May 28 2025.- A Canadian at the helm, a home opener and their rise mark a defining chapter for the men’s team at the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.
The 2025 Volleyball Nations League arrives at a defining moment for the Canadian men’s national team. With three Olympic appearances in the past decade and a breakthrough VNL Final Round finish in 2024, the team has turned sustained development into results. Now, with a Canadian coach on the bench and the season opening on home soil, the journey not only comes full circle — it finally hits home.
Dan Lewis, a former national team player and long-time assistant, was appointed head coach in January. His promotion reflects the federation’s focus on continuity and leadership from within. After competing for Canada as a player at the highest level and contributing from the sidelines in recent years, Lewis now leads a group he knows well into the next stage of its evolution.
The coaching shift builds on a foundation strengthened by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2020, Canada have received CHF 1.55 million in support across both volleyball and beach volleyball, through application-based and targeted projects. That backing has supported long-term coaching and technical development for the national team programmes, contributing to the progress of the men’s squad at the highest level.
The 2025 squad features players from last year’s campaigns at the Paris Olympics and the Volleyball Nations League, alongside younger talent rising through the national pathway. Under Lewis, the team will continue to rely on its physical presence, structured systems and strong team identity that shaped their breakthrough performance in 2024.
Canada’s 2025 squad is led by some of their most prominent returnees from their Paris 2024 roster, including Luke Herr, Fynn McCarthy and Nick Hoag. Their contribution and experience at the international level remain central to Canada’s goals this season.
Canada host Week 1 of the VNL from 11 to 15 June at Centre Vidéotron in Quebec, where they face Germany, Argentina, France and Bulgaria. In Week 2, Canada travel to Chicago for matchups against Brazil, United States, Poland and China from 25 to 29 June. The final week of the preliminaries takes place in Ljubljana from 16 to 20 July, where they meet hosts Slovenia, Netherlands, Serbia and Ukraine.
Canada have appeared in every edition of the VNL since its launch in 2018. After years of consistent presence, their qualification to the Final Round in 2024 confirmed their arrival among men’s volleyball’s top-tier contenders. That upward trend now continues with a renewed leadership structure and home-court spotlight.
The 2025 season will also serve as a key step in preparation for the FIVB Men’s World Championship later this year.
May 27, 2025.- The extended rosters of the 24 teams that will participate in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship have now been released and the eager volleyball fans can already find out which rising stars of world volleyball are getting ready to hit the courts in Osijek, Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia from July 2 to 13.
While at this young age, the volleyball stars of the future are still building up their fame, there are still plenty of names on the rosters that would ring a volleyball fan’s bell.
Defending U19 world champions United States, for example, will be captained by Genevieve Harris (pictured in the main photo), the Best Setter of last year’s NORCECA U19 Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship.
China’s squad is highlighted by Yang Shuming , who was selected Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Opposite of the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship as well as MVP of the 2024 AVC U18 Women’s Volleyball Asian Championship, Chen Xiaohui, who was one of the U17 Dream Team middle blockers, and another three of the players, who snatched the inaugural U17 world title last year – Guo Zhongnan, Huang Yuexin and Wang Yibo. The two continental U18 Dream Teamers – outside Zhai Yurui and middle Wang Aoqian – are also on China’s roster.
Reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria have 13 of the 14 players who conquered the continental title last year on the roster for the upcoming U19 World Championship, headlined by EuroVolley U18 MVP and Best Setter Dimana Ivanova and other Dream Teamers like outside Kalina Veneva and middle Darina Naneva.
The MVP of the 2024 CSV U19 Girls’ Volleyball South American Championship, Mikaela Hestmann, is one of the outside hitters on the list of Brazilian players for Croatia-Serbia 2025, accompanied by setter and captain Luana Vazquez and middle Lara Rodrigues, also among the individual awardees at last year’s continental event.
A number of other continental Dream Teamers are featured on the rosters of Argentina (Paula Tomasa and Julia Allub), Belgium (Liese Verhelst and Jasmine Debout), Chile (Martina Allende), Chinese Taipei (Chen Pin-Yu), Dominican Republic (Julie Arias and Caroline Rodriguez), Italy (Ludovica Tosini and Veronica Quero), Japan (Tanyama Tsubaki and Chugangi Rion), Mexico (Caroline Rodriguez), Peru (Fatima Villafuerte) and Thailand (Sasitorn Jatta).
