Costa Rica one step away from the title by defeating Panama in straight sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 10, 2023 – Costa Rica had no trouble defeating Panama 3-0 (25-13, 25-10, 25-18) on the fifth day of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup at the Alexis Arguello Sports Complex.

It was Costa Rica’s fifth consecutive victory, as they took an early lead in each set, thanks to their serving that troubled Panama’s reception and reduced their attack.

Costa Rica led 40-17 in attacks, 4-3 in blocks, and both teams scored 5 service points. Costa Rica scored 26 points from Panama’s errors and gave away 16.

Tamara Rodríguez and Marcela Araya each scored 12 points for Costa Rica, while Hashlyn Cuero scored nine for Panama.

Costa Rica will rest on Monday, and Panama will face Guatemala at 4:00 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA 

QUOTES

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “Satisfied with this match, we told the players that it was a match to minimize errors and capitalize on our strengths, and fortunately, they were very focused on that. Now, we have the final push, and we are prepared for that last match”.

María José Castro, libero for Costa Rica: “We are happy; every match is tough, and every team has its strengths, and we must get stronger each time for the goal. We must stay very focused because it can slip away from us by a small margin. We have players from different generations, and we are quite united both on and off the court; we support each other, and together we all play well”.

Honduras remains undefeated against a determined Panama

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 9, 2023 – Honduras had to push themselves to the limit to overcome Panama 3-0 (25-23, 25-23, 28-26) on the fourth day of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Central American Cup.

Honduras, with a 3-0 win-loss record started each set coming from behind. In the second set, Honduras bounced back from a 15-20 deficit with an eight-point streak that Panama couldn’t control. Panama couldn’t finish strong, and their opponents capitalized on the experience of their players to win the match.

In the third set, Panama had two set points, but Honduras responded with strong defense and attacks from one of their best players, Ana Gabriela Marcelín, who finished with 17 points, including four blocks, and Cecille Johnson with 10. For Panama, Hashlyn Cuero scored 11 points.

Panama outperformed Honduras in attacks 32-20 and service points 9-7 but was down 3-7 in blocks, however, Panama committed 34 unforced errors compared to Honduras’ 28.

On Sunday, Panama faces Costa Rica at 1:30 p.m., and Honduras takes on Belize at 4:00 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Marcos Sugiyama, coach of Honduras: “Panama’s approach is very strong, and we let our guard down, which is something we cannot do. We were playing at a high level of volleyball, and we let our guard down, which caused us many problems. It’s necessary to fight, despite fatigue, and we got the victory. Tomorrow, we face another battle, and the truth is that every day feels like a final. The girls’ reaction today was good because it’s not easy to always play from behind on the scoreboard and come back to win”.

Andrea Zuñiga, libero of Honduras: “I think we came in a bit overconfident; it was noticeable that Panama was eager to win. They played a great game, defending and attacking everything. I think it was a very tough game, and I felt bad at one point due to the heat and pressure, but my teammate came in and did a great job as well. Today’s lesson was not to be overconfident and not underestimate any team”.

Costa Rica unstoppable as they defeat Guatemala

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 9, 2023 – Costa Rica’s national team secured their fourth consecutive victory as after defeating Guatemala 3-0 (25-17, 30-28, 25-19) on Saturday at the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Central American Cup.

For Guatemala, it was their fourth consecutive defeat, still without any wins, despite putting up a fight in all sets, as seen in the second set where they had three set points. However, Costa Rica managed to finish strong and take the set, which gave them greater confidence heading into the third.

Marcela Araya continues to be a key player for the Costa Rican team, this time scoring 13 points, and Tatiana Sayles added 10. For Guatemala, María García contributed 13 points.

Costa Rica led in attacks 38-30, blocks 8-5, and service points 5-3. Additionally, they benefited from 29 unforced errors by their opponents while committing 26 themselves.

On Sunday, Costa Rica will face Panama at 1:30 p.m., and Guatemala will go up against Nicaragua at 6:30 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “When it’s Central America, it’s a different tournament for Costa Rica. All the opponents prepare to beat us, and we take it as a big challenge. We prepare so that each player is ready to play her role, and today, what I appreciate is that we had a better start than in the previous match”.

Julissa Rodríguez, middle blocker of Costa Rica: “We are super happy, but it’s thanks to the teamwork that both the coaching staff and we have been doing. In reality, we haven’t won anything yet; we still have games to go, and we need to keep working as we have been and show what we know how to do with the goal we’ve set for ourselves”.

Belize overcomes a resilient Panama

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 8, 2023 – Belize struggled to defeat Panama 3-0 (25-19, 28-26, 25-21) and secure their second victory in the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup.

Panama fought hard in each set but failed to finish strongly, and Belize capitalized on their strong serving and net presence to secure the result, also taking advantage of their opponents’ errors.

Panama led in attacks 42-30 and in serves 7-6, but they committed 37 unforced errors, while Belize committed 15 and led in blocks 5-2.

Nelissa Ramírez was Belize’s top scorer with 11 points, while Hashlyn Cuero scored 12 for Panama.

On Saturday, Panama (0-2) faces Honduras (2-0) at 4:00 p.m., and Belize (2-1) has the day off.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

José Fontes, coach of Belize: “To be honest, I’m not very happy with the game; there are things we need to improve, and today we weren’t very effective. We also gave playing time to some non-regular players; our main setter is injured, and we wanted to see if she was fit to continue in the tournament. We need to keep improving to have more options in the tournament”.

Clara Sabal, libero of Belize: “I feel like we fought hard, and I’m glad that we were able to close the match in the end. We made many minor mistakes between the sets, but I’m glad that our team could come together and finish with the victory. I think we underestimated Panama, and that tends to happen a lot, so it was good that we decided to work hard, and I think our defense and reception were the best”.

Jenny Madrid, coach of Panama: “This is a process in which we go step by step, and we have made progress. We lack preparation and exposure, and as we progress in the tournament, we will improve. Today, we made some adjustments, and they worked; we kept the opponent under control, but in the closings, we couldn’t make the points”.

Costa Rica struggles to overcome El Salvador in four sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 8, 2023 – Costa Rica had to use its best weapons to defeat El Salvador 3-1 (27-29, 25-18, 25-22, 25-19) and maintain its undefeated record in three matches at the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup.

Led by an effective Marcela Araya with 22 points, Costa Rica bounced back after losing the first set to a resilient Salvadoran team that showed great defense.

For the rest of the match, Araya was joined by Tamara Espinoza and Tatiana Sayles, who scored 14 and 10 points respectively, to lead Costa Rica 54-37 in attacks and 9-3 in blocks, five of them by María Alfaro.

For El Salvador, Gabriela Funes scored 14 points, and María Jiménez Hunter added 10. El Salvador was better in service 6-4 but conceded 35 points on errors, while Costa Rica committed 42.

On Saturday, Costa Rica (3-0) plays against Guatemala (0-3) at 1:30 p.m., and El Salvador (1-2) will face Nicaragua (1-1) at 6:30 p.m.

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QUOTES

Tamara Espinoza, standout player for Costa Rica: “I’m very happy to contribute to my team; we are quite united. All the effort is not luck, it’s not a coincidence; it’s pure determination and effort that we’ve given throughout the year. I hope to keep improving for my team and because of my team. We are fortunate to have several players who, no matter what, will contribute on the court”.

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “The good thing about a team is that we all complement each other, and everyone adds to the team, but it was a very difficult match. El Salvador played very well; they taught us not to enter passively against any opponent. If there was something we had to learn today, it is very clear to us”.

Carmen Chávez, libero of El Salvador: “We always play with our hearts; every game we go in with the expectation of winning it. We put in the effort to obtain each victory, and that leads us to improve our attitude and show determination. We all contribute together, and each one does what we must do on the court. For us, losing 1-3 doesn’t disappoint us that much because Costa Rica is a great rival, and we hadn’t won a set against them in a long time”.

Honduras defeats Guatemala in straights sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 8, 2023 – Honduras secured their second victory of the tournament by defeating Guatemala 3-0 (25-11, 25-23, 25-19) to tart the third day of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup.

Cecille Johnson led Honduras to victory with 12 points, scoring eight in the first set and four in the second when she had to leave the match due to a knee injury. However, middle blocker Ana Gabriela Marcelín contributed 9 points, and opposite hitter Dazly Durán added eight. For Guatemala, outside hitter María Santa Cruz scored 10 points.

Honduras held the advantage with a 30-26 lead in attacks, 7-4 in blocks, and 5-3 in service, with 33 points from unforced errors by their opponents compared to 20 committed.

On Saturday, Guatemala, that has no wins in three outings, faces Costa Rica at 1:30 p.m., and Honduras takes on Panama at 4:00 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Dazly Durán, standout player for Honduras: “We feel excited, euphoric because we have two consecutive victories, and we hope to get into form for the upcoming tough matches. We must improve; we have the toughest games at the end, that’s why these early matches should help us fine-tune our team play. In the third set, we felt a bit discouraged due to Cecille’s (Johnson) injury, but we hope to have her back tomorrow”.

María Alvarez, captain of Guatemala: “Honestly, it has been a quite challenging tournament for us. We don’t know what’s happening; we didn’t expect these results in these matches. We came well-prepared, but I think fear of making mistakes got to us. We’ve been there, we’ve been close to winning sets, but they slipped away from us. We’re still standing, and we must keep going. We trained a lot for this, for a whole year, put in a great effort, the sets are there, but we need that final push”.

Costa Rica beats Nicaragua to remain undefeated

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 7, 2023 – Costa Rica prevailed over Nicaragua 3-1 (25-22, 16-25, 25-16, 25-23) to secure their second victory in the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup.

In a highly significant match to reach the top spot in the tournament and a rivalry from many years, both teams came out determined, but it was Costa Rica who took the first step by gaining an advantage thanks to their excellent serving and blocking, especially against Nicaragua’s outside hitters.

Costa Rica was better in blocking with an 8-2 advantage, while Nicaragua took the lead in attacks with 51-48. They tied in 5 blocking points, but Nicaragua conceded 30 points on unforced errors, compared to 26 from Costa Rica.

Opposite hitter Tatiana Sayles led Costa Rica with 19 points, including 15 attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while Marcela Araya contributed 15 points, including 14 attacks and one block. For Nicaragua, Lolette Rodríguez scored 14 points, with 12 attacks, one block, and one ace, joined by Juny Aguilera with 13 points, including 12 attacks and one direct serve.

On Friday, Costa Rica will face El Salvador at 4:00 p.m., and Nicaragua has a break.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “We knew Nicaragua wanted the victory just like us; the matches are always very tough. This game felt like a five-setter because it was so intense. They came out to give it their all, but we also have experience, determination, and the tactical plan to stand our ground”.

Tatiana Sayles, top scorer of Costa Rica: “All games are important, but this one is even more so because Nicaragua thrives when they play at home, their fans support them a lot, and they are very tenacious. We wanted to come and give our best, and we achieved this crucial win”.

René Quintana, coach of Nicaragua: “I am proud of the girls’ efforts. Sometimes, the winner isn’t necessarily the one who plays better or does things better, but the one who is luckier, and today, Costa Rica had luck on their side”.

Honduras comes from behind to defeat El Salvador in four sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 7, 2023 – Honduras recovered from losing the first set to defeat El Salvador 3-1 (19-25, 25-18, 25-16, 25-23) with a victorious debut in the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup.

El Salvador started strong and confidently, taking the lead from the beginning against an unadjusted Honduras. But in the second set, Honduras regrouped and based on tactical work with their serves and effective blocking, turned the game around despite the efforts of their opponents.

Honduras led in attacks 40-39, blocks 7-3, and serves 10-6. Honduras made 34 errors compared to El Salvador’s 37.

Cecille Johnson was Honduras’ top scorer with 17 points, Ana Gabriela Marcelin scored 15, and Dazly Durán added 11. For El Salvador, Adriana Flores contributed 16 points, and María Jiménez Hunter finished with 12.

On Friday, Honduras will face Guatemala at 1:30 p.m., and El Salvador will take on Costa Rica at 4:00 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Marcos Sugiyama, coach of Honduras: “The decision-making to change the attitude after the first set was important, we were very dry in the beginning, but things settled down, and from there, we could see that we could grow. The basics worked, and what we trained paid off”.

Bessy Inestrosa, captain of Honduras: “El Salvador is a very tenacious team, and it was a very complicated game, but thank God it went in our favor. The spirit played an important role in our comeback”.

Andrea Genova, coach of El Salvador: “In the morning, we had the injury of our starting libero, which forced us to make adjustments that didn’t work out in the end. It also affected us that we won the first set and then relaxed; I think that was crucial. We lost some discipline due to overconfidence, but tomorrow we have a tougher match, and we need to focus”.  

Belize recovers ground after defeating Guatemala 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 7, 2023 – Belize defeated Guatemala 3-0 (25-20, 25-22, 25-22), securing their first victory after a loss in the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup at the Alexis Argüello Sports Complex.

For both teams, a win was crucial after losing on day one of the competition, and a second defeat would reduce their podium chances; it was team Belize who took advantage of the opportunities, especially with Nelissa Ramírez scoring 18 points and Nisaan Martínez with 10. María Santa Cruz was the top scorer for Guatemala with 14 points.

In the third set, with the score at 20-18 in favor of Guatemala, starting setter Avianka Ávila suffered an ankle injury that forced her out of the game, and Ayana Godfrey had to step in. Together with her teammates, they rallied to turn the score around and secure the set and the match.

Belize was better in attacks (35-30) and blocks 8-1 (with three from Martínez), while Guatemala led in service points (5-4). Both teams made 28 unforced errors.

On Friday, Guatemala, with two losses, will face Honduras at 1:30 p.m., and Belize will take on Panama at 6:30 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

José Fontes, coach of Belize: “After Guatemala’s defeat yesterday against El Salvador and despite some of our players having little preparation, we told them that we had to step onto the court with character and determination, with the desire to win because it was within reach. In the end, we had the situation with the setter, but the substitute player did the job, and we achieved an important victory that makes us think about bigger things”.

Avianka Avila, setter of Belize: “I am very proud of my team. We really worked hard, and it was a great improvement from yesterday. They really managed to take Guatemala out of the game. After the injury, the last two points were very exciting. I was frustrated because this was not the time to get injured, but I am very happy that my team had my support from the bench and could pull away on the scoreboard”.

Nicaragua starts with a straight set victory over Panama

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 6, 2023 – Nicaragua showed dominance in their debut by defeating Panama 3-0 (25-14, 25-19, 25-15) in the conclusion of the first day of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup at the Alexis Argüello Sports Complex.

Nicaragua led in attacks 41-16 and blocks 5-3, with Panama taking the advantage in serves 6-2, but committed 27 unforced errors compared to 23 by their opponents.

Lolette Rodríguez and Fernanda Campos each scored 7 points for Nicaragua, while Hashlyn Cuero contributed 7 points for Panama.

On Thursday, Nicaragua will face Costa Rica at 6:30 p.m., while Panama has a rest day.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

René Quintana, coach of Nicaragua: “It’s always good to start with a win. We played against a Panama team that pushed us to tighten up at times, but the important thing is that we came out with the victory. I believe that in some parts of the game, the girls adapted to the opponent’s style of play, and that’s not good. We used the technical timeouts to make some adjustments, and they reacted positively”.

Erica Calero, captain of Nicaragua: “I think there are many things to tune up as the tournament progresses, but tomorrow, we have a tougher match (against Costa Rica). One key is to communicate a bit more because sometimes during the game, we lack that support and encouragement that we all need to give each other”.

Jenny Madrid, coach of Panama: “This is a team that is starting a process with a mix of veterans and under-23 juniors, and it will take some time to blend and achieve our objectives. It has been a couple of long days, and the idea is that as the tournament goes on, we will improve, especially in the technical aspect”.

Hashlyn Cuero, captain of Panama: “It was a long journey we made, but despite that, we came here very willing to compete. We are clear about the work we came to do here. As the days go by, we hope to improve because it’s a young team, and we have some experienced players”.

El Salvador strong over Guatemala

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 6, 2023 – El Salvador showed its strength in its debut by defeating Guatemala 3-0 (25-14, 26-24, 25-15) in the second match of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup at the Alexis Argüello Sports Complex.

After being dominant in the first set, El Salvador recovered from a deficit of up to 4 points at the start of the second set and fought until the end when they won the set 26-24 thanks to their counterattacks on a solid defense. In the third set, it was a complete dominance that allowed them to add five points to their standings.

El Salvador led in attacks 20-14 and serves 6-4, while both teams 5 points on blocks. Guatemala committed 45 errors compared to the winners’ 30.

María Hunter, Gabriela Funes, and Marcela Soriano each finished with 7 points for El Salvador. For Guatemala, María García scored 5 points.

This Thursday, Guatemala will face Belize at 1:30 p.m., and El Salvador will play against Honduras at 4:00 p.m.

El Salvador celebrates scoring a point

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

QUOTES

Andrea Genova, coach of El Salvador: “We started with a good match; Guatemala is a strong opponent who wanted to start well, and it turned out to be a good match. We managed to execute everything we practiced in the final phase of our preparation for this tournament. We need to improve our rest management since it’s a long tournament, and we must pace ourselves well. The team that is better physically prepared will excel in the crucial final games”.

Adriana Flores, captain of El Salvador: “We have been preparing for a year and a half, and this tournament was our main goal. We have a team that has been playing together for several years, and team synergy helped us a lot today. We knew how to play against Guatemala; we implemented the strategies planned by our coaches, and that helped us secure a convincing 3-0 win”.

Julio Dominguez, Guatemala’s assistant coach: “We faced a very strong and experienced opponent today, and our team didn’t come out with the right attitude. Our tactics and strategy didn’t produce any results, so we hope to transform what happened today. In these short tournaments, anything can happen”.

Costa Rica starts with a 3-0 victory over Belize

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 6, 2023 – Costa Rica began the defense of their title with a strong start, defeating Belize 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-21) in the opening match of the XXII AFECAVOL Women’s Senior Central American Cup at the Alexis Argüello Sports Complex.

Marcela Araya was Costa Rica’s top scorer with 18 points, while Tatiana Sayles finished with 11. Nelissa Ramírez contributed 13 points and Nisaan Martínez added 8 for Belize.

Costa Rica dominated in attacks 37-22, blocks 6-3, and serves 8-4, while conceding 33 points due to errors that Belize couldn’t capitalize on, while they committed 24.

On Thursday, Belize will face Guatemala at 1:30 p.m., and Costa Rica will play against Nicaragua at 6:30 p.m.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA

Marcela Araya of Costa Rica attacks

QUOTES

Pablo Acuña, coach of Costa Rica: “It was a tough start, we had a long trip yesterday, we didn’t find our rhythm as we arrived a bit late, so it was normal for them to start a bit timid, out of sync, somewhat inconsistent. But with each set, we improved, and the bench players, the best ones, started to adapt and did very well”.

Marcela Araya, captain of Costa Rica: “First of all, I want to thank God for the opportunity to be here. I’m very happy to be with my teammates. I think it was a very good game. It’s always challenging to adjust in the first match, to break the ice. I feel good, happy, and I believe the team did a good job, both the players on the court and those on the bench did very well, and that was crucial because we all are important for winning”.

José Fontes, coach of Belize: “In a way, I’m satisfied because the first game is always complicated, especially against a team like Costa Rica. Although they made too many unforced errors, it allowed us to maintain some balance until point 16. However, we couldn’t close out the match, and they deserved the victory”.

Nelissa Ramírez, captain of Belize: “I feel good. I think the first part was challenging because we had to break the ice, and the girls were nervous. I feel we played very hard, fought, and towards the end we lost energy, but at some point, we could have regained our momentum, but it didn’t happen”.

Williams and Araya of Costa Rica Central American Senior Beach Champions

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 26, 2023 – Undefeated and showcasing their remarkable improvement on the sand, Costa Ricans Ángel Williams and Kianny Araya were crowned champions of the 21st Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship, held in Guatemala.

Williams and Araya, who also hold the Central American under 21 title, defeated Nicaraguans Nahima Silva and Lolette Rodríguez 2-0 (21-19, 21-16) in the championship match to secure their first gold medal at the senior category.

“We conclude another tournament, emerged victorious, it was a tournament with a lot of pressure, but we achieved the result. We want to thank all the people who are always supporting us, all our coaches, and we are very satisfied with the outcome” highlighted Williams.

Araya, on the other hand, expressed that the result is that of the effort and sacrifice they have been working towards, “it’s the outcome of the constant effort we’ve been putting in to achieve this goal, which makes us very happy considering the news we just received that we are qualified for the senior world championship in Mexico. We thank all the people who support us”.

On their road to the gold medal match, champions Williams and Araya defeated Kathya Vásquez/Sofía Velázquez (ESA1) 2-0 (21-17/21-09) in the semifinals, while Silva/Rodríguez (NCA1) overcame Guatemala’s Natalia Girón and Paola Alvarado 2-0 (21-15/21-14).

Natalia Girón and Paola Alvarado team one of Guatemala completed the podium with the third place after defeating El Salvador’s Kathya Vásquez and Sofia Velázquez (ESA 1) 2-1 (15-21/21-18/11-15).

