Tag: Norceca

Canada Sweep China, Cuba Falls to Argentina in a Five-Set Battle and USA swept by Italy

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June 29, 2025.- Week 2 of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League 2025 closed with Canada sweeping China (in Chicago), Cuba falling to Argentina in a five-set battle (in Belgrade) and host USA losing to Italy in three straight sets.

Cuba Falls to Argentina in a Five-Set Battle in Belgrade

Cuba closed its campaign in Belgrade with a hard-fought five-set loss to Argentina, missing the chance to break into the qualification zone for the Volleyball Nations League 2025 Finals.

Despite winning their first three matches in Belgrade, the Cubans couldn’t hold off the South Americans, who relied on their technique to overcome Cuba’s powerful offense and secured a 3-2 (23-25, 25-23, 25-21, 21-25, 15-11) victory on Sunday.

Cuba still walked away with one point from the match, bringing their total to 13. However, with a record of four wins and four losses, they now sit in ninth place in the standings, just outside the qualification zone for the VNL Finals.

Captain and outside hitter Miguel Ángel López led the Cuban offense with 18 points, all from kills. Opposite José Massó contributed 17 points, including 13 kills, three blocks, and one ace.

Canada sweep China

The first match of the day in Chicago had Canada putting on a strong performance to take China down 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-23) and take their first win in the week. With 11 points (three wins, five losses), the Canadians end the second week of the VNL 2025 in 14th place.

Opposite Xander Ketrzynski had an excellent all-around performance and led Canada with 21 points (14 kills, four aces, three blocks). Outside hitters Isaac Heslinga and Skyler Varga also reached double digits in scoring, registering 17 and 11 points, respectively.

United States swept by Italy  

Reigning world champions Italy dominated the match from start to finish to secure a 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-18) victory over hosts United States at the NOW Arena in Chicago.

Playing more aggressively than the Americans, the Italians outscored their opponents in aces (eight to one) and blocks (six to two), besides benefiting from more errors (23 to 18). The United States had a slim edge in kills (40 to 38).

Outside hitter Cooper Robinson, who scored 11 points in kills, and opposite Gabi Garcia, who delivered ten, with nine kills and one ace, were the most effective players for the United States.

The Americans collected five points in their four VNL home matches, beating China and Canada and losing to Poland and Italy, and now rank 13th in the tournament, with ten points (four wins, four losses).

“The team is growing,” Garcia reflected. “The young kids are not so young anymore, and we’re happy about this. We know we have a lot of work to do and that we’re still learning about each other and our weaknesses and our strengths. We’re happy with the results we got this week. We’re going to keep working and preparing for the next one.”

The Men’s Volleyball Nations League 2025 will pause for one week. The women’s competition resumes from July 9-13, with Canada, Dominican Republic and USA competing in Arlington. The men return to action for the final week of the Preliminary Phase from July 16-20 in Chiba (Japan), Gdańsk (Poland), and Ljubljana (Slovenia).

CAZOVA VolleyStation Seminar Concludes Successfully in The Bahamas

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Nassau, The Bahamas, June 29, 2025. – The CAZOVA VolleyStation Seminar officially concluded in Nassau, The Bahamas, as part of preparations for the upcoming CAZOVA Championships set to take place in the country. The initiative aimed to strengthen the region’s technical capabilities in line with international standards.

A total of 16 participants were trained in VolleyStation Referee (digital scoring), while 10 completed the VolleyStation Pro (performance analysis) module, with 8 individuals successfully completing both courses. This marks a significant step forward in developing a group of qualified VolleyStation delegates who can support both domestic and international competitions.

Bahamas Volleyball Federation President, Kurkwood Greene Sr., expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing how vital it is to have certified personnel for the upcoming events. “We are pleased that these participants are now qualified to work at our championships, especially for the CAZOVA Senior Championships which we will be hosting. This also allows us to use them in our national leagues, fully aligned with FIVB standards,” said Greene.

FIVB instructor Manuel Calderón, who led the seminar, praised the dedication of the participants. “The group was very attentive, highly engaged, and eager to learn. Now the key is to continue their development through regular practice to maintain and refine these new skills,” he stated.

CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed also commended the group’s commitment. “This is a major step toward developing self-sufficiency in the Caribbean. I encourage participants to keep practicing because without it, these skills can fade. This effort is not only for local events but also prepares them to contribute to NORCECA and other international competitions,” he said.

This seminar is part of CAZOVA’s broader strategy to develop a sustainable network of qualified VolleyStation delegates within the Caribbean. Some of the participants are expected to gain further experience through upcoming international assignments within the region, helping to strengthen our presence on the global volleyball stage.

The seminar wrapped up with a certification ceremony on June 29, reinforcing CAZOVA’s commitment to embracing technology and elevating volleyball operations across the Caribbean.

Navas and González from Puerto Rico, Undefeated Champions in Puerto Cortés

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PUERTO CORTÉS, Honduras, June 29, 2025.- Puerto Rico’s women’s duo, Allanis Navas and María González, were crowned undefeated champions of the third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour, held from June 27 to 29 at Playa Municipal El Porvenir in Puerto Cortés, Honduras.

The Puerto Ricans delivered an impeccable performance, dropping only one set throughout the entire tournament. That lone setback came in the semifinals against the U.S. pair of Emma Donley and Portia Sherman, whom they defeated in three sets 2-1 (21-8, 18-21, 15-11). They won all their other matches in straight sets.

In the final, Navas and González showcased their strength, defeating Mexico’s Susana Torres and Atenas Gutiérrez 2-0 (21-16, 21-17). The Mexican duo had advanced to the gold medal match after beating Canada’s Maya McNabney and Emma Kunaus in straight sets 2-0 (21-15, 21-19).

Meanwhile, the bronze medal match was one of the most competitive of the day. Donley and Sherman from the United States claimed the podium after defeating Canada’s McNabney and Kunaus in three sets (21-18, 16-21, 15-9).

Final placement matches:

5/6: Vidaurrazaga/Ramirez MEX vs Valenciana/Buckner ISV (21-12, 21-16)

7/8: Rivera/Bruhier HON vs Vigil/Rauda ESA (21-12, 21-16)

9/10: Ramírez/Quesada CRC vs Silva/N. Brenes NCA (21-13, 21-19)

11/12: Molina/Sofi V CRC vs Murillo/Clarke HON (21-12, 21-5)

13/14: Simmonds/Cudmore CAN vs Aguilar/Arevalo GUA (21-7, 21-9)

15/16: Smith/Lumsden JAM vs Villegas/Rodriguez HON (21-18, 21-13)

Final Positions

1.Allanis Navas/María Claudia González PUR 2. Susana Torres/Atenas Gutiérrez MEX 3. Emma Donley/Portia Sherman USA 4. Maya McNabney/Emma Kunaus CAN 5. Yamilet Vidaurrazaga/María Jimena Ramírez MEX 6. Melanie Valenciana/Taylor Buckner ISV 7. Shanna Rivera/Reizel Bruhier HON 8. Daniela Vigil/Fabiola Rauda ESA 9. Eugenia Ramírez/Kianny Quesada CRC 10. Nahima Silva/Norma Brenes NCA 11. Laura Molina/Sofia Vega CRC 12. Nicolle Murillo/Shanttle Siliezar HON 13. Claire Simmonds/Emma Cudmore CAN 14. Mariela Aguilar/Ana Sofia Arévalo GUA 15. Petal Smith/Kristina Lumsden JAM 16. Ruth Villegas/Alejandra Rodríguez HON 17. Fátima Rendon/Devora Medina ESA

Lares and Carlos Andrés Lead Mexico to the Title at the Third Stop of the NORCECA Beach Tour

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PUERTO CORTÉS, June 29, 2025. – Antonio Vargas Lares and Carlos Andrés Ayala clinched the title for Mexico at the third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour, held at Playa Municipal El Porvenir in Puerto Cortés, Honduras, from June 27 to 29.

The Mexican duo delivered a solid and efficient performance in the final, defeating the American pair Troy Field and Ryan Wilcox in straight sets, 21-17 and 21-18, with no major difficulties.

Mexico also claimed the bronze medal thanks to Miguel Sarabia and Jorman Osuna, who came from behind to defeat Americans James Drost and Robert Harrison in an exciting match that ended 16-21, 21-18, 15-13.

The all-Mexican semifinal was grueling, leaving Sarabia and Osuna physically drained after falling to Lares and Ayala in a hard-fought battle that extended to three sets, 29-27, 25-27, 15-7.

Meanwhile, the semifinal between the two U.S. pairs was also closely contested, with Field and Wilcox prevailing over Drost and Harrison in straight but competitive sets, 21-16 and 21-18.

Final placement matches:

5/6: Rahnavard/Gannett CAN vs Mora/López NCA (21-19, 21-15)

7/8: Araya/Varela CRC vs Ratter/Van Siclen ISV (21-14, 21-17)

9/10: Encarnación/Rivera PUR vs Cascante/López NCA (21-15, 18-21, 15-6)

11/12: Licht/de Greeff CAN vs Morton/Nage SKN (21-15, 21-13)

13/14: Leonardo/Maldonado GUA vs Izaguirre/Penagos GUA (21-11, 21-18)

15/16: Reyes/Serrano HON vs R Vargas/Ponce ESA (21-17, 21-15)

17/18: Esteban/Solano CRC vs Theodore/Enile TTO (21-14, 21-19)

Final Positions

1. Antonio Vargas Lares/Carlos Andrés Ayala MEX 2. Troy Field/Ryan Wilcox USA 3. Miguel Sarabia/Jorman Osuna MEX 4. James Drost/Robert Harrison USA 5. Rouzbeh Rohnavard/Tynan Gannett CAN 6. Rubén Mora/Danny López NCA 7. Julián Araya/Jhostin Varela CRC 8. Kendall Ratter/Devin Van Siclen ISV 9. Cristian Encarnacion/William Rivera PUR 10. Jefferson Cascante/Denis López NCA 11. Martin Lich/Luke de Greeff CAN 12. Elkreen Morton/Nage Hendrickson SKN 13. Andy Leonardo/Edgar Maldonado GUA 14. Jose Miguel Izaguirre/Santiago Penagos GUA 15. Armando Reyes/Manuel Serrano HON 16. Rafael Vargas/Fernando Ortiz ESA 17. Esteban González/Justin Solano CRC 18. Joel Theodore/Stephen Enile TTO 19. Kevin Herrera/Isaac Méndez HON

USA Falls to a Strong Poland

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June 28, 2025.- Despite their efforts and improvements throughout the match, the U.S. Men’s National Team couldn’t stop the power of Poland, who earned a 3-0 victory (25-20, 25-21, 25-22) at the NOW Arena, backed by a passionate crowd of Polish fans on American soil.

With this result, the U.S. missed out on key points in the 2025 Men’s VNL standings, falling at home to a European powerhouse energized by strong support from the large Polish community in Chicago.

The top scorer for Team USA was 22-year-old outside hitter Cooper Robinson, who recorded 9 points, one more than opposite Kyle Hobus.

“We didn’t start well, but we made some adjustments, and our bench is always ready to contribute,” said setter Micah Ma’a.

“It’s tough to play against Poland, but it’s also a great experience. We wanted to keep competing all night, and even though we didn’t get the win, we fought until the end. They’re a great team.”

Following this setback, Karch Kiraly’s squad will look to regroup quickly and get back on the winning track in their next match, knowing that every point is crucial in the race for a spot in the VNL Finals.

Schedule for Sunday, June 29

In Belgrade, Serbia: Cuba faces Argentina at 4:30 p.m. (local time). In Chicago, USA: Canada plays China at 12:30 p.m. (local time), and the home team, USA, faces Italy at 7:30 p.m. (local time) to close the second week of competition.

Puerto Rico, USA, Canada, and Mexico Advance to Women’s Semifinals

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PUERTO CORTÉS, Honduras, June 28, 2025.- Women’s teams from Puerto Rico, United States, Canada, and Mexico advanced to the semifinals of the third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour, taking place at Playa Municipal El Porvenir in Puerto Cortés, Honduras.

In the quarterfinals, the Puerto Rican duo of Allanis Navas and María González had no major difficulties defeating Melanie Valenciana and Taylor Buckner from the U.S. Virgin Islands with dominant scores of 21-5 and 21-12.

McNabney-kanaus CAN (9)

Similarly, the American pair Emma Donley and Portia Sherman controlled their match against Daniela Vigil and Ashley Rauda of El Salvador, winning comfortably 21-7 and 21-16.

Later in the afternoon, Canada’s Maya McNabney and Emma Kunaus overcame the home team, Shanna Rivera and Reizel Bruhier, with straight sets 21-11 and 21-12. In the evening, the all-Mexican showdown went to Susana Torres and Atenas Gutiérrez, who defeated Yeray Vidaurrazaga and María Jimena Ramírez with scores of 21-13 and 21-14.

The women’s semifinals on Sunday will feature: Navas/González (PUR) vs Donley/Sherman (USA) and McNabney/Kunaus (CAN) vs Torres/Gutiérrez (MEX)

Action kicks off Sunday at 8:00 a.m. (local time), with the medal matches scheduled for the afternoon.

Torres-Gutierrez MEX

Final positions group phase

Group A: 1. Navas/González PUR, 2. Vidaurrazaga/Ramírez MEX, 3. Molina/Sofi V CRC, 4.  Simmonds/Cudmore CAN, 5. Rendon/Medina ESA

Group B: 1. Torres/Gutiérrez MEX, 2. Valenciana/Buckner ISV, 3. Murillo/Clarke HON, 4.  Aguilar/Arévalo GUA

Group C: 1. Rivera/Bruhier HON, 2.  Vigil/Rauda ESA, 3.  Silva/N. Brenes NCA, 4. Smith/Lumsden JAM      

Group D: 1. Donley/Sherman USA, 2. McNabney/Kunaus CAN, 3.  Ramírez/Quesada CRC, 4. Villegas/Rodríguez HON.

Results position matches:

Classification 13-16: Aguilar/Arévalo GUA vs Smith/Lumsden JAM 2-0 (21-8, 21-12) y Simmonds/Cudmore CAN vs Villegas/Rodríguez HON 2-0 (21-11, 21-6).

Classification 9-12: Silva/N. Brenes NCA vs Murillo/Clarke HON 2-0 (21-13, 21-7) y Ramírez/Quesada CRC vs Molina/Sofi V CRC 2-1 (18-21, 21-9, 15-6).

USA and Mexico Double Up in Men’s Semifinals

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PUERTO CORTÉS, Honduras, June 28, 2025.-  Both duos from the United States and both duos from Mexico advanced to the men’s semifinals at the third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour on Saturday in Puerto Cortés, Honduras.

The American duo of James Drost and Robert Harrison battled their way to a hard-fought quarterfinal victory over Rouzbeh Rahnavard and Tynan Gannett of Canada in a thrilling three-set match, winning 21-18, 19-21, 18-16.

Meanwhile, the other U.S. pair, Troy Field and Ryan Wilcox, eliminated defending champions Rubén Mora and Dany López of Nicaragua with a dominant performance, posting scores of 21-12 and 21-11.

The Mexican teams also secured their spots in the semifinals. Miguel Sarabia and Jorman Osuna overcame Costa Rica’s Julian Araya and Jhostin Varela in a tight match, winning 21-18, 21-18. On the other side, Inés Lares and Carlos Andrés had little trouble defeating Kendall Ratter and Devin Van Siclen from the U.S. Virgin Islands in straight sets, 21-12, 21-14.

Miguel Sarabia MEX

The semifinals between compatriots: Drost/Harrison (USA) vs Field/Wilcox (USA) and Sarabia/Osuna (MEX) vs Lares/Carlos Andrés (MEX)

The final day of the competition starts Sunday at 8:00 a.m. (local time), with the medal matches scheduled for the afternoon.

Final positions group phase:

Group A: 1. Sarabia/Osuna MEX, 2.  Rahnavard/Gannett CAN, 3. Encarnación/Rivera PUR, 4.  Leonardo/Maldonado GUA, 5. Esteban/Solano CRC

Group B: 1.  Drost/Harrison USA, 2. lugar Araya/Varela CRC, 3. Cascante/Lopez NCA, 4. Izaguirre/Penagos GUA, 5. Theodore/Enile TTO

Group  C: 1. Lares/Carlos Andres MEX, 2. Mora/Lopez NCA, 3. Licht/de Greeff CAN, 4. R Vargas/Ponce ESA, 5. Herrera/Mendez HON.

Group  D: 1. Field/Wilcox USA, 2.  Ratter/Van Siclen ISV, 3. Morton/Nage SKN, 4.  Reyes/Serrano HON

Results position matches:

Clasification pos. 17-20: Esteban/Solano CRC vs Herrera/Méndez HON 2-0 (21-14, 21-11)

Clasification pos. 13-16: Izaguirre/Penagos GUA vs R Vargas/Ponce ESA 2-0 (21-17, 21-12); Leonardo/Maldonado GUA vs Reyes/Serrano HON 2-0 (21-17, 21-17).

Clasification pos. 9-12: Cascante/Lopez NCA vs Licht/de Greeff CAN  2-0 (21-12, 21-12).

U19 Pan Am Cup Award Winners

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- A young squad from USA won gold and 14-year-old Kari Knotts stood out at MVP today in Kingston, Ontario, as the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup concluded.

USA also picked up “best spiker” and “best setter” awards.

Valeria Gutierrez won two awards – libero and digger for her defensive action with the Costa Rican team. Dominican Republic’s Julie Arias also won two individual awards. 

Host Canada was awarded 2nd best blocker.

Here’s a full list award winners:

Best Spiker :  Kari Knotts  USA

2nd Best Spiker :  Ireland Real USA

Best Digger : Valeria Gutierrez  CRC

Best Setter : Taimane Ainu’u USA

Best Receiver : Pamela Agosto PUR

Best Server : Julie Arias DOM

Best Libero :  Valeria Gutierrez  CRC

Best Scorer : Naomi Alejandra Cruz MEX

Best Opposite : Julie Arias DOM

Best Blocker : Brenda Sofia Esquivel MEX

2nd Best Blocker:  Maya Bukovcan CAN

MVP Kari Knotts USA

USA strikes U19 gold!

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.-  USA swept Mexico to claim gold at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

Despite the determination of the Mexican side, the powerful young U.S. squad won the final 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-21).

Head coach of USA, Jamie Morrison, said: “It’s a young team and we set the goal of getting better every single day that we are here and I thought we did that. All 12 players contributed to us getting into this match. I’m proud that it’s their first gold medal in a USA uniform and the rest of the country should be proud of them too.”

The USA came out swinging and earned 48 points off attack, compared with 24 from Mexico. USA also had more blocking points (11-8). Mexico led in aces 9-5 and made fewer errors (11-23).

Top scorer of the match was 14-year-old outside hitter Kari Knotts with 24 points (19 kills, 2 blocks, 3 aces).

Naomi Alejandra Cruz led Mexico with 8 points.

Host Canada won the bronze match over Dominican Republic. 

Next up for this age-class, the FIVB U19 Girls’ World Championship in Serbia and Croatia in July.

2025 U19 Pan Am Cup Ranking

1.           USA

2.           Mexico

3.           Canada

4.           Dominican Republic

5.           Venezuela

6.           Puerto Rico

7.           Costa Rica

Canada wins U19 bronze at home

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.- Canada was able to manage the young, talented Dominican Republic team to win in the tie-break today at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

The home crowd cheered Canada on to the 3-2 (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 19-25, 15-10) win and the bronze medal.

Canada led in attack points 58-50, blocking 10-4, while Dominican had one more ace (11-10). Canada also made more errors 35-24.

Canada_happy

Sydney Bell (16) and Sol Henson (14) led in points for Canada. Ambar Hernández (16) and Julie Millaray Arias (13) were top scorers for Team Dominican Republic.

“It was a great team effort for us,” explained Canada’s head coach Gina Schmidt. “Dominican served tougher than they did in the previous match we played against them. We were in system a lot in our first match, and they added some service pressure today, which got us out of our rhythm with our offense. Once we kind of settled that down and put on more pressure from service from our side, we were able to work our way back into the match. I loved the way our team reacted in that fifth set.  Everyone found a way to contribute, so that’s important as we head into the next tournament.”

Most teams at the Pan Am Cup are using this tournament to prepare for the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025, which will be held in Serbia and Croatia in early July.

The gold-medal match is next to determine place 1-2.

Dominican Republic is fourth. Venezuela finished fifth. Puerto Rico is sixth and Costa Rica is seventh.

Puerto Rico finishes sixth at U19 Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 28, 2025.-  Puerto Rico beat Costa Rica to finish sixth overall at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada today.

Puerto Rico won in straight sets 3-0 (25-20, 31-29, 25-19).

Eduardo Galarza, Head Coach, Puerto Rico, said post-match: “I tried rotating my team in preparation for the U19 World Championship, which is coming up. The level of our team is a bit higher than Costa Rica, so I tried different things to get a rhythm before the next tournament. But it was a great win. A win is always good.”

Puerto Rico’s strong offense led to 55 attack points, compared with 33 by Costa Rica. Blocks were 7-4 in favor of Costa Rica and aces were even at four. Costa Rica earned more points from errors 24-18.

Opposite Diangelie Gonzalez led the Puerto Rican team in points with 21.

Maria del Sol Venegas of Costa Rica equaled that tally, also with 21 points.

Puerto Rico is sixth and Costa Rica is seventh in this year’s standings. 

Cuba pulls off another comeback, Canada lets victory slip away

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June 27, 2025. – Cuba staged yet another comeback, defeating the Netherlands 3-1, while Canada let a two-set lead slip away and fell 2-3 to Poland.

Cuba, the kings of comebacks, claim another victim in Belgrade!

Cuba heads into the weekend with plenty to celebrate after securing their third consecutive comeback win this Friday in Belgrade during Week 2 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.

Playing for the third day in a row at Belgrade Arena, Cuba recovered from dropping the first set to defeat the Netherlands 3-1 (21-25, 25-18, 25-21, 30-28). It was a repeat of their performances against Germany on Wednesday and Serbia on Thursday, three straight comeback victories.

With nine points earned this week alone and 12 points total (four wins, three losses), Cuba now sits in sixth place in the overall 2025 VNL standings.

“It was really tough,” admitted middle blocker David Fiel. “The first two matches were very demanding, both physically and mentally. But today we came out determined to win. It didn’t matter how, what mattered was getting the victory. We have a great team, and everyone can contribute, as they did today.”

Cuba won as they usually do, by dominating at the net. They outperformed the Netherlands in attacks (64-57), blocks (13-6), and also led in aces (3-2). This edge allowed them to overcome their 27 errors, compared to 21 from the Dutch side.

VNL 2025’s top scorer, outside hitter Marlon Yant, shined once again, leading Cuba with 21 points (20 kills and 1 block). He was supported by José Masso with 17 points, José Gutiérrez with 15, and middle blocker Roamy Alonso with 14, in a strong collective performance.

Cuba celebrated

Canada lets two-set lead slip away and falls to Poland

Canada wasted a two-set lead and eventually lost in a tie-break (32-30, 25-14, 17-25, 23-25, 13-15) against Poland.

The Canadians outperformed the Europeans from the service line (11 aces to 6) but were outscored in attacks (60-57) and blocks (12-8). In unforced errors, Canada benefited from 34 opponent errors while conceding 31 themselves.

Xander Ketrzynski led Canada with 20 points, including 19 kills and one ace. Brodie Hofer contributed 18 points (15 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces). Canadian captain Eric Loeppky also reached double digits, scoring 14 points (8 kills, 3 blocks, and 3 aces).

The loss leaves Canada in 14th place with a record of two wins and five losses.

Canada

Saturday, June 28 schedule

Only one match is scheduled for Saturday, June 28: USA vs. Poland at 7:30 p.m. (local time) in Chicago. Cuba and Canada have the day off.

Cuba vuelve a remontar, Canadá deja escapar la victoria

27 de junio de 2025.- Cuba volvía a remontar y terminó ganando 3-1 a Países Bajos, mientras que Canadá dejó escapar la victoria y terminó perdiendo 2-3 ante Polonia.

Six Women’s Teams Remain Undefeated on Day One in Puerto Cortés

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PUERTO CORTÉS, Honduras, June 27, 2025. –The teams from Puerto Rico (Navas/González), U.S. Virgin Islands (Valenciana/Buckner), Mexico 1 (Torres/Gutiérrez), Honduras 1 (Rivera/Bruhier), Canada (McNabney/Kunaus), and the United States (Donley/Sherman) remain unbeaten after day one of the third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour in Puerto Cortés, Honduras.

Allanis Navas and María González of Puerto Rico went undefeated in Pool A. However, the pool is currently led by Yamilet Vidaurrazaga and María Jimena Ramírez of Mexico. Puerto Rico holds 4 points from two wins, while Mexico leads with 5 points after earning two wins and one loss.

Allanis Navas of Puerto Rico said, “This is our first time in Honduras. The stadium is amazing; there are three courts, which makes the schedule move faster. We have a pretty long pool phase since we’re in the only group with five teams. We are taking it match by match and always aiming for the maximum, chasing that gold medal once again. The Puerto Rican duo comes off winning the second stop of the NORCECA Tour held in Juan Dolio.

Donley-Sherman USA

In Pool B, Melanie Valenciana and Taylor Buckner from the U.S. Virgin Islands remain undefeated with three wins, while Mexico’s Susana Torres and Atenas Gutiérrez finished the day with two victories. The two teams will battle for the top spot in the final pool match scheduled for 12:40 p.m. (local time) on Saturday.

In Pool C, Honduras’ Shanna Rivera and Reizel Bruhier also finished undefeated with two wins but sit in third place in the standings. This is due to Nicaragua’s Silva/N. Brenes and El Salvador’s Vigil/Rauda playing three matches (one more than Honduras), both finishing with two wins and one loss for a total of 5 points.

Pool D is set for an exciting North American showdown on Saturday. Canada’s Maya McNabney and Emma Kunaus lead with three wins, followed by the U.S. team of Emma Donley and Portia Sherman with two victories. Canada and the United States will face each other on Saturday, no earlier than 1:20 p.m. (local time).

