishing at the top with a perfect 6-0 record. Costa Rica took second place with a 5-1 record, while Guatemala secured third with a 4-2 finish.
Panama had to dig deep and remain composed against a formidable Guatemalan team that led in blocking, earning 22 points to Panama’s 9.
Despite this, Panama was more effective in attack points 49-45 and service points 11-7, though they gave away 35 unforced errors compared to Guatemala’s 30.
Third place
Victor Pérez led Panama’s offense with an impressive 26 points, supported by Víctor Araúz with 17. For Guatemala, Omar Mendoza and Christian Álvarez each scored 16 points.
After securing the championship, Panama’s head coach Horacio Angulo said: “We knew it would be a tough match against Guatemala, but we made the necessary adjustments and secured the title. Guatemala gave us a hard time in the first set, but the team stayed calm and focused”.
Meanwhile, Guatemala’s head coach Luis Castañeda reflected: “We never give up on a match. Guatemala is known for its fighting spirit and determination, regardless of the opponent. We leave with a sense of pride; things didn’t go as we hoped, but third place is still a good result”.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 14, 2024.- El Salvador triumphed in a hard-fought battle against Nicaragua, winning 3-2 (17-25, 25-20, 16-25, 25-22, 21-19) to claim fourth place in the XV AFECAVOL U19 Central American Men’s Volleyball Championship.
This match marked the conclusion of the tournament, with El Salvador finishing in fourth place with a 3-3 win-loss record, while Nicaragua settled for fifth with a 2-4 record.
El Salvador maintained composure during crucial moments, leveraging their offensive edge to outscore Nicaragua 66-55 in attacks and leading slightly in blocks, 11-10.
Rafael Vargas ESA
Nicaragua failed to capitalize on the 38 unforced errors committed by El Salvador, while committing only 22 themselves.
Rafael Vargas led El Salvador’s offense with an impressive 38 points, supported by Lorenzo Sánchez with 11. For Nicaragua, Devin Hooker stood out with 20 points.
After the match, Rafael Vargas, captain of El Salvador, shared: “For us, this experience helps us improve. We wanted to be on the podium, but it wasn’t possible. We managed to win a very tough match against Nicaragua, and the key to victory was our focus, we never lost concentration throughout the game. Above all, we thank God for being with us”.
On the other side, Félix Palacios, captain of Nicaragua, reflected: “We gave our best on the court. Overall, we made too many mistakes and couldn’t secure crucial sets. We got confused at times, but these things happen. All we can do is learn from our mistakes and keep training to do better next time”.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 14, 2024.- Belize wrapped up the XV AFECAVOL U19 Central American Men’s Volleyball Championship with a 3-1 (21-25, 25-23, 25-21, 25-22) victory over El Salvador in the opening match of the event’s final day.
With this result, Belize secured sixth place with a 1-5 win-loss record, while Honduras finished in seventh place without a single victory in the tournament.
Securing the win wasn’t easy for Belize, as they had a shaky start with Honduras showing greater effectiveness early on. However, Belize made the necessary adjustments and, thanks to improved blocking, managed to neutralize their opponent’s momentum.
In the end, Belize led in attack points 54-39 and blocking 15-7. They committed 39 unforced errors compared to Honduras’ 22, while Honduras had the advantage in service points 6-4.
For Belize, Hayden Requena stood out with 19 points in attack, while Nelson Valladares led Honduras with 13 points.
After the victory, Belize’s head coach Yamill Herrera said: “It was a very challenging tournament for us, as we couldn’t find a way to win until the final match. Against Honduras, we delivered a stable performance. Our tactical serving worked well with our blocking, and that was the key to our success in the match”.
Meanwhile, Honduras head coach Carlos Funez reflected: “We have to keep working hard. At times, the players looked good during matches, but then their performance dropped. The mental aspect greatly affected our decision-making in key moments. We need to continue working hard for future events.”
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 13, 2024. – Panama defeated El Salvador 3-0 (25-17, 25-14, 25-17) and is just one step away from securing the title at the XV AFECAVOL U19 Central American Men’s Volleyball Championship, achieving their fifth consecutive win in the tournament.
Panama holds a 5-0 win-loss record with 23 points, placing them in second position. To clinch the championship, they must prevail in their final match against Guatemala on the seventh and final day of the tournament.
Currently, Costa Rica leads the standings with a 5-1 record and 25 points, while Guatemala sits in third place with a 4-1 record and 19 points.
In their match against El Salvador, Panama faced little resistance on their way to victory, outperforming their opponent in attack points 30-29, in blocks 8-4, and service aces 5-0. They also committed fewer unforced errors, conceding 15 points compared to El Salvador’s 32.
Panama’s best attacker was Víctor Pérez, who scored 14 points, while Víctor Araúz contributed 10. For El Salvador, Rafael Vargas finished with 10 points.
Reflecting on the win, Panama’s head coach, Horacio Angulo, said: “In our final match, we’ll face a very experienced team like Guatemala. It won’t be an easy game, but we’ll stick to what has worked for us so far. We knew El Salvador would try to complicate things in the first set, every team has tried to do that, but we made the necessary adjustments in some positions, and it worked.”
El Salvador’s head coach, Guillermo Polanco, commented: “We had a very poor performance in serving and receiving. That said, in this match, we gave an opportunity to a couple of very young players, and they performed quite well. Now we’ll fight for fourth place, and we’ll do it with dignity to secure that position.”
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