Nicaragua (silver medal), Costa Rica (gold medal), Guatemala (bronze medal)

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

Podium

GOLD: ÁNGEL WILLIAMS Y KIANNY QUESADA CRC1

SILVER: NAHIMA SILVA Y LOLETTE RODRÍGUEZ NCA1

BRONZE: NATALIA GIRÓN Y PAOLA ALVARADO GUA1

Results Day 3

P5-8: ESA2 2-0 GUA2 (21-18/21-08)

P5-8: CRC2 2-0 NCA2 (21-14/21-17)

SF: CRC1 2-0 ESA1 (21-17/21-09)

SF: NCA1 2-0 GUA1 (21-15/21-14)

F7: GUA2 1-2 NCA2 (12-21/22-20/12-15)

F5: ESA1 2-1 CRC2 (21-13/23-25/15-09)

THIRD PLACE: ESA1 1-2 GUA1 (15-21/21-18/11-15)

FIRST PLACE: CRC1 2-0 NCA1 (21-19/21-16)

Mora and López from Nicaragua, New Central American Beach Champions

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 27, 2023 – In a display of courage and determination on the court, Nicaragua’s Rubén Mora and Dany López emerged victorious against Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala of El Salvador, to become the new monarchs at the 21st Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship.

Rubén Mora and Dany López reclaimed the title they had lost in 2021 to their compatriots Jefferson Cascante and Dennis López. This is the duos fourth title, having previously won the gold medals in 2015, 2018, and 2019.

In Sunday’s championship match at the sand courts of Campo Marte in Guatemala, Mora and López defeated the El Salvador 2-0 (21-19, 21-19) to win the gold medal undefeated.

On their path to victory, the champions overcame team two of El Salvador, Yoel and Christopher Guardado 2-1 (21-17/19-21/15-10) in the semifinals. In the other semifinal, Flores/Guatemala defeated Andy Leonardo alongside Edgar Maldonado (GUA1) 2-0 (21-16/22-20).

“We are very happy to earn another gold medal, this is our fourth medal as a pair, and we hope to continue winning more titles”, expressed Mora.

López, his teammate, highlighted the challenge of the tournament: “This was a somewhat challenging tournament because there are teams with a lot of experience and skill. Thankfully, things worked out for us again and we achieved the victory”.

Completing the podium was Guatemala’s duo of Andy Leonardo and Edgar Maldonado, who defeated the Guardado brothers 3-2 (20-22/23-21/15-09).

Dany López (2) and Rubén Mora (1) AFECAVOL Champions

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

PODIUM

ORO Rubén Mora y Dany López NCA2

PLATA Franklin Flores y Armando Guatemala ESA1

BRONCE Andy Leonardo y Edgar Maldonado GUA1

Results Day 3

F9: HON1 2-0 CRC1 (FORFEIT)

F7: BIZ1 0-2 CRC2 (12-21/14-21)

F5: NCA1 2-0 GUA2 (21-15/21-13)

SEMIFINAL: GUA1 0-2 ESA1 (16-21/20-22)

SEMIFINAL: NCA2 2-1 ESA2 (21-17/19-21/15-10)

THIRD PLACE: GUA1 2-1 ESA2 (20-22/23-21/15-09)

FIRST PLACE: ESA1 0-2 NCA2 (19-21/19-21)

Full slots in route to the medal contention

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 26, 2023 .- With steady pace in pursuit of the ticket to compete for medals, Ángel Williams/Kianny Araya (CRC1), Natalia Girón/Paola Alvarado (GUA1), Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodríguez (NCA1), and Kathya Vázquez/Sofía Velázquez (ESA1), secured their spot in semifinals of the XXI Central American Beach Volleyball Championship, taking place in Guatemala, this Saturday.

In Saturday’s schedule, the teams completed their group stage matches. In Group A, Costa Rica’s number one team, Williams and Araya, clinched two victories, first defeating Zoé Ebanks/Reizeo Bruhier (HON) 2-0 (21-09/21-15), and then in an exciting match against Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina (ESA2), which finished 2-1 (18-21/25-25/15-10).

Soler/Molina (ESA2), had previously triumphed over NCA2 of Alejandra Rosales/M. Fernanda Jarquín 2-0 (24-22/21-10). Later, Girón/Alvarado (GUA1) defeated NCA2 2-0 (21-11/21-10). Guatemala 1 had previously overcome Honduras 2-0 (21-10/08-21).

In Group B, two matches were contested. Silva alongside Rodríguez (NCA1) were victorious 2-0 (24-22/21-10) against Costa Rica’s team 2, Sofía Vega/Aliza Aguilar. In the other duel, Vásquez/Velázquez (ESA1) triumphed over Maritza Zúñiga/Danna Aguilar (GUA 2), 2-0 (21-15/21-10).

With these results, the four teams that qualified for the semifinals will battle for their spot in the finals on Sunday, starting at 9 a.m., on the last day of activity on the sand courts of Campo Marte.

Nicaragua 1 in action

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

Results Women Day 2

GROUP A

-HON1 0-2 GUA1 (10-21/8-21)

-ESA2 2-0 NCA2 (24-22/21-10)

-CRC1 2-0 HON1 (21-9/21-15)

-NCA2 0-2 GUA1 (11-21/10-21)

-ESA2 1-2 CRC1 (21-18/23-25/10-15)

GROUP B

-NCA1 2-0 CRC2 (24-22/21-10)

-GUA2 0-2 ESA1 (15-21/10-21)

Williams/Araya and Silva/Rodríguez start with double victory in Women Central American Beach

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 25, 2023 – Angel Williams/Kianny Araja (CRC1) and Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodríguez (NCA1) opened the XXI Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship, which kicked off at Campo Marte in Guatemala City with two victories.

In Group A, Costa Rica’s team 1 of Angel Williams and Kianny Araya, secured two wins. First, they dominated Alejandra Rosales/M. Fernanda Jarquín (NCA2) with a 2-0 (21-12/21-11) victory, and then they triumphed over the host team of Natalia Girón/Paola Alvarado (GUA1) by 21-12, 21-18.

Rosales and Jarquín (NCA2) later defeated Zoé Ebanks/Reizel Bruhier of Honduras 2-0 (21-12/21-07), while Girón and Alvarado (GUA1) came from behind to win 2-1 (17-21, 25-22, 15-8) against the Honduran team.

Yvonne Soler and Laura Molina (ESA2) won the only match they played against Honduras by 2-0 (21-6, 21-11).

In Group B, Nahima Silva along with Lolette Rodríguez (NCA1) triumphed 2-1 (15-21/21-7/15-10) against Guatemala’s team 2 of Maritza Zúñiga/Danna Aguilar, and against El Salvador’s team one, Kathya Vásquez/Sofia Velázquez 21-15, 21-14. Vásquez and Velázquez had earlier defeated Sofía Vega/Aliza Aguilar from CRC2 21-12 and 21-7.

Vega and Aguilar (CRC2) improved their record to 1-1 after defeating Zúñiga/Aguilar (GUA2) 21-13, 21-18.

This Saturday, starting at 9:00 AM, the second day of the qualification phase will be played, leading up to Sunday’s matches for positions and the teams advancing to the semifinals and finals.

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

Paola Alvarado of Guatemala digs

Women Results

Day 1

Group A

-CRC1 2-0 NCA2 (21-12/21-11)

-HON1 0-2 ESA2 (06-21/11-21)

-NCA2 2-0 HON1 (21-12/21-07)

-GUA1 0-2 CRC1 (12-21/18-21)

-HON1 1-2 GUA1 (21-17/22-24/8-15)

Group B

-ESA1 2-0 CRC2 (21-12/21-7)

-NCA1 2-1 GUA2 (15-21/21-7/15-10)

-CRC2 2-0 GUA2 (21-13/21-18)

-ESA1 0-2 NCA1 (15-21/14-21)

Reigning Champions Cascante/López start the Central American Senior Beach Championship on the right foot

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 25, 2023 – The reigning Central American champions Jefferson Cascante and Denis López (NCA1) started the XXI Senior Central American Beach Volleyball Championship on the right foot at Campo Marte in Guatemala City.

The current Central American champions Jefferson Cascante and Denis López from Nicaragua-1, in Group A, triumphed 2-0 (21-14, 21-16) over Edgar Martinez/Fabriel Nuñez from Belize.

Also from Nicaragua, Rubén Mora and Dany López in Group C, first defeated Daniel Dyner/Clifforth Lobo from Costa Rica 2-0 (21-17, 21-19) and number two team of Honduras, Wilfredo Vega/Manuel Serrano, 2-0 (21-13, 21-14).

In the same group, Franklin Flores and Armando Guatemala from El Salvador defeated Hondurans Wilfredo Vega/Manuel Serrano 2-0 (21-8, 21-12). Flores and Guatemala fought hard to control Daniel Dyner/Clifforth Lobo (CRC1) 2-0 (21-11/17-21/15-12).

Also, with a double victory in Group B, Guatemala’s Andy Leonardo and Edgar Maldonado (GUA1) prevailed 2-0 (21-18, 21-17) against twin brothers Yoel and Christopher Guardado of El Salvador-2, and then defeated the number one team from Honduras, Carlos Ramos/Irvin Reyes, 2-0 (21-17, 21-15).

This Saturday, the group stage will continue in the morning. In the afternoon, starting at 2:30 pm, matches will be played to determine the positions for the qualifiers. On Sunday, the games for positions, semifinals, and finals will be played.

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

Guatemala’s Andy Blanco battling against Honduras

Men’s Results

Day 1

GROUP A

-BIZ 0-2 GUA2 (11-21/12-21)

-NCA1 2-0 BIZ (21-14/21-16)

GROUP B

-GUA1 2-0 ESA2 (21-18/21-17)

-HON1 0-2 CRC2 (17-21/18-21)

-ESA2 2-0 CRC2 (21-16/21-18)

-GUA1 2-0 HON1 (21-17/21-15)

GROUP C

-ESA1 2-0 HON2 (21-8/21-12)

-CRC1 0-2 NCA2 (17-21/19-21)

-HON2 0-2 NCA2 (13-21/14-21)

-ESA1 2-1 CRC1 (21-11/17-21/15-12)

Teams ready for the AFECAVOL Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, August 24, 2023. – Six countries in the men’s and women’s genders  will seek to become the new champions of the 21st edition of the Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship 2023 organized by AFECAVOL, from August 25 to 27 in Guatemala.

Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala as the host country concluded their preliminary interview on Thursday, presenting all the necessary documents and uniforms that make them eligible to be part of the Seniro Central American Beach Volleyball event.

The tournament, to be held at the sports facilities of Campo Marte, will kick off on Friday, August 25, starting at 9 a.m., with the first qualification matches. On Saturday, August 26, the quarterfinals will take place, and the event will conclude on Sunday, August 27, with the medal matches.

AFECAVOL CENTROAMERICANO MAYOR DE PLAYA

In the men’s field the 11 participating teams are divided into three groups: one group of three teams and two groups of four, as follows:

GROUP AGROUP BGROUP C
NCA1GUA1ESA1
BIZHON1CRC1
GUA2CRC2NCA2
 ESA2HON2

In the women’s division 9 pairs are divided into two groups as follows:

GROUP AGROUP B
GUA1ESA1
CRC1NCA1
HONGUA2
ESA2CRC2
NCA2 

In 2021, in El Salvador, the women’s champions were Natalia Girón and Estefanie Bethancourt of Guatemala, while Nicaraguans Denis López and Jefferson Cascante took the title in men.

Team Guatemala

AFECAVOL Senior 2021 Winners

Women: 1. Natalia Girón/Estefanie Bethancourt (GUA1); Ivonne Soler/Sofía Velásquez (ESA1); Valeska Hernández/Socorro López (NCA1)

Men: 1. Denis López/Jefferson Cascante (NCA1); Rubén Mora/Dany López (NCA2); Andy Leonardo/Luis García (GUA1)

Participating Teams: 21st Central American Senior Beach Volleyball Championship 2023

Men: Edgar Martinez/Fabriel Nuñez (BIZ); Daniel Dyner/Clifforth Lobo (CRC1); Julián Araya/Yulius Brown (CRC2); Orlando Flores/Armando Guatemala (ESA1); Yoel Guardado/Christopher Guardado (ESA2); Andy Blanco/Edgar Maldonado (GUA1); J. Miguel Izaguirre/Mario Ventura (GUA2); Carlos Ramos/Irvin Reyes (HON1); Wilfredo Vega/Manuel Serrano (HON2); Rubén Mora/Danny López (NCA1); Jefferson Cascante/Denis López (NCA2).

Women: Ángel Williams/Kianny Araya (CRC1); Sofía Vega/Aliza Aguilar (CRC2); Kathya Vásquez/Sofia Velázquez (ESA1); Yvonne Soler/Laura Molina (ESA2); Natalia Girón/Paola Alvarado (GUA1); Maritza Zúñiga/Danna Aguilar (GUA2); Zoé Ebanks/Reizel Bruhier (HON); Nahima Silva/Lolette Rodríguez (NCA1); Alejandra Rosales/M. Fernanda Jarquín (NCA2). 

Carlos López from Guatemala MVP of AFECAVOL Men’s Central American Championship

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 12, 2023 – With an outstanding performance, outside hitter Carlos López from the Guatemala was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 22nd edition of the AFECAVOL Men’s Central American Volleyball Championship on Saturday, August 12.

Carlos López, alongside his teammates, celebrated Guatemala’s fourth consecutive title. El Salvador won the silver medal, and Belize secured the bronze medal.

For the first time in the history of the Championship, the Best Scorer award was given to two players, Rodrigo Chávez from El Salvador and Andy Blando from Guatemala, both scoring a total of 120 points each.

Guatemala dominated the individual awards, taking four of them spread across two players. In addition to being the Most Valuable Player, Carlos López earned the First Best Spiker award. His teammate Andy Blanco stood out with the Best Service award and one of the Best Scorers awards.

MVP Carlos López (Guatemala)

Belize received three individual awards, with Ernest Broaster as the Second Best Spiker, Karym Coleman as the Best Opposite, and Raheem Flowers as the Best Receiver.

Panama also secured three individual awards. Miguel Medina was recognized as the Best Libero and Best Defense, while his teammate Astergio Díaz was awarded as the Best Setter.

Nicaragua’s Emilio Andrews earned the award for the Best First Blocker, and Manuel Platero from El Salvador received the award for the Second Best Blocker of the championship.

Individual Awards

Most Valuable Player (MVP): Carlos López, GUA

1st Best Spiker: Carlos López, GUA

2nd Best Spiker: Ernest Broaster, BIZ

1st Best Blocker: Emilio Andrews, NCA

2nd Best Blocker: Manuel Platero, ESA

Best Setter: Astergio Díaz, PAN

Best Opposite: Karym Coleman, BIZ

Bext Libero: Miguel Medina, PAN

Best Receiver: Raheem Flowers, BIZ

Best Defense: Miguel Medina, PAN

Best Service: Andy Blanco, GUA

Best Scorers: Rodrigo Chávez, ESA / Andy Blanco, GUA 

Guatemala becomes Four-time AFECAVOL Champion! 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 12, 2023 – Guatemala only needed one set to become the Champion of the 22nd edition of the AFECAVOL Men’s Central American Volleyball Cup, and they achieved this against Panama on the last day of competition, winning the game 3-0 (25-19, 25-20, 25-18). 

Guatemala comfortably dominated in attacks with a 16-point difference, tallying 41-25. The blocks, were 10-4 in favor of Guatemala, while in services, Panama was more effective with 6 to 3.

Panama earned 22 points from Guatemala’s errors and conceded 21 to their opponent.

Outside hitter and captain of Guatemala, Carlos López, with 18 points, all from attacks, was the top scorer for his country. For Panama, outside hitter Félix Williams scored 14 points, with 10 from attacks, one from a block, and two from service.

Guatemala finished the tournament with five wins and one loss, while Panama closed with two wins and four losses.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Reider Lucas, Guatemala Coach: “I said at the beginning in the preliminary inquiry that it was going to be a very balanced tournament, and at the same time, it was going to be very competitive due to the rivalry among the countries. This makes the event even more beautiful. As you can see, the champion is decided on the last day. We are very happy; this is the fourth edition we have won. We trusted a lot of young athletes, and we knew that with them, we could achieve a result. We have athletes with a longer life in volleyball, which helps us a lot within the group. We missed some athletes due to personal commitments, but they are part of this process.”

Horacio Angulo Calderón, Panama Coach: “We faced a quite solid team; we tried to play our game, but Guatemala worked very well. The assessment I make of the tournament is that it’s quite competitive. Guatemala lost to Costa Rica. The teams came to do their job, and it shows that fatigue reveals many things at some point; my team fell due to physical fatigue, we tried and fought until the end.”

Nicaragua defeats Belize in the last match of the tournament

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 12, 2023 – With a score of 3-1, Nicaragua emerged victorious against the hosts in the final match of the AFECAVOL Men’s Central American Volleyball Cup, 25-18, 14-25, 25-19, and 32-30.

Belize dominated in blocks 14-5 and in services with 5-2. In the attack, both countries were tied at 57.

The top scorer of the match was Dennis García from Nicaragua, who scored 24 points, 21 from attacks, and three from services. For Belize, the top scorer was Ernest Broaster with 20 points, 14 from attacks, three from blocks, and three from services.

Belize and Nicaragua concluded the tournament with a record balance of three wins and three losses.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Albert Humes, Belize Coach: “The team has put heart and unity to make our country proud, but it hasn’t been good enough for us. We must go back to the drawing board and see where we have deficiencies and resolve them. This has been a great tournament that I have been training for over 30 years, and this is a process where I have seen the teams so competitive, for example, Honduras loses one day and then wins the next day, a constant up and down. So, this is a beautiful tournament this year, and I hope we continue to have tournaments like this. The quality of the product produced by AFECAVOL and delivered to the world is excellent, and we have shown that we can reach the level of major competitions”.

Jorge Mena, Nicaragua Coach: Did not attend the interview. 

Honduras defeats Costa Rica in five sets 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 12, 2023 – In the second match of the final day of the AFECAVOL Men’s Central American Volleyball Cup, Honduras defeated Costa Rica in five sets: 26-24, 25-21, 25-27, 19-25, 15-12. 

With a narrow difference, Honduras dominated the attack 63-62. The blocks were in favor of Costa Rica, with a difference of one, 10 over nine. The services belonged to Honduras 7-4.

The top scorer for Honduras in the match was outside hitter David Villatoro, with 27 points, 25 from attacks, and two from blocks. For Costa Rica, opposite hitter Andrey Quintero scored 18 points from attacks, two from blocks, and one from service, totaling 21 points.

Honduras and Costa Rica concluded the tournament with two wins and four losses.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Marco Sugiyama, Honduras coach: “Analyzing the tournament, there was a lot of competition between the teams, a lot of imbalances among us, but we need to start the next competition with better performance in order to compete for medals. I am happy with the boys, the competition is very good, and it has been a great joy to participate. We will be better prepared for the next competition”-

Johan Morales, Costa Rica coach: “I am disappointed in myself, I did not expect these results because we have a fairly strong selection. We came with a goal that was not achieved. It was a tournament with many ups and downs, with teams that caused surprises. We knew the two strongest rivals were Guatemala and Nicaragua, and coincidentally, we beat them. We forgot about the other teams. The blow of anxiety and happiness from beating the Champion after approximately eight years of not doing so was a double-edged sword because on the next day, when we played against El Salvador, a team we knew because they even practiced in Costa Rica, they beat us 3-0 and there the team declined psychologically. We tr

Belize dreams of reaching the podium

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 11, 2023 – Belize defeated Costa Rica 3-1 with set scores of 12-25/25-16/25-19/25-18, and their aspirations to secure a spot on the podium of the XXII Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup of AFECAVOL remain alive.

Belize has three wins and two losses in the tournament, while Costa Rica stands with two wins and three losses.

Belize dominated  44-41 in attacks, 9-6 in blocks and 5-3 in services. The home team scored 29 points from opponent errors, while Costa Ricans earned 28 points from their rival’s mistakes.

Francis Hauze was Belize’s top scorer with 14 attack points, on two block points, and two service points, accompanied by Ernest Broaster with 16 points and Karym Coleman with 15 points.

Japheth Reid, with 10 points (seven from attacks and three from blocks), was Costa Rica’s top scorer.

Belize will face Nicaragua at 7:30 pm, and Costa Rica will take on Honduras at 5:00 pm on the last day of competition.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Ernest Broaster, Outside Hitter of Belize: “We started poorly in the first set, but we recovered in the second, third, and fourth. We played a very good match. The serving pressure was good, our passing was phenomenal; when our passing is good, everything else is good, and it’s all about producing blocks. I feel that tomorrow, if we maintain our passing at a high level, we can defeat Nicaragua in three sets. We just need to come out with fast play and not start slow, apply pressure from the beginning, and finish it that way”.

Richard Smith, Outside Hitter of Costa Rica: “Happy to be in Belize, unfortunately, it wasn’t our tournament. Today’s match was exciting, a face-off, with a Belizean team that has been improving for a while. They have renewed many players and have been dedicated to preparing the players. They have players in foreign university leagues, and right now, they are showing results. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the capacity to rise. The whole week has been a roller coaster for the team, especially emotionally. Also, I think we lacked a little more preparation to get here. We congratulate Belize, who gave us a lesson on the work they’ve been doing at the Central American level”.

Guatemala reaffirms its desire for Gold

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 11, 2023 – Guatemala defeated Honduras 3-1 in the second match of the sixth day of the XXII Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup of AFECAVOL, and with this score, the dream of a fourth championship this Saturday in the tournament’s closing.

Honduras complicated the actions in the second set of the match; however, Guatemala showed its determination and won the game 25-15/22-25/25-14/25-22.

Guatemala led in all areas of the match, surpassing Honduras 51-37 in attacks, 11-9 in blocks, and 5-4 in services. Guatemalans earned 30 points from opponent errors, while Honduras scored 26 points from their opponent’s mistakes.