Complete results from Friday, June 27

Group A:Navas/González PUR vs Simmonds/Cudmore CAN (21-6, 21-8); Vidaurrazaga/Ramírez MEX vs Molina/Sofi V CRC (18-21, 21-7, 15-5); Navas/González PUR vs Vidaurrazaga/Ramírez MEX (21-15, 21-13); Simmonds/Cudmore CAN vs Rendon/Medina ESA (22-20, 21-11); Molina/Sofi V CRC vs Rendon/Medina ESA (17-21, 21-14, 15-10); Vidaurrazaga/Ramírez MEX vs Simmonds/Cudmore CAN (21-19, 21-13)

Group B: Torres/Gutiérrez MEX vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Valenciana/Buckner ISV vs Murillo/Clarke HON (21-16, 21-4); Torres/Gutiérrez MEX vs Murillo/Clarke HON (21-8, 21-11); Aguilar/Arévalo GUA vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Valenciana/Buckner ISV vs Aguilar/Arévalo GUA (21-18, 21-10); Murillo/Clarke HON vs Bye (21-0, 21-0)

Group C: Rivera/Bruhier HON vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Vigil/RAUDA ESA vs Silva/N. Brenes NCA (21-18, 22-20); Rivera/Bruhier HON vs Vigil/Rauda ESA (21-17, 20-22, 15-10); Smith/Lumsden JAM vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Silva/N. Brenes NCA vs Smith/Lumsden JAM (21-6, 21-16); Vigil/Rauda ESA vs Bye (21-0, 21-0)

Group D: Donley/Sherman USA vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); McNabney/Kunaus CAN vs Ramírez/Quesada CRC (21-17, 12-21, 15-11); Donley/Sherman USA vs Ramírez/Quesada CRC (21-14, 21-9); Villegas/Rodríguez HON vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); McNabney/Kunaus CAN vs Villegas/Rodríguez HON (21-6, 21-7); Ramírez/Quesada CRC vs Bye (21-0, 21-0)

Mexico wins semi in five set to advance

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.-  Mexico outlasted Canada today to win their semifinal at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

It was a thrilling, back-and-forth five sets 3-2 (19-25, 25-19, 24-26, 25-16, 15-10).

Mexico led in attack points 55-52, and dominated from the service line 13-5. Canada had the blocking advantage (14-13).

Ignacio Ramirez, Head Coach, Mexico, said; “It was a very tough match from the beginning. We were able to take advantage of the opportunities that the Canadian team gave us. We had a bad set that we practically had won, but the girls recovered in the fourth and fifth sets to achieve this much-desired victory.”

Mexico’s Naomi Cruz led her team in scoring with 23 points (which included 3 blocks and two aces).

Canada’s Emerson Matthews led the home team with 19 points.

Canada’s Head Coach Gina Schmidt sums up her team’s effort: “We did a good job of executing our game plan early in the match. They made some adjustments, and I give credit to Mexico for doing that. Then it took us too long to adapt to what they adjusted to.  They fought hard. We needed to execute better on our side, offensively and in serve receive. They were serving some tough, deep serves and that got us out of our rhythm a bit as well.”

Mexico plays for gold vs. USA and Canada plays for bronze vs. Dominican Republic.

Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.

Costa Rica, both teams from USA, and both from Mexico lead their groups in the men’s division

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PUERTO CORTÉS, June 27, 2025.– After a long day due to the large number of registered teams at the third stop of the NORCECA Tour, at Playa Municipal El Porvenir in Puerto Cortés, the dominant teams on the first day were Costa Rica, both United States pairs, and both Mexican pairs.

Group A was led by the Mexican duo of Miguel Sarabia and Jorman Osuna, who won both of their matches, defeating Esteban/Solano from Costa Rica 21-15, 21-16 and Rahnavard/Gannett from Canada 22-20, 21-13.

Jorman Osuna of Mexico said, “This is my first time in Honduras, and the organization, the courts, and the level are very good and beautiful. This is our fourth adventure on the NORCECA Tour. We’ve won two stops, and we hope to win gold again at this one.”

Miguel Sarabia added, “The quality of players at this tournament is exactly what we expected. Strong pairs like the ones from the United States, Canada, and Nicaragua raise the level. We won the last stop of last year in Costa Rica and the one in Juan Dolio this year, and we hope to repeat here in Puerto Cortés”.

Osuna MEX

In Group B, Araya/Varela from Costa Rica and Drost/Harrison from the United States both finished with a 2-0 record. These two teams will face each other on Saturday at 10:40 a.m.

The Mexican pair of Antonio Vargas and Carlos Andrés Ayala dominated with two victories, including a surprise win over last year’s champions at this stop, Mora/López from Nicaragua, defeating them 2-0 (21-18, 21-13).

The United States team of Troy Field and Ryan Wilcox also finished undefeated in Group D of the tournament.

Results of Friday, June 27

Group A: Sarabia/Osuna MEX vs Esteban/Solano CRC (21-15, 21-16); Rahnavard/Gannett CAN vs Encarnación/Rivera PUR (12-21, 21-13, 15-6); Sarabia/Osuna MEX vs Rahnavard/Gannett CAN (22-20, 21-13); Leonardo/Maldonado GUA vs Esteban/Solano CRC (21-18, 21-15); Encarnación/Rivera PUR vs Leonardo/Maldonado GUA (21-8, 21-19); Rahnavard/Gannett CAN vs Esteban/Solano CRC (21-0, 21-0)

Group B: Drost/Harrison USA vs Izaguirre/Penagos GUA (21-13, 21-9); Araya/Varela CRC vs Cascante/López NCA (21-19, 21-16); Drost/Harrison USA vs Cascante/López NCA (19-21, 21-15, 15-13); Izaguirre/Penagos GUA vs Theodore/Enile TTO (21-19, 21-19); Araya/Varela CRC vs Theodore/Enile TTO (21-14, 21-7); Cascante/Lopez NCA vs Izaguirre/Penagos GUA (21-6, 21-16)

Group C: Mora/López NCA vs Herrera/Méndez HON (21-7, 21-3); Lares/Carlos Andrés Ayala MEX vs Licht/de Greeff CAN (21-19, 17-21, 15-11); Lares/Carlos Andrés MEX vs Mora/López NCA (21-18, 21-13); R Vargas/Ponce ESA vs Herrera/Méndez HON (21-18, 17-21, 15-7); Licht/de Greeff CAN vs R Vargas/Ponce ESA (21-15, 21-5); Lares/Carlos Andrés MEX vs Herrera/Méndez HON (21-12, 21-12)             

Group D: Reyes/Serrano HON vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Field/Wilcox USA vs Ratter/Van Siclen ISV (21-18, 21-14); Field/Wilcox USA vs Reyes/Serrano HON (21-13, 21-17); Morton/Nage SKN vs Bye (21-0, 21-0); Ratter/Van Siclen ISV vs Morton/Nage SKN (21-19, 21-17).

CAZOVA VolleyStation Seminar Opens in The Bahamas with Regional Participation

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Nassau, The Bahamas, June 26, 2025.- The Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) has officially launched a four-day VolleyStation Seminar in Nassau, The Bahamas, bringing together volleyball professionals from across the region.

The seminar, which runs from June 26 to 29, has attracted 16 participants representing Trinidad and Tobago and multiple islands of The Bahamas, reflecting CAZOVA’s commitment to strengthening volleyball through technology and education.

Under the guidance of FIVB Instructor Manuel Calderón, the program focuses on two specialized modules: VolleyStation Pro for statisticians and VolleyStation Referee, designed for statisticians, scorers, and referees

Delivered in a blended classroom and on-court format, the seminar provides hands-on training in digital scoring and performance analysis, essential tools in modern volleyball.

This initiative is a key step in preparing for upcoming CAZOVA events this year and beyond, ensuring that the region is equipped with qualified professionals capable of operating advanced statistical and scoring systems. It also reinforces CAZOVA’s commitment to knowledge transfer and developing a growing network of certified VolleyStation technicians to support volleyball’s growth throughout the Caribbean.

“In today’s game, technology is as important as physical skill. This group has shown great enthusiasm and determination to embrace new tools that will enhance how we manage and analyze volleyball,” said Calderón.

CAZOVA president, Mushtaque Mohammed, recognized the importance of this investment “We must become self-sufficient in hosting our events and also I encourage each national federation to use the software in their national leagues”.

The seminar will conclude with a certification ceremony on June 29, equipping participants with the credentials and skills to implement VolleyStation systems in their respective countries. This effort is part of CAZOVA’s broader strategy to elevate volleyball standards and foster sustainable regional development.

USA advances to U19 Girls’ final

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.-  Team USA won its semifinal today at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

The final score was 3-0 (25-22, 25-14, 25-20) over the Dominican Republic.

USA’s powerful attack was a difference maker and scored 41 points, compared with the Dominican Republic’s 26 attack points. USA also led in blocks (6-5) and ace (5-4). Errors were 23-21 favoring the USA on the scoresheet.

Despite Dominican Republic’s efforts early on in the match, USA’s size and power eventually led to the win.

USA head coach Jamie Morrison: “I talked to the team and I thought that midway through the second set we started competing. We didn’t think about the circumstances, other than the scouting report. We let that show to the world. That’s what I’m fired up about!”

Megan Hodges led the U.S. side with 14 points (including a block and an ace); Taylor Harrington and Olivia Henry followed scoring 11 apiece.

Yalyn Filpo and Julie Millaray Arias led the Dominican team with 8 points each.

Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.

Venezuela beats Costa Rica for fifth

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 27, 2025.-  Venezuela put together a solid performance at the Girls’ U19 Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, today.

They beat Costa Rica in three sets (25-22, 25-19, 25-19) to finish fifth out of seven teams overall in the tournament.

Ihosvanny Chambers, head coach of Venezuela said he was happy with today’s accomplishment: “We fully achieved our goal; we came with the hope that the players would develop. Winning matches is an added bonus. We know we have a future working with this group of girls who are participating for the first time in an international event of this high level. We are satisfied with the girls’ performance in this competition.”

Outside hitter Leidymar Colina led all scorers with 17 points for the winning team. Her team led in all skills, attack points were 36-33, blocks 8-3, aces 8-6 and Venezuela earned more points from Costa Rica’s errors (23-18).

Maria del Sol Venegas led the Costa Rican side with 14 points.

Action continues and medal matches will be held on Saturday, June 28 at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.

Dominican Republic defeats Costa Rica

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.-  Dominican Republic earned its first win at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada today.

They won decisively 3-0 (25-14, 25-8, 25-14) putting consistent pressure, especially from the service line, against Costa Rica today.

The Dominican team was dominant in the attack points 33-16, blocking 6-3 and service aces 17-4 and made fewer errors.

Alexandre Ceccato, Head Coach, Dominican Republic, was pleased with today’s effort: “We played a good match against Costa Rica and we will try to play a good semifinal tomorrow against the United States. The team improved a bit today.”

Julie Millaray Arias led scoring with 15 points – six of those aces. She was followed by teammate Harleny Linette De los Santos who scored 13 attack points.

Dominican Republic will face USA in tomorrow’s semifinal, while Canada will face Mexico in the other semi.

Rubén Mora and Dany López from Nicaragua Aim to Repeat Last Year’s Title

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PUERTO CORTÉS, June 26, 2025. – The Nicaraguan duo of Rubén Mora and Dany López arrives at the third stop of the 2025 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour hoping to repeat the feat they achieved in 2024, when they were crowned champions in Puerto Cortés.

Dany López commented, “We are participating in this third stop of the NORCECA Tour, which is very special for us because last year we won the gold medal here. We hope we can once again achieve a satisfying result.”

Rubén Mora added, “Last year I think it was a bit easier since there were only about 10 teams. This year the competition has nearly doubled, with around 20 teams. It’s going to be a very tough tournament. In fact, this entire season has been challenging from the very first stop, since every event has had more than 15 teams,” he pointed out.

Control committee

This year, the groups are divided as follows:

Pool A: Andy Blanco/Edgar Maldonado (GUA), Rouzbeh Rahnavard/Tynan Gannett (CAN), Miguel Sarabia/Jorman Osuna (MEX), Sarabia is the Central American and Caribbean champion and the pair won gold at the second stop in Juan Dolio, Cristian Encarnación/Diego Rosich (PUR), and Esteban González/Justin Solano (CRC).

Pool B: Joel Theodore/Stephen Enile (TTO), Jefferson Cascante/Denis López (NCA), James Drost/Harrison (USA) – Drost is a veteran of the world tour, having competed in FIVB and NORCECA tournaments since 2011, Julián Araya/Jhostin Varela (CRC), and José Izaguirre/Santiago Penagos (GUA).

Pool C: Rafael Vargas/Ponce (ESA), Lares/Carlos Andrés (MEX), Rubén Mora/Dany López (NCA), Martin Licht/Luke de Greeff (CAN), and Herrera/Méndez (HON).

Pool D: Elkreen Morton/Nage Hendrickson (SKN), Troy Field/Ryan Wilcox (USA), Irvin Reyes/Manuel Serrano (HON), and Kendall Ratter/Devin Van Siclen (ISV).

Just like the women’s competition, the men’s event will start at 8:00 a.m. (local time) with the opening match between Mexico’s Sarabia/Osuna and Costa Rica’s Esteban/Solano.

High Expectations for the Third Stop of the NORCECA Women’s Beach Volleyball Tour

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PUERTO CORTÉS, June 26, 2025.– The third stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour kicks off this Friday at the El Porvenir Municipal Beach in Puerto Cortés, featuring 17 women’s teams divided into four pools, one with five teams and three with four teams each.

Canada’s number 1 duo, Emma Kunaus and Maya MacNabney, are feeling confident and hope to improve on their previous fifth-place finish. Emma shared, “I’m really excited for this tournament because there’s strong international competition. My partner (Maya) and I are looking to reach the podium after having a good tournament last time in Juan Dolio, where we finished fifth. Puerto Rico and Mexico are definitely the teams to beat, they give  great competition, and we’re very excited to face them again this weekend.”

Canada

Puerto Rico’s Allanis Navas and María González, reigning Central American and Caribbean champions and gold medalists at the second stop in Juan Dolio, will lead Pool A, which also includes Laura Molina/Sofía Vega from Costa Rica, Fátima Rendón/Devora Medina from El Salvador, Yeray Vidaurrazaga/María Jimena Ramírez from Mexico, and Claire Simmonds/Emma Cudmore from Canada.

The Mexican duo of Susana Torres and Atenas Gutiérrez, who earned silver medals at both the first stop in Varadero and the second in Juan Dolio, aim to dominate Pool B. Joining them are Melanie Valenciana/Taylor Buckner from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Danna Aguilar/Ana Sofía Arévalo from Guatemala, and Xue Murillo/Clark from Honduras.

Pools C and D are set as follows: Pool C: HON (Shanna Rivera/Reizel Bruhier), NCA (Nahima Silva/Norma Brenes), JAM (Petal Smith/Kristina Lumsden), ESA 2 (Daniela Vigil/Ashley Rauda) and Pool D: USA (Emma Donley/Portia Sherman), CAN (Maya MacNabney/Emma Kunaus), HON 2 (Ruth Villegas/Valery Rodríguez), CRC 2 (Eugenia Ramírez/Quezada)

Matches begin at 8:00 a.m. (local time).

Cuba Comes from Behind to Defeat Serbia and USA Sweeps Canada in Straight Sets

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June 26, 2025. – Cuba in Belgrade and the United States in Chicago secured their second win in as many matches during the second week of the Men’s VNL.

Cuba Comes from Behind to Beat Serbia

After starting the week in 15th place, the Caribbean side earned its second consecutive victory and is now sitting in 9th.

Cuba continues to climb up the standings. This Thursday in Belgrade, the Caribbean squad secured another win after coming from dropping the first set to defeat Serbia 3-1 (22-25, 25-22, 25-16, 25-16), silencing the home crowd at the Belgrade Arena.

A day after defeating Germany, Cuba once again prevailed with grit and determination. With only two of their four matches this week completed, they have already doubled the points they collected in Rio de Janeiro and are now in eighth place with nine points (3 wins, 3 losses).

Cuba was clearly dominant against Serbia in all aspects of the game, with a massive advantage in blocks (18 to 4) and aces (10 to 3). They also scored more points in attacks (45 to 43), which helped offset a higher number of unforced errors (29 to 24).

Individually, opposite José Massó was the standout performer, leading all scorers with 19 points (14 kills, 3 blocks, and 2 aces). Outside hitter Marlon Yant, the current top scorer of the 2025 VNL, continued his unstoppable form with 18 points (14 kills, 3 aces, and one block).

“We’re still tired from the travel issues we had, but everyone is making sacrifices for the team,” said José Massó. “We push each other to keep the level high, and we will continue fighting until the end of the week,” he added.

USA Defeats Canada in Straight Sets

The United States earned their second win of the week, defeating Canada in straight sets (25-23, 25-22, 30-28) in Chicago during Men’s VNL Week 2.

The USA outperformed Canada from the service line (6 aces to 2), while the Canadians led in blocks (7 to 3). Both teams finished with 41 attack points.

Gabriel García led all scorers with 19 points for the USA (15 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces), while Cooper Robinson contributed 13 points (11 kills and 2 aces). On the Canadian side, team captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy was their top scorer with 13 points (8 kills, 4 blocks, and 1 ace).

With this win, the USA moves into sixth place in the overall standings with 4 wins, 2 losses, and 10 points. Canada drops to 14th with a record of 2 wins and 4 losses.

USA Celebrated

Schedule for Friday, June 27

In Belgrade at 20:00 (local time), Cuba faces the Netherlands, while in Chicago at 19:30 (local time), Canada takes on Poland. The United States has a rest day.

USA perseveres against Puerto Rico

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 26, 2025.- USA remains undefeated at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Canada after a win over Puerto Rico 3-1 (20-25, 25-20, 25-14, 27-25).

Puerto Rico came out determined to show their grit and won the first set. The young United States squad regrouped to take the second and third sets. But Puerto Rico was not giving up and almost forced the tie-break only to lose in four.

USA celebrated

USA Head Coach Jamie Morrison: “I talked to the team in the locker room and told them I hope we do get pushed at some point because that matters. I’m happy with the way the team responded in the face of adversity. (Before the semifinal) I will tell them to be a team, work hard and play good volleyball.”

Outside hitters 14-year-old Kari Knotts along with team captain Ireland Real led scoring with 19 points each for USA.

Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo led the Puerto Rican side with 18 points (including 3 aces).

The United States led in attack points 57-46, blocking points 8-6, but Puerto Rico had the advantage in aces 12-9 but made more errors 23-20.

USA will play in the semifinals on Friday at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.

Mexico over Venezuela at U19 Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 26, 2025.- Mexico defeated Venezuela today 3-1 (17-25, 25-23, 25-13, 25-20) at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre.

Mexico recovered from a first-set loss to win this important match and advance to the semifinals.

Esquivel (MEX)

Mexico’s team captain Isabella Ocampo said in a post-match interview: “Even in the tough times in this match, we were able to work as a team. We were also being very smart with where we were putting the ball and talking to each other about what’s open and how to help each other. I think that’s why we got the win today.  It will help our momentum into the next match.”

Mexico led in attack points (61-45) and dominated from the service line – 10 aces compared with one from the losing side. However, Venezuela led in blocking points 9-4 and Mexico also made more errors (26-17).

Mexico’s Naomi Cruz Toledo led all scorers with 22 points; her teammate Angélica Torres was next on the scoresheet with 19 points.

Venezuela’s Leidymar Colina led her team’s efforts with 15 points.

World Volleyball Day

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On 7 July 2025, volleyball fans worldwide will unite to celebrate the sport we love. From beaches and courts to parks and playgrounds, let’s come together and showcase how volleyball inspires, unites, and empowers communities everywhere.

Join the Celebration

GET INVOLVED

Share your passion for volleyball! Post videos that capture your favourite moments, best plays, or simply the joy volleyball brings to your life. Let the world see your love for the game–your video might inspire millions.

Use the hashtag #WorldVolleyballDay to share your videos and join the global conversation. Follow us on Instagram for updates and highlights as we count down to the big day.

WHY PARTICIPATE?

Be part of history! This inaugural event is your opportunity to help grow volleyball locally and globally, engage new fans, and proudly showcase your athletes, your community, and your unique volleyball spirit.

Questions? Ideas? We’re here to help. Reach out to us at press@fivb.com.

Hard-Fought Wins for USA and Cuba, Canada Falls to Brazil

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June 25, 202. – The start of the second week of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) was quite challenging for NORCECA teams. The United States had to battle hard to defeat China 3-2, Cuba overcame logistical issues to beat Germany 3-1, and Canada couldn’t stop Brazil’s momentum, falling 0-3.

USA Struggles to Defeat China

Playing at home in the NOW Arena in Chicago, the United States had to push to the limit to defeat China 3-2 (25-22, 21-25, 19-25, 25-16, 15-11).

The Americans were superior in attack (65-52), but China put up strong resistance, outperforming the U.S. in blocking (16-12). Both teams tallied 3 aces each.

Jordan Ewert led all scorers with 18 points (16 from attacks and 2 blocks). Kyle Ensing also stood out at the net with 12 points, while Jacob Pasteur contributed 11 points and Ethan Champlin added 10, both hitting double digits.

With this victory, the United States moves into ninth place in the standings with a record of 3 wins and 2 losses.

Jordan Ewert USA

Cuba Tops Germany with Powerful Serving

Cuba faced logistical challenges traveling to Belgrade and barely had time to rest before kicking off their second week of the 2025 Men’s VNL.

Despite the fatigue, the Caribbean squad fought hard on court and earned a crucial 3-1 victory (19-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-21) over Germany.

With this result, Cuba climbs to tenth place in the standings with a 2-3 record and 6 points, surpassing Germany, who drops to 14th with a 1-4 record, also with 6 points.

Serving was Cuba’s main weapon, delivering seven aces compared to Germany’s two. One of them, a powerful serve from José Gutiérrez straight to the corner of the German court, sealed the final point of the match with precision.

Gutiérrez was the standout player of the match, finishing with 20 points, 19 of them from attacks at an impressive 68% efficiency. Opposite José Masso contributed 14 points, while middle blocker Javier Concepción and outside hitter Marlon Yant each added 11.

“What can I say? We’re very tired, but we brought a lot of positive energy to the court and beat Germany. We tried to forget about being tired,” said Javier Concepción. “I think this week will be better than the last one. It was a good start, but that’s behind us now. We have to forget it and move forward…” he concluded.

Cuba celebrated

Canada Can’t Stop Brazil

Canada was unable to contain a sharp and inspired Brazil in its opening match of Week 2 at the 2025 VNL, falling 0-3 (22-25, 17-25, 17-25) at the NOW Arena in Chicago.

The Canadian team, which had shown strong performances in Week 1, suffered a setback against a Brazilian squad that controlled the match from start to finish. With this defeat, Canada drops three spots in the standings, falling from sixth to ninth place, though it still holds 8 points overall.

Despite the result, outside hitter Brodie Hofer was once again a key player for the North American side. Hofer tallied 12 points, including 11 kills and 1 ace, continuing to be one of Canada’s most consistent players in this edition of the tournament.

Daniel Lewis’s team showed flashes of solid play but couldn’t sustain the rhythm under Brazil’s pressure, especially in the second and third sets. The difference in blocking efficiency and offensive firepower proved decisive in the outcome.

Brodie Hofer CAN

Thursday, June 26 Schedule

On Thursday, June 26, Cuba will face host Serbia at 8:00 PM (local time in Serbia), while Canada takes on the United States at 7:30 PM (local time).

Canada defeats Dominican Republic

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- Canada now has a 2-0 record after beating Dominican Republic at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada on Wednesday evening.

Canada was challenged early on but managed to control the Dominican offense at crucial moments leading to a 3-0 win (25-22,25-23, 25-17).

Canada led in attack points (37-31), blocking points (8-6) and serves (7-4). They also made fewer errors (21-23).

Canada’s head coach, Gina Schmidt: “We talked about some things after last night’s game, and some of the things we talked about worked through (in practice) this morning, showed up in this game. I’m pleased with how we executed the game plan and adjusted to anything they brought during the game. I felt it was a good team effort to stay focused throughout the match.”

Canadians Sofia Zabjek (12 points) and Maya Bukovcan (11) led scoring for the host team.

Julie Millaray Arias led the Dominican side with 11 points.

Canada has Thursday off, while Dominican Republic faces Costa Rica in Group B action tomorrow.

The U19 Pan Am Cup is the final tournament before the teams head to Croatia and Serbia next month to face off in the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025.

Puerto Cortés to Host the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour for Second Year in a Row

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PUERTO CORTÉS, Honduras, June 25, 2025.– The heart of the Honduran Caribbean will once again come alive with world-class beach volleyball. For the second consecutive year, Puerto Cortés will host a stop of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour, welcoming the third leg of the 2025 circuit, set to take place from June 27 to 29 at El Porvenir Municipal Beach.

There is high anticipation for the event, with 37 teams from 13 pre-registered countries, all aiming to collect crucial ranking points. The final list of participating teams and pool distribution will be officially confirmed during the preliminary meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 26.

The list is highlighted by Nicaragua’s Rubén Mora and Danny López, current champions of Puerto Cortés and silver medalists at the first stop of the 2025 season in Varadero, Cuba. Also, Mexico’s Miguel Sarabia and Jorman Osuna, along with Inés Vargas Lares and Carlos Andrés Ayala, who captured gold and silver medals, respectively, at the second stop of the Tour in Juan Dolio.

On the women’s side, standouts include Puerto Rico’s Allanis Navas and María González, gold medalists at the second stop of the Tour in Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic, as well as Mexico’s Susana Torres and Atenas Gutiérrez, who have reached the podium with silver medals at both of the first two stops of the 2025 NORCECA Tour.

Puerto Cortés continues to establish itself as one of the key destinations for the growth and development of beach volleyball in the region, offering a splendid venue on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. The event promises a top-level sporting spectacle for both the athletes and the local and visiting fans.