The German team will be captained by outside hitter Leana Grozer and it is no accident that that last name also rings a loud bell. Her legendary father Gyorgy Grozer is still an active and successful volleyballer at the age of 40. For sure, there are a few other “famous” daughters who will defend the honors of their family names, like Simona Ivanova, the daughter of Bulgarian legend Evgeni Ivanov, or Arianna Bovolenta, the daughter of Italian legend Vigor Bovolenta, to name a couple…
May 27, 2025.- Defending 2023 U19 world champions and reigning 2024 U18 European champions France will play in one of the three opening games of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship set to take place from July 24 to August 3 in Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent.
The full match schedule for the pool stage of the competition has now been released, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation about how the on-court battles, involving the rising stars of world volleyball, will unfold on the way to crowning the new U19 boys’ world champions.
France will take on Canada in a Pool B game at 11:00 local time (06:00 UTC) on one of the three competition courts in Tashkent. At the same time, on the other two courts, Belgium will meet Pakistan in a Pool A fixture and Iran will face Spain in Pool C.
In a remake of the 2024 Boys’ U18 African Nations Volleyball Championship, Egypt and Tunisia will open their Pool C campaigns at 14:00 (09:00). Meanwhile, U19 South American champions Argentina will take on Puerto Rico in Pool A.
An all-European clash between Italy and Poland, silver and bronze medalists of the 2024 CEV U18 Men’s Volleyball European Championship, in Pool C, and an all-Asian duel between Japan and last year’s U18 continental champions China in Pool B will highlight the third set of three matches, serving off at 17:00 (12:00) on the first competition day. Tournament hosts Uzbekistan will also start off their campaign at that time with a Pool A fixture against Türkiye.
The entire first leg of Pool D matches will get underway at the same time, 20:00 (15:00), with 2024 U19 NORCECA champions USA entering the competition with a game against Finland.
These four time slots will apply to all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 24 through July 29, with a rest day on July 27.
The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on August 3. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.
May 23, 2025.- Empowered on the court and guided by veteran coach Giovanni Guidetti, Canada target a breakthrough season. Canada’s women’s volleyball team will open their 2025 Volleyball Nations League campaign on home soil in Ottawa, but the journey that brought them here was shaped long before the opening whistle.
After years of building stability and gaining ground internationally, Canada’s women enter VNL 2025 with experienced players, a new head coach, and a sharper sense of what it takes to close the gap on the world’s top teams.
A key driver of Canada’s rise has been sustained support through FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. Since 2020, Canada has received CHF 1.55 million in support for its programmes. That support helped in hiring a top-tier coach, the expansion of performance and medical staff, and the creation of a professional structure to strengthen athlete development and national team operations.
Brie King & Kiera Van Ryk
Canada entered the VNL in 2021 and have qualified every year since. In 2023 and 2024, they posted their best results to date, finishing 10th overall and narrowly missing out on the Final Round. Later in 2023, they came close to securing an Olympic berth, finishing third in the qualification tournament in Ningbo – their strongest bid since Atlanta 1996. These performances reflected years of growth that helped establish their rise in women’s volleyball.
The foundation for that run was laid by Shannon Winzer, who coached the team from 2020 through the Olympic qualification cycle. She now serves as Volleyball Canada’s High Performance Director, helping guide the national programme’s long-term development.
Taking her place on the bench is Giovanni Guidetti, one of the most accomplished coaches in the sport, with four Olympic campaigns on his résumé. Appointed in January, the Italian brings a track record of elevating national teams and leading top clubs to international titles. His arrival marks the start of a new mission for Canada – adding a new layer of technical leadership and competitive insight to a team that has grown steadily in recent seasons.
Canada’s core also returns. Kiera Van Ryk leads the offence with power and consistency on the right side. Brie King continues to set the rhythm with confidence and control. Their experience, combined with Guidetti’s leadership, gives Canada a solid base in a season where margins will be tight.
Canada will play their opening four matches in Ottawa from 4 to 8 June, facing Bulgaria, Netherlands, Japan and Serbia. From 18 to 22 June, they move to Istanbul to meet Korea, Türkiye, Brazil and Belgium. The final week of pool play takes place in Arlington, Texas, with matches against Germany, China, United States and Thailand from 9 to 13 July. The Final Round will be in Lodz, Poland, from 23 to 27 July.