The top scorer of the match for Guatemala was Pablo Pérez with 17 points, including 13 on attacks and four on blocks. For Honduras, David Villatoro scored 21 points, with 20 on  attacks and one block.

With this victory, Guatemala reaches four wins and one loss, while Honduras has one win and four losses.

Guatemala will face Panama at 2:30 pm, and Honduras will compete against Costa Rica at 5:00 pm on the last day of competition.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Andy Blanco, Opposite of Guatemala: “Very happy, although it wasn’t the result we expected. Honduras came in playing very well. We’ll wait for tomorrow against Panama, and we’ll go out with a new attitude. As the team leader, I’m very content because we are very united. We are a young team, I’m the most experienced and oldest player. They are very talented young players, good camaraderie. We characterize ourselves as athletes as a whole, and I will continue supporting them, fighting every match”.

Arturo Durán, Outside Hitter of Honduras: “We had a very interesting match against the current Central American champions. It was a quite intense duel for us since we have quite a few rookies in the team. Even in this case, we put up a good fight. We hope that for the next process, this team continues to be formed with young and tall players, and we can put Honduras back on the podium”.

El Salvador closes tournament with victory

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 11, 2023 – El Salvador won in three consecutive sets over Nicaragua, completing their six matches in the XXII Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup of AFECAVOL.

With set scores of 25-21/25-14/25-21, El Salvador dominated the match. With a 10-point difference, El Salvador dominated in attacks 45-35, blocks 14-4, and services 4-1. Nicaragua scored 16 points from opponent errors, while El Salvador earned 12 points from unforced errors.

The top scorer of the match for El Salvador was outside hitter Rodrigo Chávez, who tallied 20 points for the victory on19 attacking points and one blocking point. On the other hand, for Nicaragua, opposite Dennis García scored 13 points, 12 on attacks and one from a block.

El Salvador finished the event with a record of 4 wins and 2 losses. Nicaragua will face Belize tomorrow at 7:30 pm. Nicaragua stands with 2 wins and 3 losses.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Franklin Flores, Opposite of El Salvador: “This was an important match because we were fighting for a medal here, and the result had to be 3-0. We entered the match fighting, playing good volleyball just like yesterday against Costa Rica. We’re happy with the result and hope that everything goes well, and nothing takes away our medal. Grateful to the coaching staff for their trust in me, we leave with a good feeling and happy with our performance in the tournament”.

Tito Valdivia, Corner for Nicaragua: “Things didn’t go as planned and trained in the morning. We didn’t enter with a good attitude, so we’ll have to wait for the results and the match tomorrow.”

Guatemala stifles Belize’s shout of victory

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 10, 2023 – In the final match of the day, Guatemala, in straight sets 25-19/25-19/26-24, stifled Belize’s shout of victory in front of hundreds of fans at the Belize City Civic Center, to keep leading the standings of the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

Guatemala dominated in attacks 35-30 and in service points 10-4. The blocks were in favor of Belize 10-4. Guatemala earned 26 points from unforced errors, while Belize scored 18 points from their opponent’s errors.

The top scorer for Guatemala was Andy Blanco with 14 points, 8 from attacks and 6 from services. For Belize, Karym Coleman converted 10 points from attacks, three from blocks, and two from services, totaling 15 points.

Guatemala holds three wins and one loss, while Belize has two wins and two losses.

The tournament’s excitement continues on Friday at 5:00 pm with Guatemala facing Honduras and at 7:30 pm Belize taking on Costa Rica.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Erik Flores, Opposite of Guatemala: “We knew it was a very tough opponent because they were playing at home and had the support of the crowd; we knew this place would be packed. Our goal was to win, and we achieved it. Given how the competition has gone, with some countries losing matches and dropping sets, we knew it was important. We were coming off a loss against Costa Rica, but that didn’t affect us because we knew we could fight for the championship. Costa Rica’s loss today gives us even more possibilities, and the closest rival was Belize, so we had to win for the ultimate goal”.

Ernest Broaster, Outside hitter of Belize: “This was a shaky night. We faltered in passing, and the attack wasn’t working for us; our service also failed us. We didn’t reach our goal, which is the gold medal, but we’re still in contention for the silver medal; we can win it, but we just need to win the next two matches”.

Panama secures second victory of the tournament

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 10, 2023.- Panama needed four sets to defeat Honduras 3-1 (24-26, 25-18, 27-25, 25-18) on the fifth day of competition in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

Honduras started by winning the first set 26-24, however, the Panamanians claimed the next three 25-18/27-25 and 25-18. Panama was superior with dominance in attacks 57-49 and blocks 14-6.

Both teams tied at 3 in services. Honduras earned 29 points and Panama 27 from opponent’s errors.

The top scorer for Panama and the match was Jason Quintero with 20 points, 19 on attacks and one from blocks. For Honduras, David Villatoro scored 16 points, 15 on attacks and one from blocks.

Panama secured their second victory in the tournament, with a balance of two wins and three losses. Meanwhile, Honduras has one victory and with today´s match, they accumulated three losses.

The event taking place at the Belize City Civic Center continues with the schedule on Friday at 5:00 pm, with Honduras facing Guatemala and Panama is the team with the day off.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Miguel Medina, Libero of Panama: “The match was quite challenging for us in the first set. We had been in the lead and didn’t maintain the advantage, which cost us the set. The guys focused more and pursued the goal of winning because it puts us in a position to dream about the medal table. Thanks to God, the perseverance of our young team helped everyone contribute their bit and secure the victory. Honduras fought hard and didn’t let us pull away until the last set”.

Irvin Reyes, middle blocker of Honduras: “We didn’t take advantage of the opportunities in the match, but we need to keep working and have the confidence that things will start going better for us”.

El Salvador defeats Costa Rica comfortably

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 10, 2023.- El Salvador defeated Costa Rica 3-0 in the first match of day five of competition in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup with scores of 25-13/25-18/25-13.

The match was dominated by El Salvador in all areas, with 35 attacks to 26, 13 blocks to 5, and 4-2 in serves.

El Salvador scored 23 points from opponent errors, while Costa Rica scored 11 points from unforced errors.

El Salvador improved their win-loss record to 3-2. Costa Rica has a record of 2 wins and 2 losses.

The top scorer of the match was Rodrigo Chávez with 17 points, 13 on attacks and four on  blocks, his teammate Franklin Flores was close behind with 16 points.

For Costa Rica, Gilbert Solano scored six points from attacks and one a block for a total of 7 points, being the top scorer, followed by Richard Smith with 6 points.

The event taking place at the Belize City Civic Center continues Friday at 2:30 pm with El Salvador facing Nicaragua and at 7:30 pm Costa Rica will compete against the hosts.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Rodrigo Chávez, outside hitter of El Salvador: “This was a complicated match from a tactical point of view, our coaches read the other team very well, at this stage of the tournament, we’ve had time to study our opponents and that makes the matches more competitive. In this case, we found the key. Costa Rica stood up well, but perhaps the fatigue from last night’s game affected them, however, they are a very strong team and El Salvador showed a very different face from the previous matches. We are very grateful to the guys and coaches for boosting our spirits and we hope to maintain this rhythm of play”.

Oscar Ramírez, outside hitter of Costa Rica: “It was a very emotional match, unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned for us. El Salvador read us very well on the court. Now, we need to prepare for tomorrow’s match, it’s another final to aim for the medal we came for”.

Guatemala defeats Nicaragua in three sets 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 8, 2023. Guatemala only needed three sets to secure victory against Nicaragua with scores of 31-29, 25-19, and 25-14 in the second match of the third day of competition at the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup. 

The first set was the most thrilling of the game, with both teams going point by point in pursuit of victory. Eventually, it was Guatemala who emerged victorious, dominating in attacks 45 to 36, in blocks 10-7, and in services 10-2. Both teams committed a similar number of unforced errors, with Nicaragua recording 16 and Guatemala 17. 

With 18 points for his country, outside hitter Carlos López led Guatemala to victory with 15 points from attacks, one on blocking, and two on serves. On the other hand, Tito Valdivia contributed 11 points from attacks, one point from blocking, and one point from serving, totaling 13 points as the highest scorer for Nicaragua. 

On Wednesday, August 9th, Guatemala will face Costa Rica at 7:30 PM, and Nicaragua will play against Panama at 2:30 PM. 

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA 

INTERVIEWS

Carlos López, Outside hitter of Guatemala: “Today we managed to play a better game as a team, correcting many mistakes. We had better team cohesion, which helped us achieve a favorable result and giving us confidence for the what’s left of the competition”. 

Álvaro Solís, Setter of Nicaragua: “Guatemala is a tough opponent that pressured us from the beginning with their serves. In 2021, when we won the bronze, we lost to the same two teams: Costa Rica and Guatemala. So, we still aspire to make it to the medal podium and will continue working for the upcoming matches, which I believe will be within our reach. This is not over, and all countries are at the same level”.  

Leaders succumb to El Salvador

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 7, 2023. With a score of 3-1, El Salvador claimed victory against Panama, who had been leading the standings until today, in the first match of the third day of competition in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

With closely contested sets of 26-24, 23-25, 25-21, and 26-24, El Salvador secured the win in a match led slightly in the attack by the winners, 61-57.

Panama dominated in blocks, 12-10, and both teams were tied at 3 in serves. El Salvador gathered 26 points from their opponent’s errors, while Panama earned 22 points on El Salvador’s errors.

From El Salvador, Rodrigo Chávez once again stood out, contributing 17 points on attacks, two on  blocks, and two aces, totaling 21 points.

Uriel Batista continued to lead Panama’s scorers, as he converted 19 attacking points and three blocks, for a total of 22 points.

On Wednesday, August 9th, El Salvador will face Honduras at 5:00 PM, and Panama will play against Nicaragua at 2:30 PM.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Diego Cerón, Libero of El Salvador: “We’re still in the fight for what we came for. The possibility of winning gold is still alive; we don’t lose sight of that mindset. The team has very high expectations. Since we left our country, we knew that this tournament would present a lot of challenges, but we Salvadorans are known by not giving up, and we will keep fighting until the end”.

Oswald Marschall, Outside hitter of Panama: “Unfortunately, we faced a defeat today that shouldn’t have happened. It put us in a tough spot for the medal tally, but we have a team with both youth and experience, which I know will serve us well in tomorrow’s game. Congratulations to El Salvador for putting up a good match”.

Belize achieves a titanic comeback against Panama

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 7, 2023.- Once again, the hosts made use of their home advantage and didn’t allow themselves to fall easily in front of their fans, rallying back from a 0-2 set deficit and extending the last match to a fifth set on the second day of the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

With a 3-2 victory against Panama, Belize managed to rally back and win the match 20-25/19-25/25-23/25-18/15-11.

Attacks were dominated by Panama, 59-52. Belize took the lead in blocks with 14-12 and in services 8-4.

Belize earned 30 points from opponent’s errors, while Panama got 27 points on the home team’s errors.

The top scorers of the match were Ernest Broaster from Belize with 20 points, 14 from attacks, 3 from blocks, and 3 from services, and Uriel Batista from Panama with 16 attacking points, 2 from blocks, and 2 from services, for a total of 20 points.

This Tuesday, August 8, Panama will face El Salvador at 2:30 pm, and Belize will play against Honduras at 7:30 pm.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Elton Anderson, Captain of Belize: “It was a very hard match. We fought hard, and thankfully we won in the end. We feel very tired, it was difficult, but we managed to win, so we’ll try to rest and come ready to face Honduras tomorrow.”

Otto Othon, Captain of Panama: “In tonight’s game, we played well in the first two sets. We have many young players, and it was an experience for them and for us, and the match went to five sets. We need to correct what couldn’t be achieved and hope to play a good match against El Salvador tomorrow”. 

Guatemala debuts with a five-set victory against El Salvador

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 7, 2023. – The current Central American champions, Guatemala, made their debut with a 3-2 victory (22/25, 25/19, 18/25, 25/20, 15/9) over El Salvador in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

The sets alternated between the two countries, leading to a decisive fifth set. El Salvador started by winning the match, but Guatemala bounced back to claim the second set, setting the stage for a highly contested challenge.

Guatemala was powerful in their attack, tallying 68 points against 45. Both teams scored 15 points from blocks, and Guatemala led in service points with 8 against 2. El Salvador earned 36 points from Guatemala’s errors, while Guatemala capitalized on 14 errors by their opponent.

Andy Blanco propelled Guatemala to victory as the top scorer of the match, contributing 28 points with 23 attacks, 2 blocks, and 3 service points. On the other side, El Salvador’s outside hitter Rodrigo Chávez achieved 22 points, with 19 from attacks, 2 from blocks, and one from service.

This Tuesday, August 8, Guatemala will face Nicaragua at 5:00 pm, and El Salvador will play against Panama at 2:30 pm.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Carlos López, Captain of Guatemala: “We started off in good energy, but throughout the game, we lost focus and made many reception errors, which complicated our journey and led us to extend the match. However, in the end, we achieved the result, which is to win”.

Juan Carlos Vargas, Captain of El Salvador: “We didn’t secure the victory, but we put up a fight. A quite extended 3-2 match, a lot of passion on the court because we were playing against the reigning Central American champions of the past years, and that always motivates us to play well and better. We had a player injured in the fourth set, which made it difficult for us to close the fourth and fifth sets properly. Our spirits are high, there are still four games to go, and we’re looking forward to giving our best performance tomorrow with the goal of winning”.

Costa Rica triumphs against Nicaragua in the AFECAVOL Senior Men’s Cup 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 7, 2023. – The second day of the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup saw the first match of the day between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, which was decided in four sets 3-1 (25-22/25-22/20-25/25-20) for Costa Rica. 

Costa Rica dominated in attacks with a 17-point difference, 62 to 45, and in services 4 to 2, securing their first victory of the tournament. Blocks were in favor of Nicaragua with a six-point difference, 16-10. 

The top scorer of the match was Costa Rica’s outside hitter Ricky Vargas with 24 points, on 23 attacks and one ace. In the Nicaraguan team, the top scorer was Dennis García with 17 points, 14 from attacks, and 3 from blocks. 

This Tuesday, August 8, Costa Rica is the team with a day off, while Nicaragua faces Guatemala at 5:00 pm. 

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

 INTERVIEWS 

Emmanuel Villareal, Captain of Costa Rica: “This was a very important match for us after the defeat against Belize on the first day. It was a match against an excellent Nicaragua that never gives up, that defends a lot. We had to attack strongly and improve our blocking. We are very happy and with the intact goal of winning the tournament. Tomorrow, we have a day off, and on Wednesday, we will defeat Guatemala”. 

Miguel Castillo, Captain of Nicaragua: “Today’s game got away from us because we are inconsistent in reception. We knew we were up against a tough opponent, and unfortunately, we couldn’t close the fourth set to go into a fifth. The tournament is just starting, and we will continue to give our all to finish with a medal”.  

El Salvador defeats Belize in Five Sets

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 6, 2023.- The closing match of the inaugural day in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup saw the most closely contested game between hosts Belize and El Salvador, with scores of 25-22/13-25/25-23/22-25/15-13 in favor of El Salvador.

In a match that extended to the fifth set at the Belize City Civic Center, the spectators were treated to a thrilling matchup that was dominated by Belize in attacks (58-57) and blocks (14-8), while both teams tied at four each in the service category.

El Salvador earned 31 points from their opponent’s errors, while Belize secured 30 points from Salvadoran mistakes.

The top scorer of the match for El Salvador was Rodrigo Chávez, the outside hitter, who secured 26 points on 24 attacks, one block, and one service point.

On the Belizean side, two of their players accumulated 40 points. Outside hitter Karym Coleman scored 17 points from attacks, one from blocks, and two from serves, totaling 20 points. Meanwhile, his teammate Francis Hauze also contributed 20 points, including 16 from attacks, three from blocks, and one from serves.

On Monday, August 7, El Salvador will face Guatemala at 2:30 PM, and Belize will take on Panama at 7:30 PM.

ESA VS BIZ-XXII COPA CENTROAMERICANA DE VOLEIBOL

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Gabriel Linares, El Salvador’s coach: “We had to start against the home team, and we knew it wouldn’t be easy because they’re a team that has been working together for quite some time. We knew we had to give our best, and it was reflected in the scores. We had to go to the fifth set, but in the end, we steered the ship right. We worked on our serves, which we were struggling with, and thanks to God, we managed to secure the game in our favor”.

Albert Humes, Belize’s coach: “The defeat tonight was very disappointing. I believe that both the players and the coaches made mistakes at some point in the game, and El Salvador capitalized on those mistakes. El Salvador did their homework studying us; they didn’t use power but played intelligent volleyball, and that cost us the match”.

Nicaragua beats Honduras in Central American Championship debut

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 6, 2023.. The Nicaraguan National Team started their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Honduras (25-13/19-25/25-18/25-19) in the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup organized at the Belize City Civic Center.

The first set was dominated by Nicaragua, with a comfortable 12-point lead, securing the set at 25-13.

Honduras was determined to level the match and managed to win the second set with a score of 25-19.

In the third and fourth sets, Nicaragua maintained their dominance despite Honduras putting up a fight. The Nicaraguan team secured victories with scores of 25-18 and 25-19, winning the match 3-1.

Nicaragua outperformed Honduras in attacks (43-40), serves (14-4), and blocks (6-5). Nicaragua earned 31 points from opponent errors, while Honduras secured 26 points from their rival’s mistakes.

Outside hitter Jonny Zeledón emerged as Nicaragua’s top scorer with 14 points, including 10 from attacks, 1 from blocks, and 3 from serves. On the other side, also outside hitter David Villatoro from Honduras scored 16 points, making him the highest scorer with 14 points from attacks, one from blocks, and one from serves.

NCA VS HON VILLATORO (11)-XXII Copa Centroamericana Masculina

On Monday, August 7, Nicaragua will face Costa Rica at 2:30 PM, while Honduras will have a free day in the schedule.

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA

INTERVIEWS

Jorge Mena, Nicaragua’s coach: “The match got complicated for us; we lost a set, which wasn’t our intention. However, the players improved as the game progressed. This is just the beginning. What we wanted was to win the match. Tomorrow, we have another game against Costa Rica, and we’ll aim for the victory”.

Marco Sugiyama, Honduras’ coach: “We started the game a bit poorly, slow. We need to accelerate our process for the next match. I’ll be talking to the players, and I hope to bring about a change for the next game”.

Panama defeats Costa Rica in first game of the Central American Championship 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 6, 2023.- The Panama Men’s Volleyball Team made a triumphant debut with a 3-1 victory over Costa Rica (25-17/25-20/22-25/25-15) at the XXII AFECAVOL Central American Men’s Volleyball Cup.  

In the first match of the day and the tournament at the Belize City Civic Center, Panama displayed determination to secure the win. They clinched the first set with an eight-point lead (25-17). 

Panama’s dominance continued into the second set. While Costa Rica occasionally closed in on the score, the Panamanian players persisted in their pursuit of victory, ultimately securing the set 25-20. 

Costa Rica entered the third set determined to extend the match, taking the third set with a tight three-point lead over Panama, 25-22. 

Coaches Horacio Angulo of Panama and Johan Morales of Costa Rica spoke with their players ahead of the fourth set, one hoping to win the match and the other aiming to tie it for a decisive fifth set. 

Panama dominated the fourth set with a 10-point lead, finishing the match with a score of 3-1. 

Panama’s offense attacking in the match was evident, with 50 points compared to Costa Rica’s 44. Panama also outperformed in blocks, 16-7, and serves, 8-4. 

Panama earned 23 points from their opponent’s errors, while Costa Rica secured 22. 

Panama’s opposite hitter Uriel Batista was determined, scoring 26 points, including 21 from attacks, 1 from blocks, and 4 from serves. For Costa Rica, opposite hitter Gilbert Solano scored 15 points, all from attacks. 

CRC VS PAN URIEL BATISTA-XXII Copa Centroamericana Mayor Masc (25)

On Monday, August 7, Panama will face Belize at 7:30 PM, while Costa Rica will compete against Nicaragua at 2:30 PM. 

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA 

INTERVIEWS 

Horacio Angulo, Panama’s coach: “We had two sets heavily in our favor that we were able to secure. Costa Rica is a challenging team, especially with coaches who understand volleyball and have worked a lot on their float serves, which somewhat gave difficulties to my team’s reception. We managed to take the third set, and in the fourth set, I made a couple of adjustments, subbing out one player and bringing in a young 19-year-old, Gherson Ortíz, who is a rising star in volleyball. The team played well with the system we’ve practiced in Panama, and thank God, we secured the victory”. 

Johan Morales, Costa Rica’s coach: “We knew it wouldn’t be an easy match. Panama inflicted a lot of damage with their serves; we couldn’t control them. When we did manage to control them, we ended up one-on-one, but our attackers couldn’t close. These are things we need to change; in such a fast  tournament, we can’t afford to stay down or give up. We know our purpose here, and we still have five matches to make certain changes to achieve it. I brought mobility to the team with significant changes, but in the end, it didn’t work out. We made too many unforced errors, and our defensive tactics were lacking. We weren’t at our best, so now we need to regroup and come to play against Nicaragua, another tough opponent”.  

Teams want to be on the podium of the Men’s Central American AFECAVOL Cup 

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 5, 2023 – On August 6, 2023, the competition for the XXII Central American Cup Belize 2023 will begin, and the teams want to earn a place on the podium, as expressed by the coaches during the preliminary inquiries held on Saturday, August 5. 

During the presentation, the Control Committee verified the paperwork and official uniforms that will be used during the competition, which will take place at the Belize City Civic Center. 