The competition will feature the best men’s and women’s pairs from the NORCECA region, who will not only battle for a place on the podium but also strive to earn points towards major international competitions, including the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games.

USA earns second sweep at U19 Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- USA earned its second consecutive win at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Canada, beating Mexico 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-23).

Despite many challenges from their North American neighbors, USA kept the pressure on Mexico today.

USA dominated in attack points (52-38) and also led in block points (5-3) and aces (6-4). USA, however, made more errors (20-12).

United States captain Ireland Real led all scoring with 19 points (17 attack points, 1 block and 1 ace).

Outside hitter Naomi Cruz Toledo was top scorer for Mexico with 16 points.

“Mexico is a good team that has been training for a long time and their coach has done a really great job,” said USA head coach Jamie Morrison. “I’m proud of our girls – we’re going to throw out a bunch of combinations and give everyone an experience representing USA Volleyball.  I think we’re learning within matches and I’m proud of that. It sets the tone that we need to get better throughout this tournament.”

The USA faces Puerto Rico tomorrow in their final Group A matchup.

Venezuela takes first win at U19 Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 25, 2025.- Venezuela took five sets to beat Puerto Rico 3-2 (25-15, 25-20, 28-30, 22-25, 16-14) at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada to earn their first win at the tournament.

In the 2-hour 20 min match, Puerto Rico had more successful attack points – 64-61, but the winning side led in blocks (14-11) and aces (8-6).  Puerto Rico also made more errors (33-23).

Venezuela looked as if they would take the match in three sets, but Puerto Rico showed a lot of fight to push the match into a tie-break situation.

Ihosvanny Chambers, head coach of Venezuela said post-match: “It was a very intense match. We are very happy. We would have been happy regardless of whether the result was in our favor or not, because this is about the experience for all these girls participating in an event at this level… and how they were able to come from behind after winning two sets, then playing three very close sets, losing the third and fourth, and still coming from behind in the fifth. I think this is very important for them, for their development, which is the goal we are pursuing here — for the players to experience the level of volleyball at the international stage.”

Venezuela’s Leidymar Colina led all scoring with 26 points, including 2 blocks.

Johnnyeshka Carrasquillo was top scorer for Puerto Rico with 22 points – 19 attack points combined with three blocks.

This was both teams’ second match in Group A play.

FIVB updates two key rules for World Ranking system

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Junio 25, 2025.- The FIVB has updated two key components of its World Ranking system following consultation with the World Ranking Working Group and the Volleyball Council. The changes aim to enhance fairness, improve system flexibility and align with the organisation’s development objectives.

The first update revises the Overlapping Events Rule. Previously, when two World Ranking-eligible events overlapped and involved the same team, only the event with the higher Match Weight Factor (MWF) was counted, with the other excluded entirely.

Under the new rule, both events are now included in the ranking system. However, overlapping teams will only earn ranking points from the event with the higher MWF and the stronger position on the World Ranking event table. Matches involving those teams in the lower-weighted competition will not count for points. All other teams in both events will have their results recognised as usual.

The new approach enables greater inclusion of zonal and continental competitions within the ranking system, while maintaining competitive integrity.

The second update introduces a broader definition of National Federation (NF) activity. In the past, federations were penalised 50 points after two years of inactivity in World Ranking-eligible events.

Under the new rule, a federation is considered active if it takes part in any international, confederation or zonal event at senior or underage level, whether in volleyball or beach volleyball.

This new approach removes unnecessary penalties and reflects the full range of federation engagement.

Both updates are now in effect and form part of the FIVB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen competition structures and support the modernisation of the sport.

For further information, please refer to:

Canada beats Costa Rica at home

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.-  Canada overcame some first-match jitters to defeat Costa Rica in straight sets today at the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

The home team won 3-0 (25-19, 28-26, 25-20).

“It was a good win in front of our home crowd,” said Canada’s head coach Gina Schmidt. “I think something we’ll talk about for tomorrow is about how we can reduce the amount of unforced errors on our side, but for a first game we got a lot of players into the game, so that was important. We got to try different people getting used to playing beside each other, so this was a great first game to get those first-game jitters out of the way and we are looking to keep building for the next game.”

Attack points favored Canada 52-22, and they had nine aces compared with Costa Rica’s six. Costa Rica led in blocking points 7-4 and scored more points from Canada’s errors 30-13.

Canadian outside hitter Sofia Zabjek led both teams in points with 16 including 14 off the attack. She was followed by Sydney Bell with 10, and Maya Bukovcan with eight. Bukovcan also led the team in blocks with two.

Maria del Sol Venegas Grant and Mariela Navarro scored eight points apiece as top scorers for the Costa Rican side.

Canada is back in Group B action tomorrow to face off against Dominican Republic at 6:30 pm ET.

The U19 Pan Am Cup is the final tournament before the team’s head to Croatia and Serbia next month to face off in the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship 2025.

USA earns first win over Venezuela at U19 tournament

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.-Venezuela’s best efforts were not able to match USA’s size and power today at U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, ending with a 3-0 (25-9, 25-23, 25-21) score.

USA dominated the first set, but Venezuela was able to make it a closer game in the second and third sets, even leading by up to four points at one point. But the young USA squad battled back to win.

“For all these players, it’s their first time ever putting on a USA uniform and that causes emotions. I’m proud of their ability to get over the emotion and play good volleyball,” said USA head coach Jamie Morrison. “This is an amazing experience for these girls. We talked about staying true to who it is they are and who we want to be as competitors. You need to pressure test that as much as you can and hats off to Venezuela for putting the pressure on us.”

USA dominated in attack points (41-22), blocking (14-4) and had more aces (8-5). Venezuela gained more points from opponent errors 22-12.

Megan Hodges (8 attack points, 5 blocks) and Shayla Rautenberg (6 attack points, 3 blocks and 4 aces) led USA in scoring with 13 points apiece. Leidymar Colina led the Venezuelan team with 13 points.

The tournament is held at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre in Kingston and continues until June 28.

Mexico sweeps Puerto Rico to kick off U19 Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 24, 2025.- In the opening match of the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, Mexico swept Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-18).

Mexico’s team captain Isabella Ocampo said she was proud of the way her team worked together for the win: “I thought we came out swinging – we came out hard and aggressive. I feel like our teamwork is really what helped us get this win. Whenever we were stuck, we would help each other back up, get the point back and go on a good run.”

Mexico led in attack points (40-35) and out blocked its opponent 10-2.  Service aces were equal at three each.  Puerto Rico also made more errors (22-18) to Mexico’s advantage on the score sheet.

Naomi Cruz of Mexico led all scoring with 19 points (17 attack points and two blocks). Angélica Jazmin Torres Galvan and Brenda Sofia Esquivel Valdez, also of the winning side, scored 10 points each.

Pamela Agosto Serrano led scoring for the Puerto Rican team with 11 points.

The tournament is held at the Queen’s University Athletic and Recreation Centre in Kingston and continues to June 28.

Coaches Comment In Advance of U19 Girls’ Pan Am Cup

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 23, 2025.- Seven teams are in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, for the U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup, which runs from June 14 to 28 at Queen’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.  

Jamie Morrison, Head Coach USA: “For the players on this team, it’s their first opportunity to put on a jersey with the American flag on it and I think that’s a very special thing. We’re looking forward to some great competition against some of the best teams in our zone.” 

Ihosvanny Chambers, Head Coach, Venezuela:  “Despite Venezuelan teams having been away from these age group categories competitions for many years, it is an honor to now participate in NORCECA. Our expectations are first and foremost for the girls to experience high-level competition for their development, as we are bringing a team between the U19 and U17 so they can gain experience and enhance their skills, which is the most important thing. Also, we aim for the girls to witness firsthand how the top-level international volleyball is played.”

Alexandre Ceccato, Head Coach, Dominican Republic, “We’re going to do everything we can to have a good tournament. Our group includes Canada and Costa Rica; we’re going to try to be the best in the group and do well in the tournament.”

Yuliana Gonzalez, Head Coach, Costa Rica: “I’m really excited about this new experience. We have a very young team; so I think we’re going to try out best and get a lot of experience, and to grow and better as a team. Also it’s important for us to have fun at this tournament!”

Gina Schmidt, Head Coach, Canada: “It’s a great warm-up to prepare us for the World Championship – we’re excited to see what we are capable of….We are using this to see how we can best prepare for what’s next, so there will be a lot of learning. We are familiar with some of the teams from last summer and we’re looking forward to a strong showing in front of a home crowd.”

Eduardo Galarza, Head Coach, Puerto Rico:  “We are using this as preparation for the World Championship in Serbia. It’s the same players that will be travelling to the Worlds, so it’s great preparation with some good teams.”

Ignacio Ramirez, Head Coach, Mexico:  “Our primary expectation is to utilize this competition as a platform for training and preparation for the World Championship in July, which is our main objective. Additionally, our secondary goal is to position ourselves among the top four teams. This will enable us to maintain our presence and continue developing the skills and objectives we have established in collaboration with the Mexican federation.”

LIVE Stream on Volleyball Canada’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVolleyballCanada/videos?view=2&sort=dd&live_view=502&shelf_id=2

All Go to Five Sets: Wins for USA and Dominican Republic, Loss for Canada

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June 22, 2025. – On the final day of Week 2 in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), the United States celebrated a thrilling five-set victory over France in Belgrade, a win that lifted the Americans above the Finals qualification cut.

Earlier in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic also claimed a dramatic five-set win against Korea. In another Istanbul nail-biter, Belgium emerged victorious in five sets over Canada.

USA Defeats France in Epic Battle

USA earned a hard-fought victory over France in Belgrade, allowing them to climb past the Europeans in the VNL standings and move above the qualification line for the Finals. The Americans now sit in 8th place with a 4-4 record and 11 points. France, meanwhile, holds 11th place with a 3-5 record and 10 points.

In their match, France controlled much of the first two sets, but the Americans managed to rally in both to take a 2-0 lead. France responded with an 8-0 run in the third set to ignite their comeback and repeated the feat with another 8-0 run in the fourth set to force a decider.

At 13-13 in a tightly contested fifth set, Sarah Franklin sealed the win for the U.S. with back-to-back kills, securing a 3-2 victory (25-22, 26-24, 20-25, 21-25, 15-13).

Franklin led with 18 points, all on kills, while Logan Eggleston added 17 points on 61% efficiency. Middle blocker Dana Rettke contributed 10 points, including three blocks and an ace, and opposite Madisen Skinner was the team’s top scorer with 21 points, including one ace and one block.

Madisen Skinner USA (1)

Dominican Republic Edges Korea in Five-Set Thriller

Playing in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic and South Korea battled to a tie-break, where Las Reinas del Caribe came out on top with a 3-2 (19-25, 25-17, 19-25, 25-20, 16-14) win.

The Dominicans twice came from behind in sets to push the match to a decisive fifth set. In the thrilling tie-break, Korea saved three straight match points (14-11) to level at 14-14. However, middle blocker Geraldine González earned another match point, and a Korean attack error handed the Caribbean team the win.

Blocking was key for the Dominicans, who doubled Korea’s output at the net (16 blocks to 8). González had a standout performance with seven blocks and 12 total points.

Brayelin Martínez was the match’s top scorer with 24 points, including four blocks. Opposite Gaila González also starred with 22 points and four blocks, while outside hitter Yonkaira Peña added 17 points, all from attacks.

The result places the Dominican Republic in 10th place with 9 points, holding a 4-4 record.

Dominican Republic Celebrated

Canada Falls Just Short in Five-Set Battle Against Belgium

Canada played one of the week’s most exciting matches but narrowly missed out on a win, falling to Belgium 2-3 (25-22, 13-25, 25-21, 22-25, 16-18) in a roller coaster match.

Canada came close to clinching the win, especially in the fifth set where they led 13-9. But Belgium stormed back with a five-point run. Despite having two match points, Canada couldn’t finish the set.

Head coach Giovanni Guidetti’s team put together a strong collective performance, particularly in blocking, where they outscored Belgium 17-10.

Outside hitter Hilary Howe Johnson led with 21 points, including five blocks. Young opposite Anna Smrek, 21, added 19 points with four blocks and two aces. Andrea Mitrovic contributed 14 points, and middle blocker Emily Maglio added 10.

“Despite the result, this was one of our most complete matches of the tournament. The team showed character, intensity, and the ability to compete to the final point,” said Canada’s coaching staff after the match.

With the loss, Canada remains in 15th place with a 2-6 record and 6 points. However, their level of play offers positive signs for the remaining matches, where they’ll look to finish strong and climb the standings.

Hilary Howe CAN

Men’s VNL Week 2 Begins Wednesday, June 25

The second week of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League starts Wednesday, June 25, with NORCECA teams playing in Serbia (Cuba) and Chicago (USA and Canada).

Cuba faces Germany at 13:00 (local time Serbia), while Canada plays Brazil at 16:00 (and the United States  hosts China at 19:30 (both local time in Chicago).

Dominican Republic U19 Women’s National Team Travels to Canada for NORCECA Pan American Cup

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 22, 2025 – The Dominican Republic U19 Women’s National Volleyball Team departed today for Kingston, Ontario, Canada, to compete in the NORCECA U19 Women’s Pan American Cup, set to take place from June 24 to 28 at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.

The Dominican team will aim to represent the country with pride in this important continental tournament, facing off against the U19 national teams of Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, Suriname, the United States, and Venezuela.

Official Roster Dominican Republic U19 Women’s National Team:

Setters:

Ana Patricia Encarnación Montero

Valerie Mariel Vargas Guzmán

Outside Hitters

Virelys Shantal Rivera Soto

Estel Santos Mateo

Ámbar Avril Hernández Domínguez

Harleny Linette De los Santos Báez

Middle Blockers:

Jakarlis Marianni Lima García

Yalyn Victoria Firpo Filpo – Team Captain

Cristal Yasmelis Mercedes Núñez

Opposites:

Julie Millaray Arias Alejo

Rayni Merab Mondesí Arias

Libero:

Aurelina Ruiz Rosario

Coaching Staff:

Alexander Ceccato, Head Coach

Marcos Vinicious Macedo, Assistant Coach

José Antonio Espinal Reynoso, Second Assistant Coach

Cedar Andrés Báez, Team Doctor

José Antonio Reynoso De Los Santos, Physiotherapist

Agripina Martínez, Team Manager

With a talented and determined group of athletes, the Dominican Republic heads into the competition ready to perform at a high level and continue advancing the growth of women’s volleyball in the country.  

USA’s Durish and Koenig Crowned NORCECA U23 Champions at Seven Mile Beach

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 22, 2025. – Alexis Durish and Audrey Koenig of the United States claimed the gold medal at the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour with a commanding straight-sets victory over Costa Rica’s Sofia Vega and Laura Molina, 2-0 (21-10, 21-14), at the stunning Seven Mile Beach.

The American duo delivered a flawless performance throughout the tournament, going undefeated and not dropping a single set in route to the top of the podium.

In the bronze medal match, El Salvador’s Karla Tovar and Daniela Vigil defeated Barbados’ Sierra Rayside and Destiny Layne 2-0 (21-16, 21-10) to secure third place.

Tovar and Vigil had previously fallen to Durish and Koenig in the semifinals 2-0 (21-11, 21-8), while Vega and Molina earned their place in the final by overpowering Rayside/Layne of Barbados (2-0: 21-7, 21-5).

male and female winners

In the battle for fifth place, Anjia Delapenha and Joanna Robinson of the Cayman Islands delivered a strong performance to defeat Guatemala’s Ana Sofía Arévalo and Danna Aguilar in straight sets, 2-0 (21-16, 21-12).

Canada’s Ariel Forgarty and Bailey Royston secured seventh place after a thrilling three-set match against Bermuda’s Megan Hands and Hailey Moss. The Canadians came from behind to win 2-1 (19-21, 21-19, 15-11).

For ninth place, fellow Canadians Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben cruised past the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Brooklyn Donovan and D’Keisha Jordan with a dominant 2-0 (21-11, 21-9) win.

Trinidad and Tobago’s L’fe Robers and Meeka Johnson earned 11th place after defeating Cayman Islands’ Luna Ebanks and Brianna Delapenha in straight sets, 2-0 (21-17, 21-14).

In the 13th-place match, Hensley Philip and Alwani of St. Kitts and Nevis claimed a 2-0 (21-17, 21-18) victory over Jamaica’s Sibblies and Brandy.

Results for Classification 5/8: A. Delapenha/J. Robinson CAY d Forgarty/Royston CAN 2-0 (22-20, 21-14); Arevalo/Aguilar GUA d Hands/Moss BER 2-1 (21-5, 22-24, 15-4)

Costa Rica’s Araya and Varela Capture Back-to-Back NORCECA U23 Gold at Seven Mile Beach

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 22, 2025.-  Costa Rica’s Julian Araya and Jhostin Varela successfully defended their title, claiming back-to-back gold medals at the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour with a decisive 2-0 (21-19, 21-15) win over El Salvador’s Christopher and Yoel Guardado in Sunday’s final at the iconic Seven Mile Beach.

Araya and Varela showed composure throughout the competition, overcoming a thrilling semifinal against the USA’s Ayden Keeter and Carson Barnes. After dropping the first set and facing two set points in the second, the Costa Rican duo rallied for a remarkable comeback, winning 2-1 (15-21, 26-24, 15-10) to advance to the gold medal match.

CRC Gold

Asking what it took to get to the final and win, Jhostin remarked “It was hard work, after winning a couple of weeks ago in the Dominican Republic, we trained for this”.

“It’s been many days and hours of practice, training hard to be in good condition is difficult and we are very proud of winning another gold medal” Julian added.

The Guardado twins of El Salvador also earned their place in the final with a gritty 2-1 (18-21, 21-15, 15-12) victory over Canada’s Brandon Burnside and Reed Venning, staying calm under pressure to force and win a decisive third set.

ESA Silver

In one of the most exciting matches of the tournament, Keeter and Barnes bounced back from their semifinal disappointment to take the bronze medal with a hard-fought 2-1 (18-21, 21-17, 15-12) win over the Canadian pair Burnside/Venning. The match was packed with momentum swings and drew strong applause from the local crowd.

In the battle for fifth place, Canada’s Charles Ellinas and Colin Lash delivered a dominant performance, defeating Julian Briston and Clarique Ward of St. Kitts and Nevis in straight sets, 2-0 (21-9, 21-16).

Seventh place went to the Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee, who secured a close victory over Daniel Delgado and José Guevara of Guatemala. The local pair held on in the second set to win 2-0 (21-13, 23-21).

USA BRONZE

For ninth place, Miguel and Morrison of Trinidad and Tobago staged an impressive comeback to defeat Nkoya and Taylor of Barbados in three sets, 2-1 (17-21, 21-17, 15-13).

Jamaica’s Blake and Softley claimed eleventh place with a solid 2-0 (21-16, 21-17) win over the Aruban duo of Coutinho and Kock.

The U.S. Virgin Islands’ Anderson and Rojas finished in thirteenth place after defeating Van Dam and Chisholm of the Cayman Islands in straight sets, 2-0 (21-15, 21-17).In the final placement match, Cayman Islands’ Duty and Cardenas closed the tournament with a 2-0 (21-19, 21-15) win against Brown and Wathey from the U.S. Virgin Islands to secure fifteenth place.

Results Classification 5/8: Ellinas/Lash CAN d Watson/Lynee CAY 2-0 (22-20, 21-15); Bristol/Ward SKN 2-0 d Delgado/Guevara GUA (21-19, 12-21, 15-8)

USA Sweeps Netherlands, Dominican Republic Falls to Brazil

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June 21, 2025.- Playing in Belgrade, the United States swept the Netherlands, while in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic couldn’t overcome Brazil and fell in straight sets at the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

USA Sweeps Netherlands for Third Win in VNL 2025

The United States earned its third win of the tournament by defeating the Netherlands 3-0 (25-18, 25-22, 25-19) on Saturday in Belgrade.

With this result, the Americans move up to ninth place in the overall standings, just below the cut for the VNL Finals, holding a 3-4 record and 9 points.

Team USA dominated the match in all areas of the game, particularly in attack (49-39), blocks (6-4), and service aces (4-2).

Outside hitter Logan Eggleston led all scorers with 14 points. Opposite Madisen Skinner contributed 13 points, including two blocks, an ace, and the match-winning point. Middle blocker Dana Rettke also stood out with 12 points.

“It’s been great! This group has amazing energy and is always willing to adapt, adjust, and improve,” said veteran Dana Rettke.

“I’m very proud of how they’ve responded to this challenge. I know for many it’s their first VNL, so it’s been a lot of fun playing with them and sharing this experience. Overall, I’m proud of how this group keeps improving every day, whether it’s during matches or training. We’re having a lot of fun!”.

Logan Eggleston USA

Dominican Republic Falls to Brazil

The Dominican Republic faced one of the world’s volleyball powerhouses on Saturday, falling to Brazil 0-3 (23-25, 18-25, 20-25).

Coached by Marcos Kwiek, the Caribbean team now sits in 10th place in the standings with 3 wins, 4 losses, and 10 points, just outside the current cutoff for Finals qualification. Despite the result, the team showed cohesion, determination, and competitive spirit against a Brazilian squad that now boasts six wins and only one loss, with star player Gabriela “Gabi” Guimarães back in the lineup.

Yonkaira Peña led the Dominican offense with 13 points, including two aces and a block. Brayelin Martínez added 12 points, while opposite Gaila González chipped in with 10. The trio kept the Dominican Republic in contention throughout the match, especially in a tightly contested third set.

“I’m proud because I’m doing a good job, and my team is helping me a lot,” said Brayelin Martínez, who has surpassed the 100-point mark in this year’s VNL.

“I’ll keep working hard to improve and help my team win more matches. No matter what happens, we always stay united and support each other, that’s something I’m really proud of.”

Yonkaira Peña DOM

Final Day of Week Two

Sunday, June 22 marks the final day of Women’s VNL Week 2, with the following matches scheduled: In Istanbul, Türkiye, Canada vs. Belgium at 12:30 PM (local time) and the Dominican Republic vs. Korea at 4:00 PM (local time). In Belgrade, Serbia, USA vs. France at 7:30 PM (local time).

Tandems from Barbados, Costa Rica, USA & El Salvador Reach Semifinals at Seven Mile Beach

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 21, 2025.- The semifinal women’s lineup is set at the U23 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour in the Cayman Islands, with teams from Barbados, Costa Rica, the United States, and El Salvador earning their places after standout performances in Saturday’s quarterfinal action.

In front of an enthusiastic crowd on the iconic sands of Seven Mile Beach, the Barbadian duo of Sierra Rayside and Destiny Layne booked their semifinal ticket after a hard-fought 2-1 victory (21-15, 18-21, 15-10) over Cayman Islands’ Anjia Delapenha and Joanna Robinson.

Costa Rica’s Sofia Vega and Laura Molina delivered a commanding performance against Canada’s Ariel Forgarty and Bailey Royston, winning in straight sets (21-8, 21-7) to secure their place in the final four.

Americans Alexis Durish and Audrey Koenig continued their dominant form with a swift 2-0 (21-3, 21-4) triumph over Bermuda’s Megan Hands and Hailey Moss, advancing with authority to the semifinals.

USA

Completing the semifinal quartet are El Salvador’s Karla Tovar and Daniela Vigil, who earned a 2-0 (21-17, 21-11) win over Guatemala’s Ana Sofía Arévalo and Danna Aguilar.

Earlier in pool play, the Cayman Islands’ duo A. Delapenha/J. Robinson mounted a strong comeback to defeat L’fe Roberts and Meeka Johnson of Trinidad and Tobago in a three-set thriller (19-21, 21-8, 15-10).

In Pool B, the American pair Durish/Koenig delivered a dominant performance, sweeping Brooklyn Donovan and D’Keisha Jordan of the U.S. Virgin Islands with a commanding 21-4, 21-0.

El Salvador’s Tovar and Vigil, featured a key win over Canada’s Ariel Forgarty and Bailey Royston in straight sets (21-15, 21-18) in Pool C. Meanwhile, Cayman Islands’ Luna Ebanks and Brianna Delapenha secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Jamaica’s Brandy McCarthy and Damia Sibblies (17-21, 21-8, 15-8).

In Pool D, Costa Rica’s Sofi V/Molina opened the day with a thrillin 2-1 win (21-10, 18-21, 15-8) over Ana Sofía Arévalo and Danna Aguilar of Guatemala. Canada’s Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben also picked up a straight-sets win, defeating Celina Alwani and Jontelle Hensley Philip of St. Kitts and Nevis (21-11, 21-9).

Sunday’s action will begin with placement matches before the semifinal clashes take center stage. The winners will face off later in the day in the gold medal match.

Position matches:

9/12: Jordan/Donovan ISV d L. Ebanks /B Delapenha CAY (forfeit); Neagle/Houben CAN d Johnson/Roberts TTO 2-1 (19-21, 21-17, 15-12)

North Americans Face Central Americans in Seven Mile Beach Semifinals

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 21, 2025.- The semifinal matchups are set at the U23 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour in the Cayman Islands, and they will see North America take on Central America as teams from the USA and Canada go head-to-head with El Salvador and Costa Rica on the stunning shores of Seven Mile Beach.

Following a competitive round of quarterfinals on Saturday, El Salvador’s twin brothers Christopher and Yoel Guardado continued their undefeated run, dispatching St. Kitts and Nevis’ Julian Bristol and Clerique Ward in straight sets, 21-11, 21-16.

The Salvadoran duo will now take on the American team of Ayden Keeter and Carson Barnes, who maintained their dominance with a 2-0 (21-19, 21-15) win over Canada’s Charles Ellinas and Colin Lash.

On the other side of the bracket, Canada’s Brandon Burnside and Reed Venning battled past Guatemala’s Daniel Delgado and Jose Guevara in a thrilling three-setter, 2-1 (21-16, 19-21, 15-8).

The Canadians now face Julian Araya and Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica, who put in a convincing 2-0 (21-15, 21-14) victory over local favorites Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee of the Cayman Islands.