The team will also compete at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, set to be held in Thailand later this year.
VNL 2025 comes at a time when Canada’s foundations are in place. Empowerment support has shaped the programme, experience anchors the core, and Guidetti brings a new perspective to the bench. The mission now is to keep moving forward.
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.
SAN SEBASTIÁN, Puerto Rico, July 21, 2025.- The transfer of Pablo Guzmán to the Patriotas de Lares marks a new chapter in the journey of the two-time champions, Caribes de San Sebastián, in the Puerto Rican Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM).
The transfer was confirmed by David Chaparro Pérez, Co-Owner and General Manager of the Caribes, who emphasized the franchise’s commitment to the well-being of its players. “Our organization has stood out as one that provides opportunities to players. If we don’t reach an agreement for a season, we want every athlete to have the freedom to choose where to continue their path,” he explained.
The veteran player, MVP of the most recent finals series, was transferred to the Patriotas de Lares in exchange for financial compensation.
Pablo Guzman
Chaparro Pérez also underscored that the Caribes’ philosophy is clear: to respect players’ wishes and contribute to the development of the League. “We always aim for the best development of the League. We’re not here to hold back any player, but to strengthen the competitiveness and spectacle of Puerto Rican volleyball,” he stated.
“Pablo,” Chaparro continued, “expressed interest in relocating to a team of his preference. After discussing his options and respecting his decision, the transfer was granted. It’s important to highlight that this move was made directly at his request. As in any environment, agreements aren’t always reached on every point, but that’s part of the natural dynamic even within the best of families, though it was hard to say goodbye.”
The transfer has sparked varied reactions among fans, ranging from nostalgia over the veteran’s departure to excitement about the arrival of new talent. Chaparro Pérez confirmed that the move is part of a long-term strategic plan. “This change is part of a three-year restructuring process, during which we’ll incorporate new blood and gradually adjust the roster to maintain the team’s high level.”
Thus, Guzmán’s departure is part of a forward-looking vision aimed at ensuring the Caribes continue setting the standard in top-level volleyball, with the goal of strengthening the League and delivering the best possible show to the fans.
The regular season is set to begin on June 6, with the Gigantes de Adjuntas visiting the Caribes de San Sebastián, and the Changos de Naranjito facing the Gigantes de Carolina.
The 2025 LVSM will feature eight competing teams: Caribes de San Sebastián (two-time champions), Mets de Guaynabo, Plataneros de Corozal, Patriotas de Lares, Changos de Naranjito, Gigantes de Carolina, Gigantes de Adjuntas, and Cafeteros de Yauco.
May 21, 2025.- With veteran leadership and continued Empowerment support, the Dominican Republic squad aim to turn years of top-level consistency into their first Final Round appearance in the Volleyball Nations League.
Dominican Republic have long been one of the most consistent forces in women’s volleyball, and since the launch of the VNL, they’ve remained a steady presence among the world’s top contenders. In 2025, they return with a veteran lineup, strong leadership and one goal still just out of reach.
Head coach Marcos Kwiek
The build-up of their high-performance system has been supported by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, with over CHF 940,000 in support since 2021. This has strengthened the foundation of the national team, providing long-term coaching stability, technical development, and the ability to remain internationally competitive across multiple Olympic cycles.
Head coach Marcos Kwiek remains at the helm in 2025, leading a squad that has dominated their continent in recent years. Dominican Republic won the NORCECA Final Six in both 2022 and 2024, claimed gold at the 2023 Pan American Games, and were crowned continental champions again in 2023. These results have underlined their dominance in continental play and reinforced their readiness to compete for bigger feats on the international stage.
Dominican Republic have been part of every VNL edition since the tournament began, but a Final Round appearance has remained out of reach. Their performances have kept them competitive across multiple seasons, yet that next-level finish continues to be the goal.
Brayelin Martínez
That pursuit continues in 2025 with a group of established stars still leading the charge. Libero Brenda Castillo, widely regarded as one of the most decorated defensive players in international volleyball, anchors the squad alongside standouts Jineiry and Brayelin Martínez. All three bring extensive VNL and major tournament experience, forming a foundation that has carried the team through multiple cycles.