In the last edition, Guatemala took first place, Costa Rica came second, and Nicaragua was third, these last ones made history after 30 years of not stepping onto the Central American podium.

As the defending champion, Guatemala will seek to become a four-time champion, having won the 2017, 2018, and 2021 editions, aiming to catchup with Costa Rica with six titles and approaching Panama, the country that has won the most titles in the region with eight gold medals in total. 

AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR MASCULINA 

INTERVIEWS 

Albert Humes, Belize Coach: “Our tournament objective, being the host, definitely means we want to win. That’s the primary goal of this Belizean team. But we also want our country to feel proud and ensure that our fans, our families, and everyone enjoys the quality that Belize has to show to the world”.  

Reider Lucas, Guatemala Coach: “Our goal is to try to have a good competition. We come to give our all in each match. It’s a very close competition, and there’s a lot of rivalry among the Central American countries, which makes it more emotional and much more competitive. We will try to fight in every match and perform well in the competition. The players are eager to play, and we believe it will be a good competition”. 

Gabriel Linares, El Salvador Coach: “We have been preparing to regain the space we had lost within the elite of Central American volleyball. We are aware that the tournament will be tough, and we have high expectations of being among the top three on the podium”. 

Marco Sugiyama, Honduras Coach: “I am happy, and we are ready. We will fight to pave the way for future achievements”. “Our objective is to compete for a medal, and we will give it our all. We have prepared well, with a united group, and expect a surprise from us”, added Marvin Ulloa Molina, assistant coach. 

Jorge Mena, Nicaragua Coach: “The purpose is to be on the podium and try to improve our position we achieved last time. We come to compete and give it our all on the court as a team and bring Nicaragua forward without returning empty-handed to our country”. 

Johan Morales, Costa Rica Coach: “We come to this new Central American Cup with great enthusiasm. We did very well last time but fell short. The goal this year is to win the gold, which is extremely difficult with well-prepared teams. But in the end, I believe we have what it takes to compete, and the boys are highly motivated with a strong sense of unity”. 

Horacio Angulo, Panama Coach: “Our expectation is to make it to the medal standings, something we haven’t achieved in many years. We have a young team, from a group that ranges from U21 to U23. We will try to bring something back to our country, God willing”.

Belize host of the XXII AFECAVOL Men’s Senior Central American Championship

BELIZE CITY, Belize, August 1, 2023.- Belize will be hosting the twenty second AFECAVOL Men’s Senior Central American Championship from August 6 to 12 at the Belize City Civic Center.

Reigning champion Guatemala will seek their fourth consecutive title, after winning the past three editions of the tournament (2017, 2018, 2021), for an overall five Central American titles in the history of the event.

In the last edition held in Guatemala City in 2021, Costa Rica finished second, and Nicaragua finished third. After 30 years of not making it to the Central American podium, Nicaragua won the bronze medal, their first-ever medal in the history of the event was also a bronze, during the sixth edition of the Cup held in Honduras in 1991.

Panama is the country with the most titles in the region, with a total of eight, followed by Costa Rica with six.

Teams will arrive in Belize City on Friday, August 4th. The Preliminary inquiries will take place on Saturday, August 5th, and the competition will kick off on Sunday, August 6th, with three daily matches.

Competition schedule:

Sunday August 6

14:30  Costa Rica v Panama

17:00  Nicaragua v Honduras

19:00  Inauguración

19:30  El Salvador v Belize

Monday August 7

14:30  Costa Rica v Nicaragua

17:00  Guatemala v El Salvador

19:30  Panama v Belize

Tuesday August 8

14:30  El Salvador Panama

17:00  Nicaragua v Guatemala

19:30  Belize v Honduras

Wednesday August 9

14:30  Panama v Nicaragua

17:00  Honduras v El Salvador

19:30  Guatemala v Costa Rica

Thursday August 10

14:30  El Salvador v Costa Rica

17:00  Honduras v Panama

19:30  Belize v Guatemala

Friday August 11

14:30  Nicaragua v El Salvador

17:00  Guatemala v Honduras

19:30  Costa Rica v Belize

Saturday August 12

14:30  Panama v Guatemala

17:00  Honduras v Costa Rica

19:30  Belize v Nicaragua

Year by Year medalists

YearGoldSilverBronze
1974PANGUAESA
1976PANGUACRC
1977GUAESACRC
1987CRCPANGUA
1989CRCGUAPAN
1991HONPANNCA
1993PANESAHON
1995PANHONGUA
1997HONGUACRC
1999CRCGUAPAN
2000CRCBIZHON
2002PANCRCHON
2004PANHONCRC
2006PANCRCGUA
2008PANGUACRC
2010CRCESAGUA
2012GUAPANHON
2014CRCGUAHON
2017GUAESAHON
2018GUACRCESA
2021GUACRCNCA

Composite

TeamGoldSilverBronzeTotal
PAN83213
CRC64414
GUA57416
HON22610
ESA0426
BIZ0101
NCA0022

Félix Sabio prepares proposals for AFECAVOL

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, January 18, 2023.- AFECAVOL President Félix Sabio held an important working session in Guatemala with AFECAVOL General Secretary Carlos Enrique Santis Rangel to present several proposals for the improvement of volleyball in the Central American zone.

The objective of Sabio’s two day visit in Guatemala was to discuss several details about AFECAVOL 2023 activities to develop and improve the sport in Central America.

Among the topics discussed were the actions of the Central American Volleyball Association legal status in Guatemala.

The 2023 events were another matter discussed, prior to the AFECAVOL General Assembly that will be held in Guatemala City at the end of February or beginning of March.  

Felix Sabio AFECAVOL President in working session with Enrique Santis AFECAVOL General Secretary and other AFECAVOL members

Also, the working commission meetings were scheduled, where information will be prepared for discussion at the General Assembly.

In another project for this year that President Felix Sabio presented, is the agreement with new strategic allies that will contribute to his objectives set for the region.

Costa Rica wins Under 21 beach women’s gold of AFECAVOL

PANAMA CITY, Panama, November 13, 2022.- Angel Williams and Kianna Araya won 2-0 (21-14, 21-12) to Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo of Guatemala, winning the XIV Under 21 Beach Volleyball Central American title.  

Paola Alvarado couldn’t keep the title she won last year, up against Williams/Araya superior level of play shown during the entire tournament.

In the semifinal Williams/Araya prevailed 2-0 (21-8, 21-14) against Sofía Vega and Aliza Aguilar, also from Costa Rica.

While Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo of Guatemala beat Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza of El Salvador 2-1 (18-21, 24-22, 15-4) in the other semifinal.

In the match for third place, Vega/Aguilar of Costa Rica beat a difficult El Salvador of Tovar/Soza 2-1 (21-11, 19-21, 15-13).

Tournament Page

Kianny Araya – Angel Williams Costa Rica

Sunday’s match

NCA 2 d 2-0 ESA 2 (21-14, 21-10) places 9-10

NCA 1 d 2-1 PAN 2 (21-11, 19-21, 15-11)

PAN 1 d 2-1 GUA 2 (18-21, 21-14, 15-12)

GUA 1 d 2-1 ESA 1  (18-21, 24-22, 15-4)

CRC 1 d 2-0 CRC 2  (21-8, 21-14)

Bronze Medal   CRC 2 d 2-1 ESA 1 (21-11, 19-21, 15-13)

Final CRC 1 d 2-0 GUA 1  (21-14, 21-12)

Costa Rica Under 21 men’s Central American Beach Volleyball Champion

PANAMÁ CITY, Panama, November 13, 2022.- Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela (CRC 1) were crowned Under 21 Central American Champions after beating twin brother Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado of El Salvador 2-0 (23-21, 26-24) in a great final at the XIV Under 21 Beach Volleyball Central American Champion of AFECAVOL.

Araya/Varela left behind in semifinals Luis Cascante/Deyner López (NCA 2) 2-0 (21-12, 21-11), a rematch of last year’s semifinal.

While the Guardado twins beat Nicaragua-1 of Cristopher Cascante/Evans Solís 2-0 (21-16, 21-17) in the other semifinal.

The Guardado brothers, fell last year to Nicaragua, and this year they came close to the crown but Araya’s good defense and Varela’s effective blocking took over El Salvador.

In the all-Nicaraguan match for third place, Luis Cascante/Deyner López beat Cascante/Solís 2-0 (21-16, 21-18).

Tournament Page

Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela Costa Rica

Sunday’s match

Pos 9-10. CRC 2 d 2-1 BIZ (21-18, 14-21, 15-12)

Semifinal

ESA 1 2-0 NCA 1 (21-16, 21-17)

CRC 1 2-0  NCA 2 (21-12, 21-11)

Pos 7-8. GUA 1 2-1 Pan 1 18-21, 21-12, 15-9

Pos 5-6. ESA 2 2-1 GUA 2. 21-13, 19-21, 15-11

Pos 3ro NCA 2 2-0 NCA 1 21-16, 21-18

Final    CRC 1- ESA 1 23-21, 26-24

Final positions:

1.- CRC 1; 2.- ESA 1, 3.- NCA 2, 4.- NCA 1; 5.- ESA 2; 6.- GUA 2; 7.- GUA 1; 8.- PAN 1; 9.- CRC; 10.- BIZ, 11.- PAN 2

Costa Rica ensures a berth in women’s final

PANAMÁ CITY, Panama, November 12, 2022.- Costa Rica ensures a berth in the women’s finals at the XIV Under 21 Beach Volleyball Central American Championship with its teams facing in semifinals, while Guatemala and El Salvador will play for the other ticket.

Sofía Vega and Aliza Aguilar will face Angel Williams and Kianna Araya, both teams from Costa Rica, while Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo of Guatemala will meet Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza of El Salvador.

Vega/Aguilar won two matches on Saturday to finish second in pool A, which Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo of Guatemala won.

First, they beat Alexandra Reyes/Carmen Alvarez of El Salvador 2-0 (25-15, 21-11) and then they qualified after a 2-0 (21-16, 21-13) win to Nahima Silva/Alejandra Rosales of Nicaragua.

While Alvarado/Arévalo won 2-0 (21-8, 21-10) over Karla Ortiz/Yeilin Hernández of Panama and then prevailed 2-0 (21-7, 21- 12) against Reyes/Alvarez (ESA 2).

In pool B, Williams/Araya (CRC) won 2-0 (21-10, 21-07) to Danna Aguilar/Sofía Rodríguez of Guatemala and then they beat Panama of Krisleen González/Ekaterina Ureña 2-0 (21-14, 21-9).

Second place went to Salvadorians Tovar/ Soza, who lost 1-2 (18-21, 21-17, 12-15)  against Aguilar/Rodríguez (GUA) and finished with a 2-0 (21-11, 21-19) victory over Nicaragua’s Ella Daniele Resau/Yulimar Alvarado.

Guatemala Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo

Saturday’s results

CRC 2 d 2-0 ESA 2 (25-15, 21-11)

GUA 1 d 2-0 PAN 1 (21-8, 21-10)

CRC 1 d 2-0 GUA 2 (21-10, 21-07)

NCA 2 d 2-0 PAN 2 (21-16, 21-19)

NCA 1 d 2-0 PAN 1 (21-17, 21-11)

GUA 2 d ESA 1 (21-18, 17-21, 15-12)

GUA 1 d 2-0 ESA 2 (21-7, 21-12)

CRC 2 d 2-0 NCA 1 (21-16, 21-13)

CRC 1 d 2-0 PAN 2 (21-14, 21-9)

ESA 1 d 2-0 NCA 2 (21-11, 21-19)

Sunday’s schedule

ESA – NCA2 9:00 a.m.

NCA 1- PAN 2 9:45 a.m.

GUA 2 – PAN 1 10:30 a.m.

GUA 1- ESA 1 11:15 – Semifinal

CRC 1- CRC 2 12:00 md Semifinal

Puestos 7-8 12:45 p.m.

Puestos 5-6 1:30 p.m.

Por medalla de bronce  2:15 p.m.

Final 3:00 p.m.

Nicaragua will meet El Salvador and Costa Rica in men’s semifinals

PANAMA CITY, Panamá, November 12, 2022.- Teams from Nicaragua will meet El Salvador and Costa Rica in the men’s semifinals of the XIV Under 21 Central American Beach Volleyball Championship on Sunday.

Luis Cascante/Deyner López (NCA 2) beat Rafael Vargas/Gabriel Vargas (ESA 2) 2-0 (21-10, 21-19) in the first quarterfinal match to advance into the semifinals against Julián Araya/Jhostin Varela (CRC 1), who finished first in pool C.

Last year Araya/Varela lost the bronze medal to another Nicaraguan team and now they’ll try to advance into the final.

While, pool A winners, Cristopher Cascante/Evans Solís of NCA 1, prevailed 2-0 (21-12, 21-13) over José Miguel Izaguirre/Mario Ventura (GUA 2) in quarterfinals and in semifinals will face twins Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado of El Salvador who won pool B.

Cascante faced Guardado twins in last year’s final match, after they eliminated the number one team of Nicaragua.

Tournament Page

Evans Solis NCA – José Izaguirre GUA

Saturday’s results (pool-play)

NCA 1 d 2-0 ESA 2       (22-20, 21-13)

GUA 1 d 2-0 CRC 2      (21-18, 21-15)

ESA 1 d 2-0 NCA 2       (21-11, 21-15)

BIZ d 2-0 PAN 2           (21-16, 21-16)

CRC 1 d 2-0 GUA 2      (21-19, 21-10)

Quarterfinals

NCA 2 d 2-0 ESA 2       (21-10, 21-19)

NCA 1 d 2-0 GUA 1     (21-12, 21-13)

Clasificación 7-10

PAN 1 d 2-0 CRC 2      (21-16, 21-14)

CRC 2 d 2-0 BIZ           (21-15, 21-17)

Sunday’s schedule

CRC 2- BIZ Posiciones 9-10     9:00 a.m.

ESA 1- NCA 1 – Semifinal       9:45 a.m.

CRC 1 – NCA 2 – Semifinal     10:30 a.m.

PAN 1- GUA 1 Posc 7-8           11:15 a.m.

GUA 2- ESA 2 Posiciones 5-6  12:00 md

Por medalla de bronce           1:00 p.m.

Final                                        2:00 p.m.

Three countries in strong battle at U21 men

PANAMA CITY, Panama, November 11, 2022.- El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica showed strength at the beginning of the XIV Under 21 Central American Beach Volleyball championship being held at Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino in Panamá City.

In pool A, Cristopher Cascante/Evans Solís won 2-0 (21-16, 21-17) over Gherson Ortiz/ Kevin Acosta (PAN 1), while Rafael Vargas/Gabriel Vargas (ESA 2) beat Panma in three sets.

Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado of El Salvador in pool B, started with two victories, against Daniel Delgado/Roberto Recinos (GUA 1) and Yulius Brown/José Fernández (CRC 2), but Brown/Fernández grabbed an important win 2-1 (25-23, 17-21, 18-16) over Luis Cascante/Deyner López (NCA 2).

In pool C, Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela (CRC 1) beat Panama of Denzel Arboine/Rommy Santos 2-0 and then they won 2-1 (19-21, 21-16, 15-8) to Ernest Broaster/Eugen Benguche of Belize.

First places of each pool will be decided on Saturday, followed by the quarterfinal round, while first place of pool B and C will advance directly to the semifinals to be held on Sunday.

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Friday’s results

ESA 2 def 2-1 PAN 1      (21-16, 19-21, 15-12)

ESA 1 def 2-0 CRC 2      (21-13, 21-13)

NCA 2 def 2-0 GUA 1     (21-19, 21-15)

CRC 1 def 2-0 PAN 2      (21-13, 21-11)

GUA 1 def 2-0 BIZ         (21-16, 28-26)

NCA 1 def 2-0 PAN 1      (21-16, 21-17)

CRC 2 def 2-1 NCA 2      (25-23, 17-21, 18-16)

ESA 1 def 2-0 GUA 1      (21-11, 21-14)

GUA 2 def 2-0 PAN 2      (21-15, 21-16)

CRC 1 def 2-1 BIZ         (19-21, 21-16, 15-8)

Saturday’s schedule (pool-play)

ESA 2- NCA 1 9:00 a.m.

GUA 1- CRC 2 9:45 a.m.

NCA 2 – ESA 1 10:30 a.m.

BIZ – PAN 2 11:15 a.m.

GUA 2- CRC 1 12:00 md

Grupo A: Cristopher Cascante/Evans Solís (NCA 1), Rafael Vargas/Gabriel Vargas (ESA 2), Gherson Ortiz/ Kevin Acosta (PAN 1).

Grupo B: Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado (ESA 1), Daniel Delgado/Roberto Recinos (GUA 1); Luis Cascante/Deyner López (NCA 2), Yulius Brown/José Fernández (CRC 2).

Grupo C: Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela (CRC 1), Ernest Broaster/Eugen Benguche (BIZ), José Miguel Izaguirre/Mario Ventura (GUA 2), Denzel Arboine/Rommy Santos (PAN 2).

Guatemala and Costa Rica lead the women’s tournament

PANAMA CITY, Panama, November 11, 2022.- Guatemala and Costa Rica dominated their pools in the start of the women’s tournament of the XIV Under 21 Central American Beach Volleyball championship.

In pool A, Guatemala 1 with Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo, won in their two outings. First they beat Nahima Silva and Alejandra Rosales (NCA 1) 2-0 (21-15, 22-20) a Nahima Silva y Alejandra Rosales (NCA 1) and then against Sofía Vega y Aliza Aguilar (CRC 2) 2-0 (21-16, 21-18).

Silva/Rosales won 2-0 over Alexandra Reyes/Carmen Alvarez, of El Salvador, who also beat Panamanians Karla Ortiz/Yeilin Hernández 2-0.

In pool B, Angel Williams and Kianna Araya of Costa Rica, won 2-0 (21-10, 21-9) over El Salvador (Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza), and then they beat Nicaragua (Ella Daniele Resau/Yulimar Alvarado) 2-0 (21-10, 21-12).

The second ticket to semifinals will be a tough battle and will be decided in Saturday’s matches. In pool A,  Silva/Rosales (NCA 1), Ortiz/Hernández (PAN 1) and Vega/Aguilar (CRC 2) with one victory each could advance.

In pool B, Aguilar/Rodríguez (GUA 2) and Resau/Alvarado (NCA 2) will play a decisive match to advance against El Salvador and Panama respectively.

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Friday’s results

NCA 1 def 2-0 ESA 2      (21-4, 21-5)

CRC 2 def 2-1 PAN 1      (15-21, 21-15, 15-11)

ESA 1 def 2-0 PAN 2      (21-15, 24-22)

NCA 2 def 2-0 GUA 2     (21-17, 21-18)

PAN 1 def 2-0 ESA 2      (21-17, 21-19)

GUA 1def 2-0 NCA 1      (21-15, 22-20)

CRC 1 def 2-0 ESA 1      (21-10, 21-9)

GUA 2   def 2-0 PAN 2    (22-20, 21-18)

GUA 1 def 2-0 CRC 2     (21-16, 21-18)

CRC 1 def 2-0 NCA 2      (21-10, 21-12)

Saturday’s schedule

CRC 2 – ESA 2 9:00 a.m.

PAN 1 – GUA 1 9:45 a.m.

GUA 2 – CRC 1 10:30 a.m.

NCA 2- PAN 2 11:15 a.m.

NCA 1 – PAN 1 12:00 md

ESA 1 – GUA 2 12:45 p.m.

ESA 2- GUA 1 1:30 p.m.

CRC 2- NCA 1 2:15 p.m.

PAN 2- CRC 1 3:00 p.m.

NCA 2- ESA 1 3:45 p.m.

Pool A: Guatemala 1 (Paola Alvarado/Ana Sofía Arévalo), Nicaragua 1 (Nahima Silva/ Alejandra Rosales), Panamá 1 (Karla Ortiz/Yeilin Hernández), Costa Rica 2 (Sofía Vega/Aliza Aguilar), El Salvador 2 (Alexandra Reyes/Carmen Alvarez).

Pool B: Costa Rica 1 (Angel Williams/Kianna Araya), El Salvador 1 (Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza), Guatemala 2 (Danna Aguilar/Sofía Rodríguez), Nicaragua 2 (Ella Daniele Resau/Yulimar Alvarado) y Panamá 2 (Krisleen González/Ekaterina Ureña).

Nicaragua men will face a great challenge at AFECAVOL U-21 Beach

PANAMA CITY, Panama, November 10, 2022.- XIV Under 21 AFECAVOL Beach Volleyball Central American Championship will have 11 teams of six countries competing in three pools at Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino.

In men, Nicaragua has defending champion Cristopher Cascante playing with Evans Solís, and their second team of Luis Cascante/Deyner López.

2021 runner up, twins Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado of El Salvador, has another strong pair with Rafael Vargas/Gabriel Vargas.

Costa Rica with two duos: Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela, and Yulius Brown/José Fernández, who will try to improve fourth place in the past edition of the tournament. From Belize, Ernest Broaster/Eugen Benguche.

Guatemala is competing with Daniel Delgado/Roberto Recinos, and José Miguel Izaguirre/Mario Ventura. Panama has Gherson Ortiz/Kevin Acosta and Denzel Arboine/Rommy Santos.

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El Salvador

Pool A: Cristopher Cascante/Evans Solís (NCA 1), Rafael Vargas/Gabriel Vargas (ESA 2), Gherson Ortiz/ Kevin Acosta (PAN 1).

Pool B: Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado (ESA 1), Daniel Delgado/Roberto Recinos (GUA 1); Luis Cascante/Deyner López (NCA 2), Yulius Brown/José Fernández (CRC 2).