Costa Rica

In pool play, all four semifinalist teams showed early signs of strength. The Guardado brothers of El Salvador overcame Canada’s Ellinas/Lash in a tough Pool D battle (21-13, 18-21, 15-13), while Araya/Varela of Costa Rica earned a solid win over Guatemala’s Delgado/Guevara in Pool B (21-17, 21-15). Keeter/Barnes of USA breezed past St. Kitts and Nevis (21-17, 21-15) in Pool C, and Canada’s Burnside/Venning dominated U.S. Virgin Islands of Anderson/Rojas 2-0 (21-2, 21-10) in Pool A.

Also standing out in earlier matches were Aruba’s Jeandre Kock and Thelion Coutinho, who beat the Cayman Islands’ D. Van Dam/Chisholm in Pool B 2-0 (21-15, 21-16), and Barbados’ Nkoya Williams-Bailey and Aaron Taylor, who secured a strong 2-0 (21-11, 21-13) win in Pool C over Brown/Wathey of the U.S. Virgin Islands . Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake and Ithran Softley were victorious in Pool D, defeating Duty/Cardenas of Cayman Islands 2-0 (21-10, 21-15).  

Sunday’s schedule starts with position matchups, followed by the semifinals. The semifinal winners will meet later in the day to battle for gold on the iconic sands of Seven Mile Beach.

Position Matches:

13/16: Anderson/Rojas ISV d Duty/Cardenas CAY 2-1 (12-21, 21-19, 15-11); D. Van Dam/Chisholm CAY d Brown/Wathey ISV 2-0 (21-16, 21-13)

9/12: Miguel/Morrison TTO d Blake/Softley JAM 2-0 (21-10, 21-12); Nkoya/Taylor BAR d Kock/Coutinho ARU 2-0 (21-17, 23-21)

Canada Falls Short Against Brazilian Block

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June 20, 2025. – Canada delivered one of its strongest performances so far in the 2025 Women’s VNL, but couldn’t overcome Brazil’s powerful blocking game, falling 0-3 (20-25, 23-25, 23-25) in a tightly contested match at Istanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome, with over 2,000 spectators in attendance.

Despite the straight-set loss, Giovanni Guidetti’s squad showed character, tactical discipline, and organized defense, staying close throughout the match, particularly in the second and third sets, where they came close to leveling.

Nyadholi Thokbuom CAN

The standout for Canada was 19-year-old Abagayle Guezen, who came off the bench in the first set and led the offense with 13 points, all from kills. Middle blocker Nyadholi Thokbuom also impressed with a 75% attack efficiency, scoring 12 points that included two blocks and an ace.

“I’m very happy to see the team improving every day,” said head coach Giovanni Guidetti.

“Today we had a real chance to win two sets against Brazil. That shows we’re competing at their level, which is a very positive sign. We need to finish sets better, but the progress is clear and that keeps us motivated,” he added.

Despite Canada’s strong showing, Brazil’s blocking superiority made the difference. Julia Kudiess led the way with 8 blocks and totaled 16 points. In contrast, the Canadian side managed only 4 blocks throughout the match, a gap that proved crucial in key moments.

With this loss, Canada drops to 15th in the standings with a 2-5 record (5 points), but the performance proved they can compete head-to-head with the world’s top teams. The team now looks to build on this momentum in the upcoming VNL matches.

Central American Teams and Canada-1 Off to Winning Start at Women’s NORCECA U23 in Cayman Islands

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025. – Women’s duos from El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Guatemala along with Canada-1 enjoyed a perfect start at the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour, each securing two victories on opening day at the picturesque Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands.

El Salvador’s Karla Tovar and Daniela Vigil, Costa Rica’s Sofia Vega and Laura Molina, Guatemala’s Ana Sofía Arévalo and Danna Aguilar, along with Ariel Forgarty and Bailey Royston of Canada-1, all remained unbeaten with two wins in as many matches.

El Salvador’s Tovar/Vigil were in top form in Pool C, winning both of their matches in straight sets. First against Jamaica’s Brandy McCarthy and Damia Sibblies (21-11, 21-4), and then against Cayman Islands’ Luna Ebanks and Brianna Delapenha (21-9, 21-7). Canada’s Forgarty/Royston edged out Ebanks/Delapenha in a tight 2-1 (20-22, 21-19, 18-16) thriller and later defeated McCarthy/Sibblies 2-0 (21-11, 21-8).

BER #2 Moss In defense

In Pool D, Costa Rica’s Sofia V/Molina overpowered with convincing victories, starting with a 2-0 (21-7, 21-7) over St. Kitts and Nevis’ Celina Alwani and Jontelle Hensley Philip, and then a 2-0 (21-17, 21-8) over Canada’s Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben. Guatemala’s Arévalo/Aguilar were equally dominant, defeating Neagle/Houben in a highly-competitive 2-0 (21-12, 23-21) and then taking down Alwani/Hensley Philip 2-0 (21-18, 21-7).

In other results, Cayman Islands’ Anjia Delapenha and Joanna Robinson claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory (17-21, 21-17, 15-5) over Bermuda’s Megan Hands and Hailey Moss in Pool A. Earlier in the day, the Bermudian duo had opened with a straight-set win, 2-0 (21-7, 21-15), against L’fe Roberts and Meeka Johnson of Trinidad and Tobago.

In Pool B, Americans Alexis Durish and Audrey Koenig delivered a commanding 2-0 (21-4, 21-3) win over Barbados’ Sierra Rayside and Destiny Layne. Earlier, the Rayside/Layne had opened strong with a 2-0 (21-11, 21-5) victory against Brooklyn Donovan and D’Keisha Jordan of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Pool play continues Saturday morning, followed by the quarterfinal round and classification matchups for positions.

Iconic Seven Mile Beach Shines as Host of 2025 CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship in Cayman Islands

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025.– The Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) hosted a dynamic one-day Under-21 Beach Volleyball Championship on June 19, on the beautiful sands of Seven Mile Beach, bringing together top youth teams from across the region in a vibrant competing atmosphere.

The event served as a qualifier for the 2025 NORCECA U21 and U18 Beach Volleyball Championships and marked a key milestone on the path to the FIVB Age-Group World Championships, with the U18 event scheduled in Doha, Qatar, from October 7 to 11 and the U21 tournament set for Puebla, Mexico from October 15-19.

In a highly competitive tournament featuring both men’s and women’s divisions, the top three ranked countries in each category secured qualification for the NORCECA World Championship Qualifiers. The U21 event is set for July 3–7, and the U18 tournament will follow from July 6–10, with both taking place in the Dominican Republic.

In the women’s division, the top three teams, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, along with the men’s teams from Barbados, Cayman Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago, qualified for the NORCECA qualifying tournaments to be held in the Dominican Republic.

CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed, present at the event, expressed his delight, with the hosting conditions, calling it “one of the best-organizers of beach events in NORCECA.” He praised the participating federations and teams for their commitment to the historic first CAZOVA youth beach volleyball tournament, “This signals the growth of beach volleyball in CAZOVA and the future development of the sport within each National Federation” he added.

The next CAZOVA underage beach Volleyball event will be held in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago for the U18 teams in preparation for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics.

With great weather and exciting matches all day, the CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship was a big success, showcasing the region’s rising talent and building momentum for upcoming international competitions.

Seven Men’s Teams Go Undefeated on Opening Day of NORCECA U23 at Seven Mile Beach

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 20, 2025. – Seven men’s duos were off to an undefeated start on the opening day of the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour at the stunning Seven Mile Beach. Both Canadian pairs, the U.S. team, St. Kitts and Nevis  and all three Central American duos, each delivered dominant performances, winning their two matches in straight sets.

Canada’s two duos Brandon Burnside/Reed Venning and Charles Ellinas/Colin Lash delivered strong performances in Pool A and Pool D respectively.

Brandon Burnside and Reed Venning prevailed over their two opponents, first overpowering host team Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee 2-0 (21-4, 21-12) and then defeating Trinidad & Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel with an identical 2-0 (21-11, 21-11) win.

Charles Ellinas and Colin Lash opened with a 2-0 (21-13, 21-5) win against William Duty and Dimitri Cardenas from the Cayman Islands, and followed that up with a 2-0 (21-9, 21-10) sweep over Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake and Ithran Softley.

CAN #1 Burnside with the poke set

In Pool C, Ayden Keeter and Carson Barnes from USA, opened with a convincing 2-0 (21-10, 21-7) win over Anderson and Aden Rojas of the U.S. Virgin Islands, then controlled the game in a 2-0 (21-11, 21-10) victory over Nkoya Williams-Bailey and Aaron Taylor from Barbados.

Also in Pool C, Julian Bristol and Clerique Ward of St. Kitts and Nevis defeated Nkoya/Taylor 2-0 (21-16, 21-18) in a tight contest, and later secured a 2-0 (21-11, 21-15) win over Brown/Wathey .

The three Central American teams, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and El Salvador, also remained perfect.

Daniel Delgado and Jose Guevara from Guatemala, in Pool B, defeated Aruba’s Jeandre Kock and Thelion Coutinho 2-0 (21-12, 21-18), and Cayman Islands’ Liam Chisholm and Declan Van Dam 2-0 (21-13, 21-12).

Costa Rica’s Julian Araya and Jhostin Varela were equally dominant in the same pool, sweeping D. Van Dam/Chisholm (2-0, 21-10, 21-9) and Coutinho /Kock (2-0, 21-9, 21-8) without trouble.

Christopher and Yoel Guardado from El Salvador, beat Jamaica’s Blake/Softley 2-0 (21-6, 21-11) and Cayman Islands’ William Duty/Dimitri Cardenas 2-0 (21-9, 21-11) without complications in Pool D

Pool-play clashes will conclude on Saturday, followed by the quarterfinal matchups and classification matches for positions.

Intense Day at Women’s VNL: Dominicans Win, USA and Canada Fall

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June 19, 2025. – An intense day of action unfolded Thursday during Week 2 of the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL). The Dominican Republic earned a commanding win over Belgium, the United States started strong against Poland but couldn’t hold on, and Canada fell in straight sets to a dominant Türkiye.

Dominican Republic overpowers Belgium for solid victory

The Dominican Republic showcased its offensive firepower and control, sweeping Belgium 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 27-25) at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul before 2,146 fans.

Under the guidance of coach Marcos Kwiek, the Caribbean Queens delivered a consistent performance, taking full advantage of their opportunities against a Belgian side that only threatened in the third set.

Brayelin Martínez led the way with 18 points (15 attacks, 3 aces) and came up big in the final moments of the match.

Gaila González added 17 points, helping form a well-balanced offense that overwhelmed the Belgians. Yonkaira Peña and Ariadne Rodríguez contributed solidly on defense and reception, allowing for effective offensive distribution.

With this win, the Dominican Republic now holds a 3-3 record and sits 8th in the standings with 7 points.

Brayelin Martinez DOM

USA loses momentum, falls to Poland in four sets

The United States couldn’t sustain its strong start and fell to Poland 1-3 (25-20, 20-25, 17-25, 18-25) in Belgrade.

Logan Eggleston led Team USA with 24 points, showing power in attack and serving. Middle blocker Brionne Butler also impressed with 13 points, including 6 blocks and 2 aces, though it wasn’t enough to stop Poland’s comeback.

After a solid first set, Erik Sullivan’s squad lost consistency, especially in the fourth set, where they failed to hold a four-point lead. Reception and serve control were weak points, as Martyna Lukasik fired 6 aces for Poland.

“We need to be more consistent. We didn’t compete at the level we expect from ourselves. We’ll regroup and prepare better for the next match,” said coach Erik Sullivan.
Team USA now stands at 2 wins and 4 losses, with 6 points and sits 11th in the standings.

Logan Eggleston USA

Canada fights hard but falls to Türkiye in straight sets

Canada battled with determination against undefeated Türkiye in front of nearly 15,000 local fans but ultimately lost 0-3 (16-25, 18-25, 24-26) at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul.

Opposite Anna Smrek led Canada’s offense with 13 points (11 kills, 2 blocks), while outside hitter Kyla Johnson added 8 points and contributed effectively in defense and from the service line. Alexa Mitrovic also chipped in with 5 points.

Canada showed tactical discipline and solid defense but struggled to contain Türkiye’s offensive strength. Türkiye led in attacks (39-33), blocks (8-5), and aces (9-0). Both teams committed 20 unforced errors.

With the loss, Canada drops to 2 wins and 4 losses, sitting in 12th place with 5 points.

Anna Smrek CAN

Friday, June 20 Schedule

In Istanbul, Canada will face Brazil at 7:30 p.m. local time. The United States and the Dominican Republic have a rest day.

Costa Rica’s Araya and Varela Lead U23 NORCECA Tour in Cayman Islands Stage

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 19, 2025.– After claiming gold in the opening stop of the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour, Costa Rica’s Julián Araya and Jhostin Varela arrive in the Cayman Islands as the team to watch for the second leg of the tour, which will take place from June 20 to 22 on the iconic shores of Seven Mile Beach.

Araya and Varela were crowned men’s champions in the first stage of the tour held in May at Juan Dolio beach, Dominican Republic. They triumphed in a thrilling three-set final against the United States’ Gage Basey and Thomas Hurst, winning 2-1 (19-21, 21-18, 15-12).

All eyes now turn to the second stage of the tour, where 14 women’s teams and 16 men’s teams representing 13 countries will compete over three days. A total of 28 matches are expected on the opening day alone.

The tournament serves as a crucial stepping stone for rising beach volleyball athletes aiming to compete at major international events, including the 2025 Junior Pan American Games in Asunción, Paraguay.

The competition begins at 9:00 a.m. (local time) on Friday with pool play and continues Saturday with the quarterfinals and classification matches. The event concludes on Sunday with semifinals and medal matches, promising a weekend full of high-level action and emerging talent on the sand.

Pool distribution

WOMEN

POOL A: Anjia Delapenha/Joanna Robinson CAY-1, Meeka Johnson/L’fe Roberts TTO, Megan Hands/Hailey Moss BER

POOL B: Alexis Durish/Audrey Koenig USA, Brooklyn Donovan/D’Keisha Jordan ISV, Destiny Layne/Sierra Rayside BAR

POOL C: Ariel Forgarty/Bailey Royston CAN-1, Karla Tovar/Daniela Vigil ESA, Brandy McCarthy/Damia Sibblies JAM, Brianna Delapenha/Luna Ebanks CAY2

POOL D: Ana Sofía Arevalo/Danna Aguilar GUA, Sofia Vega/Laura Molina CRC, Celina Alwani Jontelle Hensley Philip  SKN, Claire Neagle/Nolyn Houben CAN2

MEN

POOL A: Stephen Watson/Dylan Lynee CAY, Jerome Morrison/Jahreef Miguel TTO, Armani Anderson/Aden Rojas ISV-1, Brandon Burnside/Reed Venning CAN-2

POOL B: Julian Araya/Jhostin Varela CRC, Daniel Delgado/Jose Guevara GUA, Jeandre Kock/ Thelion Coutinho ARU, Liam Chisholm/Declan Van Dam CAY-3

POOL C: Ayden Keeter/Carson Barnes USA, Julian Bristol/Clerique Ward SKN, Nkoya Williams-Bailey/Aaron Taylor BAR, Armani Anderson/Aden Rojas ISV-2

POOL D: Charles Ellinas/Colin Lash CAN, Christopher Guardado/Yoel Guardado ESA, Love-Let Blake/Ithran Softley JAM, William Duty/Dimitri Cardenas CAY-2 

Cayman’s Delapenha and Ebanks Capture CAZOVA U21 Women’s Beach Volleyball Gold at Home

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 19, 2025. – In a thrilling display of skill and resilience on home sand, Brianna Delapenha and Luna Ebanks clinched the women’s gold medal at the inaugural CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship.

The Cayman Islands duo edged out Barbados’ Destiny Layne and Sierra Rayside in a hard-fought three-set final, sealed dramatically with a service ace by Brianna for a 2-1 victory (21-10, 14-21, 15-9).

In the bronze medal match, Anjia Delapenha and Joanna Robinson gave the Cayman Islands a double podium finish, defeating Trinidad and Tobago’s L’fe Roberts and Meeka Johnson in straight sets, 21-18, 21-6.

The top three ranked countries in the event, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, earned a berth to compete in the NORCECA Qualifier Tournament for the World Championship.

Brianna Delapenha and Luna Ebanks triumphed in the all-Cayman Islands semifinal showdown, rallying past Anjia Delapenha and Joanna Robinson 2-1 (18-21, 21-19, 15-5).

Meanwhile, Barbados’ Destiny Layne and Sierra Rayside secured their spot in the final with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Trinidad and Tobago’s L’fe Roberts and Meeka Johnson (21-9, 17-21, 15-9).

top 3 Qualifiers

Sibblies/Brandy of Jamaica finished fifth place with a 2-0 (21-11, 21-15) victory over the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Jordan/Donovan.

In pool play action, both Cayman Islands’ teams delivered dominant performances to top their respective groups and advance with confidence.

In Pool A, Anjia Delapenha/Joanna Robinson overcame a strong challenge from Barbados’ Destiny Layne/Sierra Rayside in a tight 2-1 win (21-15, 18-21, 15-10), before cruising past Jamaica’s Brandy McCarthy/Damia Sibblies in straight sets (21-5, 21-9). Meanwhile, in Pool B, Brianna Delapenha and Luna Ebanks were equally impressive, defeating the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Brooklyn Donovan and D’Keisha Jordan (21-9, 21-9), and following up with another straight sets win over Trinidad and Tobago’s Lfe Roberts and Meeka Johnson (21-19, 21-13).

Barbados’ Williams and Taylor Crowned CAZOVA U21 Men’s Beach Volleyball Champions

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 19, 2025. – Nkoya Williams and Aaron Taylor of Barbados claimed the men’s gold medal at the inaugural CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship, prevailing in the final over Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee.

Williams/Taylor bounced back after dropping the first set, winning the second and then sealing the match when an injury forced their opponents to withdraw, with a final score of 2-1 (19-21, 21-13, 15-0).

In the bronze medal match, Trinidad and Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel delivered a strong performance to defeat Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake and Ithran Softley in straight sets, 21-15, 21-12.

BAR Champions

The top three ranked countries in the event, Barbados, Cayman Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago, earned a berth to compete in the NORCECA Qualifier Tournament for the World Championship.

In the semifinals, Nkoya Williamsand Aaron Taylor of Barbados staged a comeback to defeat Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake and Ithran Softley in a thrilling three-set match, 2-1 (16-21, 21-19, 15-6).

While Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee from the Cayman Islands also rallied after dropping the first set, overcoming Trinidad and Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel 2-1 (21-23, 21-15, 15-8) to advance to the final.

Anderson/Rojas of the U.S. Virgin Islands overcame a three-set battle 2-1 (17-21, 21-16, 15-8) against Duty/Cardenas of Cayman Islands for fifth place.

all awardees

Pool play featured intense matchups, with all teams battling for a spot in the knockout rounds.

Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson/Dylan Lynee secured two victories in Pool A, defeating the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Armani Anderson/Aden Rojas in straight sets (21-14, 21-6) before edging out Barbados’ Nkoya Williams and Aaron Taylor in a thrilling three-setter (15-21, 21-19, 15-12). Barbados bounced back with a 2-0 win over the U.S. Virgin Islands (21-13, 22-20) to finish second in the group.

In Pool B, Cayman Islands’ William Duty/Dimitri Cardenas opened with a straight-sets win over Jamaica’s Love-Let Blake/Ithran Softley (21-15, 21-17) but fell to Trinidad and Tobago’s Jerome Morrison/Jahreef Miguel (21-13, 21-15), who went on to top the group after also defeating Jamaica 2-0 (21-19, 21-14).

Panam Sports Confirms Indoor and Beach Volleyball for the Lima 2027 Pan American Games

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SANTIAGO, CHILE, June 19, 2025 .– With just over two years to go until the start of the 20th Pan American Games, Panam Sports has officially announced the 36 sports that will be included in the Lima 2027 Sports Program. Among the confirmed disciplines are Indoor Volleyball and Beach Volleyball, both of which have gained significant popularity and prestige across the continent.

The decision was made by the Panam Sports Executive Committee based on a participatory process that considered the preferences of the organization’s 41 member National Olympic Committees. Of the 36 sports, 33 were selected by the National Olympic Committees, while the remaining three were proposed by the Lima 2027 Organizing Committee.

“As Panam Sports, we have taken a very important step with the approval of the 36 sports for Lima 2027. We carried out a highly democratic process among all the National Olympic Committees, and today, the Executive Committee has confirmed the sports included in the Sports Program of our Pan American Games,” emphasized Panam Sports President Neven Ilic.

The Lima 2027 Pan American Games will be held from July 16 to August 1, bringing together more than 7,000 athletes from 41 countries across the continent.

The Pan American Volleyball Union (UPV), the body that brings together the NORCECA Confederation and the South American Volleyball Confederation (CSV), confirmed the qualification system for Lima 2027, which must be completed no later than December 31, 2026.

In indoor volleyball, each gender (men and women) will feature eight national teams, according to the following criteria:

  • Peru, as the host country, qualifies automatically.
  • 1 team per confederation (NORCECA and CSV): the highest-ranked team at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games.
  • NORCECA: the top three teams at the 2026 Senior Pan American Cups.
  • CSV: the top two teams at the 2026 Senior Pan American Cups.

In beach volleyball, each gender (men and women) will feature 16 national teams. The qualification system includes:

  • Peru, as the host, qualifies automatically.
  • 1 team per confederation (NORCECA and CSV): the highest-ranked team at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games.
  • NORCECA: the top seven non-qualified teams based on the final standings of the 2026 NORCECA Tour.
  • CSV: the top six non-qualified teams based on the final standings of the 2026 CSV Beach Tour.

USA Wins; Canada and Dominican Republic Fall in Week 2 VNL Opener

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June 18, 2025.– The United States kicked off the second week of the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with a valuable victory over host Serbia in Belgrade. Meanwhile, in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic put up a strong fight but fell in straight sets to Türkiye, while Canada played a thrilling match that ended in a five-set loss to Korea.

USA Defeats Serbia in Belgrade

The United States spoiled Serbia’s opening match in front of 5,800 fans, mostly cheering for the home team, with a 3-2 win (25-22, 25-20, 22-25, 22-25, 15-11) at Belgrade Arena.

It was a standout night for Madisen Skinner, who led USA’s offense with a dominant 32-point performance (30 attacks and 2 blocks). Sarah Franklin contributed 20 points (18 attacks and 2 blocks).

The Americans led in attacks (65-61) and blocks (10-9). Both teams recorded 5 service aces.

Madisen Skinner (9) USA

Canada Nearly Pulls Off Dramatic Comeback

Canada played a thrilling match against Korea to kick off their second week of Women’s VNL action, narrowly losing in five sets, 2-3 (25-27, 18-25, 25-15, 25-20, 13-15), in Istanbul.

After dropping the first two sets, the Canadians showed strength and determination, rallying to tie the match at 2-2 and force a tiebreak. However, despite a strong collective effort, Korea edged out Canada in the final moments of the deciding set.

Canada stood out with an excellent performance at the net, tallying 13 direct blocks, nine of them shared between key players Emily Maglio (5 blocks, 13 total points) and Anna Smrek (16 points including 4 blocks). The team also outserved Korea, 6-4.

The offense was led by 19-year-old Abagayle Guezen, who scored 17 points, all from attacks. The Canadian squad showed strong competitive spirit and signs of tactical improvement in both defense and blocking.

Despite the loss, Canada’s performance leaves a positive impression and reflects their ongoing development as a team. They will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches in the regular phase of the VNL.

Abagayle Guezen CAN

Dominican Republic Nearly Spoils Türkiye’s Home Debut

In front of over 14,000 spectators at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, the Dominican Republic came close to spoiling Türkiye’s home opener. Although the final score was a 0-3 loss, the Caribbean team fought valiantly, particularly in the first and third sets, which they nearly claimed. Set scores were 25-27, 19-25, and 26-28 in favor of the hosts.

Türkiye held slight advantages in attacks (44-39), blocks (7-6), and service aces (6-2), but the world No. 3 team had to battle for every point to secure the win.

The Dominican offense was powered by key hitters, with Gaila González scoring 19 points and Brayelin Martínez adding 11.

Gaila González DOM

Thursday, June 19 Schedule

In Istanbul, the Dominican Republic will face Belgium at 4:00 p.m. local time, while Canada takes on hosts Türkiye at 7:30 p.m. (both local time.  In Serbia, the United States will meet Poland at 4:30 p.m. local time.

NORCECA and the Cuban Volleyball Federation Strengthen Regional Cooperation

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 18, 2025.- A productive working meeting was held this week at the headquarters of the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA between the new leadership of the Cuban Volleyball Federation (FCV) and NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz.

The Cuban delegation was led by MSc. Osvaldo Idel Martínez Arias, President of the FCV; Mireya Luis, OLY, Vice President; and Lorenzo Martínez Cordero, Treasurer. This marked the new administration’s first official visit to NORCECA’s offices in Santo Domingo following their election.

The meeting addressed a range of topics of mutual interest related to the development of volleyball in the region. Discussions focused on designing joint programs between NORCECA and the Cuban Volleyball Federation aimed at strengthening institutional and technical collaboration.

Projects centered on the training of referees and coaches through courses and seminars were also reviewed, along with Cuba’s active participation in NORCECA’s competitive calendar, including Confederation qualifying tournaments.

Both parties highlighted the strength and stability of the bonds between NORCECA and the Cuban Volleyball Federation and agreed on the importance of maintaining the necessary support for Cuba to regain its historic prominence in international volleyball.

They also welcomed the possibility of a future meeting between the FIVB, NORCECA, and the FCV, with the goal of enhancing institutional cohesion and addressing key issues for the development of Cuban and regional volleyball.

The meeting concluded in an atmosphere of mutual cooperation and shared vision for the growth of volleyball in the region.