Dominican Republic will start VNL 2025 Week 1 in Ottawa, facing Serbia, Bulgaria, Netherlands and Japan from 4 to 8 June. In Week 2, they move to Istanbul to meet hosts Türkiye, Belgium, Brazil and Korea and from 18 to 22 June. The Preliminary Round wraps up in Week 3 in Arlington, where they will take on China, United States, Thailand and Germany from 9 to 13 July.
The team will also use the VNL to further integrate younger players emerging from its development system – a long-term priority supported by Empowerment funding. While the veterans remain central to the squad’s identity, the next wave of talent is expected to gain experience during the 2025 season.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 20, 2025 .- The Dominican Republic’s National Women’s Volleyball Teams Project and Grupo GBC Farmacias have announced the renewal of their strategic alliance for a second consecutive year. Through this agreement, GBC Farmacias remains the official sponsor of the “Reinas del Caribe” for all international competitions during the 2025 season, including the Volleyball Nations League and the FIVB World Championship.
The announcement was made during a press conference led by Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, President of the National Teams Project, and Raymond Rodríguez, Executive Vice President of Grupo GBC Farmacias.
Lic. Cristóbal Marte
During the event, Marte Hoffiz unveiled the new uniforms the Reinas del Caribe will wear in 2025, designed by the renowned Japanese brand Mizuno Corporation. He also emphasized that the financial resources generated through the agreement will be allocated as stipends for athletes across the four national women’s teams: U19, U21, U23, and the senior team.
Several players from the national program, along with members of the coaching staff, were present at the event.
“In 2025, the Dominican Republic will, for the second time, become the only country in the world to qualify for the U19 World Championship in Croatia, the U21 World Championship in Indonesia, the Youth Olympic Games (IOC) in Paraguay in the U21 category, and additionally, the Reinas del Caribe will compete in the Nations League and the FIVB World Championship in Thailand,” Marte Hoffiz stated. He added that in previous years, only Brazil had achieved a similar feat.
Lic. Raymond Rodríguez Junior
Marte also highlighted the academic focus of the program: “Most of our athletes are pursuing university degrees, both locally and abroad. Currently, we have six players on 50% scholarships in Japan, and the first among them was Alondra Tapia.”
For his part, Raymond Rodríguez, President of the GBC Foundation and Vice President of the business group, expressed his pride in continuing to support the team. “We are thrilled to extend this agreement and continue being part of the Reinas del Caribe family — a team that inspires hundreds of young girls to chase their dreams,” he said. “The National Teams Project has more than three decades of tireless work behind it and has become a model of success. Hopefully, other sports can follow this example.”
Rodríguez also emphasized the company’s social commitment: “As a foundation and as GBC Farmacias, we are proud to keep contributing so that many girls can dream of one day becoming a Reina del Caribe.”
The event was also attended by prominent figures from the national volleyball community and the corporate sector, including Milagros Cabral, General Director of the volleyball project; Francisca Santana, GBC’s Marketing Manager; and journalist Vargavila Riverón, Communications Advisor for Grupo GBC.
May 20, 2025: Volleyball Canada has announced its Senior and Next Gen indoor men’s national teams for the 2025 season.
The senior team will compete in Volleyball Nations League kicking off in Quebec City, Quebec – presented by Desjardins – on June 11 and then travel to the United States and Slovenia in hopes of qualifying for the finals, to be held in China. In 2024, the senior men finished ranked sixth after making the VNL Finals and then going on to compete in Paris at the Olympic tournament.
After VNL, the team will prepare for the 2025 Men’s World Championship in September, with a Team Canada roster to be announced at a later date.
Leading the senior team will be head coach Dan Lewis in his first season in this position.
“With a small group of returning Olympians, this year’s senior team will also showcase athletes who are looking to shine and gain valuable experience on the world stage leading up to LA2028,” said Julien Boucher, Volleyball Canada’s men’s indoor high-performance director. “The Next Gen team lineup shows depth and the hard work that goes into preparing athletes to compete at the highest level.”
The Next Gen squad, under the guidance of head coach Dave Preston, features up and coming talent from across the country. This team will be focused on training and competing at the NORCECA Pan Am Cup, August 24 to September 1, in Mexico.