Pool C: José Miguel Izaguirre/Mario Ventura (GUA 2), Denzel Arboine/Rommy Santos (PAN 2).

First places from pool B and C advance directly into semifinals, while the first place from pool A will face second of pool C, second of pool A will face second of pool B to win their spot in the semifinals.

Friday men’s schedule

PAN 1 vs ESA 2            9:00 a.m.

ESA 1 vs  CRC 2           9:45 a.m.

GUA 1 vs NCA 2          10:30 a.m.

CRC 1 vs PAN 2           11:15 a.m.

BIZ vs GUA 1               12:00 md

NCA 1 vs PAN 1           12:45 pm

CRC 2- NCA 2              13:30 p.m.

ESA 1 – GUA 1             14:15 p.m.

PAN 2 – GUA 2            15:00 p.m.

CRC 1 – BIZ     15:45 p.m.

Guatemala to defend AFECAVOL U-21 Beach title

PANAMA CITY, Panama, November 10, 2022.- The women’s field of the XIV Under 21 AFECAVOL Beach Volleyball Central American Championship starts Friday at Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino with 10 teams from five countries.

From Guatemala, defending champion Paola Alvarado will compete this time with Ana Sofía Arévalo, who finished fifth in last year’s edition, the team is expected a great level from the experience of both players. Danna Aguilar and Sofía Rodríguez is Guatemala’s second team.

From Costa Rica, features last year’s runner up Angel Williams and bronze medalist Kianna Araya, also Sofía Vega and Aliza Aguilar.

Nahima Silva and Alejandra Rosales is the number one team of Nicaragua, and Ella Daniele Resau and Yulimar Alvarado is the second team.

Karla Ortiz will play with Yeilin Hernández, while Krisleen González alongside Ekaterina Ureña, represent Panama. El Salvador with Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza, and Alexandra Reyes/Carmen Alvarez.

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Panama

Pool A: Alejandra Rosales), Panamá 1 (Karla Ortiz/Yeilin Hernández), Costa Rica 2 (Sofía Vega/Aliza Aguilar), El Salvador 2 (Alexandra Reyes/Carmen Alvarez).

Pool B: Costa Rica 1 (Angel Williams/Kianna Araya), El Salvador 1 (Karla Tovar/Daniela Soza), Guatemala 2 (Danna Aguilar/Sofía Rodríguez), Nicaragua 2 (Ella Daniele Resau/Yulimar Alvarado) y Panamá 2 (Krisleen González/Ekaterina Ureña).

Friday women’s schedule

NCA 1 vs  ESA 2           9:00 a.m.

PAN 1 vs  CRC 2          9:45 a.m.

ESA 1 vs PAN 2            10:30 a.m.

GUA 2 vs NCA 2          11:15 a.m.

ESA 2- PAN 1               12:00 md

GUA 1- NCA 1             12:45 pm

CRC 1- ESA 1               13:30 p.m.

PAN 2 – GUA 2            14:15 p.m.

GUA 1 – CRC 2            15:00 p.m.

CRC 1 – NCA 2             15:45 p.m.

José Pablo Pérez MVP: “We are family”

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 24, 2022.- José Pablo Pérez, opposite of Guatemala was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship, helping his team win the gold medal, the last time was in 2015.

Pérez was the leading scorer of his team with 103 points, 83 on kills, 7 blocks and 13 “aces”. His best match was scoring 26 points against Nicaragua, one of the most challenging matches of the tournament.

Pérez also won the honors of Best Server and Best Opposite; the best receiver was El Salvador’s libero Fernando Navarro, who also was recognized as Best Libero. The Best first blocker was Hakan Godoy of Belize and the Second-Best Blocker, Kevin Acost of Panama.

The First Best spiker was handed to Emanuel Pérez of Panama, and Gabriel Vargas of El Salvador the Second-Best spiker.

The Best defense was Nicaraguan libero Axel Gutierrez, Best setter Adolfo Rivas of Guatemala. The Best scorer Dowshel Smith, of Costa Rica with 126 points.

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Pérez: “It’s an award for the team”

José Pablo Pérez said that the individual awards are the result of playing as a team. “We see ourselves like a family, not only as a team. Without them I wouldn’t achieve anything. I am glad, I was expecting one individual award, but not three, I’ve worked really hard, and this is result of that work”.

“More than a team we are a family, we are brothers and that’s the key for success, team union”.

Guatemala, Nicaragua and Panama win the medals

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 24, 2022.- Guatemala was crowned undefeated champion at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship, while Nicaragua finished second place and Panama in third.

On Monday, the last day of the event, Nicaragua beat Belize 3-0 (25-15, 25-17, 25-12) to finish second place. With five victories and one loss, Nicaragua was overcome by Guatemala who won the gold medal and Panama finished with bronze. In the past tournament in 2019, Nicaragua was gold, Panama silver and El Salvador bronze.

Evans Solís was the best scorer of Nicaragua with 16 points, while Víctor Cruz and Angelo Guadamuz with 6 points each. For Belize, Preston Smith with 9 and Eleazar Mejía with 8 points as well as Hakan Godoy.

Also on the last day of competition, Panama defeated Honduras 3-0 (25-22, 25-15, 25-09) to secure the bronze medal. Emanuel Pérez was the best player for Panama with 12 points, while Víctor Pérez and Víctor Aráuz scored 8 points each. For Honduras, Jonathan Meza and Alejandro Lobo finished with 10 points each.

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Panama was better 31-28 in attacks, 9-1 in blocks and 9-7 in serves, committing 13 errors against 28 from their opponents.  

While beat El Salvador 3-0 (27-25, 25-21, 25-22) to finish with three wins and three losses.

El Salvador committed 27 errors that cost them the loss because Costa Rica only committed a total of 12, with advantage of 44-41 in kills and 5-2 in serves; both scored 7 in blocks.

Dowshel Smith scored 23 points and Johan Cerdas 12 for Costa Rica, while Gabriel Vargas scored 22 and Abner Cano 12 for El Salvador.

Final Positions

1.- GUA; 2.- NCA; 3.- PAN; 4.- CRC; 5.- ESA; 6.- BIZ; 7.-HON

Nicaragua wins silver medal beating Belize 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 24, 2022.- Nicaragua beat Belize 3-0 (25-15, 25-17, 25-12) to finish second place at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

With five victories and one loss, Nicaragua was overcome by Guatemala who won the gold medal and Panama finished with bronze. In the past tournament in 2019, Nicaragua was gold, Panama silver and El Salvador bronze.

Evans Solís was the best scorer of Nicaragua with 16 points, while Víctor Cruz and Angelo Guadamuz with 6 points each. For Belize, Preston Smith with 9 and Eleazar Mejía with 8 points as well as Hakan Godoy.

Nicaragua did better in attacks 31-24, both teams scored one point from serves, and Beliz did better in blocks 9-1, four from Godoy, Belize committing 37 errors, against 20 of their opponents.

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Gabriel Navas Nicaragua

Jorge Mena, coach of Nicaragua: “We accomplished our goal of reaching the podium with a generation who hasn’t won a medal. They wanted to be champions, the boys worked really hard, we failed against Guatemala, but then they recovered and focused in crucial matches like Costa Rica. We are second place, which isn’t bad, we are giving this victory to Nicaragua, we are satisfied and happy”.

Panama wins 3-0 against Honduras to reach the podium

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 24, 2022.- Panama defeated Honduras 3-0 (25-22, 25-15, 25-09) to win at least the bronze medal at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

With four victories and two losses, Panama will wait for the result between Nicaragua and Belize, if Nicaragua wins, they finish with the silver medal and the Panamanians with bronze, a loss from the host would grant the silver medal to Panama.

In the last tournament in 2019, Panama finished with the silver medal behind Nicaragua; their last gold medal was in 2001.

Emanuel Pérez was the best player for Panama with 12 points, while Víctor Pérez and Víctor Aráuz scored 8 points each. For Honduras, Jonathan Meza and Alejandro Lobo finished with 10 points each.

Panama was better 31-28 in attacks, 9-1 in blocks and 9-7 in serves, committing 13 errors against 28 from their opponents.  

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Panama celebrates victory over Honduras

David de León, captain of Panama: “We are super satisfied with our performance, thank God for all the blessings, for allowing us to win and reach the podium after so many years of struggles and the sacrifices. We were united up to the end, despite the difficulties, like transportation, but we left all in Gods’ hands, we are thankful for the victory and for Panama. Not everyone knows the sacrifices and they only criticize, but we try not to pay attention, we are here, and we played for a good result”.

Jonathan Caballero, coach of Panama: “I am excited, I have no words, I am proud of the guys, they are warriors, they came to battle for a medal, without saying the color, we wanted to be medalists with young players that are the future, we hope to work to put Panamanian volleyball in high again. The guys told me, we want to take home a medal for our country and work as a team and in the past two days they did a great team effort”.

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Costa Rica ends with 3-0 victory over El Salvador

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, 24 de octubre 2022.- Costa Rica beat El Salvador 3-0 (27-25, 25-21, 25-22) to finish with three wins and three losses at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.  

El Salvador committed 27 errors that cost them the loss because Costa Rica only committed a total of 12, with advantage of 44-41 in kills and 5-2 in serves; both scored 7 in blocks.

Dowshel Smith scored 23 points and Johan Cerdas 12 for Costa Rica, while Gabriel Vargas scored 22 and Abner Cano 12 for El Salvador.

Costa Rica finished with 19 points in three victories and three losses and will have to wait for the result between Panama and Honduras to decide the bronze medal. El Salvador ended with a record of 2-4 for fifth position.

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Costa Rica celebrates victory over El Salvador

Alberto Blanco, coach of Costa Rica: “We were playing at a strong level, but we had a rare set back against Panama, but I believe the teams’ position goes in relation to their work; Guatemala and Nicaragua are working well, Panama and we are going one step at a time. We’ve had difficulties in putting together a national team for the past years because our players are studying abroad, they’ve been playing in other countries and it’s hard to have a good team”.

Alexander Polanco, coach of El Salvador: “This has been a bitter experience, we didn’t have a setter to manage the players, but he’s young, he only has one tournament, and it wasn’t too demanding. In general, the team could’ve given more, we lost close matches and that discouraged the group and they fell, not because they are capable. The team is young, and we are satisfied with their projection”.

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Nicaragua secures bronze medal defeating Honduras 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 23, 2022.- Nicaragua earned a 3-0 (25-20, 25-22, 25-19) victory over Honduras to stand with four wins and one loss, securing the bronze medal at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Nicaragua dominated 41-26 in attacks and 3-2 in serves but was outblocked 7-6 and Honduras committed more errors 24-19.

Evans Solís was the best attacker for Nicaragua with 16 points, while Víctor Cruz finished with 10. Alejandro Lobo of Honduras scored 13 tallies and Jonathan Meza 9.

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Rafael Hernández, captain of Nicaragua: “Tomorrow we’ll come out to change the color of the medal, at the beginning we played at Honduras rhythm, committing some errors, but then we recovered and got the result. Tomorrow we’ll come strong, trying to keep our rhythm and look for the victory”.

Victor Cruz, outside hitter of Nicaragua: “We secured the bronze medal, thanks to God and tomorrow we’ll play with everything for the silver medal. Personally, I have given a lot and as a team we’ve performed well, and I hope to continue like that. Thanking God, we haven’t been injured”.

On Monday, Honduras and Panamá play at 4:00 p.m. and Nicaragua faces Belize at 6:00 p.m.

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Panama beat Costa Rica 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 23, 2022.- Panama beat Costa Rica 3-0 (25-13, 25-11, 25-16) on day six of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Panamá earned their third victory against two losses, reaching 14 points, to overcome Costa Rica who stands with 2-3, but with also 14 points.

David de León team captain of Panama ended with 17 points and Emanuel Pérez with 15, plus 11 by Víctor Pérez. For Costa Rica, captain Dowshel Smith had one of his lowest performances with 9 points.

Panama was better in attacks 46-23, in service 6-1, and Costa Rica led in blocking 5-4, committing 19 errors, against 11 from the winners.

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Panama celebrates beating Costa Rica

David de León, captain Panama: “Panama never gives up and always goes forward. An opponent so difficult like Costa Rica, with high leveled players, we did a good effort, focused because they are very strong. We are going forward and Panama has more”.

Emanuel Pérez, outstanding player of Panama: “Thank God the team came out with the result, we effort ourselves with all our heart, we wanted this victory, and we did. Now we are closer, we the possibility to win a medal, we have one more match and we hope to close well, strong and with Gods’ help”.

On Monday, Costa Rica faces El Salvador at 2:00 p.m, Honduras and Panamá play at 4:00 p.m.

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Guatemala AFECAVOL U21 undefeated Champion

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 23, 2022.- Guatemala left no doubts, and despite falling in the first set, they recovered for a 3-1 (20-25, 25-20, 25-19, 25-18) victory against El Salvador to win the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship undefeated.

With six wins and no losses, Guatemala won their eighth Central American title; their previews one was in 2015, stopping Nicaragua’s winning streak of two title in a row in 2017 and 2019.

Team captain Javier Lucero topped Guatemala with 20 points, including four blocks, José Pablo Pérez added 17 and Francisco Gamboa 11. For El Salvador, Gabriel Vargas scored 12 points.

Guatemala was better in attacks 43-26, in blocks 11-8 and in serves 6-5, committing 43 errors against 35 from El Salvador.

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Guatemala undefeated Central American Champions

Javier Lucero, captain of Guatemala: “We reached our goal, which we set since day one; we thank God for making this possible. Today we were a bit confident, but we stopped El Salvador. Personally, it’s a great achievement, even more because it’s undefeated and it motivates me to keep on fighting”.

Germán Ramos, libero of Guatemala: “We feel highly motivated, we’ve been preparing since the under 23 y we feel comfortable as a team, we are united, and we are doing well as a team. At the beginning it took time to adjust, after that we’ve performed well, I think we gave a good spectacle and wining each game”.

On Monday, El Salvador plays Costa Rica at 2:00 p.m., while Guatemala has finished the event.

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Nicaragua wins five-set battle to Costa Rica

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 22, 2022.- Nicaragua won epic five-set battle (27-25, 22-25, 32-30, 17-25, 15-10) to Costa Rica in the closing match of day four at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Neither one wanted to give in because the winners would be closer to a medal and Evans Solis, Denis Espinoza and setter Cristhoper Castillo carried Nicaragua to victory.

Nicaragua won the first set 27-25, delayed for over an hour due to weather conditions. Costa Rica was tougher in the second set, jumping to a five-set lead at mid-set.

The third set was a roller coaster, with set points for both sides, until Nicaragua’s serves helped finishing with the advantage. In the fourth, Costa Rica improved in blocking and spiking were unstoppable, mostly team captain Dowshel Smith.

Nicaragua’s 3 point lead reaching the first technical time-out (8-5) helped them close the fifth set and earning their first victory against one loss.

Nicaraguan Evans Solis scored 33 points, while Denis Espinoza contributed with 29, with Castillo coming off the bench moving pieces for his team. For Costa Rica, Dowshel Smith ended with 26 and  Jenher Denis 13 as well as Johan Cerdas.

Nicaragua was better in attacks 70-55, in serves 10-2, while Costa Rica was superior in blocking 14-5; Nicaragua committed 28 errors, against 44 from their opponents.

Evans Solis of Nicaragua spikes

Cristhoper Castillo, setter of Nicaragua: “I am excited, I came off the bench, did mi job, I contributed with blocks and mostly I followed my coaches’ insctructions. The game was difficult, but we won; I am in the junio team and Costa Rica beat us 3-0 and now we are even”.

Jorge Mena, coach of Nicaragua: “I always say that the winner is that who’s strategy is best, not the one who strikes harder. We made a change in the fifth set which Costa Rica missed, and it worked well. You can also win with the bench, Denis Espinoza was outstanding during todays’ practice, and I decided to put him as a starter, also the change in setter helped us well”.

On Sunday, Costa Rica faces Panama at 4:00 p.m. and Nicaragua plays Honduras at 6:00 p.m.

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Guatemala one step away to the title defeating Panama

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 22, 2022.- Guatemala continues undefeated in five outings and is one step away to the title after defeating Panama 3-0 (25-19, 25-22, 25-12) at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Guatemala remained calm despite Panama´s pressure in the second set and reaching an even 19 and with effective blocks by the middle to win the set in route to victory.

Guatemala’s leading scorer was José Pablo Pérez with 16 points, Francisco Gamboa and Javier Lucero ended with 10 each. David de León was the best scorer for Panama with 12 points and Emanuel Pérez with 11.

Guatemala was better in attacks 38-29, in serves 6-1 and both scored 5 points on blocks; but Panama committed 26 errors against 18 from their opponents.  

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Guatemala celebrates

Adolfo Ariel Rivas, setter of Guatemala: “I am happy for the win, we just need to do well tomorrow to be the champions. Today we played well, I trust my team and things went well. Defending is really important for me to do my job, it’s a team effort, because the attack needs the rest, and we have all been doing a good job”.

Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala: “We haven’t reached our goal, we are still in the competition, nothing is decided, we have our last game tomorrow against El Salvador. Our goal was to battle one match at a time and that’s what we’ve doing. The boys have been able to win, which is important, despite losing focus on occasions and their energy”.

On Sunday, Guatemala meets El Salvador at 2:00 p.m and Panamá plays Costa Rica at 4:00 p.m.

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Belize earns first victory defeating Honduras

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 22, 2022.- Belize (1-4) earned their first tournament win defeating Honduras 3-0 (25-20, 25-22, 25-17) on day five at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Eleazar Mejía led Belize with 23 points and Preston Smith with 9. For Honduras, Alejandro Lobo scored 12 points, in one of the lowest performances in the tournament.

Despite battling every set, Honduras fell to Belize’s strength in attacks to close every set.  Belize led in kills 39-21, in blocks 7-3 and Honduras was better in serves 6-5, committing 24 errors against 29 from the winners.

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Belize celebrates

Eleazar Mejía, best scorer of Belize: “Some of us were in the tournament in Copan (U19), which was different. Here we started slow, we advanced little by little and earned today’s victory. Two players couldn’t come, it would be better with them, but without them we must take the responsibility and do a better job with what we have here. I am satisfied with my performance, but we can do better. We have one match left, against Nicaragua and we will put up fight, we will come out to look for the win”.

Nicanor Requena, captain of Belize: “It feels good to win, thanks to our team’s unity. That’s what helped us win, unity and good energy as a team. The previous games were difficult, we did everything to win, we just need a bit more and today we were able to do so”.

On Sunday, Panama plays Costa Rica at 4:00 p.m. and Belize rests.

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Guatemala blocks Nicaragua’s objectives

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 21, 2022.- Guatemala (4-0) kept their undefeated streak after a 3-1 (25-23, 22-25, 25-15, 25-14) win over Nicaragua (2-1) to close day four at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Guatemala’s effective blocking stopped Nicaragua’s attacking with a 15-blocking margin against five.

After winning the first set 25-23, Guatemala gave in with a 14-22 deficit in the second set and pressured to move 21-22 but Nicaragua won 22-25.

In the third and fourth sets, Guatemala reached the second technical time-out 16-10 advantage, thanks to their effective blocking, mostly by José Pérez who finished with 26 points, 5 from blocks; captain Javier Lucero ended with 19 points (3 blocks), Yeferson Zavala included 4 blocks from his 10 points total, as well as Franciso Gamboa.

Nicaragua’s best scorer was Evans Solís with 22 points, Josué Blandón with 13 and 12 from Víctor Cruz.

Guatemala was better in kills 59-50 but scored fewer serves 2-3, committing 19 errors against 21 from Nicaragua.

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Guatemala’s celebration

José Pablo Pérez, best scorer of Guatemala: “Today’s key was our attitude, we were motivated as a team, and everything turned out perfectly. We did well in blocking, we observed they were spiking only diagonally, and we adjusted. We achieved to win two of the most difficult matches, we still have Panama and El Salvador to finish, and we hope to win”.

Javier Lucero, captain of Guatemala: “It was an important match for our goals, we continue to battle, and we had great energy to win. The key was over the net, blocking, we put on a mark, and we remain battling the rest of the tournament. The coaching staff pointed out their weaknesses and we executed what they had planned”.

On Saturday, Guatemala plays Panama at 4:00 p.m. and Nicaragua faces Costa Rica at 6:00 p.m.

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Panama wins exciting five setter to El Salvador

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 21, 2022.- Panama (2-1) left all on the court in an exciting 3-2 (22-25, 25-17, 10-25, 26-24, 15-11) victory over El Salvador (2-2) at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

El Salvador was on its way to a solid win after taking the third set by a 25-10 huge margin, after a roller coaster first two sets, but the Panamanians battled with courage in winning the fourth to a close 26-24. In the tie-break, Panama controlled by a slim advantage despite the pressure from El Salvador.

Emanuel Pérez was crucial for Panama with 20 points, with teammates David de León scoring 19 and Victor Pérez with 14 to the winning cause; as well as the great performance in defense by libero Jeremy Casasola in the final sets.

For El Salvador, Gabriel Vargas topped with 22 points, Abner Cano with 20 and Julio Jiménez added 11.

Panama led by one point 54-53 in attacks and 13-12 in blocking, with De León and Kevin Acosta with five effective blocks. Panama dominated in serves 4-1, committing 36 errors against 27 from its opponent.

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Christian Flores setter of Panama

David de León, captain of Panama: “We are glad for the victory against a team like El Salvador; I have no words to explain our opponents’ game level and what we lived today. This is just the beginning; we must continue to effort ourselves. Thank God, this puts us in a better position and we must continue improving”.