Inaugural CAZOVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship Begins at Seven Mile Beach

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 16, 2025.– The inaugural Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-21 Beach Volleyball Championship is set to take place on June 19 at the iconic Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

This one-day tournament will feature 12 teams representing Barbados, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Host nation Cayman Islands will field two teams per gender.

Teams are divided into two pools per gender, competing in round-robin play, followed by semifinals and finals, all packed into a single day of high-energy action.

Team Cayman Ladies

The top three teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions will qualify for NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Tournament in Juan Dolio, advancing on the international stage.

“This championship is not just a qualifier, it’s a celebration of youth beach volleyball in our region,” said CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed.

The competition begins at 9:00 a.m.

Pool distribution

WOMEN

Pool A:Anjia Delapenha/Joanna Robinson (Cayman Islands-1), Brandy McCarthy/ Damia Sibblies (Jamaica), Destiny Layne/Sierra Rayside (Barbados)

Pool B:Lfe Roberts/Meeka Johnson(Trinidad and Tobago), Brianna Delapenha/Luna Ebanks (Cayman Islands-2), Brooklyn Donovan/D’Keisha Jordan (U.S. Virgin Islands)

MEN

Pool A:Stephen Watson/Dylan Lynee (Cayman Islands-1), Nkoya Williams-Bailey/Aaron Taylor (Barbados), Armani Anderson/Aden Rojas (U.S. Virgin Islands)

Pool B:Jahreef Miguel/Jerome Morrison (Trinidad and Tobago), William Duty/Dimitri Cardenas (Cayman Islands-2), Love-Let Blake/Ithran Softley (Jamaica)

Top Young Talent Ready to Compete at U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup in Kingston

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KINGSTON, Ontario, June 18, 2025. – Volleyball excitement is building in Kingston as the city prepares to host the NORCECA U19 Girls’ Pan American Cup from June 24 to 28 at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre.

Seven national teams from the Americas will take the court in pursuit of the Pan American crown, following Chile’s withdrawal due to unforeseen travel issues.

Participating National Teams from NORCECA qualify for the 2026 NORCECA U19 Girls Continental Championship, which is part of the qualification process to the 2027 U19 FIVB Girls World Championship.

Team USA enters the tournament as the defending champion and one of the title favorites, aiming to retain their crown. The event was last held in Puerto Rico in 2023 and saw the U.S. win gold, followed by Mexico with silver, and host Puerto Rico winning bronze. 

The tournament will feature three days of preliminary round-robin play, culminating in high-stakes semifinals on Friday, June 27, and medal matches on Saturday, June 28.

The teams are divided into two groups: Group A includes Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United States, and Venezuela; Group B features host Canada, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic.

Preliminary Round Schedule

June 24
14:30    Puerto Rico vs Mexico
16:30    USA vs Venezuela
18:30    Canada vs Costa Rica

June 25
14:30    Puerto Rico vs Venezuela
16:30    USA vs Mexico
18:30    Canada vs Dominican Republic

June 26
14:30    Mexico vs Venezuela
16:30    USA vs Puerto Rico
18:30    Costa Rica vs Dominican Republic

Year by Year podiums (referred to as U18 until 2019)

YEARGOLDSILVERBRONZE
2011ARGMEXDOM
2013BRAPURDOM
2015ARGDOMCUB
2017COLCUBDOM
2019PERPURMEX
2022USABRADOM
2023USAMEXPUR

Composite Medal Table

COUNTRYGOLDSILVERBRONZETOTAL
ARG2002
USA2002
BRA1102
COL1001
PER1001
MEX0213
PUR0011
DOM0145
CUB0112

Seven Mile Beach Set for Double Dose of International Beach Volleyball

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SEVEN MILE BEACH, Cayman Islands, June 17, 2025. – The famous shores of Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, are set to become the epicenter of regional beach volleyball this week, as two important international competitions take place back-to-back.

Kicking off the action on June 19 is the CAZOVA Under-21 Beach Volleyball Championship, a one-day event organized by the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association. This high-stakes tournament serves as CAZOVA qualifier for the 2025 NORCECA U21 Championships, a key step towards qualification for the FIVB U21 World Championships later this year.

The top three teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions will compete at the NORCECA World Championship Qualifier, which will be held from 3 to 7 July in Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic. 

This event reflects CAZOVA’s dedication to developing young beach volleyball talent and expanding competitive opportunities for athletes across the Caribbean.

Immediately following, from June 20 to 23, the spotlight remains on Seven Mile Beach as it hosts the second stage of the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour. Aimed at up-and-coming players, this developmental tournament offers crucial international experience and ranking points. The competition also plays a key role in preparing athletes for future events, such as the 2025 Junior Pan American Games in Asunción, Paraguay.

The back-to-back tournaments not only showcase Seven Mile Beach as a prime venue for elite beach volleyball but also reinforce NORCECA’s commitment to athlete growth and the sport’s continued expansion across the North, Central America and the Caribbean region.

United States and Canada Close Week 1 with Victories

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June 15, 2025. – The United States and Canada wrapped up the first week of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with victories. The U.S. defeated Cuba, while Canada swept Bulgaria.

USA Survives Four-Set Battle Against Cuba in Rio

In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, the U.S. Men’s National Team secured a hard-fought 3-1 win (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23) over Cuba at the iconic Maracanãzinho stadium, claiming a crucial victory on the final day of Week 1 of the VNL.

Led by head coach Karch Kiraly, the Americans showed grit and composure to come back in several tough moments. Outside hitter Cooper Robinson led the team with 18 points (12 attacks, 4 blocks, 2 aces), playing a decisive role in the final two sets.

Middle blocker Jeff Jendryk also stood out with 13 points through strong performances both in attack and blocking, while outside hitter Taylor Champlin contributed 11 points.

After a shaky start, USA adjusted its system and capitalized on Cuba’s mistakes to take a 2-0 lead. Although the Caribbean squad bounced back in the third set, the Americans imposed their game in the fourth to seal the win with poise.

This result marks a step forward for Kiraly’s project with the men’s team, highlighting their ability to respond and perform under pressure. The United States now moves forward in Pool 2 with a valuable victory that strengthens their campaign in the 2025 VNL.

The U.S. finishes Week 1 with 2 wins and 2 losses, currently in 11th place, while Cuba ends with 1 win and 3 losses, ranked 15th.

Cooper Robinson USA

Canada Ends Week on a High Note with Sweep Over Bulgaria

Backed by 7,984 fans at the Centre Vidéotron, Canada earned a commanding 3-0 victory (26-24, 25-23, 25-19) over Bulgaria in their final match of Week 1 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.

The match lasted 1 hour and 36 minutes and showcased the Canadian team’s maturity and power, especially in crucial moments.

Head coach Daniel Lewis’s squad displayed consistency across all areas of the game. Outside hitter Eric Loeppky Hofer was the star of the night, leading the offense with 21 points, including powerful spikes and decisive aces. Opposite Ryan Sclater also played a key role with 12 points, showing precision in both attacking and serving.

Canada especially excelled in blocking (scoring 11 points in that category) and serving, while taking advantage of 24 unforced errors by Bulgaria. The Bulgarian team, after a competitive first set, was unable to maintain their level.

With this result, Canada closes the first week of the VNL with a 2-2 record, placing them in sixth place.

Canada celebrated

Women’s VNL Week 2 Begins June 18

Week 2 of the Women’s VNL begins Wednesday, June 18, across various locations. Canada and the Dominican Republic will head to Istanbul, Türkiye. Canada opens against Korea at 12:30 p.m. local time, while the Dominican Republic takes on the home team at 7:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Women’s National Team will travel to Belgrade, Serbia, where they’ll open against the host team at 8:00 p.m. local time.

NORCECA Teams Fall to European Rivals

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June 14, 2025. – Teams from NORCECA, the United States and Canada, were unable to overcome Slovenia and France, respectively. The U.S. lost 1-3 to Slovenia, while Canada came close to an epic comeback against France but ultimately fell in a tie-break.

Canada Nearly Pulls Off Historic Comeback

Team Canada came within reach of a historic comeback against the reigning Olympic champions, France. The Canadians lost a five-set thriller, 2-3 (22-25, 27-29, 29-27, 25-21, 6-15), with the French pulling away early in the final set to secure the win.

France outperformed Canada in attacks (72-67) and blocks (8-4), while the North Americans had the edge in serving, with five aces to France’s two.

Brodie Hofer and Xander Ketrzynski led Canada’s scoring, each finishing with 15 points. Hofer scored all his points from attacks, while Ketrzynski recorded 13 attacks, one block, and one ace. Also contributing to double digits were Ryan Joseph Sclater with 14 points, Skyler Varga with 12, and Daenan Gyimah with 10.

With this result, Canada now holds 4 points from one win and two losses, placing them 10th in the overall standings.

Canada celebrated

USA Falls Short Against Slovenia

The United States, fielding a young squad, could not overcome Slovenia and suffered a 1-3 loss (22-25, 25-27, 25-20, 23-25).

Both teams were tied in  attacks (54 each), with the U.S. having a significant advantage in blocking (13-4). However, the Americans were hurt by 31 unforced errors, which handed valuable points to the Slovenians. The Europeans also had the edge in serving, with eight aces compared to the USA’s three.

Kyle Hobus led the U.S. scorers with 13 points. Gabriel García followed with 12 points, while Matthew Knigge and Jordan Ewert each contributed 11 points.

The United States currently sits 15th in the standings with 2 points, from one win and two losses.

Gabriel Garcia USA

Sunday, June 15 Schedule

The final day of Men’s VNL Week 1 features: United States takes on Cuba (5:00 p.m. local time, Rio de Janeiro), and Canada against Bulgaria (6:00 p.m. local time, Quebec)

Luca Cristofani Returns to Puerto Rico to Support the Development of National Volleyball

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SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 14, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) is pleased to announce the return of renowned Italian coach Luca Cristofani to Puerto Rico. He will collaborate directly with both the women’s and men’s National Team programs.

Cristofani, whose international career spans the highest levels of professional volleyball and national teams, will provide technical consulting, specialized observation of training sessions, and mentorship for local coaches. His focus will be strengthening the technical structure from the grassroots to the elite level, driving a comprehensive and sustainable vision for Puerto Rico’s national teams.

The FPV expects Cristofani to arrive on the island this Monday, June 16.

Luca Cristofani (Left)

Regarding this important addition, FPV President Dr. César Trabanco stated: “The return of Professor Luca Cristofani to our National Team Program reaffirms our commitment to the technical development of our teams. His international experience and formative approach will be key to strengthening both our senior and youth national teams, in both genders. We are confident that his collaboration will continue to elevate the level of Puerto Rican volleyball.”

As part of his visit, Cristofani will also offer continuing education courses for coaches and technical staff. These sessions aim to raise the level of preparation and encourage the exchange of knowledge, creating a valuable space for the growth of volleyball on the island.

“Puerto Rico has talent, passion, and a rich volleyball history. I’m excited to return and continue contributing to the growth of this sport on the island,” said Cristofani.

Luca previously visited Puerto Rico in 2023, serving as a technical advisor supporting the coaches of both the men’s and women’s national teams across all age categories.

Cuba Falls to Ukraine in Another Intense Tie-Break at the 2025 VNL

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June 13, 2025. – The Caribbean team fought until the very end but couldn’t replicate the previous day’s feat. Cuba played its second consecutive five-set match in Rio de Janeiro, but this time fell short against a surprising Ukrainian squad, who edged out a hard-fought 3-2 victory (25-22, 20-25, 25-20, 17-25, 15-12).

Cuba outperformed Ukraine from the service line (8-5) and capitalized on the Europeans’ 35 unforced errors. However, Ukraine held the advantage in attacks (51-50) and blocks (17-11).

Despite a strong offensive performance, particularly from star outside hitter Marlon Yant, who once again led all scorers with 23 points (19 attacks, 3 aces, and 1 block), Cuba was unable to close the tie-break in their favor as they did against Brazil on Thursday. Middle blocker Javier Concepción also had a solid outing, contributing 11 points (6 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace).

Javier Octavio Concepcion CUB

It was a match filled with emotion, as Cuba managed to level the score twice after falling behind in sets. But in the decisive fifth set, they couldn’t contain Ukraine’s offensive push. The physical toll of back-to-back five-set matches also played a role.

With this loss, Cuba earns its second point in the overall standings of the 2025 VNL. The Caribbean squad has shown intensity and competitiveness but still needs to improve their finishing in key moments.

Saturday, June 14 Schedule
On Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, the United States faces Slovenia (1:30 PM local time) and in Quebec, Canada plays against France (16:30 PM local time).

Big Wins for Cuba and the United States, Canada Lose Their Undefeated Record

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June 12, 2025. – Cuba pulled off the surprise of the day by defeating Brazil at home in five sets. The United States came back from a 0-2 deficit to win in five sets against Iran, while Canada couldn’t hold on to a 2-1 lead and ended up falling 2-3 to Argentina.

Cuba Finish Strong and Beat Brazil Again in Rio

Cuba secured a thrilling 3-2 victory (27-25, 26-24, 21-25, 20-25, 15-13) against Brazil at the Maracanãzinho, repeating their 2024 feat. After winning the first two sets, the Caribbean squad saw Brazil tie the match but managed to come out on top in the tie-break with their powerful offense. The win earned Cuba 8.39 World Ranking points, and they now stand at one win and one loss.

It’s the second consecutive year that Cuba stuns Brazil in the Maracanãzinho during the VNL. Last year, the two teams met in the tournament opener, and Cuba won 3-1.

Cuba led in attacks 68-61, both teams scored 10 points from blocks, and Brazil dominated the serve with 7 aces to 3. However, the Cubans committed more unforced errors—34 compared to Brazil’s 28.

“It was an incredible match,” said López. “We fought for every point, and I want to congratulate the team. Each of our players contributed to this victory. We couldn’t play the way we wanted in the first match, but today we came back to win.”

Marlon Yant Herrera was Cuba’s top scorer with 23 points, all from attacks. José Israel Masso added 18 points (16 attacks, 2 blocks), while team captain Miguel Ángel López scored 18 as well (14 attacks, 2 blocks, 2 aces). Javier Octavio Concepción also reached double digits with 10 points (9 attacks, 1 block).

Marlon Yant Herrera CUB

USA Complete Reverse Sweep to Earn First VNL Victory

The Americans were down 2-0 against Iran, but showed resilience to come back and triumph.

Competing in the first week of the VNL with an inexperienced roster, the Americans had 25-year-old opposite Kyle Hobus, who plays in Austria with Hypo Tirol Innsbruck, as their leading scorer with 19 points (17 kills, two blocks).

Outside hitters Jordan Ewert, who spent the last club season in Italy with Rana Verona, and Cooper Robinson, who plays collegiate volleyball at UCLA, also delivered strong performances, contributing 17 and 14 points, respectively.

The victory against the Iranians also marked the Americans’ first win under new head coach and volleyball legend Karch Kiraly, who transitioned from the women’s national team after 12 successful seasons to lead the men’s side starting in 2025.

“The guys have so much to be proud of, that was really a true team effort,” Kiraly said. “Lots of guys came in and changed the game for us. All of us are learning together. It was great that we got better as the match went along, and all credit goes to the guys.”

The Americans outperformed Iran in attacks (58-56) and blocks (14-5), but struggled with unforced errors, committing 39 compared to Iran’s 31. Iran had the edge in aces, 9-4.

The result gave the United States their first two points in the VNL 2025 and placed them in 12th at the end of the day.

Kyle Hobus USA

Canada Fall in Five-Set Thriller

A thrilling match took place in Quebec, where the home team dropped the first set, came back to lead, but eventually lost 2-3 (22-25, 25-21, 25-14, 22-25, 8-15) to Argentina.

Canada outscored Argentina in blocks (9-6), while the South Americans led in attacks (59-58) and aces (10-4). Canada committed fewer unforced errors (25) than Argentina (31).

Four Canadian players reached double figures in scoring: Xander Ketrzynski led with 22 points, supported by Brodie Hofer with 17, Jackson Young with 16, and captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy with 12.

With this loss, Canada ends the second matchday with one win and one defeat.

Xander Ketrzynski CAN

Schedule for Friday, June 13

On Friday, Cuba will be the only team in action, facing Ukraine at 5:30 p.m. local time in Rio de Janeiro. Canada and the United States will have a rest day.

Canada starts with a win, USA and Cuba lose their opening matches

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June 11, 2025.- Host country Canada kicked off the first week of the Men’s VNL with an important victory, edging Germany 3-2. Meanwhile, the United States were upset by Ukraine in a straight-set loss, and Cuba began their campaign with a 1-3 defeat to Slovenia.

Canada defeats Germany in five sets

The first five-set match of the 2025 VNL went to Canada, who came from behind twice to triumph 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23, 15-11) over Germany in the final match of the opening day, earning their first win under new head coach Dan Lewis.

Opposite Ryan Sclater and outside hitter Jackson Young led the way with 17 points each. Fellow outside hitter Brodie Hofer added 16, while Ryan Joseph Sclater and team captain Fynnian Lionel McCarthy chipped in with 14 and 13 points, respectively.

Canada outperformed Germany in blocks (14-8) and service aces (8-3) and capitalized on the 36 unforced errors committed by the Europeans. Germany held the advantage in attacks (58-48).

USA suffers surprise loss to Ukraine in VNL 2025 debut

The U.S. Men’s National Team, bronze medalists at the Paris Olympic Games, suffered a surprising 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-23) loss to Ukraine in their opening match of the 2025 VNL, held in Rio de Janeiro.

With a young squad featuring just one Olympian, Jeff Jendryk, on the court, the Americans struggled to contain Ukraine’s strong serving and were outplayed in all three sets. Gabriel García and Cooper Robinson led the U.S. attack with 13 points each, but their efforts fell short.

This defeat marks a tough start for Karch Kiraly in his debut as head coach of the U.S. Men’s Team. The loss also impacted the team’s FIVB World Ranking, dropping them from third to fourth after losing 17.64 points, allowing Slovenia to overtake the podium spot.

Captain Kyle Dagostino pointed to Ukraine’s serve as the key factor: “They put a lot of pressure on us. When they serve like that, everything becomes easier for them,  in both blocking and defense.”

Gabriel Garcia USA

Cuba falls in four sets to Slovenia

Cuba opened its campaign in Group 2 of the Men’s VNL in Rio de Janeiro with a 1-3 (22-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25) defeat to Slovenia, currently ranked third in the FIVB World Ranking.

Both teams were even in blocks (12 each), but Slovenia had the edge in attacks (51-44) and service aces (5-3).

Two Cuban players reached double digits in scoring: outside hitter Marlon Yant Herrera tallied 19 points (14 kills, 4 blocks, 1 ace), and opposite José Israel Massó added 12 (9 kills, 1 block, 2 aces).

Jose Israel Masso CUB

Schedule for Thursday, June 12

In Rio de Janeiro, Cuba faces Brazil (5:30 PM local time) and the United States plays against Iran (9:00 PM local time). In Quebec, Canada hosts Argentina (8:00 PM local time).

Spectacular Coastal Venue Elevates 2025 ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championships in St. Kitts & Nevis

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BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis, June 9, 2025.- The 2025 Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) U21 Beach Volleyball Championships came to a thrilling conclusion after three days of intense action, excitement, and competition on one of the most beautiful venues. Held from June 6 to 8 on the scenic shores of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the event featured a magnificent court layout with four competition courts and two warm-up courts, perfectly blending sport with scenery.

The championship brought together 24 teams from 10 countries, all showcasing the best of U21 beach volleyball talent in a setting that wowed both athletes and fans alike. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and golden sands, two teams emerged victorious with standout performances.

In the men’s division, Dominica’s Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick successfully defended their crown, becoming back-to-back ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Champions. Their chemistry and tactical execution powered them through a competitive field, solidifying their status as one of the region’s premier pairs.

In the women’s division, St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard and Clio Phillip turned in a flawless 5-0 run, capturing gold without dropping a single set. Their dominance, paired with remarkable composure, set the tone for an unforgettable tournament.

“This year’s championship was more than just a tournament—it was a celebration of youth, excellence, and the unmatched beauty of the Caribbean,” said the ECVA President, Glenn Quinlan. “The court setup along the Saint Kitts and Nevis coastline was truly spectacular and raised the bar for future ECVA events.”

The top three teams in each gender category, Dominica, St. Lucia and Grenada in men, and St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica in women, will now move forward to represent ECVA at the NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Tournament, taking the next step on their international journey.

First Week of Women’s VNL Concludes: USA and Canada Secure Wins, Dominican Republic Falls

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June 8, 2025 .- The first week of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) came to a close this Sunday. The United States claimed their first victory in Group 2, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Meanwhile, in Group 1, played at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario, the host team ended the week with a spectacular comeback against Serbia to win 3-2. The Dominican Republic closed their participation with a loss against undefeated Japan.

USA Gets on the Board with Win Over Korea

The United States finally broke through and ended their first week with a 3-0 victory (25-13, 28-26, 25-17) over Korea. With this win, the U.S. team finished with one win and three losses, placing 13th overall with 4 points.

The Americans outperformed Korea in attacks (43-31) and blocks (14-3). Service aces were close, with Korea edging out the U.S. 5-4. Both teams committed 17 unforced errors.

Four U.S. players scored in double digits, with middle blocker Amber Igiede leading all scorers with 16 points (7 attacks, 8 blocks, 1 ace). Opposite Madisen Skinner tallied 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace), Sarah Franklin added 14, and Logan Lednicky finished with 10.

Amber Igiede – Sarah Franklin – Saige Kaahaaina-Torres USA

Canada Rallies to Defeat Serbia 3-2

Canada pulled off a stunning reverse sweep in front of their home crowd, defeating reigning world champions Serbia 3-2 (20-25, 18-25, 25-20, 25-18, 15-12). After dropping the first two sets, the Canadians turned the table and came from behind in the fifth set to seal the win.

Opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 34 points, 24 from attacks, 1 block, and 9 service aces.

Despite Serbia leading in attacks (62-53) and blocks (18-5), Canada capitalized on the Europeans’ 34 unforced errors and Van Ryk’s phenomenal serving (Canada led 11-4 in aces). Van Ryk ended the week as the tournament’s second-highest scorer with 89 points and led all players in service aces with 15.

With this result, Canada finished 11th overall with 2 wins and 2 losses.

Kiera Van Ryk CAN

Dominican Republic Falls to Powerhouse Japan

The Dominican Republic wrapped up their week in Ottawa with a 0-3 loss (19-25, 21-25, 9-25) against a dominant Japan squad, who topped the standings with a perfect 4-0 record, all wins coming in straight sets. The Dominicans finished with 2 wins and 2 losses, placing 12th overall.

Japan outperformed the Caribbean team in attacks (51-26) and service aces (10-1), while the “Queens of the Caribbean” led in blocks (8-3). Japan committed 14 unforced errors to the Dominican Republic’s 11.

Gaila González led the Dominican scoring with 14 points (11 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace). Star player Brayelin Martínez, who didn’t shine as brightly in this match as in the previous three, still finished the week as the fourth top scorer of the tournament with 79 points (65 attacks, 12 blocks, 2 aces).

Gaila Gonzalez DOM

Men’s VNL Begins Tuesday, June 10

The Men’s Volleyball Nations League kicks off on Tuesday, June 10 in Xi’an, China, with a single match between Poland and the Netherlands. NORCECA will be represented by Canada, who will play in Quebec in Group 1, and by the United States and Cuba, who will compete in Group 2 in Rio de Janeiro.

On Wednesday, June 11, the United States faces Ukraine (11:00 a.m. local time), Canada takes on Germany (6:00 p.m. local time), and Cuba closes the day against Slovenia (6:00 p.m. local time).

St. Lucia’s Phillip and Ericka Crowned Undefeated ECVA U21 Women’s Champions

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts & Nevis, June 8, 2025.- St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard and Clio Phillip delivered a flawless performance at the ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship, capturing the women’s gold medal with an undefeated 5-0 record and without dropping a single set.

In the final, Phillip and Ericka overpowered Antigua and Barbuda’s Jassania Joseph and Jaya Carr in straight sets, 2-0 (21-11, 23-21), sealing their championship run in dominant fashion on the sands of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The St. Lucian duo controlled the opening set with authority but had to dig deep in the second after trailing 19-20. With calm under pressure and sharp execution, Phillip and Ericka rallied to close the match 23-21, completing their perfect tournament and claiming the gold medal.

ALL MEDALLISTS U21 ECVA BEACH

In an interview after the victory, Phillip said “We feel great, we are excited, we are happy. This is what we came to do, win the Gold!”

Speaking about the match, Ericka said “We really had to work hard in the last set. Our confidence allowed us to push through the last points”.

Dominica’s Alyssa Bully and Joyan Pascal secured an exciting bronze medal victory in three sets over Anguilla’s Deandra Fleming and Lavesha Richardson. Bully/Pascal came out strong to take the first set 21-14, but Fleming/Richardson fought back in a tight second set, edging it 22-20 to force a decider. In the third, Bully and Pascal regained control with a dominant 15-7 finish to clinch the 2-1 win and a spot on the podium.

The top three finishers of the event move on to represent the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) at the NORCECA World Championships Qualifier Tournament.

St. Lucia’s Ericka/Phillip advanced to the championship match, with consistent play, to earn a straight-set 2-0 (21-16, 21-17) victory over Deandra Fleming and Lavesha Richardson of Anguilla.

In a hard-fought semifinal, Joseph and Carr edged Dominica’s Bully and Pascal 2-1 (21-12, 15-21, 15-12). After splitting the first two sets, Joseph and Carr led 13-9 in the decider before withstanding a late Dominican rally to secure their spot in the final.