Emanuel Pérez, top scorer of Panama: “I am super excited, I thank God for this victory and to my team who left everything on the court. The last points were exciting, and we thank God all he has given us. We had a great connection as a team, we are improving every day, we are elevating”.

On Saturday Panama faces Guatemala at 4:00 p.m. and El Salvador has the day off.  

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Costa Rica overcomes a resilient Belize in consecutive sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 21, 2022.- Costa Rica earned their second victory while overcoming a resilient Belize (0-4) in consecutive sets 3-0 (25-15, 29-27, 24-23) on day four of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

The game was decided in the second set because both teams had a chance to win the set, but Costa Rica benefited with their blocking strength. In the third, Belize never stopped pressuring, Costa Rican serves marked the difference complicating their opponents’ attacks, allowing them to counterattack more effectively.  

Costa Rica’s captain, Dowshel Smith ended with 21 points and Johan Cerdas with 12. For Belize, Eleazar Mejía continued to be effective with 15 points and Prestin Smith with 12.

Belize held advantage in kills 37-32, 8-7 in blocks and both teams scored on 3 serves; but Costa Rica scored 37 points on Belizean errors against 17.

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Costa Rica celebrates

Johan Cerdad, outstanding player of Costa Rica: “It was hard, but we are very happy, I hope we continue like this in the rest of the tournament and have good results. This is my first time in the national team, I am happy because I’m performing well; with every match we’re looking more like a team, unfortunately we didn’t have many games to prepare, but we are trying to do our best”.

Juan Calderón Chanto, setter of Costa Rica: “It’s a great experience, in 2019 I had a similar experience, and you learn a lot. It’s the first time for many, we prepared to do the best we can, and I believe we’re doing well. The sets were too close, we lacked concentration in some moments, but in the end, we won”.

On Saturday Belize faces Honduras at 2:00 p.m. and Costa Rica against Nicaragua at 6:00 p.m.

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Costa Rica defeats Honduras 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 20, 2022.- Costa Rica defeated Honduras 3-0 (25-21, 28-26, 25-16) on day three at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

With difficulties and recovering from two-set points, Costa Rica won the second set thanks to blocking and Doswel Smith powerful kills, that made the difference the entire match.

Smith scored 23 points, 10 of them in the third set, and Johan Cerdas contributed with 12. For Honduras, Alejandro Lobo registered 14 points a Jonathan Meza 12.

Costa Rica’s attacks produced 42 points against 30 from their opponents; both scored 6 in blocks and Honduras did better in serves 5-4, while committing 26 errors to 22 from their opponent.

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Costa Rica celebrates winning to Honduras

Dowshel Smith, captain of Costa Rica: “Yesterday’s match was in our hands, but small details stopped us from winning, but we corrected what we were lacking, and we were able to win today. We were relaxed, things were a bit difficult, but we were focused on improving errors in our past performance and played more calm, less stressed”.

Alberto Blanco, coach of Costa Rica: “The team had no preparation matches back in Costa Rica, so we are improving some aspects with each game. Tomorrow will be another “practice” against Belize and we’ll go on improving little by little. We must add with each match, we still have options to fight for the gold medal, anything can happen”.

On Friday, Belize faces Costa Rica at 2:00 p.m. and Honduras has the day off.

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Guatemala beats Belize 3-1

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 20, 2022.- Guatemala prevailed 3-1 (25-21, 25-11, 19-25, 25-10) against Belize to start day three at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.  

Guatemalan Francisco Gamboa and José Pérez collected 12 points each and Javier Lucero 11; for Belize, Eleazar Mejía finished with 13 tallies and Preston Smith with 10.

Guatemala was better in attacks 36-25 and 8-7 in serves; Belize did better in blocks 8-4, mostly in the third set, Hakan Godoy was effective with three blocks. Belize committed 46 errors and Guatemala 27.

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Guatemala against Belize

Francisco Gamboa, top scorer of Guatemala: “We are doing well, in the end the team recovered from falling a set to Belize, with good energy, always high. I think the five sets we played against Costa Rica affected our physical condition a little and we’ve been performing coming from behind, because we are tired”.

José Pérez, outstanding player of Guatemala: “We finished with victory, but we aren’t happy because it wasn’t 3-0, earning five points was important, but that’s done, now we must continue adding points. We were too confident; things didn’t go well in the third and we lost it”.

On Friday, Belize faces Costa Rica at 2:00 p.m. and Guatemala meets with Nicaragua at  6:00 p.m.

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Guatemala comes back to win in five sets to Costa Rica

Managua, Nicaragua, October 19, 2022.- Guatemala gave another demonstration of courage recovering from a two-set deficit to win 3-2 (19-25, 21-25, 25-15, 25-17, 15-13) to Costa Rica in the last match of the second day of competition at the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

After a two-set lead, Costa Rica conceded to Guatemala who scored 5 consecutive points in the third set moving ahead 19-14 and onward to win the set and catch their breathe to win the match.

Javier Lucero finished with 18 points, Francisco Gamboa with 16 and Jose Perez 15, while Costa Rica Dowshel Mc Donald added 24 points despite suffering an injury and not performing in the fifth decisive set. Johan Cerdas finished with 11.

Guatemala was better in attacks 55-48 and serves 5-2, but Costa Rica overwhelmed in blocks 15-1, but committed 44 errors against 30 from their opponents.

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Guatemala celebrates defeating Costa Rica

Javier Lucero, captain of Guatemala: “We’ve been taught to come from behind, I am excited of what we’ve achieved, we showed we can execute what we’ve taught. We lacked attitude in the first two sets, then we gained confidence and recovered. We gave a huge step and we continue to fight”.

Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala: “It was a nice display of volleyball, ups and downs from both teams and kudos to Costa Rica, a combative team. They started strong, with great rhythm, we had difficulties in the first two sets. At the beginning they didn’t commit much less errors, they had a stable performance, but we were able to win the third with less errors, and it was crucial that the boys were able to improve their attitude”.

On Thursday, Guatemala faces Belize at 2:00 p.m. and Costa Rica meets Honduras at 4:00 p.m.

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Panama downs Belize 3-0

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 19, 2022.- Panama swept Belize (25-16, 25-19, 25-17) on day two of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Víctor Pérez scored 15 points for Panama and Emanuel Pérez ended with 10, while Eleazar Mejía finished with 13, four on aces and Smith Preston with 10, for Belize.

Panama led 28-22 in attacks but was overcame with a 6-4 margin in blocks and 6-2 in serves; Belize committed 41 errors against only 18 by the winners.

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Victor Perez of Panama spikes against Belize

David de León, captain of Panama: “I am very happy because we came out on top a difficult opponent like Belize who has a great level. We continue to put pressure, this is just starting, I believe we have more to give and with a three-set victory we are in a higher position”.

Jonathan Caballero, coach of Panama: “First I want to congratulate Belize, a tough team and I am super happy with my team that’s been working hard for these results, which are good for our country, this victory motivates us a lot”.

On Thursday, Guatemala faces Belize at 2:00 p.m. Panama rests.

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El Salvador recovers and wins over Honduras 3-1

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 19, 2022.- El Salvador recovered from losing the first set to win 3-1 (20-25, 25-16, 25-21, 25-14) over Honduras in the first match of day two of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

In the first set, Honduras was better in attacks and serves, jumping ahead which the Salvadorians couldn’t catch up, but everything changed from the second set on when El Salvador improved in attack as well as in blocks.

Team captain Abner Cano for the second match in a row was El Salvador best scorer with 24 points on 21 kills, followed by Gabriel Vargas with 15 points. Alejandro Lobo scored 15 points for Honduras, with 12 from Jonathan Meza.

El Salvador was better in attacks 43-32, both teams scored 3-3 on serves and Honduras led 6-5 in blocks but committed 44 errors against 35 from their opponents.

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Ricardo Navarro of El Salvador and Jonathan Meza of Honduras battle the ball over the net

Abner Cano, captain of El Salvador said “unfortunately we didn’t start the match well, our energy was low, but thank God we recovered our force as a team to beta a tough opponent Honduras. Normally we fight every match, with Honduras we are similar, but now we have a 3-0 and a 3-1 win, which motivates us to reach the podium”.

Alexander Polanco, coach of El Salvador: “There are no small team in this category, it’s a close competition and every match is different. We must continue to work; we have to correct what we failed today for a better match tomorrow against the home team”.

On Thursday, Honduras will face Costa Rica at 4:00 p.m. while El Salvador meets Nicaragua at 6:00 p.m.

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Guatemala beats Honduras in opening match

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 18, 2022.- Guatemala’s national team showed their strength beating Honduras 3-0 (25-10, 25-17, 25-12) in the opening match of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

With an 8-2 advantage in the first set, Guatemala impressed their opponents and never stopped pressuring to earn their first victory thanks to the performance of Jose Perez who scored 17 points, six from serves and 11 on kills. Team captain Javier Lucero finished with 9 points. For Honduras, Alejandro Lovo scored 9 points.

Guatemala was superior in attacks with a 34-16 margin, and 9-1 in serves, but Honduras was better in blocks 5-4; however, they committed 28 errors against 17 from the winners.

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Guatemala celebrates

Javier Lucero, captain of Guatemala: “We feel well prepared, we’ve made a great effort to be here, we’ve trained a lot, it was a good match that will help us to continue battling to reach our goal”.

José Pérez, top scorer of Guatemala: “I have worked for a long time to be in good conditions, it’s good that everything went well, even more because we won five points. Now we must rest for our next match, we adapted well to the court, and all went well”.

Guatemala will face Costa Rica on Wednesday, the second day of competition, at 6:00 p.m. while Honduras has committed against El Salvador at 2:00 p.m.

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Nicaragua defeats Panama 3-1

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 18, 2022.- Nicaragua defeated Panama 3-1 (25-18, 25-19, 16-25, 25-13) in the last match of the first day of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Evans Solís, with 19 points was Nicaragua’s best scorer, and Victor Cruz added 10 points. For Panama, Víctor Pérez finished with 14 points, David Leon and Emanuel Perez with 12 points each.

Nicaragua was better in serves 5-0, with 3 aces from Solis, crucial at the beginning of the fourth set. Panama led in attacks 37-35 and 15-7 in blocks, but they committed 44 errors against 23 from their opponents.

In the third set, Panama registered 12-8 in attacks and 6-0 in blocks, committing fewer errors (7-8) than in the previous sets, but in the fourth set Nicaragua’s serves were lethal, which in the end made a difference.

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Rafael Hernández, captain of Nicaragua: “We hope for more victories like this one, we will continue to work hard to make it happen. In the third set we were too confident, without energy, not wanting to do anything, we lost concentration. In general, we did well, and we’ll improve little by little during the tournament”.

Evans Solís, top scorer of Nicaragua: “It was a tough match, we hope for a more effective result in three sets, but we were too confident. We had problem in receiving, on of the most important elements and we lost energy. Thank God we came out on top, and we are glad, but we hope to do better”.

On Wednesday, Panama will play against Belize at 4:00 p.m. while Nicaragua rests.

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El Salvador defeats Belize in straight sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 18, 2022.- El Salvador defeated Belize in straight sets 3-0 (25-19, 25-12, 25-20) in the second match of opening day of the XIX AFECAVOL Men’s U21 Central American Championship.

Abner Cano, captain of El Salvador, led his team to victory scoring 13 points, 12 on kills, joined by Julio Jimenez Hunter with 11. For Belize, Preston Smith ended with 10 and 8 by Eleazar Mejía.

El Salvador scored on a 28-22 advantage in attacks, 6-3 in blocks and were down 1-3 in serves, but they also scored 40 points on opponent errors, committing 23 errors.

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Gabriel Vargas of El Salvador

Abner Cano, captain of El Salvador: “I am proud of my team, of the victory we achieved, and we have high expectations in the tournament. We want to be among the medalists, we are aware we must defeat the other teams, but we are strong, with young but experienced players”.

Julio Jiménez, top scorer of El Salvador: “I am happy because it was what we came to do, we are aware this is one step at a time, in the end we reached the first goal, six more to go, so we must continue forward. We trusted our abilities with respect to our opponents (Belize), but we knew we could win”.

El Salvador will face Honduras at 2:00 p.m., while Panama will play against Belize at 4:00 p.m.

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Nicaragua the one to beat at U21 Men’s AFECAVOL  

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 17, 2022.- The seven Central American countries are in Managua to compete at the nineteenth U21 Men’s AFECAVOL Central American Championship that starts on Tuesday at Alexis Argüello Gymnasium.

Nicaragua has won two consecutive titles (2017, 2019) and everyone says they are the opponent to beat, while hosting the event, but they concur it will be a tournament with strong battles and none of them will be easy.

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Albert Humes, coach of Belize

“We are continuing with the U19 program, we have a good young team, we are mentally prepared for the tournament, I believe we can have a good result and reach the podium”.

Miguel Pagoaga, coach of Honduras

“We have a young and enthusiastic group that have been preparing during the year in different tournaments. We are here to work and battle to reach the podium, we have prepared for that, and we hope we can do it”.

Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala

“We will try to have a good competition; our boys eager to play. It’s a category in development and we believe some players will have a good performance. We will play with a positive attitude and will battle one game at a time”.

Alexander Polanco, coach of El Salvador

“We are coming to give a fight, good games, hoping for excellent results and to battle for a medal. We have several experienced players that have played in under 23 national teams, where we finished third place, and we have three youngsters who are competing for the first time and others who were in Honduras for the under 19”.

Jorge Mena, coach of Nicaragua

“We are going to try to top the podium, or finish among the top three places and climb positions. We are the current champions, and we will defend the title with our soul, life and heart, even more because we are at home”.

Alberto Blanco, coach of Costa Rica

“This is a tournament we take seriously; we have prepared well, we are aware it wont be easy, the teams have prepared strongly, better than previous years, especially Nicaragua who competed at the Pan American Cup in Cuba, and despite knowing every team is difficult, Nicaragua is the one to beat”.

Jonathan Caballero, team manager of Panama

“We have boys with a lot of courage, eager to win a place at the podium. They are young players, with high expectations and motivated to do things well and represent our country well”.

The tournament starts on Tuesday at 2:00 pm with the match between Honduras and Guatemala. At 4:00 pm Belize faces El Salvador, at 6:00 pm the opening ceremony, followed by Nicaragua against Panama.

Nicaragua looks for a Hat Trick at AFECAVOL U21 Men’s Championship

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, October 14, 2022.- Nicaragua will aim to become three-time champion of the nineteenth U21 Men’s AFECAVOL Central American Championship to be held at the Multisports Alexis Argüello Gymnasium in Managua from October 18 to 24.

Nicaragua was crowned AFECAVOL champion in the past two editions of the tournament (2017, 2019), both undefeated and will aim to repeat the feat to win their third title in a row. They also won the championship in 2003.

During the past edition, Panamá won the silver medal and El Salvador completed the podium with the bronze medal.

Other winners of the event have been, Guatemala in seven occasions, Costa Rica with three titles and El Salvador alongside Panama on two occasions each.

Members of the AFECAVOL control committee and delegations arrive in Managua on October 16, the preliminary inquiry and court recognition are on the 17 and the competition starts on the 18 with three daily matches.

Competition Schedule:

Tuesday October 18:

14:00     Honduras v Guatemala

16:00     Belize v El Salvador

18:30     Nicaragua v Panama

Wednesday October 19:

14:00     El Salvador v Honduras

16:00     Panama v Belize

18:00     Guatemala v Costa Rica

Thursday October 20:

14:00     Guatemala v Belize

16:00     Costa Rica v Honduras

18:00     El Salvador v Nicaragua

Friday October 21:

14:00     Belize v Costa Rica

16:00     Panama v El Salvador

18:00     Nicaragua v Guatemala

Saturday October 22:

14:00     Honduras v Belize

16:00     Guatemala v Panama

18:00     Costa Rica v Nicaragua

Sunday October 23:

14:00     El Salvador v Guatemala

16:00     Panama v Costa Rica

18:00     Nicaragua v Honduras

Monday October 24:

14:00     Costa Rica v El Salvador

16:00     Honduras Panama

18:00     Belize v Nicaragua

AFECAVOL Podium

YearGoldSilverBronze
1981GUACRCNCA
1986PANGUANCA
1988CRCPANNCA
1990ESAHONPAN
1992GUACRCPAN
1994HONNCAGUA
1996CRCGUAPAN
1999CRCPANHON
2001PANCRCESA
2003NCACRCGUA
2006GUAHONCRC
2007GUAHONCRC
2009GUAHONESA
2011GUACRCHON
2013ESANCAGUA
2015GUACRCHON
2017NCACRCGUA

USA continues down the path of victory

Lodz, Poland, September 29, 2022.- In their third game of this Women’s Volleyball World Championship, the United States team continued undefeated after beating the Bulgarian team.

In a match that lasted four sets, the Americans disposed of the Bulgarians with a score of 3-1 (25-14, 23-25, 25-11, 25-15).

For the United States Alexandra Frantti got 19 points, Chiaca Ogbogu 16 and Kelsey Robinson contributed 15. For Bulgaria, Elitsa Atanasijevic stood out with 14 and Miroslava Paskova added 8.

FIVB Women’s World Championship 2022

The United States continues its route in the World Cup facing Germany on September 30.

Costa Rica Three-Time undefeated Boys’ U19 AFECAVOL Champion

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 15, 2022.- Costa Rica was crowned AFECAVOL Boys’ U19 Three-Time undefeated Champion beating El Salvador 3-0 (25-22, 25-14, 25-16) on Thursday at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Costa Rica won their eight AFECAVOL title, their third in a row, with perfect 5-0 record and 25 points, with 15 sets in favor and none against, strengthening their supremacy in the age-group category, since the creation of the event in 1982 they have reached the Central American podium.

Costa Rica lost three set points (24-19) before winning the second set and coming from behind in the third before becoming undefeated champion.

Costa Rica prevailed over El Salvador in every element of the game, attacks (38-24), blocks (7-2) and serves (4-2). Both teams committed a similar number of unforced errors, Costa Rica with 24 and El Salvador with 26.

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David Cordoba of Costa Rica spikes against El Salvador

Two players of Costa Rica scored double-digits, opposite hitter and team captain David Cordoba with 18 points on 15 attacks, two blocks and one ace, and outside hitter Stanley Grant with 14 points from 13 attacks and one ace.

The leading scorer of El Salvador was outside hitter Rafael Vargas with 8 points, joined by outside hitter Marlon Solorzano with 7 points.

Robertocarlo Argüello, head coach Costa Rica: “We were prepared for a complicated match because they (El Salvador) had nothing to lose, and our closing could have been difficult. On our way from Costa Rica, we were determined to go back undefeated, with 15 sets in favor and none against. Thank God all the effort of this team during practices, training camps in Costa Rica gave its fruits”.

Gerardo Hernández, head coach of El Salvador: “I am glad about my boys, for the eleven players this was a great experience competing at an international event. At the beginning of the tournament, we had hopes for more, but the level of play of the under-19 category in Central America has improved, which is good to compete outside our region. We are leaving satisfied with the job done, the boys enjoyed themselves and learned a lot from all the matches”.

Guatemala Sub Champion U19 defeating Nicaragua

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 15, 2022.- Guatemala finished AFECAVOL Boys’ U19 Sub Champion defeating Nicaragua 3-0 (25-22, 25-17, 25-11) at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Guatemala ended the evento with 3-2 record and 17 points, winning their seventh silver medal in this age-group, their fourth in a row. Nicaragua finished with a 3-2 record and 11 points: waiting for the result between Belize and Honduras for their final position in the tournament.

The first set was the most challenging, but Guatemala was unstoppable in the next two; in the second set jumping to an 11-2 advantage to move forward in the third set for a huge 21-8 advantage.

El primer set fue el más disputado, pero Guatemala fue imparable en los siguientes dos; en el segundo saltando a una ventaja de 11-2 para luego entrar al tercero alcanzando una ventaja de 21-8.

Guatemala held a 27-24 advantage in attacks and 8-5 in blocks, while Nicaragua held a 5-4 margin in serves. Guatemala scored 36 points from Nicaraguan errors and handed out 16.

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Pedro Villatoro of Guatemala attacks

Outside hitter Roberto Recinos scored 9 points as Guatemala’s leading scorer. Als contributing in the win was outside hitter Pedro Villatoro and middle blocker Sergio Paz with 8 points each.

Scoring a match-high was Nicaraguan Evans Solis with 14 points, all on kills; accompanied by setter Cristhoper Castillo with 8 tallies.

Luis Fernando Castañeda, head coach of Guatemala: “We were aware of the importance of this game, maybe the most important one of the competition, we didn’t want to be left out of winning a medal. The boys went out with all they had and played good volleyball; I recognize their effort. This is the result of the harmony between the athletes and the coaching staff, my assistant (my father) who has a great lot of experience and the physiotherapist who was always taking care of the athletes’ well-being”.

Jorge Mena, head coach of Nicaragua: “Every match is different, the opponent came out to win and they have a lot of experience. We are a young team who needs continuity because they are capable, but the pressure was too much, they couldn’t handle it mentally”.

Historic bronze medal for Belize

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 15, 2022.- Belize won the bronze medal at the XIV AFECAVOL Boys’ U19 Central American Championship after defeating Honduras 3-0 (26-24, 25-9, 25-11) at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Belize ended the tournament with a 3-2 record, the same as Nicaragua, but with 14 points against 11 of the Nicaraguan team.  

Honduras shook Belize in a challenging first set, but not enough to stop their strength in the next two sets.

Belize led attacks 27-19, blocks 11-2 and the service point by a slim 3-2 margin. Belize committed 21 unforced errors and Honduras a total of 35.

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Preston Smith of Belize tipping the ball

Opposite hitter Preston Smith scored 15 points for Belize, from 12 attacks, two blocks and one ace, followed by outside hitter Eleazar Mejía with 11 points on 6 attacks and 5 blocks.

Honduras top scorer was middle blocker Leonardo Villegas with 8 points.

Albert Hummes, head coach of Belize: “First of all Happy Independence Day to Honduras and for us it’s the celebration of our first medal in the history of the youth category. I am very happy for my guys, this is a great reward for their hard work.  We played day by day and we were expecting a good outcome”.

Guatemala improves record 2-2 defeating Honduras

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 14, 2022.- Guatemala improved their record 2-2 after defeating Honduras 3-0 (25-19, 25-9, 25-20) at the XIV Boys’ U19 AFECAVOL Central American Championship at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

On the last day of competition Guatemala with a record of 2-2 and twelve points will face Nicaragua (3-1) with eleven points, with the possibility of winning a medal. Honduras has a 0-4 record and closes against Belize (2-2).

Guatemala came from behind in the third set (8-12) reaching an even 14, advancing to finish in straight sets.

Guatemala prevailed over Honduras with a 28-24 margin in attacks and a huge 10-1 advantage in service points, as well as 8-1 in blocks. Guatemala committed 22 unforced errors and Honduras 28.

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Adolfo Rivas of Guatemala sets the ball

Middle blocker Sergio Paz of Guatemala was the best scorer of the game with 18 points on 6 kills, 3 blocks and the most aces with 9 points.

Outside hitter Leonardo Villegas of El Salvador finished with 12 points, all from kills.

Adolfo Rivas, captain of Guatemala: “We all had a good attitude, celebrating every point and each player did their role on the court. We are closing strong and tomorrow we will give our all.

Luis Fernando Castañeda, head coach of Guatemala: “Thanks to the boys’ effort we are in the battle for a medal. The tournament has been strong, we started with defeats, but we went on improving our rhythm of play to fight to reach the podium with two straight wins in a row. We close with Nicaragua who have experienced players from their competitive national league, and we want to do things well tomorrow”.

Costa Rica is already Three-Time U19 Central American Champion

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 14, 2022.- Costa Rica is already Three-Time Champion with one day left of competition after defeating Belize 3-0 (25-11, 28-26, 25-22) at the XIV Boys’ U19 AFECAVOL Central American Championship.

With a 4-0 record and 20 points, no team can catch up with Costa Rica; tomorrow they face El Salvador.

Belize’s reaction after falling in the first set was strong, with strength in attacks and losing two set points that Costa Rica brushed away with great effort to win the second set. In the third set, Belize recovered from a four-point deficit (16-20) but it wasn’t enough to extend the game.

Costa Rica did better in blocking 12-3, while Belize dominated in attacks 32-25; both teams scored 3 points from serves. Costa Rica scored 38 points from Belizean errors and handed out 21.

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Costa Rica Three-Time U19 AFECAVOL Central American Champion

Opposite hitter and team captain David Córdoba, alongside outside hitter Stanley Grant with 11 points apiece, and middle blocker Jeremy Venega with 10 points led Costa Rica’s scoring offense.

The top scorer of the match was outside hitter Eleazar Mejia of Belize with 19 points.

David Córdoba, captain of Costa Rica: “It’s a great joy. Since leaving Costa Rica our mentality was to be champions once more; thank God it is a three-time championship win. Tomorrow we are going for the win and be undefeated champion, that’s our second goal”.

Robertocarlo Argüello, head coach of Costa Rica: “It was a great pressure because we were looking for a hat-trick and we are reaching one of our goals, tomorrow we wish to close with a win to be undefeated. We prepared well to be here, the boys were tough in the second set, they were cold headed, their blocking was steady against Belize’s powerful attacks, and they complied to reach the goal”.

Nicaragua with another comeback win in five sets 

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 14, 2022.- Nicaragua came from behind to beat El Salvador 3-2 (20-25, 15-25, 25-17, 25-12, 15-8) at the XIV Boys’ U19 AFECAVOL Central American Championship being held at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

This was the second occasion that Nicaragua recovered from an 0-2 set deficit to come out on top in five sets. Nicaragua now has a 3-1 record and eleven points to be in route to reaching the podium. El Salvador drops to 1-3 and has eight points.

Nicaragua dominated the categories of attacks (50-34) and serves (13-8), both teams scored on 7 blocks. Nicaragua scored 30 points from El Salvador’s errors and handed out 38.

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Angelo Guadamuz of Nicaragua spikes against El Salvador

Opposite player Victor Bermudez and outside hitter Evans Solis contributed with 21 points each in Nicaragua’s victory; Solís on 5 points from aces. Also, middle blocker Angelo Guadamuz collected 11 points.

Middle blocker Ricardo Alegría was the top scorer of El Salvador with 16 points, joined by outside hitter Rafael Vargas with 13 points.

On the last day Nicaragua (3-1) will face Guatemala (1-2) and El Salvador (1-3) against Costa Rica (3-0).

Jorge Mena, head coach of Nicaragua: “We are having difficulties to get into rhythm from the beginning, this is hurting us, it seems like we are the team of five sets. This game was crucial, with the win we are in the medals, tomorrow we just need to win and with one loss we will be sub champions”.

Ricardo Alegría, top scorer of El Salvador: “We gave all our effort, it worked in the beginning. This is part of the game that your opponent responds. We enjoyed it and we must be happy”.

Defending champion Costa Rica, the only unbeaten team at AFECAVOL Boys’ U19  

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 13, 2022.- Defending Champion Costa Rica is the only unbeaten team at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL after defeating Honduras 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 25-20) at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Costa Rica stands with a perfect 3-0 win-loss record and 15 points. Honduras has 0-3.

Honduras surprised Costa Rica evening the scores on several occasions in the second set and recovered from an eight-point deficit (14-22) in the third.

Costa Rica led 35-24 in the attacking category, 9-2 in blocking and 2-1 in aces, committing 25 unforced errors against 29.

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Keylor Rodriguez of Costa Rica spikes against Honduras

Outside hitter Stanley Grant led Costa Rica with 12 points, joined by middle blocker Jeremy Venega who contributed with 9 points, as well as team captain David Cordoba and middle blocker Keylor Rodriguez with 8 tallies each.

Outside hitters Oscar Pineda and Jonathan Mendoza scored 8 points apiece for Honduras.

On Thursday Costa Rica (3-0) will play against Belize (2-1) and Honduras (0-3) goes against Guatemala (1-2).

Robertocarlo Argüello, head coach of Costa Rica: “The fans motivated Honduras. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy and what we needed was to add points to keep a margin so they couldn’t get too close. The guys sustained well, but it was hard, they were pressured, and we made some adjustments to finish the game. Tomorrow, we have a difficult opponent (Belize), but we have our goal clear, and we will battle for it, we are going with all we have”.

Víctor Manuel Rodas, head coach of Honduras: “We improved in the second set by trying some changes in positions, today Leo Villegas played as opposite to help us with blocking, and it worked. Our best skill has been reception and today it visibly improved, we were able to stabilize our game. I hope this is the beginning of our improvement and we must continue forward”.

Nicaragua comes from behind to beat Belize in five sets

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 13, 2022.- Nicaragua came from behind to beat Belize 3-2 (15-25, 19-25, 25-23, 29-27, 15-13) at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL being played at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Nicaragua improved their record 2-1 with a total of eight points; Belize dropped their record 2-1 and has nine points.

Nicaragua lost its outside hitter Evans Solís who suffered an injury on the head during the second set, but it wasn’t an obstacle to stop Belize’s strength. Before their dramatic win, Belize lost two match points in the fourth set (26-25 y 27-25), while Nicaragua failed two set points to reach the tie-break (24-23 y 25-24).

Niaragua’s blocking prevailed that of Belize 13-6, as well as service points 4-3, committing 48 unforced errors. Belize was superior in attacks 56-36 and committed a total of 50 errors.

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Nicaragua celebrates important win over Belize

Opposite hitter Víctor Bermudez led Nicaragua’s attack with 13 points from 12 kills and one block. Setter Cristhoper Castillo and middle blocker Edu Urbina added 11 points each.  

Outside hitter Eleazar Mejia of Belize led all scorers with 32 points, the most in the tournament. Outside hitter Malcolm Murillo and opposite hitter Preston Smith scored 11 points each.

On Wednesday Nicaragua (2-1) will play El Salvador (1-2) and Belize (2-1) will meet Costa Rica (2-0).

Jorge Mena, head coach of Nicaragua: “My team is young, so they still commit errors on the net and that led us to reach five sets. My boys responded well, we came back from 0-2, the changes worked out well and that puts us in the fight. That’s why I say it’s one match at a time”.

Albert Humes, head coach of Belize: “I am proud of my guys, they worked hard. I think one of our biggest problems today were our errors at the run and service at the time that we needed; it also showed that we need more practice matches in this kind of situation because the guys got tense which caused them to be tentative and that gave Nicaragua the momentum to build”.

Guatemala scores first win at AFECAVOL U19

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 13, 2022.- Guatemala scored its first win at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL after defeating El Salvador 3-0 (25-15, 25-21, 25-22) at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Guatemala improved their record to 1-2, for a total of seven points and El Salvador has the same record but with six points.

Guatemala dominated the first set, but in the following two sets they needed great effort to come from behind after El Salvador’s fast response.

The Guatemalan team prevailed over El Salvador 33-30 in attacks, 7-3 in blocks and 5-3 in aces, while committing 22 errors against 30 from El Salvador.

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Juan Zelaya (ESA) and Adolfo Rivas (GUA)

Outside hitter Pedro Villatoro with 10 points, middle blocker Sergio Paz with 9 points and outside hitter Roberto Recinos with 8 points led Guatemala’s attacks.

Outside hitter Rafael Vargas and middle blocker Ricardo Alegria were El Salvador’s leading scorers with 9 and 8 points respectively. 

On the penultimate day of competition Guatemala (1-2) will face Honduras (0-2) and El Salvador (1-2) against Nicaragua (1-1).

Pedro Villatoro, top scorer of Guatemala: “we had a different mentality from the other two matches, we were determined to win 3-0 to add the necessary points to give us a chance to reach the podium. Our attitude was crucial, we were motivated”.  

Rafael Vargas, top scorer of Nicaragua: “We didn’t react despite being ahead in the last two sets. I believe we were overconfident, and we lost energy. We couldn´t stabilize our serves like we did against Honduras. We need to be more focused for the next two matches, put the ball in play and try to score”.

Solid victory of Nicaragua over Honduras

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 12, 2022.- Nicaragua earned a solid victory 3-0 (25-14, 25-8, 25-21) over Honduras at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL on Monday night at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

This was Nicaragua’s first win for a 1-1 record and five points, while Honduras has no victories 0-2.

In the third set, Honduras recovered from a 6-point deficit (13-19) but their effort was not enough to contain Nicaragua’s power.

Nicaragua was strong in attacks 35-10 and in serves 14-0, Honduras held a slim 5-4 advantage in blocks and committed one less error (22-28).

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Evans Solis of Nicaragua spikes against Honduras

Outside hitter Evans Solis of Nicaragua led all scorers with 25 points on 19 attacks, one block and 5 aces. Opposite hitter Victor Bermudez and setter Cristhoper Castillo contributed with 9 and 7 points respectively.

From Honduras, outside hitter Leonardo Villegas scored 6 points.

On Tuesday, Nicaragua (1-1) will face Belize (2-0) and Honduras (0-2) goes up against Costa Rica (2-0).

Cristopher García, captain of Nicaragua: “This victory was crucial for us, today we improved our attitude, we learned from yesterday’s loss. Today we were more confident”.

Jorge Mena, head coach of Nicaragua: “The team needed to gain trust, overcoming the pressure of the tournament was difficult after losing yesterday; today the victory was necessary. Each game is a final and we aren’t out of battling for a medal”.

Belize undefeated beating El Salvador

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 12, 2022.- Belize remains undefeated after beating El Salvador 3-1 (25-23, 25-20, 26-28, 25-10) at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL being played at Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Belize has a 2-0 record and seven points, while El Salvador has 1-1 and six points after two days of competition.

Belize overcame a tough Salvadorian team that battled to extend the action, winning a dramatic third set after Belize lost two match points. Belize dominated the fourth set without complications, jumping to an early 8-1 lead from the beginning.

In numbers, Belize held a huge 46-29 advantage in attacks and 14-1 in serves, in blocking they scored one point more (3-7). Belize committed 44 unforced errors against 33 from El Salvador.

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Belize celebrates winning to El Salvador

Outside hitter Eleazar Mejía of Belize, once again led all scorers with 26 points, on 20 points from attacks, 2 from blocks and 4 from serves, followed by opposite hitter Preston Smith with 16 points, on 10 attacks, 3 blocks and 3 serves; also, outside hitter Malcolm Murillo chipped in with 10 points.

Outside hitters Rafael Vargas and Marlon Solórzano led El Salvador with 13 and 10 points respectively.

On Tuesday, Belize (2-0) will face Nicaragua (0-1) and El Salvador (1-1) goes against Guatemala (0-2).

Nicanor Requena, captain of Belize: “We were prepared to face them, we watched them play yesterday and we were ready, we had our game plan. We lost a set, but we executed in the fourth set; it was a strong set for us. Our strongest weapon is our ability to grind when things get tough”.

Gerardo Hernández, head coach of El Salvador: “Belize is one of the strongest opponents, they have a great attack. The first two sets slipped out of our hands, the boys had ups and downs because of Belize’s strong attacks. We will continue to work for tomorrow’s performance, this is a short tournament, and we must be prepared”. 

Costa Rica earns second win defeating Guatemala

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 12, 2022.- Costa Rica earned their second win defeating Guatemala 3-0 (25-22, 25-12, 25-18) at the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL being held at the Santa Rosa de Copan Gymnasium.

Costa Rica is undefeated 2-0 and has a total of 10 points, while Guatemala has no victories 0-2, with two points.

Costa Rica was more dominant in the second set, jumping to a huge 13-7 advantage with their blocking and that mentally affected the Guatemalan team.

Costa Rica led in blocking by a huge 17-3 margin in blocks; they also led 27-19 in attacks and 7-2 in serves. Guatemala committed fewer errors (24-28) than Costa Rica.

The top scorer of the game was outside hitter Grant Stanley of Costa Rica with 18 points from 11 attacks, 5 blocks and 2 aces. Also contributing to Costa Rica’s win was its captain David Córdoba with 9 puntos, who led in blocks with 6 points.  

Opposite hitter Ferdinando González and middle blocker Theo Wandel scored 4 points each for Guatemala.

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Deyshawn (10) and Antonio (8) of Costa Rica block Villatoro (1) Guatemala

On day three of competition, Costa Rica (2-0) will face Honduras (0-1) and Guatemala (0-2) meets El Salvador (1-0).

David Córdoba, captain of Costa Rica: “It was exciting today’s victory. We had faced Guatemala during the Pan American Cup, and we knew their game level. We played at our rhythm and came out with a good result”.

Luis Fernando Castañeda, head coach of Guatemala: “Costa Rica is an experienced team, they are good, and they complement each other well, everybody defends and attacks. We attacked strongly, but Costa Rica defended a lot. We will try to win our next three matches and see if there’s a chance to win a medal. This was an important game to get in the competition, after yesterday’s loss against Belize, who by the way is nice to see their level of play”. 

El Salvador controlled Honduras in straight sets

SANTA ROSA DE COPÁN, Honduras, September 11, 2022.- El Salvador controlled Honduras 3-0 (25-22, 25-14, 25-15) on the first day of competition of the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL at the Santa Rosa Copan Gymnasium.

El Salvador jumped to a comfortable advantage, leaving Honduras with little chances to recover throughout the game.

El Salvador ended with a huge 29-16 margin in attacks and 11-2 in service points, while Honduras prevailed in blocks 11-6. El Salvador committed 22 errors and Honduras 29.

Outside hitter Rafael Vargas of El Salvador led all scorers with 19 points on 13 attacks, one block and 5 aces, joined by outside hitter Marlon Solorzano with 10 points on 9 attacks and one ace.

With 6 points, outside hitter Leonardo Villegas led Honduras.

On day two of competition, El Salvador (1-0) faces Belize (1-0) and Honduras (0-1) against Nicaragua (0-1).

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El Salvador celebrates against Honduras

Gerardo Hernández, head coach of El Salvador: “We knew we had to battle against the host and being this our first game, we needed to shake off the nerves. We let Honduras commit the errors, we tried to pass the ball, the pressure was for Honduras and my boys gave their maximum trying not to fail in serves. We are glad about the result; we hope to keep the energy to score the necessary points”.

Miguel Angel Pagoaga, assistant coach of Honduras: “It’s hard, it hurts to fall at home. In the second set the team was down mentally, we tried to move the team, but it was complicated. These kids that never had competed internationally, the gym was full, and the pressure was too much, it was complicated”.

Costa Rica beat Nicaragua 3-0 in their opening performance

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 11, 2022.- Costa Rica beat Nicaragua 3-0 (25-18, 25-19, 25-19) on day one of actions of the XIV Central American Championship

Despite Costa Rica’s strong dominance in the first set 6-0, Nicaragua recovered to give a balanced battle that finished in three consecutive sets for Costa Rica.

Costa Rica dominated all the elements of the game, attacks (25-19), blocks (13-4) and serves (7-4). Both committed a similar number of errors, Costa Rica (29) and Nicaragua (30).

Two players led Costa Rica’s scoring, outside hitter Stanley Grant with 15 points on 11 attacks, 3 blocks and one ace, and middle blocker David Barrantes with 11 points on 7 attacks, 3 blocks and one ace.

Outside hitter Evans Solís was Nicaragua’s top scorer with 10 points on 7 attacks and three points from serves.

On Monday, Costa Rica (1-0) will play against Guatemala (0-1) and Nicaragua (1-0) against the host Honduras.

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Stanley Grant, CRC spikes against Nicaragua

Robertocarlo Argüello, head coach of Costa Rica: “Nicaragua’s process has been good, and we knew it was going to be hard. I believe that as a team we are united, with one year and half of work and demanding preparation, so I expected to win but not in consecutive sets”.

Gabriel Barrios, assistant coach of Nicaragua: “Costa Rica is the current champion, and we expected a difficult game. My team has lots of potential and the tournament has just started, nothing has been lost and we are focused on the medal”.

Belize opens U-19 Central American CH with five-set victory over Guatemala

SANTA ROSA DE COPAN, Honduras, September 11, 2022.- Belize opened the XIV Boys’ U19 Central American Championship of AFECAVOL with a 3-2 (25-23, 19-25, 23-25, 25-18, 19-17) victory over Guatemala at the Santa Rosa Copan Gymnasium.  

Belize overcame Guatemala after failing three match points before the dramatic five set finish to open the tournament.

Belize controlled Guatemala from the service line 17-7, as well as attacks 48-32 and 11-8 in blocks. Guatemala committed fewer errors (35-61).

Outside hitter Eleazar Mejia from Belize scored 30 points as the leading scorer of the match, on 16 attacks, one block and 13 points from serves; followed by opposite hitter Preston Smith with 21 points on 17 attacks and 4 blocks, and outside hitter Malcom Murillo with 12 points.

From Guatemala, opposite hitter Ferdinando González scored 12 points as their leading scorer.

On day two of the tournament, Belize will meet El Salvador and Guatemala against Costa Rica.

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Belize celebrates victory over Guatemala

Eleazar Mejía, top scorer of Belize: “It was a nice game to open the tournament this way; our work had a good outcome. We are here to win this tournament. Most of my team members are new so they were shaken, I know that going forward we will make more progress”.

Alber Humes, head coach of Belize: “The hard work that these guys have been doing since March, a lot of effort from many people has paid off. You can see when they stayed focused, they came out strong”.

Copan welcomes AFECAVOL U19 Boys’ Central American Championship

COPAN, Honduras, September 8, 2022.- Santa Rosa in Copan, Honduras, will welcome the XIV AFECAVOL U19 Boys’ Central American Championship from September 11 to 15 at the Santa Rosa Copan Gymnasium.

This is the second occasion that Copan, historic monument of Honduras, has hosted an AFECAVOL championship, in 2013 they hosted the XV U20 Women’s Central American championship.

The round-robin competition will consist of six national teams, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua starting on Monday 11th with three daily matches.

Costa Rica has won the past two editions undefeated (2019, 2017); with a total of seven gold medals and having reached the podium of every edition since its creation in 1982, they are the most awarded team of the under 19 age-group in AFECAVOL.  

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Competition schedule

Sunday September 11

2:00pm Belize v Guatemala

4:30pm Nicaragua v Costa Rica

7:00pm Opening Ceremony

7:30pm Honduras v El Salvador

Monday September 12

2:30pm Costa Rica v Guatemala

5:00pm El Salvador v Belize

7:30pm Nicaragua v Honduras

Tuesday September 13

2:30pm Guatemala v El Salvador

5:00pm Belize v Nicaragua

7:30pm Honduras v Costa Rica

Wednesday September 14

2:30pm El Salvador v Nicaragua

5:00pm Costa Rica v Belize

7:30pm Guatemala v Honduras

Thursday September 15

2:30pm Costa Rica v El Salvador

5:00pm Guatemala v Nicaragua

7:30pm Honduras v Belize

AFECAVOL Podium

YearGoldSilverBronze
1982CRCNCAGUA
1986CRCPANGUA
1996CRCPANESA
2003CRCGUANCA
2005GUAHONCRC
2007GUACRCESA
2009CRCGUAPAN
2011NCAGUACRC
2013GUACRCHON
2015NCAGUACRC
2017CRCGUAPAN
2019CRCGUAHON

Table of Medals

CountryGoldSilverBronzeTotal
Costa Rica72312
Guatemala36211
Nicaragua2114
Panama0224
Honduras0123
El Salvador0022

Axel Gutiérrez Most Valuable Player

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 21, 2022. Axel Gutiérrez from Nicaragua won the most valuable player award at the Men’s U23 Central American Championship held at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador.