Positioning matches:

POS 11-12: Drayton/Farrington IVB vs. Andrew/Campbell SKN 2-0 (21-7, 21-16)

POS 9-10: Gibson/Matthews VIN vs. Amritt/Pinney SKN 2-0 (21-13, 21-19)

POS 5-8: Hamilton/Moss BER vs. Teasia/Collins GRN 2-0 (21-17, 21-10); Alwani/Hensly Phillip SKN vs. Spanner/Brown EUX 2-0 (21-14, 21-15)

POS 7-8: Spanner/Brown EUX vs. Teasia/Collins GRN 2-1 (21-16, 16-21, 15-13)

POS 5-6: Hamilton/Moss BER vs. Alwani/Hensly Phillip SKN 2-0 (21-8, 21-13)


Results U21 ECVA Women’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

Dominica’s Mingo and Frederick Defend ECVA U21 Men’s Title with Back-to-Back Gold

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts & Nevis, June 8, 2025.- Dominica’s Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick were crowned ECVA U21 Men’s Beach Volleyball Champions for the second year in a row, delivering a confident 2-0 win (21-17, 21-15) over St. Lucia’s Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel in Sunday’s gold medal match at the scenic shores of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The Dominican duo reaffirmed their dominance in the region with another stellar performance, despite going through the round of 12 after finishing second in Pool A of the preliminary round, coincidently losing to St. Lucia’s duo Rio/Emmanuel.

In the championship match, Mingo and Frederick displayed control, keeping their composure under pressure and dictating the pace of the match. Their consistency and experience proved too much for the St. Lucian team, who fought hard but couldn’t break through.

ALL PLAYERS U23 ECVA BEACH

Speaking after winning the gold medal, Frederick said “We feel very excited, because it’s another accomplishment in our books and I can’t even explain it, I am flabbergasted”.

Mervin Mingo added a warm thank you to their parents, coaches and fans “their support was very important for us”.

In an exciting bronze medal match, Grenada’s Walcott Zerick and Kibose Hamilton battled past home favorites Jedediah Pencheon and Vikash Sundar of St. Kitts and Nevis in a thrilling 2-1 victory (21-17, 12-21, 15-11). After taking the opening set, Zerick and Hamilton faced a fierce response in the second but regrouped with determination to seal the deciding set and claim the bronze medal.

The top three finishers of the event move on to represent the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) at the NORCECA World Championships Qualifier Tournament.

Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick of Dominica took a confident step toward back-to-back titles with a straight-sets semifinal victory 2-0 (21-18, 21-15) against  Grenada’s Walcott Zerick and Kibose Hamilton. The Dominican pair showcased their experience and composure in key moments.

St. Lucia’s duo, Rio/Emmanuel, secured a swift and convincing 2-0 (21-11, 21-11) victory in their semifinal match against the home team of Sundar and Puncheon. They took both sets by comfortable margins, while Rio was particularly effective at the net, consistently shutting down St. Kitts’ scoring efforts.

Positioning matches:

POS 11-12: Dos Santos Martin/Mello BER vs. Hassel/De Jesus EUX 2-0 (21-19, 21-15)

POS 9-10: Smith/Reid AGU vs. Alexander/Stephen VIN 2-1 (21-18, 16-21, 15-12)

POS 5-8: Bristol/Fraites SKN vs. Lugo/Joseph ANT 2-0 (21-14, 21-8); Lall/Walters SKN vs. Wheatley/Dunkley IVB 2-0 (21-10, 21-17)

POS 7-8: Lugo/Joseph ANT vs. Wheatley/Dunkley IVB 2-0 (21-18, 21-16)

POS 5-6: Bristol/Fraites SKN vs. Lall/Walters SKN 2-0 (28-26, 21-12)


Results U21 ECVA Men’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

FIVB and Qatar Foundation explore new opportunities for collaboration

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LAUSANNE, Switzerland, June 8, 2025.- Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation and a member of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation Board, visited Volleyball House this week.

During the visit, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo presented the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 and shared the organisation’s plans for the future of volleyball over the next eight years.

The Strategic Vision 2032 is an ambitious but realistic roadmap designed to take volleyball to the next level globally. It focuses on four key pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. Together, these pillars aim to make the sport more accessible and impactful – bringing people together, inspiring social change, and helping to ensure a bright future for volleyball.

After extensive consultation with National Federations and stakeholders across the Global Volleyball Movement, the FIVB identified 15 main areas of focus for the years ahead. One of the major elements is the Volleyball Foundation, launched in May 2024, which uses the global reach and power of volleyball to support projects around the world that have a positive impact.

The Volleyball Foundation was one of the key topics discussed at Volleyball House during the meeting with Her Excellency Sheikha Hind, who plays an active role on its Board.

There were also discussions around future collaboration between the FIVB, Volleyball Foundation and Qatar Foundation, especially in areas such as sport promotion, coach education and women’s empowerment.

This partnership was first launched in December 2024 and is focused on growing and promoting volleyball in Qatar. It aims to support athletes, develop leadership in sport and facilitate the development of volleyball at all levels.

One of the first activations between the organisations was the ‘Women in Sports: Creating Pathways’ event, held at Education City Stadium. The event brought together international sports administrators, Olympians and Olympic medallists to explore the role of sport – in particular, volleyball – in empowering women. The panels were hosted by the FIVB and Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA), in collaboration with Qatar Foundation.

Read more about the Women in Sports event here.

Tough Loss for Canada Against Japan in the VNL

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June 7, 2025.– Canada suffered a tough defeat in the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. The Canadian team, playing at home, lost 0-3 (24-26, 20-25, 19-25) to Japan.

Their opposite and team captain, Kiera Van Ryk, was Canada’s top scorer with 11 points, one block, one ace, and the rest from attacks. Hilary Howe contributed 9 points (7 from attacks and 2 blocks).

Kiera Van Ryk CAN

Canada’s blocking was dominant, with an 8-0 advantage over Japan, but the Japanese team led in attacks (39-33) and service aces (7-3). The Asians also capitalized on 30 points from unforced Canadian errors.

With this loss, Canada now holds two defeats and just one win. Japan remains undefeated with three straight-set victories.

The final day of the first week of the women’s VNL will be played this Sunday, June 8. In Pool 1 action in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic faces Japan at 11:00 a.m. local time, while Canada hosts Serbia at 6:00 p.m. local time. In Pool 2, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the United States will face Korea at 4:00 p.m. local time.

Antigua, Anguilla, St. Lucia, and Dominica Reach Women’s Final Four at ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts & Nevis, June 7, 2025.- The duos of Jassania Joseph/Jaya Carr of Antigua and Barbuda, Deandra Fleming/Lavesha Richardson of Anguilla, St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard/Clio Phillip and Dominica’s Alyssa Bully/Joyan Pascal are the final four women’s teams at the 2025 ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship being held in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Sunday’s semifinal matchups will see Jassania Joseph and Jaya Carr of Antigua and Barbuda go head-to-head with Dominica’s Alyssa Bully and Joyan Pascal, while St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard and Clio Phillip will clash with Deandra Fleming and Lavesha Richardson of Anguilla for a place in the championship final.

Joseph/Carr of Antigua and Barbuda overcame a slow start and battled through rain and strong winds to claim a hard-fought 2-1 (18-21, 21-15, 15-12) victory over Bermuda’s Kayley Hamilton and Hailey Moss. Despite losing the opening set, the Antiguan pair adjusted their game and showed resilience under the challenging weather conditions to secure the win.

Richardson and Fleming of Anguilla advanced to the semifinals with a straight-sets victory over Gereliva Spanner and Gercia Brown of St. Eustatius, winning 2-0 (21-14, 21-11) in the quarterfinals

St. Lucia’s Phillip/Ericka delivered a dominant performance in the quarterfinals, displaying confidence to overpower  the home team of Celina Awlani and Hensley Phillip 2-0 (21-12, 21-6).

Dominica’s Bully and Pascal  delivered a solid performance in the final quarterfinal match of the day. The duo secured a straight-set victory over Grenada’s Xenia Collins and Teasia Jones, winning 2-0 (21-14, 21-12) to punch their ticket to the semifinals.

In the Round of 12, Awlani/Hensley Phillip of St. Kitts and Nevis (SKN) claimed a straight-set victory over Dryaton/Farington of the British Virgin Islands  2-0 (21-19, 21-11). Teasia and Collins of Grenada edged out Amritt/Pinney from SKN in a tightly contested match, winning 2-1 (21-9, 18-21, 16-14). Spanner and Brown of Sint Eustatius cruised past Andrew/Campbell, also from SKN, with a convincing 2-0 (21-7, 21-15). Meanwhile, Joseph/Carr from Antigua and Barbuda bounced back after dropping the first set to defeat Gibson/Matthews of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  2-1 (21-23, 21-6, 15-10).

Results U21 ECVA Women’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, and St. Lucia Headed to ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Men’s Semifinals

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts & Nevis, June 7, 2025.- Despite intermittent rain and strong winds, Defending champions Mervin Mingo/Bill Frederick of Dominica, Jedediah Pencheon/Vikash Sundar of St. Kitts and Nevis, Grenada’s Walcott Zerick/Kibose Hamilton, along with St. Lucia’s Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel, emerged as the top four men’s teams of the 2025 ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship.

Sunday’s semifinals will see Jedediah Pencheon and Vikash Sundar of St. Kitts and Nevis face Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel of St. Lucia, while Dominica’s Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick take on Walcott Zerick and Kibose Hamilton of Grenada.

Sundar/Pencheon of St. Kitts and Nevis thrilled the home crowd with a commanding performance, defeating Antigua and Barbuda’s Khaliq Joseph and Miguel Lugo in straight sets, 2-0 (22-20, 21-13), in the quarterfinals.

Dominica’s Mingo/Frederick delivered a powerful performance in their quarterfinal match, defeating Alex Lall and Joash Walters of St. Kitts and Nevis in straight sets, 2-0 (21-17, 21-7). After a competitive first set, the Dominican duo tightened their grip on the match, dominating the second set with a decisive scoreline to advance to the semifinals.

Zerick and Hamilton of Grenada showed composure and consistency throughout the quarterfinal clash, earning their spot in the semifinals with a 2-0 (21-19, 21-16) victory over the British Virgin Islands duo, Maduro Dunkley and Alexander Wheatley.

Finally, St. Lucia’s team Rio/Emmanuel clinched the last spot in the semifinals with a composed and efficient 2-0 (21-17, 21-17) victory over Julian Bristol and Komarr Fraties of St. Kitts and Nevis, sealing their place among the tournament’s top four teams.

Earlier in the day, in the Round of 12, Lugo/Joseph of Antigua and Barbuda dominated D’jario Hassell/De Jesus of Sint Eustatius with a commanding 2-0 win (21-10, 21-10). Mingo/Frederick of Dominica also secured a straight-set victory, defeating Bermuda’s Dos Santos Martin/Mello Kyle Mello 2-0 (21-11, 21-9). Bristol/Fraties from St. Kitts and Nevis overpowered Smith/Reid of Anguilla, also with a 2-0 score (21-12, 21-12). In a more competitive encounter, Maduro Dunkley Maduro/Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands edged past Alexander/Stephen from St. Vincent and the Grenadines in three sets, 2-1 (21-16, 19-21, 15-10).

Results U21 ECVA Women’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

One month to go: get ready for first-ever World Volleyball Day

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LAUSANNE, Switzerland, June 7, 2025.- 7 July 2025 marks a historic moment for our sport – the inaugural World Volleyball Day, and it is now just one month away!

The date commemorates the first public demonstration of volleyball by William Morgan in 1895 and will annually serve as a global celebration of volleyball.

The day will bring the Global Volleyball Movement together like never before, uniting players, fans, clubs, FIVB stakeholders, partners and friends from every corner of the world. Whether it is played on a beach, a court, in a park or in the home, volleyball is for everyone. The very nature of the sport encourages teamwork and collaboration. It’s fast, exciting, fun, and it has a unique power to bring people together. The FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 speaks to this power through the pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. Now, through World Volleyball Day, our sport has its very own day to celebrate these values.

By playing, watching, promoting or engaging with volleyball in all its forms, you will have the opportunity to be part of a shared global experience. Whether you are a player, coach, supporter, organisation or partner, your voice and your passion will help make World Volleyball Day 2025 a truly memorable occasion.

This is a day for us all to demonstrate that volleyball is for everyone, everywhere.

For any enquiries, please contact us at press@fivb.com

Let’s come together and make history. Let’s celebrate volleyball – Together as One.

Dominicans win another thriller, USA dramatic third loss

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June 6, 2025.- The first week of the Volleyball Nations League 2025 has been intense, but also successful for the Dominican Republic, which secured on Friday their second victory in three matches in the tournament, while the U.S. fell in dramatic five sets to Czechia in their third loss.

Dominican Republic returns to winning ways

One of the six teams competing in Pool 1, in Ottawa, Canada, the Queens of the Caribbean won their second five-setter in three days at The Arena at TD Place, taking the Netherlands down to keep their record positive.

If their opening-match five-set victory over Serbia on Wednesday featured a massive comeback for the Dominicans, their triumph over the Dutch had a different script, with ups and downs from both sides and tremendous back-and-forth before the Caribbeans prevailed 3-2 (22-25, 25-19, 28-26, 22-25, 15-13).

With two of their first three matches in Ottawa going to five sets, the Dominicans have played as many as 14 sets so far – before beating Serbia, they lost 3-1 to Bulgaria on Thursday.

Against the Dutch, the Caribbean could rely on their two main scorers as Brayelin Martínez and Gaila González combined for an impressive 51 points – the outside hitter registered 26, with 23 kills, two blocks and one ace, while the opposite produced 25, with 19 kills, three blocks and three aces.

The Dominican team outperformed the Netherlands 10-7 in blocks, and their serve was dominant, delivering 7 aces to the Netherlands’ 3.

With this victory, the Dominican Republic climbed to sixth place in the overall standings among the 18 teams competing in the 2025 VNL, with 2 wins and 1 loss for a total of 4 points.

Gaila Gonzalez DOM (2)

USA Can’t Hold the Lead, Suffers Third Consecutive Loss

The United States was unable to maintain their initial 2-0 set lead and ended up losing in five sets (25-23, 25-20, 17-25, 20-25, 25-27) to the Czechia. The final set was full of emotions—Team USA had a 10-7 lead but ultimately lost 25-27 in a set that was supposed to go to 15 points.

Despite the Czechs committing 31 unforced errors, they were superior at the net (82-66 in attacks) and in service aces (7-2). The USA led in blocks, 13-6.

Sarah Franklin was the top scorer for the U.S. with 20 points (19 attacks, 1 block), Amber Igiede added 18 points (13 attacks, 4 blocks, 1 ace), while Molly McCage and Logan Eggleston also scored in double digits with 11 points each, and Logan Lednicky added 10 points.

This marked the third loss for the United States.

On Saturday, June 7, in Ottawa, only one match will be played: Canada will face Japan at 4:00 PM local time. The Dominican Republic and the United States will have the day off.

Sarah Franklin USA

Anguilla Women Defend their ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Title on Day One

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts and Nevis, June 6, 2025.- Defending champions Deandra Fleming and Lavesha Richardson of Anguilla won Pool A defeating the local duo of Celina Alwani and Jontelle Hensley Philip and Roneika Gibson alongside Veronique Matthews of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on day one of the Women’s 2025 ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Joining Richardson/Fleming in the quarterfinals are St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard and Clio Phillip, Kayley Hamilton and Hailey Moss of Bermuda, and Dominica’s Alyssa Bully and Joyan Pascal.

Anguilla’s Deandra Fleming and Lavesha Richardson secured a 2-0 victory (21-12, 23-21) over Celina Alwani and Jontelle Hensley Philip of St. Kitts and Nevis to win Pool A. Earlier in the day, Richardson/Fleming had also defeated St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Gibson/Matthews in straight sets (21-18, 21-15), while Alwani/Hensley Philip claimed a 2-0 win (21-8, 21-14) over the same Vincentian duo.

St. Lucia’s Ericka Gaspard and Clio Phillip dominated Pool B to finish at the top with two commanding victories. They opened with a dominant 2-0 win (21-4, 21-7) over St. Kitts and Nevis’ Jahzara Andrew and Asia Campbell, then sealed first place by defeating Grenada’s Xenia Collins and Teasia Jones in straight sets (21-14, 21-14). Earlier, Teasia/Collins had swept Andrew/Campbell 2-0 (21-13, 21-11).

Kayley Hamilton and Hailey Moss of Bermuda emerged as the winners of Pool C with a flawless performance, winning both of their matches in straight sets. The pair displayed dominance throughout, first defeating Azarraha Amritt and Shaylee Pinney of St. Kitts and Nevis 2-0 (21-4, 21-10) and then overpowering Gereliva Spanner and Gercia Brown of St. Eustatius 2-0 (21-8, 21-9). Spanner/Brown were coming from a three-set victory 2-1 (4-21, 21-16, 15-12) against Amritt/Pinney.

Dominica’s Alyssa Bully and Joyan Pascal claimed the top spot in Pool D with back-to-back three-set victories. They opened the day by rallying from a set down to defeat the British Virgin Islands’ Natalia Drayton and Megan Farrington 2-1 (16-21, 21-16, 15-10). Bully and Pascal then secured the pool win with a gritty 2-1 triumph (21-15, 23-21, 15-6) over Antigua and Barbuda’s Jassania Joseph and Jaya Carr. Earlier, Joseph and Carr swept Drayton and Farrington 2-0 (21-11, 21-14).

Day two of the event will start with round of 12 to determine the quarterfinal matchups.

Results U21 ECVA Women’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

Defending Champs Dominica fall to St. Lucia in ECVA U21 Men Beach Opening Day

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BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis, June 6, 2025.- Dominica’s Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick lost to Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel of St. Lucia in a hard-fought 2-1 battle (17-21, 21-19, 15-12) in Pool A on opening day of the Men’s 2025 ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel of St. Lucia, along with Jedediah Puncheon/Vikash Sundar and Alex Lall/Joash Walters of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada’s Zerick Walcott and Kibose Hamilton advanced to quarterfinals after winning their respective pools.

Pool A was claimed by Victor Rio and Peter Emmanuel of St. Lucia, who rallied to defeat Dominica’s Mervin Mingo and Bill Frederick. Both teams advanced to the pool-deciding match by defeating Anguilla’s Trevon Smith and Shaquoy Reid in straight sets. Mingo and Frederick won their matchup 2-0 (21-8, 21-14), while Rio and Emmanuel dominated with a 2-0 victory (21-7, 21-13).

Host country duos Jedediah Puncheon/Vikash Sundar and Alex Lall/Joash Walters emerged as winners of Pools B and C, respectively.

Jedediah Puncheon and Vikash Sundar clinched first place in Pool B with a straight-sets victory over St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Dishawn Alexander and Stephen Woods, 2-0 (21-12, 25-23). Earlier in the day, both pairs had secured wins against St. Eustatius’ D’jario Hassell and Zjondre De Jesus. Puncheon and Sundar triumphed 2-0 (21-8, 21-12), while Alexander and Woods also posted a 2-0 result (21-4, 21-10).

Alex Lall and Joash Walters faced a tougher road to claim the top spot in Pool C. They opened their campaign with a hard-fought three-set win (21-18, 16-21, 15-10) over the British Virgin Islands duo of Maduro Dunkley and Alexander Wheatley. In the decisive match, Lall and Walters battled fiercely to secure a straight-sets victory (21-19, 22-20) against Antigua and Barbuda’s Khaliq Joseph and Miguel Lugo, who had previously swept Wheatley and Dunkley 2-0 (21-12, 21-16).

Grenada’s Zerick Walcott and Kibose Hamilton opened Pool D play with a commanding 2-0 win (21-8, 21-13) over Bermuda’s Kyle Mello and Anijahe Dos Santo Martin. The home team, Julian Bristol and Komarr Fraties, also swept Bermuda in straight sets (21-8, 21-16). In a thrilling pool-deciding showdown, Walcott and Hamilton edged out Bristol and Fraties 2-0 (24-22, 23-21) to claim the top spot in Pool D.

Saturday starts with the round of 12, the winner will face group winners in the quarterfinal round. 

Results U21 ECVA Women’s Beach Championship

Watch the event on: Twitch.TV

FIVB reaffirms commitment to building a better world through volleyball during Olympism365 Summit

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LAUSSANNE, Switzerland, June 6, 2025.- At the inaugural Olympism365 Summit in Lausanne from 4 to 5 June, the FIVB stood at the heart of a transformative conversation on sport’s potential to drive sustainable development.  

Featured in the final plenary session, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo joined Olympic legend and changemaker Abhinav Bindra OLY on stage to speak candidly about how volleyball, and sport at large, can make a real difference through collective action. It was here that the FIVB President also pledged coordinated action with the FIVB and Volleyball Foundation to further scale and sustain Volley4Change in Vanuatu and extend the initiative into the wider Pacific region. 

The session, “Strengthening the Role of Sport as an Enabler of Sustainable Development: Summit Outcomes and Concrete Actions”, explored how sport can serve as a practical tool to help realise the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

President Fabio Azevedo opened by aligning the volleyball vision with that of the IOC – building a better world through sport. He then noted how the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 is focused on making volleyball more affordable, accessible and understandable to people around the world. From elite arenas to grassroots courts in remote villages, the vision is about transforming volleyball into a truly global movement. 

At the centre of that transformation is the Volleyball Empowerment programme, a landmark initiative launched in 2021. With over USD 50 million invested in more than 1,489 projects across 205 countries, the programme supports coaching, equipment, and capacity-building to enable national teams to reach their full potential.  

However, realising these efforts needed to be expanded to projects not necessarily within the FIVB ecosystem, but still promoting the values of volleyball, the FIVB launched the Volleyball Foundation in 2024.  

The FIVB President spoke with passion about the Volleyball Foundation-supported Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL) in India, a grassroots league founded by former national captain Abhijit Bhattacharya, and emphasised how it reshaped his own sense of purpose. 

“I’ve been working for volleyball for 35 years now, but this was a lifetime experience for me,” said FIVB President Fabio Azevedo. “I saw kids playing barefoot, playing on dirt. I saw kids and a community, far from being privileged, donating everything. I met a lady, 93-years old, who donates 20% of her 150-dollar monthly pension to an under-12 volleyball team. And she’s following every single match. I saw kids playing barefoot like lions. That gave me, humbly, a greater responsibility to lead our sport towards society and to allow more people to have access to our sport.” 

IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry also addressed the Summit to conclude the final session. During her speech, she reflected on the stories from the BVL, commenting: 

“Fabio, you felt the Ubuntu spirit. That fight of the lion of those kids, the 93-year-old lady sharing the little that she has, that’s exactly what it is. Ubuntu is a huge foundation for me; it’s a part of my legacy. It’s a part of my everyday life. And it is: I am because we are. And it means that any little thing I do has a ripple effect onto you and everyone around us.” 

Indian Olympic gold medallist and Founder of the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, Abhinav Bindra, stressed the importance of collective action when discussing the impact of the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) in India.  

“Meaningful progress only happens when it is co-owned. When public systems, civil society and the sports movement not only align in purpose but design and sustain sports programmes together. Transformation only becomes real when ownership is shared, when these sectors come together, not just to align, but to co-create.  

“Sport must meet people where they are. Whether the priority is gender equality, mental health or climate action, sport must connect to what matters. People invest in what they can see, feel and benefit from.” 

In addition, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice President of the Qatar Foundation, who is also a member of the Volleyball Foundation Board, joined a panel alongside UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Ending Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla M’jidm.  

Addressing the Summit, Her Excellency stated: “One of the partnerships we worked on just yesterday was with the FIVB. We have committed to developing female coaches in volleyball and, once we pilot the real framework of developing female coaches, we would like to see that across all the different sports.”  

Other speakers during the final plenary session included Zeph Nhleko, Chief Economist at the Development Bank of Southern Africa; Nate Hurst, Chief Sustainability Officer at Visa; Auvita Rapilla, IOC Member and Chair of the IOC Olympism365 Commission; and Emma Terho OLY, Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.

Marte excited to enjoy VNL 2025 through pregnancy

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June 6, 2025.- Expecting her first baby, the Dominican captain will be with her team for as long as she can during the tournament.

The Dominican Republic will count on an extra body on the court for at least their first matches in the Volleyball Nations League 2025 as team captain and veteran setter Niverka Marte is playing the tournament while expecting her first baby.

The 34-year-old playmaker doesn’t know for how long she’ll be able to keep playing, but she definitely wants to enjoy the moments of joy she is experiencing this first week, as the Queens of the Caribbean have faced Serbia and Bulgaria, and will play the Netherlands and Japan in Ottawa, Canada.

Even though many players who want to start a family plan to do it in the post-Olympic year, that wasn’t exactly the case with Marte. Having a baby had long been a dream of her, but the Dominican captain was struck with both surprise and intense happiness when she found out she was pregnant.

“My husband and I have been thinking about having a baby for a long time, but we always kept focused on what our priorities were at the moment and the upcoming tournaments,” she told Volleyball World in an exclusive interview. “We didn’t plan for it to happen now, but when we realized it was happening, it was a moment of incredible happiness for us. Our wonderful baby came by the grace of God and He couldn’t have picked a better time to give us this gift.”

Feeling as energized as ever and having many examples of players who continued to compete through pregnancy, including her longtime national team friends Bethania De La Cruz and Brenda Castillo, Marte had no doubts that she wanted to continue to represent her country in the VNL for as long as she could.

“I never felt better before,” she said. “I’ve been so, so happy that I’m in an unexplainable mood all the time. And I feel stronger and with a constant desire to train my body, too. I think that many people portray pregnancy as a disease and make it look like you can’t do anything. I always saw it from an entirely different perspective, and now that I’m experiencing it, I feel it in an even stronger way. Of course, my body is changing, and I need to take care of my needs and my baby’s needs, but why should I stop my entire life? I’ll adapt to it as it goes and will keep listening to my body. I feel great and would love to be with my team on the VNL. The only recommendation my doctor made was that I enjoy this moment, and that’s what I’ll do.”

One thing that makes Marte’s experience of playing through pregnancy even more special is the fact that her husband, Omar Martinez, is the physical trainer of the Dominican national team. That means the two can experience every step of her pregnancy together, supporting each other along the way.

“I’ve met him a couple of years before he joined the national team, and I’ve become better in every area of my life after that,” the setter, a three-time Olympian, added. “Having him full-time by my side is the best thing that could have happened, and it’s not a coincidence that I’ve been playing every set of every tournament for many years now. He takes care of me in every area of my life, not just sports, and that means a lot. I’m so blessed to have him by my side.”

While Marte still can’t determine for how long she’ll be able to help her teammates on the court in the VNL, the setter can already confirm she will need to sit out of the upcoming FIVB Volleyball World Championship, set to take place from August 22-September 7, in Thailand, as her pregnancy will approach its final stage.

Part of the Dominican national team since 2008 and a starter and captain for over a decade, Marte’s absence will create a void in the team both technically and from a leadership standpoint. While she’s out, Ariana Rodríguez, Yokaty Pérez, Aylin Liberato and Camila De La Rosa are the candidates to step into the starting lineup at the setter spot.

“We have over 20 players training with the Dominican national team, and we’re all different, but everyone has something to bring to the table,” Marte reflected. “So, I don’t think anyone replaces someone on the team. The opportunities have always been there and will continue to be there.”

ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championship Kicks Off in Saint Kitts and Nevis

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Saint Kitts and Nevis, June 5, 2025.- The Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) U21 Beach Volleyball Championship is set to begin on Friday at the Marriott Beach, North Frigate Bay on the beautiful shores of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

This prestigious tournament will showcase twenty-four talented young teams, twelve per gender, representing ten different countries across the region, promoting sportsmanship and competition.

The top three teams in both genders will qualify for the NORCECA World Championship Qualifier Tournament in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, from July 3-7.

Crucial preparatory activities took place on the eve of the event, including registration process, ensuring their eligibility and documentation are in order. All teams had the opportunity to utilize the four tournament courts for training sessions, allowing them to acclimatize to the environment and fine-tune their strategies.  Finally, Glenn Quinlan, ECVA President, presided over the general technical meeting to discuss the tournament schedule, regulations and specific guidelines.

Teams are distributed in four groups. Pool play will be completed on the first day of the competition, where the winner of each group advances directly to Saturday’s quarterfinals. On day two, the round of 12 will decide who advances to the next round. The tournament will conclude on Sunday with position matches, semifinals and medal matches. 

WOMEN

Pool A: Deandra Fleming/Lavesha Richardson (AGU); Roneika Gibson/Veronique Matthews (VIN); Celina Alwani/Jontelle Hensley Philip (SKN).

Pool B: Ericka Gaspard/Clio Phillip (LCA); Xenia Collins/Teasia Jones (GRN); Jahzara Andrew/Asia Campbell (SKN).

Pool C: Kayley Hamilton/Hailey Moss (BER); Gereliva Spanner/Gercia Brown (EUX); Azarraha Amritt/Shaylee Pinney (SKN).

Pool D: Jassania Joseph/Jaya Carr (ANT); Alyssa Bully/Joyan Pascal (DMA);
Natalia Drayton/Megan Farrington (IVB)

MEN

Pool A: Mervin Mingo/Bill Frederick (DMA); Trevon Smith/Shaquoy Reid (AGU); Victor Rio/

Peter Emmanuel (LCA).

Pool B: Jedediah Puncheon/Vikash Sundar (SKN); Dishawn Alexander/Stephen Woods (VIN); D’jario Hassell/Zjondre De Jesus (EUX.

Pool C: Khaliq Joseph/Miguel Lugo (ANT); Maduro Dunkley/Alexander Wheatley (IVB);
Alex Lall/ Joash Walters (SKN).

Pool D: Zerick Walcott/ Kibose Hamilton (GRN); Kyle Mello/ Anijahe Dos Santo Martin (BER); Julian Bristol/Komarr Fraties (SKN).

Men’s Superior Volleyball League Postpones Start to October 2025 in Compliance with FIVB

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SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 5, 2025 .- In a meeting held this evening between the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV) and the eight franchise owners of the Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM), it was unanimously agreed to postpone the start of the 2025 season to October 20, 2025.

The decision was made to comply with the regulations set by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and to ensure the proper development of the competition under international standards.

FPV President Dr. César Trabanco confirmed the decision and noted that further details regarding tournament planning and necessary adjustments will be announced in the coming days to guarantee a competitive and well-organized event.

“Our top priority is to meet international requirements while also delivering a high-quality tournament for our players, clubs, and fans. We’ll soon be sharing key information about the schedule and other logistical aspects,” said Dr. Trabanco.

All eight teams are confirmed to participate in the upcoming season, and each team will be allowed up to two foreign reinforcements to strengthen their rosters.

Canada, USA, and Dominican Republic Suffer Defeats in Women’s VNL

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June 5, 2025.– All three NORCECA teams competing in the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) had a tough second day. In Pool 1, host nation Canada fell 1-3 to the Netherlands, while the Dominican Republic lost 1-3 to Bulgaria. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, USA suffered their second consecutive defeat, this time a 0-3 loss to Brazil.

Canada drops first match in Pool 1

Canada suffered their first loss of the 2025 VNL season, falling 1-3 (18-25, 25-22, 15-25, 23-25) to the Netherlands. In a match with few unforced errors, Canada committed 20, while the Netherlands had 24.

Canadian opposite and team captain Kiera Van Ryk once again led the scoring with 17 points (15 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace). The Dutch outperformed Canada in every skill, 55-48 in attacks, 13-3 in blocks, and 9-6 in aces.

With this result, Canada now holds a 1-1 record and 2 points, thanks to their win over Bulgaria the day before.

Andrea Mitrovic CAN

Dominican Republic falls in four sets to Bulgaria

Despite a standout performance from Brayelin Martínez, who scored 30 points (27 attacks, 3 blocks), and a strong effort in the second and fourth sets, the Dominican Republic was outlasted by Bulgaria 1-3 (21-25, 32-30, 19-25, 29-31).

Blocking was once again the Dominican team’s strongest weapon, dominating that category 16-11, but Bulgaria narrowly won in attacks 65-64 and led in service points 7-4.

The Dominican Republic now holds a 1-1 record with 2 points, following their victory over Serbia.

Brayelin Martinez DOM

USA suffers second straight loss

Brazil, the world’s second-ranked team, defeated USA, ranked third, in straight sets 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-19) in Rio de Janeiro.

The young American squad was unable to match Brazil’s power and experience and were outplayed across 38-35 in attacks, 12-4 in blocks, and both teams with 4 aces.

Logan Eggleston was the top scorer for the USA and the only player in double digits, with 13 points, including 1 block and 12 attacks from the net.

On Friday, June 6, in Ottawa, the Dominican Republic will face the Netherlands at 2:00 p.m. local time, while Canada will have a rest day. In Rio de Janeiro, the United States will take on Czechia at 6:00 p.m. local time.

VNL 2025: Cuba look to power through the pack

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June 5, 2025.- Simon leads, young stars mature, and momentum builds in Cuba’s 2025 campaign as they return for their third straight Volleyball Nations League season aiming to build on the progress of recent years. After back-to-back campaigns in 2023 and 2024, the team bring back familiar leaders and rising contributors, continuing to rely on physical strength and fast attacking play to push for a stronger finish in an expanded field.

At the heart of the squad is 37-year-old middle blocker Robertlandy Simon, who remains part of the national team setup after initially suggesting his international career was over in 2024. He is expected to join the group in the third week of the Preliminary Phase.

Alongside the top-calibre middle blocker, Cuba will count on outside hitters Miguel Angel Lopez, Marlon Yant and Osniel Melgarejo, who have shaped the team’s attack in recent seasons. Setter Christian Manuel Thondike Mejias provides continuity in distribution, while middle blockers Roamy Alonso and Javier Concepción bring speed and vertical threat at the net. Libero Yonder García anchors the backcourt and leads a defensive unit that has gained stability over the past two editions.

Robertlandy Simon of Cuba

Cuba begin the season ranked 12th in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Ranking. Their campaign opens in Rio de Janeiro from 11 to 15 June, where they will face Slovenia, Brazil, Ukraine and the United States. In Week 2 from 25 to 29 June in Belgrade, they are set to take on Germany, Serbia, Netherlands and Argentina. Then Week 3 will be held from 16 to 20 July in Gdansk, with matchups against Bulgaria, Poland, France and China.

Their development has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, which began with a six-month coaching support in 2023 valued at CHF 12,000. The support had a long-term impact, helping to strengthen the team’s technical preparation and giving the coaching staff the tools to build a more competitive unit on the international stage.

Now in their third VNL season, Cuba are no longer new to the demands of the competition. Their physical style, built around quick swings, strong blocking and high-tempo transition play, has made them a difficult team to face. Against more structured systems, Cuba’s unpredictability and athleticism continue to stand out.

A return to the Final Round remains within reach. With experienced leaders, improved depth and a style that can pose a threat to the top-ranked teams, Cuba’s purpose in 2025 is grounded in the progress they have already made. Their next step is to prove they can sustain it.

Cuba are scheduled to hold a training camp in Argentina ahead of the VNL, including friendly matches with the home side. The trip will form part of their preparations for a packed international season that also includes the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship later this year.

After rebuilding their presence on the international stage, Cuba now face a season that could define their trajectory in the next Olympic cycle. With Simon still in the fold and a more balanced lineup around him, their 2025 campaign is built to power through the pack.

Dominican Republic comes from behind to claim victory in VNL opener, Canada starts with a victory, and USA falls in debut

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June 4, 2025.- The Dominican Republic opened their 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign with an exciting five-set comeback victory over reigning world champions Serbia in Pool 1, at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario. Host Canada also secured a five-set win over Bulgaria to start strong at home. Meanwhile, in Pool 2, the United States fell in their debut against Olympic champions Italy in Rio de Janeiro.

Dominicans complete reverse sweep against Serbia

The second match of the day in Ottawa delivered high drama as the Dominican Republic clawed back from a two-set deficit to defeat Serbia. The “Queens of the Caribbean” didn’t give up after dropping the first two sets, ultimately triumphing 3-2 (26-28, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16), marking the first tiebreak victory of the VNL’s seventh edition.

Outside hitter Brayelin Martínez led the offense with 17 points (11 kills, five blocks, one ace), joined by her sister, middle blocker Jineiry Martínez, who added 16 (14 kills, two blocks). Opposite Gaila González also contributed 16 points (11 kills, four blocks, one ace) in the epic comeback.

Blocking proved to be the Dominicans’ strongest skill, outperforming Serbia 16-11. They also capitalized on Serbian errors, with a 34-22 advantage in opponent unforced mistakes. However, Serbia led in kills (61-58) and aces (10-5).

Brayelin Martinez DOM

Canada needs five sets to beat Bulgaria

The final match of opening day action also went to five sets, with host Canada outlasting Bulgaria 3-2 (25-18, 25-12, 23-25, 19-25, 15-4) in front of their home fans. It was Canada’s first win under new head coach Giovanni Guidetti.

The Canadians were dominant in attacks (67-49) and serves (9-4), while Bulgaria held a slight edge in blocking (10-9).

Star opposite Kiera Van Ryk led all scorers with 25 points (19 kills, four aces, two blocks). Outside hitter Hilary Johnson followed with 18 (16 kills, two aces), and middle blocker Emily Maglio chipped in 14 points (eight kills, five blocks, one ace).

Kiera Van Ryk CAN

USA fall to Italy in opener

Reigning VNL champions Italy imposed their strength early, winning the first two sets comfortably. The third set saw the USA take a commanding 21-14 lead, but Italy mounted a comeback to win the set 30-28 and seal a 3-0 (25-13, 25-13, 30-28) victory in Pool 2, played in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

New American head coach Erik Sullivan fielded a very young squad, with ten players making their VNL debut against the Olympic champions. Sarah Franklin and Logan Lednicky led the USA in scoring with nine points each.

On Thursday June 5, in Ottawa, Dominican Republic faces Bulgaria at  4:00 PM local time, and Canada goes against the Netherlands at 7:30 PM local time. In Rio de Janeiro, the U.S. will meet with host Brazil at 9:00 PM local time.

Sarah Franklin USA

Volleyball Thrives in Haiti: Regional Tournaments Unite Hundreds of Youth Despite National Challenges

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PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, June 3, 2025.- The Haitian Volleyball Federation has been in full activity organizing successful tournaments, thanks to the tireless efforts and remarkable dedication by regional organizers.

In parts of the Northern Department, school tournaments began as early as December 2024. In 2025, hundreds of students continued to play volleyball, with championships held in Cap-Haïtien, Ouanaminthe, Hinche, Port-Margot, La Jeune, Mombin-Crochu, Pignon, and Saint-Marc.

A play sequence in the Port-au-Prince championship

Concurrently, the regular First Division tournaments were successfully held by the Ouanaminthe League, while the League in the West tournaments are currently in its final phase. These two major championships welcomed 20 clubs, with a total of approximately 300 athletes.

“I am proud that the Haitian Volleyball Federation has been able to stay the course and ensure that volleyball courts continue to be places of joy and performance for athletes during these challenging times. We recognize the many sacrifices made by both parents and athletes to keep volleyball alive across the country, bringing energy, unity, and hope to a population striving for stability.” said Jean Michel Frédéric François, President of the Haitian Volleyball Federation.

“Special thanks to all the regional leaders for their perseverance, all the institutions that championed us, and especially NORCECA for their continuous support. Seeing our youth smile, play, and push themselves beyond their limits, despite the circumstances, is the greatest triumph for Haitian sports,” concluded Mr. François.

Manatí to Host the 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four: High-Level Volleyball at the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum

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MANATÍ, Puerto Rico, June 3, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation (FPV), led by President Dr. César Trabanco, has officially announced that the city of Manatí will host the prestigious 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four tournament, scheduled to take place from July 18 to 20 at the Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu Coliseum.

The event will bring together the national teams of Puerto Rico, Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica in an exciting round-robin format that promises high-level matchups. Additionally, this will be the first tournament to award ranking points toward qualification for the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), adding extra incentive to the competition and increasing its relevance on the international stage.

Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz, Manati

Dr. César Trabanco, President of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, expressed deep gratitude to the Mayor of Manatí, the Honorable José A. Sánchez, for his support to Puerto Rican volleyball and his commitment to the development of sports in the region.

“We greatly value the support of Mayor Sánchez and his team, who have opened the doors of the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum to host a top-tier event. Their backing is a clear demonstration of Manatí’s commitment to the growth of volleyball and the strengthening of our national teams,” said Trabanco.

He also emphasized the importance of the 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Four for the Puerto Rican national team and the sport on the island:

“This tournament is a great opportunity for our players to showcase their talent and continue raising the level of volleyball in Puerto Rico. Facing strong opponents like Cuba, Mexico, and Costa Rica will allow us to compete at the highest level and demonstrate our team’s progress on the international stage. We look forward to an exciting event, with thrilling matches and passionate fans supporting our team as it aims to defend its title.”

As the reigning champion, Puerto Rico will look to maintain its dominance in the tournament and take full advantage of the home court to deliver an unforgettable experience for its fans.

Competition Schedule:

 Friday July 18

 6:00 pm    Cuba vs Mexico

 8:00 pm    Puerto Rico vs Costa Rica

Saturday July 19

 6:00 pm    Mexico vs Costa Rica

 8:00 pm    Puerto Rico vs Cuba

Sunday July 20

 5:00 pm    Cuba vs Costa Rica

 7:00 pm    Puerto Rico vs México

FIVB and FFVolley unite in Antibes to shape future of French volleyball

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June 2, 2025.- The French Volleyball Federation (FFVolley) hosted its General Assembly this week in Nice led by FFvolley President Eric Tanguy.

Joining the meeting was the FIVB delegation, led by the FIVB President Fabio Azevedo as well as the CEV President and FIVB 2nd Vice-President Roko Sikirić. This was part of an ongoing collaboration with national and continental leaders to advance the sport’s development in France and internationally while encouraging discussions within the Global Volleyball Movement.

During the meeting, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo presented key elements of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 – an ambitious yet realistic roadmap designed to elevate volleyball’s global impact over the next eight years. The strategy, guided by the motto “Together as One”, outlines the FIVB’s key strategic priorities, which include increased investment in grassroots development, digital innovation, enhanced athlete support and further cooperation with partners and stakeholders around the world.

The meeting highlighted the highly successful Olympic Games Paris 2024, held last summer, where both indoor and beach volleyball captivated global audiences. The French men’s volleyball team successfully defended their Olympic title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, while beach volleyball was showcased in the iconic Eiffel Tower Stadium widely celebrated as “the greatest stadium on earth”.

“Paris was a fantastic celebration of our sport and showed us what volleyball is capable of – both in terms of sporting excellence and its power to bring people together,” said Azevedo. “At its core, volleyball embodies key values: collaboration, integration, peace and solidarity, and we saw so much of that in Paris. It’s brilliant to see that this spirit has been sustained, and that FFvolley are continually implementing new initiatives to grow our sport.”

The General Assembly addressed a comprehensive agenda of governance topics, including financial and technical reporting, regulatory updates and activity reports from the National Technical Directorate and Supervisory Board. FFVolley President presented his annual report that was fully endorsed by the Assembly.

The FIVB’s visit reaffirmed its close working relationship with FFVolley, the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), and other key stakeholders who were also present at the assembly.

“As we look to the future, unity and collaboration at every level of the game are vital as we continue building our sport around four central pillars: professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation,” Azevedo concluded. “We move forward together, ‘Together as One’, guided by a shared vision and a collective commitment to growing our sport.”

Puerto Rico Unveils Senior Women’s Volleyball Pre-National Team

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SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 31, 2025. – In an event held at Cayo Caribe, The Outlets at Montehiedra, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Volleyball Pre-Selection was officially presented under the leadership of Head Coach Juan C. Núñez and his staff, including assistant coach José Mieles.

A group of athletes, made up of a mix of young talent and experienced veterans from the national program, is preparing for training sessions ahead of this summer’s international commitments.

“I’m excited and happy to be in charge of this talented group of players. It’s an excellent blend of youth and experience, with athletes returning to the program and others who will have their first opportunity to compete at this level,” said Núñez.

The preliminary group consists of approximately 19 to 22 players. As training progresses, the coaching staff will face the difficult task of making cuts to determine the final roster that will represent Puerto Rico in the upcoming summer qualification tournament.

The libero position, in particular, has multiple strong candidates, which will intensify internal competition. “For official tournaments, we must have a 14-player roster, which means eventually five or six players will be cut,” Núñez explained.

Training will begin this coming Monday at the University of Puerto Rico, with sessions open to the press. “We want everyone to be able to see the team’s preparation process. We’ll be training at 5:30 p.m. initially on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Then, we’ll add a fourth day and adjust the schedule as the weeks progress,” the coach stated.

With this preparation phase underway, the Puerto Rico Senior Women’s National Team aims to solidify its roster and strengthen its play in anticipation of the important challenges it will face in the coming months.

Senior Women’s National Team Summer Events:

–          NORCECA Women’s Final Four – Host: Puerto Rico, July 16–21

–          XII Pan American Cup Women – Host: Mexico, August 1–11

–          FIVB Women’s World Championship – Host: Bangkok, Thailand, August 22–September 7

–          NORCECA Women’s Final Six – Host: Mexico, September 22–29

Senior Women’s National Pre-Selection Roster:

Setters

Wilmarie Rivera

Jennifer Nogueras

Outside Hitters

Alondra Vázquez

Paola Santiago

Karla Santos

Valeria Vázquez

Paulina Pérez

Opposites

Decelise Champion

Dariana Hollingsworth

Sofía M. Victoriá

Middle Blockers

Neira Ortiz

Diana Reyes

Alba Hernández

Adriana Rodríguez

Liberos

Shara Venegas

Valeria León

Paula Cerame

Okiana Valle

Yelemid Correa

Technical Staff

Juan Carlos Núñez – Head Coach

José Mieles – Assistant Coach

Sheila Alicea – Statistician

Roberto Rivera – Strength & Conditioning Coach

José Rafael Servera – General Manager

Dr. María Magraner – Sports Psychologist

Michael Rivera – Equipment Manager

Puerto Rico Presents 2025 Men’s Senior National Volleyball Preliminary Roster

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NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, May 30, 2025.- The Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation held the official presentation of the 2025 Men’s Senior National Volleyball Preliminary Roster, which will train to represent Puerto Rico in upcoming NORCECA and FIVB tournaments.

Head coach of the senior national team, Jamille Torres, inspired the players with a motivational message:

“I want to be a facilitator and help you achieve everything you set out to do because just like you have goals, I have mine too. I’d like to win the Olympics, but we must go step by step. Let’s think big, beyond the Central American Games. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I want you to make the most of it. I was once in your shoes, and one day you could be in mine. I’ll always be available to help you with anything you need.”

Meanwhile, the president of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, Dr. César Trabanco, emphasized the importance of the competitive path ahead for the team:

“Puerto Rico has the talent to position itself among volleyball’s elite. The Volleyball Nations League and the World Championship are key opportunities for international exposure and growth. Every tournament adds vital ranking points and helps with Olympic qualification. With effort, discipline, and commitment, we can compete with and beat top teams. This team has everything needed to make its mark.”

The men’s senior team will face a demanding schedule, with high-level tournaments paving the way toward the international elite:

– NORCECA Men Final Four – México, July 23-28

– XVIII Pan-American Cup – México, August 24 -September 1

– NORCECA Final Six – Puerto Rico, October 4 -13

The coaching staff and players are committed to preparation and teamwork, with a shared goal of proudly and excellently representing Puerto Rico in these events.

Men’s Preliminary Roster by Position

Outside Hitters:
Omar Hoyos
Pedro Molina
Pele Vargas Jr.
Kevin López
Diego Rosich
Axel Meléndez
Lorenzo Rivera
Antonio Feliciano

Opposites:
Klistan Lawrence
Jamal Ellis
Gregory Torres
Sebastián Negrón

Middle Blockers:
Jonathan Rodríguez
Antonio Elías
Ismael Alomar
Janluar Figueroa
Ramón Rosado
Iván Fernández
Eliel Salva

Setters:
Kevin Rodríguez
Howard García
Daniel Henwood
Diego Estrada

Liberos:
Arnel Cabrera
Dennis Del Valle
Luis Bertrán
Noah Meléndez

Coaching Staff:

Jamille Torres – Head Coach
Ramon Lawrence – Assistant Coach
Felix Román – Statistician

VNL 2025: Canada men bring journey full circle

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May 28 2025.- A Canadian at the helm, a home opener and their rise mark a defining chapter for the men’s team at the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.

The 2025 Volleyball Nations League arrives at a defining moment for the Canadian men’s national team. With three Olympic appearances in the past decade and a breakthrough VNL Final Round finish in 2024, the team has turned sustained development into results. Now, with a Canadian coach on the bench and the season opening on home soil, the journey not only comes full circle — it finally hits home.

Dan Lewis, a former national team player and long-time assistant, was appointed head coach in January. His promotion reflects the federation’s focus on continuity and leadership from within. After competing for Canada as a player at the highest level and contributing from the sidelines in recent years, Lewis now leads a group he knows well into the next stage of its evolution.

The coaching shift builds on a foundation strengthened by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2020, Canada have received CHF 1.55 million in support across both volleyball and beach volleyball, through application-based and targeted projects. That backing has supported long-term coaching and technical development for the national team programmes, contributing to the progress of the men’s squad at the highest level.

The 2025 squad features players from last year’s campaigns at the Paris Olympics and the Volleyball Nations League, alongside younger talent rising through the national pathway. Under Lewis, the team will continue to rely on its physical presence, structured systems and strong team identity that shaped their breakthrough performance in 2024.

Canada’s 2025 squad is led by some of their most prominent returnees from their Paris 2024 roster, including Luke Herr, Fynn McCarthy and Nick Hoag. Their contribution and experience at the international level remain central to Canada’s goals this season.

Canada host Week 1 of the VNL from 11 to 15 June at Centre Vidéotron in Quebec, where they face Germany, Argentina, France and Bulgaria. In Week 2, Canada travel to Chicago for matchups against Brazil, United States, Poland and China from 25 to 29 June. The final week of the preliminaries takes place in Ljubljana from 16 to 20 July, where they meet hosts Slovenia, Netherlands, Serbia and Ukraine.

Canada have appeared in every edition of the VNL since its launch in 2018. After years of consistent presence, their qualification to the Final Round in 2024 confirmed their arrival among men’s volleyball’s top-tier contenders. That upward trend now continues with a renewed leadership structure and home-court spotlight.

The 2025 season will also serve as a key step in preparation for the FIVB Men’s World Championship later this year.

Stars in the making to shine at July’s Girls U19 World Champs

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May 27, 2025.- The extended rosters of the 24 teams that will participate in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship have now been released and the eager volleyball fans can already find out which rising stars of world volleyball are getting ready to hit the courts in Osijek, Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia from July 2 to 13.

FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship: team rosters (subject to eligibility check to be conducted by the FIVB)

While at this young age, the volleyball stars of the future are still building up their fame, there are still plenty of names on the rosters that would ring a volleyball fan’s bell.

Defending U19 world champions United States, for example, will be captained by Genevieve Harris (pictured in the main photo), the Best Setter of last year’s NORCECA U19 Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship.

China’s squad is highlighted by Yang Shuming , who was selected Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Opposite of the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship as well as MVP of the 2024 AVC U18 Women’s Volleyball Asian Championship, Chen Xiaohui, who was one of the U17 Dream Team middle blockers, and another three of the players, who snatched the inaugural U17 world title last year – Guo Zhongnan, Huang Yuexin and Wang Yibo. The two continental U18 Dream Teamers – outside Zhai Yurui and middle Wang Aoqian – are also on China’s roster.

Reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria have 13 of the 14 players who conquered the continental title last year on the roster for the upcoming U19 World Championship, headlined by EuroVolley U18 MVP and Best Setter Dimana Ivanova and other Dream Teamers like outside Kalina Veneva and middle Darina Naneva.

The MVP of the 2024 CSV U19 Girls’ Volleyball South American Championship, Mikaela Hestmann, is one of the outside hitters on the list of Brazilian players for Croatia-Serbia 2025, accompanied by setter and captain Luana Vazquez and middle Lara Rodrigues, also among the individual awardees at last year’s continental event.