“I think it’s an incredible feeling and it’s my first U23 tournament debuting with three awards, it’s incredible they gave me MVP thanks to God, it was voted on by the whole team, I thank them and God for this opportunity to shine for my beautiful country. ”, said Axel Gutierrez.  

In addition, the Nicaraguan player won the awards as the top scorer and the best opponent.  

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The list of individual prizes awarded on the night of this Sunday, August 21, 2022 in San Salvador is made up as follows:  

MVP: Axel Gutierrez, Nicaragua

Top scorer: Axel Gutierrez, Nicaragua

Best Serve: Diego Navarro, El Salvador

Best Reception: Jefferson Cascante, Nicaragua

Best Setter: David Arriola, Honduras

Best Spiker 1: Javier Lucero, Guatemala

Best Spiker 2: Jefferson Cascante, Nicaragua

Best Block 1: Diego Guidos, El Salvador

Best Blocker 2: Nihat Diaz, Costa Rica

Best Opposite: Axel Gutiérrez Nicaragua

Best Defense: Jordan Carcache, Nicaragua

Best libero: Jordan Carcache, Nicaragua

Nicaragua Champion!

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 21, 2022. The Nicaraguan National Team is the new U23 Champion by leading the standings with five victories in the V Central American U23 Championship. 

The first match of the last day of the tournament would end 3-1 with partial 25-23/25-16/20-25/25-21 in favor of Nicaragua against Costa Rica. 

The Nicaraguans only needed to win a set in the match they would play on the last day against Costa Rica and they would do so after winning the first set 25-23. 

Nicaragua would start the second set knowing they were Cup champions and with their adrenaline pumping, they would also leave this set with a wide 25-16 advantage. 

Costa Rica, for its part, would not lower its arms, it would come out determined to extinguish the celebration of the champions in the third set, the Costa Ricans would be more compacted on the court and they would leave the third set 25-20, forcing the fourth set. 

For this set, both teams would show their best weapons, in a very close set, which would end with Nicaragua winning 25-21. 

With this result, Nicaragua confirms its supremacy in the 2022 tournament, winning undefeated and achieving the title of this category for the first time. 

The best scorer for the new champions was Jefferson Cascante with 16 points. For his part in Costa Rica, the Captain, Josué Rojas got 25 points. 

Nicaragua led attacks 51-50, as well as services 6-5. While both squads tied at 12 blocks. 

Nicaragua achieved 26 points due to opponent errors and Costa Rica 18. 

Nicaragua U23 Central American AFECAVOL Champion

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Statements 

Arturo Solano, coach of Costa Rica: “Evaluating the tournament, it was a very difficult one for us, it was difficult for us to find a game rhythm, we found it in two games and in the last one we got the Tournament Champion and now we wait for results to see if we can enter the medal table”. 

John Morales, Captain of Nicaragua: “We as players feel very proud to make Nicaragua champion for the first time in a Central American U23 tournament. Taking away Guatemala’s undefeated record after having been a four-time champion, now we are the new champions. It was hard, it wasn’t easy for us, we killed ourselves training every day, even in the tournament things were complicated for us but we always knew how to pull it off. We thank our coaches for the confidence they gave to each of the 14 who are here and nothing else to celebrate now and thank God”. 

Jorge Mena, coach of Nicaragua: “Champion in this category for the first time in the history of Nicaragua, since we arrived in El Salvador, we came with a positive mentality that we came to win but we were going to go game by game and some things got complicated.” matches, but key games, against Guatemala the next day we had the best match of the tournament that we played against El Salvador, five dramatic sets and after the others it was to win them comfortably, in the end the last game with Costa Rica was complicated for us little but we knew that if we took a set from the Ticos we were going to be champions anyway, but we didn’t want to lose a game, thank God we got the result and we are champions. We dedicate this award to all the people who have supported us in Nicaragua.” 

Guatemala gets Silver Medal

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 21, 2022. Guatemala obtains second place after beating Honduras 3-0 with partial 25-13/25-17/25-14 on the last day of competition at the V Men’s U23 Central American Championship, held at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador.

Guatemala could not get the five-time championship, but did not miss the podium against Honduras that finished the tournament in last place.

The Guatemalans were superior getting a wide lead in each set played. The first set ended 25-13, the second set 25-17 and the third set 24-14.

The 42-27 attack shows the clear strength of the Guatemalan team, who also dominated blocks 5-4 and services 3-2.

Guatemala got 25 points from opponent errors and committed only 11 errors.

Guatemala celebrates winning the silver medal

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Statements

Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala: “The Guatemalan team came in second place, we leave happy but not satisfied, it was quite a demanding competition, the results were very even among all the teams, we were able to win four games, we lost one that was against the Nicaraguan Champion, they come with a very solid team, very mature for this category, to continue working we came with aspirations to see if we could win the five-time championship it was not possible but we leave happy we have a new generation, of the 12 athletes 10 are sub21, and we feel happy with the work done”.

Javier Lucero, side from Guatemala: “We got a good result, a second place, we fought as far as we could, we are very happy with my team, we know we could have given more but we are proud of the place we occupy and we continue fighting to win more tournaments ”.

El Salvador goes with the Bronze!

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 21, 2022. The El Salvador National Team wins 3-0 against Panama with partial 26-24/25-19/25-18 and obtains the bronze of the V Men’s U23 Central American Cup.

El Salvador needed the victory to place itself in third place in the table and win the medal, and it did so in front of the effusive spectators who were present at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador.

In the first set the fight was very close, Panama would give war to the hosts, but they managed to win 26-24. The next two sets were dominated by El Salvador, winning them 25-19 and 25-18.

The best scorer tonight for El Salvador was Abner Cano with 20 points, followed by Diego Navarro with 12. For Panama the top scorer was Gherson Ortíz with 11 and Emanuel Pérez with 10.   

The locals dominated attacking 38-35, blocking 11-4 and serving 3-1. El Salvador achieved 24 points due to opponent errors and Panama 20.

El Salvador manages to erase a streak of 14 years without obtaining a medal in the sub-23 category for his country.

Diego Navarro celebrates with Gustavo Ortiz, of El Salvador

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Statements

Diego Guidos, Captain of El Salvador: “Now we have made history by winning a medal in the under 23 category, with yesterday’s match we were a little down because it made our chances for the podium difficult and later, after seeing the result of Costa Rica, we already knew that we were forced to win 3-0 but we did not give up, we knew we had to come to do it, we had the support of all our fans and the adrenaline was running at a thousand, all the boys gave their best and we achieved the goal ”  

Gabriel Linares, coach of El Salvador: “We knew we were going to have a difficult tournament, the teams were prepared, we knew we had to play hard against Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Guatemala, we prepared for that, unfortunately we were not given the results that we wanted we had the opportunity to achieve first place but it got out of hand with a loss against Costa Rica, but we managed to continue working without lowering our spirits and in the end we were given the result of a third place that since 2014 we have not a sub23 medal was given in El Salvador in the Central Americans”.  

Lucero guides Guatemala to victory  

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 20, 2022. At the close of the fourth day of the V Central American U23 Championship, Guatemala won 3-2 against El Salvador in a vibrant match that ended with partials of 25-18/20-25 /21-25/25-17/15-11.  

The first set went to Guatemala 25 to 18. For the second and third sets, the fans present at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador did not stop supporting their team and were the fuel for their team to take over these sets 25 -20 and 25-21.

In the fourth set, Guatemala came on strong, willing to extend the match to a fifth set, and that’s how it was, thanks to corner hitter Javier Lucero, the Guatemalans defeated the locals 25-17.  

In the fifth and final set, Guatemala drowned out the scream of point to the fans who cheered the locals, beating them 15-11.  

Guatemala had three outstanding players who together scored 55 points for their team: Javier Lucero with 21, José Pérez with 19 and Yeferson Zavala with 15.  

Abner Cano of El Salvador was the spark for his team with 23 points, but it was not enough to win.  

The Guatemalans were better attacking 61-45 and serving 10-4, while El Salvador led in blocking 11-9 committing 26 errors to Guatemala’s 36.  

Guatemala will face Honduras at 5:00 pm and El Salvador will face Panama at 7:30 pm, on the last day of competition.  

Daniel Rendon of Guatemala in action

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Statements

Javier Lucero, striker from Guatemala: “It was a very hard-fought match, the opposing players are very strong, we expected a better result, although we got the victory and we are still fighting for a medal”.

Rodrigo Mayora, center back of El Salvador: “We had a very complicated game, extensive due to rain problems, it was very complicated for us, the truth is that we were all tired from the previous games, but it was a very close game that we all tried to play the best possible, the rival was just as strong as us and the result could have been for anyone”.

Nicaragua one step away from the gold medal

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 20, 2022. The Nicaraguan National Team, with an undefeated streak of four games, is one step away from becoming the new Champion of the V Men’s U23 Central American Championship after beating its similar team from Honduras with a score of 3-0 and splits 25-20/25-23/25-19. 

Nicaragua’s sextet outscored 43-35, blocked 9-3 and served 2-1, Honduras committed 21 errors to 23 of the winners. 

The match would start very evenly with Honduras having the advantage, but Nicaragua made adjustments that ruined the 25-20 victory. For the second set, the margin was very narrow, it would be Nicaragua again the one that would leave the set 25-23. 

The third set was very even, up to point 13 where Nicaragua would shoot up and win 25-19. 

The top scorer for Nicaragua was Axel Gutiérrez with 19 points and for Honduras Kevin Herrera stood out with 16 points. 

For this Sunday Nicaragua will face Costa Rica at 2:30 pm and Honduras will face Guatemala at 5:00 pm.

Nicaragua defeated Honduras in three sets

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Statements 

Jefferson Cascante, striker, Nicaragua: “Everything went very well for us in this match, what we worked on and we are one step away from winning the championship, God willing.” 

David Arriola, point guard of Honduras: “It was a hard fought game, quite difficult, unfortunately Nicaragua outmaneuvered us tactically and we didn’t know how to make the necessary adjustments, we’re going to do a better job in the next game”. 

Costa Rica defeats a brave Panama

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 20, 2022. Four hard-fought sets were played between Costa Rica and Panama in the first game of the day on Saturday, where the Costa Ricans won 3-1 with partial 25-19/23-25/25- 19/25-19 in the framework of the V Men’s U23 Central American Championship. 

Costa Rica began by winning the game 25 to 19, with a seasoned Panama that would not give up. 

For the second set, the Costa Ricans largely dominated until point 20 and Panama had a positive streak of points that would end up giving them victory in this set. The third and fourth set would be for Costa Rica with the same score 25-19. 

Dowshel Mc Donald Smith scored 20 and Josué Rojas 16 for the Costa Rican team as the best scorers in the first game. While for Panama, Daniel Andrade got 14 points and Denzel Arboine 11. 

Costa Rica dominated attacks 59-43, blocks 10-8, services 4-3. With 28 errors from Cota Rica for 25 from the Panamanians. 

For Sunday, on the last day of competition Panama will face the hosts at 7:30pm and Costa Rica will face Nicaragua at 2:30pm. 

Dowshel Mc Donald CRC against Christian Flores 11 and Kevin Acosta PAN

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Statements 

Deykel Smith, striker, Costa Rican National Team: “We knew it was going to be a very difficult game because Panama is a very strong team, we have to concentrate, we can’t lose here, we give everything on the pitch”. 

Daniel Andrade, center back, Panama National Team: “Unfortunately we couldn’t win the match against Costa Rica, they were a very strong rival, we gave it our all, but we couldn’t get the victory. We have one game left against El Salvador, and we are going to try to win it and give it our all”. 

Nicaragua remains undefeated in Central American U23 

SAN SALVADOR Day three of competition in the V Men’s U23 Central American Championship would end with an electrifying encounter between the locals, El Salvador and Nicaragua, who fought to maintain their undefeated record. With partials 25-23/23-25/22-25/25-19/15-13, the Nicaraguans won the match with a score of 3-2. 

The first set favored Nicaragua 25-23, with the same number of points, but in favor of El Salvador the second set ended, tying the match 1-1. 

The third set was for the locals 25-22, the team did not stop listening to the screams of the fans who came to support them at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador. 

The fourth set would be for the Nicaraguans 25-19, thus extending to a fifth and final set that would also favor them 15-13, thus achieving their third consecutive victory. 

The best scorer for Nicaragua was Axel Gutiérrez with 28 points, also the top scorer of the date, for El Salvador Abner Cano scored 25 points for his team. Diego Navarro (ESA) and Jefferson Cascante (NIC) each had 17 points for their teams. 

Attacks were dominated by Nicaragua 66 to 58, both teams finished equal in blocks 11-11 as well as errors made 31 each, while services were predominant for El Salvador 5 to 2. 

For this Saturday, Nicaragua will play Honduras at 5:00 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. El Salvador will play against Guatemala. 

Axel Gutierrez of Nicaragua celebrates against El Salvador

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Statements 

Axel Gutiérrez, opposite of Nicaragua: “Today we played a well-fought game with the El Salvador team, they are home, an incredible supporter that supports them to the full, we were losing 2-1, tears, lawsuits, we knew how to get the game out of everything ”. 

Abner Cano, winger from El Salvador: “We had a very difficult game with the Nicaraguan team, we thought we could win, our goal was to win but we couldn’t do it, we just have to play with our heads held high and beat the other countries”. 

Honduras defeats Costa Rica 3-2 in a vibrant match

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 19, 2022. The V U23 Central American Championship experienced one of the most exciting matches this Friday when Honduras defeated Costa Rica with a score of 3-2 and partials of 27-25/16-25. /22-25/27-25/16-14. 

The two teams came thirsty for victory, Honduras took the first set 27-25, this would be the harbinger of the next four sets, where the teams fought one by one for each point. 

For the next set, Costa Rica tied the match 1-1, with an eight-point lead, the set ended 25-16. The third set ended 25-22 for the Costa Ricans who with this score (2-1) were one set away from leaving the match. Honduras was not willing and would fight tirelessly to get extended until the fifth set. 

The fourth set was one of the closest, the teams disputed the point to point, Honduras would leave the set 27-25, but before that Costa Rica would drown the cry from point to set four times. 

For the final set the constant was the tie on the scoreboard, neither of the two teams wanted to miss the victory that finally favored Honduras, 16-14. 

Honduras was forceful in spikes 68-55 and Costa Rica dominated blocks 14-7 and aces 4-1. Costa Rica committed 32 errors and Honduras 41. 

Josué Rojas with 26 points for Costa Rica and Kevin Herrera with 25 for Honduras added 51 points in the match, as the top scorers in the match. 

On Saturday, Costa Rica will face Panama at 2:30 pm and Honduras will face Nicaragua at 5:00 pm. 

Roberto Palma of Honduras celebrating

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Statements 

José Larios, setter of Honduras: “I want to thank God for allowing us this victory in the game, the rival that was Costa Rica, was up to the task as we expected, a very close game, very difficult, we fought until the end, and as My coach told us, we showed that we catrachos have grit and we fight until this is over and I think we showed it on the court”. 

Josué Rojas, Captain of Costa Rica: “We had a quite complicated match against Honduras, a rival that gave us a fight, a fight, and the match was quite interesting, we fought until the end, I managed to be the top point scorer, we did what we could.  

Guatemala shows its champion claw 

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 19, 2022. In the first game of the third day of competition of the V Men’s U23 Central American Championship, the Guatemalan team defeated Panama in a fierce match that ended 3-2 with partials of 18-25. /21-25/25-21/25-17/15-04. 

Panama dominated the entire first set, winning with a difference of seven points, 25-18. For the second set, Guatemala dominated until point 20, but Panama had two point streaks in favor, one of nine and one of six that would give them the victory of the second set 25-21. 

For the third set, Guatemala showed its champion claw and beat the Panamanians 25-21. Triumph that would force the match to be extended to two more sets. 

Guatemala got 25 points out of 17 in the fourth set and overwhelmingly left the fifth set with a partial of 15-04 and therefore got the victory. 

Guatemala dominated in services 8-2, attacks were also theirs 62-51 and blocks 12 to 9. The Guatemalans made more errors than their opponent, in total 30 to 22. 

The top scorer of the match for Guatemala with 19 points was Jason Hernández, followed by Javier Lucero with 18. For the Panama National Team, Gherson Ortiz with 20, followed by Denzel Arboine with 16, as the top scorers for their team. 

For this Saturday the 20th at 2:30 p.m. Panama will face Costa Rica and at 7:30 p.m. Guatemala will face El Salvador. 

Daniel Ralon GUA setting the ball

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Statements 

Daniel Ralón, point guard of the Guatemalan National Team: “It was a game that was difficult for us at the beginning, but we knew how to fix our pieces, we made some changes in the team and we achieved victory, I am very grateful to my team for knowing how to oppose and knowing row against the water and victory was achieved. 

Denzel Arboine, winger of the Panama team: “A very difficult game, Guatemala is a team with a lot of experience, a good physique, a lot of histamine, it is a team to respect, it was a good game for us that we did not have the necessary time to adapt more As a team, since there are new players, we were very pleased that everyone made an effort, they lost their nerve, we lost 3-2 but I am happy for the work done by my team” 

Ten teams to compete at the Women’s Pan American Cup in Hermosillo

HERMOSILLO, Sonora, Mexico, August 19, 2022.- Ten teams will be competing at the nineteenth Women’s Pan American Cup that begins on Sunday at the Sonora Arena in the city of Hermosillo, Sonora.

Reigning champion Dominican Republic, winners of the 2021 edition held in Santo Domingo, along with Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and the United States represent the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, and Colombia along with Peru the South American Volleyball Confederation (CSV).

In the history of the event, the United States has won on seven occasions, followed by Dominican Republic with five titles, Cuba with four and Brazil with three.

Teams are divided in two groups of five with group A consisting of Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Peru, Puerto Rico and the United States and group B with Canada, Colombia, Cuba, host Mexico and Nicaragua.

The preliminary round runs from Sunday 21 to Thursday 25; quarterfinals and classification matches for 7/10 places will take place on Friday 26. The semifinals and final positions 7/10 will be held on Saturday 27, while medal matches along with the match for fifth place will take place on Sunday 28.

The event will be streamed on Facebook Live Codeson Sonora

Competition Schedule

Sunday August 21

14:00 Dominican Republic v Costa Rica

16:00 Canada v Cuba

18:00 United States v Peru

20:00 Mexico v Nicaragua

Monday August 22

14:00 Dominican Republic v Peru

16:00 Colombia v Canada

18:00 United States v Puerto Rico

20:00 Mexico v Cuba

Tuesday August 23

14:00 Peru v Costa Rica

16:00 Cuba v Nicaragua

18:00 Dominican Republic v Puerto Rico

20:00 Mexico v Colombia

Wednesday August 24

14:00 United States v Costa Rica

16:00 Canada v Nicaragua

18:00 Puerto Rico v Peru

20:00 Cuba v Colombia

Thursday August 25

14:00 Puerto Rico v Costa Rica

16:00 Colombia v Nicaragua

18:00 Dominican Republic v United States

20:00 Mexico v Canada

Friday August 26

14:00 Classification 7/10

16:00 Classification 7/10

18:00 Quarterfinals

20:00 Quarterfinals

Saturday August 27

14:00 Position 9-10

16:00 Position 7-8

18:00 Semifinals

20:00 Semifinals

Sunday August 28

14:00 Position 5-6

16:00 Bronze Medal Match

18:00 Gold Medal Match

Costa Rica beats the locals 3-0

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 18, 2022. The Costa Rican national team won 3-0 (25-15/25-21/25-18) against its counterpart from El Salvador in the last game of the second day of competition at the V Central American U23 Men’s Championship.

For the first set, the Costa Rican National Team outscored the hosts by 10 points, ending the set 25-15.

For the second set, El Salvador at times led the Costa Ricans, making the match exciting for the local fans at the Palacio de los Deportes in San Salvador. The second set favored the Ticos 25-21.

In the third set the Costa Ricans dominated the game, which would end with partial 25-18.

Josué Rojas scored 11 points and Dowshel Smith 10 points as the best scorers for Costa Rica and for El Salvador, Abner Cano and Diego Navarro scored 10 points each.

Attacks 26-24 and blocks 11-6 were dominated by Costa Rica, while serves favored El Salvador 7-6. Costa Rica had 32 errors in favor of the opponent and they committed 17.

Costa Rica thus achieved its first victory and El Salvador was left with a defeat and a victory.

The locals will play this Friday the 19th at 7:30 pm against Nicaragua, while Costa Rica will play at 5:00 pm against Honduras.

Relly Diaz of Costa Rica celebrates with teammates

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Statements

Dereck Fernández, setter from Costa Rica: “The game was quite intense, luckily and thanks to the coaches we managed to control it, we obeyed the orders that were given to us, we always kept our spirits up, wanting to get the game out, and always thinking about what What can we do, this is a rematch for the first game and let them know that we are going to be here giving everything for the team”.

Diego Navarro, side of El Salvador: “Today’s game was very difficult, we knew it was a very difficult team with which we were going to play, our team could not confront that at the time of the game, I think it would cool our heads for tomorrow, let’s move on”.

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