A number of other continental Dream Teamers are featured on the rosters of Argentina (Paula Tomasa and Julia Allub), Belgium (Liese Verhelst and Jasmine Debout), Chile (Martina Allende), Chinese Taipei (Chen Pin-Yu), Dominican Republic (Julie Arias and Caroline Rodriguez), Italy (Ludovica Tosini and Veronica Quero), Japan (Tanyama Tsubaki and Chugangi Rion), Mexico (Caroline Rodriguez), Peru (Fatima Villafuerte) and Thailand (Sasitorn Jatta).

The German team will be captained by outside hitter Leana Grozer and it is no accident that that last name also rings a loud bell. Her legendary father Gyorgy Grozer is still an active and successful volleyballer at the age of 40. For sure, there are a few other “famous” daughters who will defend the honors of their family names, like Simona Ivanova, the daughter of Bulgarian legend Evgeni Ivanov, or Arianna Bovolenta, the daughter of Italian legend Vigor Bovolenta, to name a couple…

FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship match schedule announced

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May 27, 2025.- Defending 2023 U19 world champions and reigning 2024 U18 European champions France will play in one of the three opening games of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship set to take place from July 24 to August 3 in Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent.

The full match schedule for the pool stage of the competition has now been released, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation about how the on-court battles, involving the rising stars of world volleyball, will unfold on the way to crowning the new U19 boys’ world champions.

FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship: match schedule

France will take on Canada in a Pool B game at 11:00 local time (06:00 UTC) on one of the three competition courts in Tashkent. At the same time, on the other two courts, Belgium will meet Pakistan in a Pool A fixture and Iran will face Spain in Pool C.

In a remake of the 2024 Boys’ U18 African Nations Volleyball Championship, Egypt and Tunisia will open their Pool C campaigns at 14:00 (09:00). Meanwhile, U19 South American champions Argentina will take on Puerto Rico in Pool A.

An all-European clash between Italy and Poland, silver and bronze medalists of the 2024 CEV U18 Men’s Volleyball European Championship, in Pool C, and an all-Asian duel between Japan and last year’s U18 continental champions China in Pool B will highlight the third set of three matches, serving off at 17:00 (12:00) on the first competition day. Tournament hosts Uzbekistan will also start off their campaign at that time with a Pool A fixture against Türkiye.

The entire first leg of Pool D matches will get underway at the same time, 20:00 (15:00), with 2024 U19 NORCECA champions USA entering the competition with a game against Finland.

These four time slots will apply to all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 24 through July 29, with a rest day on July 27.

The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on August 3. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.

Americans Donley/Sherman Claim Gold at NORCECA U23 Tour in Juan Dolio

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 25, 2025 – The American duo of Emma Donley and Portia Sherman were crowned champions of the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour after a commanding 2-0 (21-14, 21-12) victory over Canada’s Sophie Hancock and Emma Cudmore in the final, held at the sand courts of beautiful Juan Dolio beach.

Donley/Sherman advanced to the gold medal match by defeating Nicaragua’s Nahima Silva and Norma Brenes with a dominant 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) win in the semifinals. Meanwhile, Hancock/Cudmore reached the final by taking down the Dominican team of Crismil Paniagua and Yari Cleto, also in straight sets (21-17, 21-16).

The podium was completed by Dominicans Paniagua and Cleto, who claimed the bronze medal after beating Silva/Brenes with scores of 21-15 and 21-18.

In the battle for fifth place, Guatemala’s Danna Aguilar and Naomi Monney edged Honduras’ Shanna Rivera and Reizel Bruhier in a three-set thriller (21-19, 21-13, 16-14).

Seventh place went to Costa Rica’s Aliza Aguilar and Sofía Vega, who secured a 2-0 (21-9, 21-19) win over Joanna Robinson and Luna Ebanks from the Cayman Islands.

El Salvador’s Ashley Rauda and Keiry Guzmán took ninth place by defeating the Virgin Islands’ Kirra Lambert and Sophia Peifer, 2-0 (21-13, 21-18).

Dominicans Zoe Paniagua and Steyce Turbi finished in eleventh place after a 2-0 (21-14, 21-13) win over Trinidad and Tobago’s Kristiana Richards and Adalia Badroe. Meanwhile, Canada’s Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben placed thirteenth.

Araya/Varela from Costa Rica Crowned Champions of the First Stage of the NORCECA U23 Tour

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 25, 2025.– Julián Araya and Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica were crowned champions of the first stage of the NORCECA U23 Tour, held on the spectacular beach of Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic. They clinched the title in a thrilling three-set match 2-1 (19-21, 21-18, 15-12) against Americans Gage Basey and Thomas Hurst.

Araya and Varela reached the gold medal match after defeating Nicaragua’s Josué Meneses and Jesy Umaña in the semifinals in straight sets (21-15, 21-18). On the other side, Hasey and Hurst advanced to the final after beating Dominican duo Ramón De Jesús and Rolvin Maldonado 2-0 (21-12, 21-16).

Third place went to Meneses and Umaña, who claimed the bronze medal by defeating De Jesús and Maldonado 2-0 (21-19, 21-14).

Fifth place was secured by Canadians Connor Dorsey and Aiden Hilkowitz, who beat El Salvador’s Gabriel Vargas and Carlos Mejía 2-0 (21-8, 27-25).

In the battle for seventh place, fellow Canadians Aidan Labossiere and Mason Doering earned a solid 2-0 victory (21-18, 21-12) over Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee of the Cayman Islands. Ninth place went to Hondurans Jairo Gálvez and Isaac Méndez, who came from behind to defeat Barbados’ Julián Bristol and Jedediah Pencheon in three sets, 2-1 (13-21, 21-19, 17-15).

Daniel Delgado and José Guevara of Guatemala finished in eleventh place after a straight-set win over Trinidad and Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel, 2-0 (21-16, 21-16).

Thirteenth place was claimed by Suriname’s Jamal Atman and Guy Lieveld, who defeated Kymani Greenidge and Cole Sommer of the Virgin Islands 2-0 (21-16, 21-19). Finally, Jared Brown and Kanif Wathey of the U.S. Virgin Islands finished in fifteenth place.

Dominican Republic, Canada, USA, and Nicaragua in Women’s Semifinals at NORCECA U23 Tour

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 24, 2025.-  The Dominican duo of Crismil Paniagua and Yari Cleto, Canada’s Sophie Hancock and Emma Cudmore, USA’s Emma Donley and Portia Sherman, and Nicaragua’s Nahima Silva and Norma Brenes have all advanced to the women’s semifinals of the 2025 NORCECA U23  Beach Volleyball Tour, taking place on the beautiful shores of Juan Dolio.

The host team, Paniagua and Cleto, will face Hancock and Cudmore from Canada in the first semifinal. In the other matchup, Donley and Sherman of the United States will go head-to-head with Nicaragua’s Silva and Brenes.

Portia Sherman of United States

In the quarterfinals, Paniagua and Cleto cruised past Guatemala’s Danna Aguilar and Naomi Monney in straight sets, 21-8, 21-14. Hancock and Cudmore followed with a dominant 2-0 win (21-12, 21-10) over Aliza Aguilar and Sofía Vega of Costa Rica. Donley and Sherman overpowered Honduras’ Shanna Rivera and Reizel Bruhier 21-15, 21-9, while Silva and Brenes took a convincing 2-0 (21-8, 21-10) victory over Joanna Robinson and Luna Banks of the Cayman Islands.

Earlier in the competition, all four semifinalist teams topped their respective groups in pool play.

In the classification matches for 9th to 12th place, El Salvador’s Ashley Rauda and Keiry Guzmán defeated Kristiana Richards and Adalia Badroe of Trinidad & Tobago 2-0 (21-10, 21-13), while the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Kirra Lambert and Sophia Peifer beat Dominicans Zoe Paniagua and Steyce Turbi 2-0 (21-16, 21-13).

For 13th to 16th place classification, Canada’s Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben advanced by a bye.

Semifinals and placement matches will take place on Sunday morning, with the bronze and gold medal matches scheduled for the afternoon.

Other results:

Hancock/Cudmore (CAN) d Richards/Badroe (TTO) 2-0 (21-16, 21-3); Silva/Brenes (NCA) d Aguilar/Vega (CRC) 2-0 (21-18, 21-5); Donley/Sherman (USA) d Aguilar/Monney 2-0 821-14, 21-12); Paniagua/Cleto (DOM) d Rauda/Guzmán (ESA) 2-0 (21-7, 21-9); Rivera/Bruhier (HON) d Neagle/Houben (CAN) 2-0 (21-13, 21-6).

Dominican Republic, USA, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua Secure Spots in Men’s Semifinals at NORCECA U23 Tour in Juan Dolio

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 24, 2025.- The men’s teams of Ramón De Jesús/Rolvin Maldonado of Dominican Republic, USA’s Gage Basey/Thomas Hurst, Julián Araya/Jhostin Varela of Costa Rica and Josué Meneses/Jesy Umaña of Nicaragua secured their spots in the semifinals of the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour, currently taking place on the sand courts set up along the beach in Juan Dolio.

In Sunday’s semifinals, De Jesús and Maldonado (DOM) will face Basey and Hurst (USA), while Meneses and Umaña (NCA) will meet Araya and Varela (CRC).

Thomas Hurst of United States

In the quarterfinals, the Dominican duo De Jesús/Maldonado won a thrilling match against Canada’s Aidan Labossiere and Mason Doering in three sets, 2-1 (21-18, 18-21, 15-12). Meanwhile, Americans Basey and Hurst claimed a convincing 2-0 victory (21-12, 21-14) over Canadians Connor Dorsey and Aiden Hilkowitz. Costa Rica’s Araya and Varela were dominant over  Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee of the Cayman Islands 2-0 (21-8, 21-10), while Nicaragua’s Meneses and Umaña earned a solid 2-0 win (21-17, 21-14) over El Salvador’s Gabriel Vargas and Carlos Mejía.

Just like in the women’s competition, the four men’s semifinalist duos also topped their respective pools in the preliminary round.

In classification matches for 9th to 12th place, Honduras’ Jairo Gálvez and Isaac Méndez defeated Daniel Delgado and José Guevara of Guatemala 2-0 (21-11, 21-12).

In the battle for 13th to 16th place, Suriname’s Jamal Atman and Guy Lieveld advanced via bye, while Kymani Greenidge and Cole Sommer of the U.S. Virgin Islands defeated compatriots Jared Brown and Kanif Wathey 2-0 (21-15, 21-12).

The semifinals and placement matches will be played Sunday morning, followed by the bronze and gold medal matches in the afternoon.

Other results:

De Jesús/Maldonado (DOM) d Delgado/Guevara (GUA) 2-0 (21-10, 21-11); Araya/Varela (CRC) d Julián Bristol/Jedediah Pencheon (SKN) 2-0 )21-11, 21-8); Labossiere/Doering (CAN) d Brown/Wathey (ISV) 2-0 (21-5, 21-7); Meneses/Umaña (NCA) d Dorsey/Hilkowitz (CAN) 2-1 (11-21, 21-13, 15-11); Jerome Morrison/Jahreef Miguel (TTO) d Greenidge/Sommer (ISV) 2-0 (21-16, 21-6); Basey Hurst (USA) d Vargas/Mejía (ESA) 2-0 (21-19, 22-20); Gálvez/Méndez (HON) d Atman/Lieveld (SUR) 2-0 (21-8, 21-5).

VNL 2025: Canada embark on new mission with Empowerment and experience

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May 23, 2025.- Empowered on the court and guided by veteran coach Giovanni Guidetti, Canada target a breakthrough season. Canada’s women’s volleyball team will open their 2025 Volleyball Nations League campaign on home soil in Ottawa, but the journey that brought them here was shaped long before the opening whistle.

After years of building stability and gaining ground internationally, Canada’s women enter VNL 2025 with experienced players, a new head coach, and a sharper sense of what it takes to close the gap on the world’s top teams.

A key driver of Canada’s rise has been sustained support through FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. Since 2020, Canada has received CHF 1.55 million in support for its programmes. That support helped in hiring a top-tier coach, the expansion of performance and medical staff, and the creation of a professional structure to strengthen athlete development and national team operations.

Brie King & Kiera Van Ryk

Canada entered the VNL in 2021 and have qualified every year since. In 2023 and 2024, they posted their best results to date, finishing 10th overall and narrowly missing out on the Final Round. Later in 2023, they came close to securing an Olympic berth, finishing third in the qualification tournament in Ningbo – their strongest bid since Atlanta 1996. These performances reflected years of growth that helped establish their rise in women’s volleyball.

The foundation for that run was laid by Shannon Winzer, who coached the team from 2020 through the Olympic qualification cycle. She now serves as Volleyball Canada’s High Performance Director, helping guide the national programme’s long-term development.

Taking her place on the bench is Giovanni Guidetti, one of the most accomplished coaches in the sport, with four Olympic campaigns on his résumé. Appointed in January, the Italian brings a track record of elevating national teams and leading top clubs to international titles. His arrival marks the start of a new mission for Canada – adding a new layer of technical leadership and competitive insight to a team that has grown steadily in recent seasons.

Canada’s core also returns. Kiera Van Ryk leads the offence with power and consistency on the right side. Brie King continues to set the rhythm with confidence and control. Their experience, combined with Guidetti’s leadership, gives Canada a solid base in a season where margins will be tight.

Canada will play their opening four matches in Ottawa from 4 to 8 June, facing Bulgaria, Netherlands, Japan and Serbia. From 18 to 22 June, they move to Istanbul to meet Korea, Türkiye, Brazil and Belgium. The final week of pool play takes place in Arlington, Texas, with matches against Germany, China, United States and Thailand from 9 to 13 July. The Final Round will be in Lodz, Poland, from 23 to 27 July.

The team will also compete at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, set to be held in Thailand later this year.

VNL 2025 comes at a time when Canada’s foundations are in place. Empowerment support has shaped the programme, experience anchors the core, and Guidetti brings a new perspective to the bench. The mission now is to keep moving forward.

Six Women’s Teams Undefeated on Opening Day of U23 Tour

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 23, 2025.- Six women’s pairs finished undefeated on the opening day of the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour, which kicked off Friday at the beautiful Juan Dolio Beach in the Dominican Republic.

In Pool A, the Canadian duo of Sophie Hancock and Emma Cudmore earned a win over Joanna Robinson and Luna Ebanks of Cayman Islands 2-0 (21-10, 21-11), while their second match was a bye.

Costa Rica’s Aliza Aguilar and Sofia Vega, along with Nicaragua’s Nahima Silva and Norma Brenes, ended the day undefeated in Pool B. Both teams defeated Kirra Lambert and Sofia Peifer from the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Aguilar and Vega dominated Lambert/Peifer 2-0 (21-10, 21-5), while Silva and Brenes also secured a straight-sets victory (21-11, 21-12).

In Pool C, the U.S. pair of Emma Donley and Portia Sherman defeated Dominican duo Zoe Paniagua and Steyce Turbi 2-0 (21-6, 21-8). Guatemala’s Danna Aguilar and Naomi Monney also triumphed over Paniagua/Turbi, winning 2-0 (21-5, 21-4).

Dominicans Crismil Paniagua and Yari Cleto, in Pool D, beat Honduras’ Shanna Rivera and Reizel Bruhier 2-0 (21-14, 25-23). Canada’s Claire Neagle and Nolyn Houben also defeated the Honduran team 2-0 (21-17, 21-9).

Other results:

Joanna Robinson/Luna Ebanks (CAY) d TTO Kristiana Richards/Adalia Badroe 2-1 (21-9, 22-24, 15-8), Ashley Rauda/Keiry Guzmán (ESA) d Claier Neagle/Nolyn Houben 2-0 (21-14, 21-9), and Shanna Rivera/Reizel Bruhier (HON) d Rauda/Guzmán (ESA) 2-1 (21-6, 19-21, 15-10).

Men’s Competition Kicks Off Fiercely at U23 Tour in Juan Dolio

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 23, 2025.- The teams from Costa Rica, Canada, Nicaragua, the United States, and El Salvador had a strong start at the NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour in Juan Dolio, each closing the opening day of the men’s competition with two wins in as many matches.

In Pool B, Costa Rica’s duo of Julián Araya and Jhostin Varela delivered commanding performances in their two outings. They first defeated Canada’s Aidan Labossiere and Mason Doering 2-0 (21-10, 21-13), then followed up with a convincing 2-0 victory (21-5, 21-9) over Jared Brown and Kanif Wathey of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In Pool C, Canadians Connor Dorsey and Aiden Hilkowitz claimed two straight-set victories; 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) against Kymani Greenidge and Cole Sommer of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 2-0 (21-18, 21-14) over Trinidad and Tobago’s Jerome Morrison and Jahreef Miguel.

Nicaragua’s team, Josué Meneses and Jesy Umaña, also enjoyed a strong start in the same pool. They defeated Morrison/Miguel (TTO) 2-0 (21-12, 21-11) and then Greenidge/Sommer (ISV) 2-0 (21-10, 21-6).

In Pool D, Gage Basey and Thomas Hurst of the United States dominated their two matches, first against Honduras’ Jairo Gálvez and Isaac Méndez (2-0, 21-10, 21-7), and then against Suriname’s Atman and Guy Lieveld (2-0, 21-8, 21-12).

Likewise, El Salvador’s Gabriel Vargas and Carlos Mejía had a successful debut, defeating Gálvez/Méndez (HON) 2-0 (21-13, 21-13) and then overcoming Suriname’s Atman/Lieveld 2-0 (21-18, 21-8).

In Pool A, the Dominican duo of Ramón De Jesús and Rolvin Maldonado secured a victory over Cayman Islands’ Stephen Watson and Dylan Lynee with a score of 2-0 (21-10, 21-17).

Other results:

Stephen Watson/Dylan Lynee (CAY) d Daniel Delgado/José Guevara (GUA) 2-1 (18-21, 21-13, 15-9), Julián Bristo/Jedediah Pencheon (SKN) d Jared Brown/Kanif Wathey (ISV) 2-0 (21-10, 21-11), Aidan Labossiere/Mason Doering (CAN) d Bristol/Pencheon (SKN) 2-0 (22-20, 21-16).

28 Teams to Battle at NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour Opener

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 22, 2025.- The opening event of the 2025 NORCECA U23 Beach Volleyball Tour will feature 28 teams from 13 countries. The competition will take place from May 23 to 25 on the beautiful sand courts of Juan Dolio Beach, Dominican Republic.

The NORCECA U23 Tour is a great opportunity to watch the beach volleyball rising stars in action and enjoy a tournament full of talent and energy. It also serves as preparation for the 2025 Junior Pan American Games in Asunción.

Fifteen men’s teams and thirteen women’s teams registered during Thursday’s preliminary inspections, all aiming to advance from the group stage, which begins this Friday at 8:00 a.m. local time.

Team of United States

A total of 24 matches are scheduled for Friday, 14 in the men’s division and 10 in the women’s. The preliminary round will conclude Saturday morning, followed by the quarterfinals and the losers’ bracket in the afternoon. Semifinals and medal matches will be played on Sunday, along with classification matches.

Men’s Teams: DOM Ramón De Jesús/Rolvin Maldonad; CRC Julián Araya/Jhostin Varela; USA Gage Basey/Thomas Hurst; NCA Josue Meneses/Jesy Umaña; SKN Julián Bristol/Jedediah Pencheon; CAY Stephen Watson/Dylan Lynee; ISV Jared Brown/Kanif Wathey, Kymani Greenidge/Cole Sommer; TTO Jerome Morrison/Jahreef Miguel; HON Jairo Galvez/Isaac Villalobos; SUR Joshua Dwarkasing/Dean Kasdi; ESA Gabriel Vargas/Carlos Mejía; GUA Daniel Delgado/José Guevara; CAN Connor Dorsey/Aiden Holkowitz, Aidan Labossiere/Mason Doering.

Women’s Teams: CRC Aliza Aguilar/Sofía Vega; USA Emma Donley/Portia Sherman; DOM Crismil Paniagua/Yari Cleto, Zoe Paniagua/Steyce Turbi ; ESA Ashley Rauda/Keiry Guzmán; NCA Nahima Silva/Norma Brenes; TTO Kristianna Richards/Adalia Badroe; CAY Joanna Robinson/Luna Ebanks; ISV Kirra Lambert/Sophia Peifer; HON Shanna Rivera/Reizel Bruhier; GUA Danna Aguilar/Naomi Monney; CAN Sophie Hancock/Emma-Joy Cudmore, Claire Neagle/Nolyn Houben.

Development Center in the Dominican Republic Announces New International Coaching Courses

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 22, 2025.- The NORCECA-FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center in the Dominican Republic (CRDV), in coordination with the NORCECA Confederation and the FIVB, has opened registration for two important international coaching courses “in Spanish”, scheduled to take place in July and September 2025.

The first course, the International Beach Volleyball Coaches Course Level 1, will be held from July 21 to 25, 2025. It is designed for coaches seeking to specialize in the beach volleyball discipline, following the technical standards of the FIVB.

Next, the International Volleyball Coaches Course Level 2 will be conducted from September 17 to 21, 2025. This course focuses on indoor volleyball and is aimed at coaches with prior experience who wish to deepen their knowledge and advance their professional development.

Both courses will be led by FIVB-certified instructors and will take place at the CRDV facilities in Santo Domingo.

Interested participants can obtain more information and register via email at centrofivb_rdom@yahoo.es or through WhatsApp at +1 (809) 563-5642.

These programs are part of CRDV, NORCECA, and FIVB’s ongoing commitment to strengthening technical training in the region and raising the overall level of volleyball.

Pablo Guzmán, 2024 Finals MVP, Joins the Patriotas de Lares

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SAN SEBASTIÁN, Puerto Rico, July 21, 2025.- The transfer of Pablo Guzmán to the Patriotas de Lares marks a new chapter in the journey of the two-time champions, Caribes de San Sebastián, in the Puerto Rican Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM).

The transfer was confirmed by David Chaparro Pérez, Co-Owner and General Manager of the Caribes, who emphasized the franchise’s commitment to the well-being of its players. “Our organization has stood out as one that provides opportunities to players. If we don’t reach an agreement for a season, we want every athlete to have the freedom to choose where to continue their path,” he explained.

The veteran player, MVP of the most recent finals series, was transferred to the Patriotas de Lares in exchange for financial compensation.

Pablo Guzman

Chaparro Pérez also underscored that the Caribes’ philosophy is clear: to respect players’ wishes and contribute to the development of the League. “We always aim for the best development of the League. We’re not here to hold back any player, but to strengthen the competitiveness and spectacle of Puerto Rican volleyball,” he stated.

“Pablo,” Chaparro continued, “expressed interest in relocating to a team of his preference. After discussing his options and respecting his decision, the transfer was granted. It’s important to highlight that this move was made directly at his request. As in any environment, agreements aren’t always reached on every point, but that’s part of the natural dynamic even within the best of families, though it was hard to say goodbye.”

The transfer has sparked varied reactions among fans, ranging from nostalgia over the veteran’s departure to excitement about the arrival of new talent. Chaparro Pérez confirmed that the move is part of a long-term strategic plan. “This change is part of a three-year restructuring process, during which we’ll incorporate new blood and gradually adjust the roster to maintain the team’s high level.”

Thus, Guzmán’s departure is part of a forward-looking vision aimed at ensuring the Caribes continue setting the standard in top-level volleyball, with the goal of strengthening the League and delivering the best possible show to the fans.

The regular season is set to begin on June 6, with the Gigantes de Adjuntas visiting the Caribes de San Sebastián, and the Changos de Naranjito facing the Gigantes de Carolina.

The 2025 LVSM will feature eight competing teams: Caribes de San Sebastián (two-time champions), Mets de Guaynabo, Plataneros de Corozal, Patriotas de Lares, Changos de Naranjito, Gigantes de Carolina, Gigantes de Adjuntas, and Cafeteros de Yauco.

VNL 2025: Dominican Republic aim for next-level finish

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May 21, 2025.- With veteran leadership and continued Empowerment support, the Dominican Republic squad aim to turn years of top-level consistency into their first Final Round appearance in the Volleyball Nations League.

Dominican Republic have long been one of the most consistent forces in women’s volleyball, and since the launch of the VNL, they’ve remained a steady presence among the world’s top contenders. In 2025, they return with a veteran lineup, strong leadership and one goal still just out of reach.

Head coach Marcos Kwiek

The build-up of their high-performance system has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, with over CHF 940,000 in support since 2021. This has strengthened the foundation of the national team, providing long-term coaching stability, technical development, and the ability to remain internationally competitive across multiple Olympic cycles.

Head coach Marcos Kwiek remains at the helm in 2025, leading a squad that has dominated their continent in recent years. Dominican Republic won the NORCECA Final Six in both 2022 and 2024, claimed gold at the 2023 Pan American Games, and were crowned continental champions again in 2023. These results have underlined their dominance in continental play and reinforced their readiness to compete for bigger feats on the international stage.

Dominican Republic have been part of every VNL edition since the tournament began, but a Final Round appearance has remained out of reach. Their performances have kept them competitive across multiple seasons, yet that next-level finish continues to be the goal.

Brayelin Martínez

That pursuit continues in 2025 with a group of established stars still leading the charge. Libero Brenda Castillo, widely regarded as one of the most decorated defensive players in international volleyball, anchors the squad alongside standouts Jineiry and Brayelin Martínez. All three bring extensive VNL and major tournament experience, forming a foundation that has carried the team through multiple cycles.

Dominican Republic will start VNL 2025 Week 1 in Ottawa, facing Serbia, Bulgaria, Netherlands and Japan from 4 to 8 June. In Week 2, they move to Istanbul to meet hosts Türkiye, Belgium, Brazil and Korea and from 18 to 22 June. The Preliminary Round wraps up in Week 3 in Arlington, where they will take on China, United States, Thailand and Germany from 9 to 13 July.

The team will also use the VNL to further integrate younger players emerging from its development system – a long-term priority supported by Empowerment funding. While the veterans remain central to the squad’s identity, the next wave of talent is expected to gain experience during the 2025 season.

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