Senior Team Athletes Landon Currie – Libero – Coldstream, BC Max Elgert – Setter – Edmonton, AB Jesse Elser – Outside Hitter – Calgary, AB Daenan Gyimah – Middle Blocker – Scarborough, ON Luke Herr – Setter – Winnipeg, MB Isaac Heslinga – Outside Hitter – Orangeville, ON Nicholas Hoag – Outside Hitter – Gatineau, QC Brodie Hofer – Outside Hitter – Langley, BC Xander Ketrzynski – Opposite – Toronto, ON Justin Lui – Libero – Pickering, ON Fynn McCarthy – Middle Blocker – Lake Country, BC Jordan Schnitzer – Middle Blocker – Surrey, BC Ryan Sclater – Opposite – Port Coquitlam, BC Skyler Varga – Outside Hitter – Muenster, SK
Alternate Athletes Mason Greves – Setter – Calgary, AB Jackson Howe – Middle Blocker – Calgary, AB Matthew Neaves – Opposite – Calgary, AB Cory Schoenherr – Middle Blocker – Waterloo, ON Jackson Young – Outside Hitter – Toronto, ON
Staff Dan Lewis – Head Coach Joao Paulo Bravo – Assistant Coach Jason Haldane – Assistant Coach Alberto Varela Frontier – Statistician Michael Cook – Strength & Conditioning Coach, IST Lead Schad Richea – Athletic Therapist Nicholas Poelman – Chiropractor Melissa Healy – Medical Coordinator Kyle Paquette – Mental Performance Coach Donna McDonagh – Mental Health Practitioner Ashley Armstrong – Sport Dietician Cassandra Nicol – Team Manager, Coordinator Julien Boucher – High-Performance Director
NextGen Team Athletes Jordan Canham – Opposite – Avonmore, ON Jackson Corneil – Middle Blocker – Surrey, BC Cole Duncanson – Middle Blocker – St Catharines, ON Zachary Hollands – Libero – Victoriaville, QC Liam Kristjanson – Middle Blocker – Oak River, MB Jeremy Love – Setter – Dauphin, MB Brendan Mills – Opposite – London, ON Liam Pauls – Outside Hitter – Balmoral, MB Darian Picklyk – Libero – Winnipeg, MB Jacob Sargent – Outside Hitter – Lethbridge, AB Kaden Schmidt – Outside Hitter – Mississauga, ON Erik Siksna – Outside Hitter – Markham, ON Tomas Sorra – Setter – Toronto, ON Zachary van Geel – Setter – Calgary, AB Jonas Van Huizen – Outside Hitter – Langley, BC Matthys Weststrate – Middle Blocker – Kelowna, BC
Staff Dave Preston – Head Coach Scott Koskie – Assistant Coach John Barrett – Assistant Coach Grant Wilson – Assistant Coach Matthew Harris – Assistant Coach Raphael Poulin – Strength & Conditioning Coach Michael Cook – IST Lead Meredith Waisman – Sport Physiotherapist Melissa Healy – Medical Coordinator Brendan Dinsdale – Mental Performance Coach Donna McDonagh – Mental Health Practitioner Ashley Armstrong – Sport Dietician Cassandra Nicol – Team Coordinator Georges Laplante – Team Manager Julien Boucher – High-Performance Director
May 16, 2025.- The excitement ahead of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship set to get underway on July 2 is about to build up further with the announcement of the match schedule for the pool stage of the competition. Osijek in Croatia and Vrnjacka Banja in Serbia will host two pools each, running concurrently on four courts with three games per pool on each competition day.
In what is probably the most interesting among the four opening matches, reigning 2024 U18 European champions Bulgaria will be challenged by another powerful European team, Poland, who finished fourth at the continental championship. It is a Pool C game to be played in Osijek, starting at 15:15 local time (13:15 UTC) on July 2.
In the other three opening matches that will serve off simultaneously, Egypt will meet Canada in Osijek’s Pool A, Argentina will face Puerto Rico in Vrnjacka Banja’s Pool B, and Japan will take on Belgium in Pool D, also in Vrnjacka Banja.
Co-hosts Croatia and Serbia will start their campaigns against Germany in Pool A and against Chinese Taipei in Pool B, respectively, later that day, at 18:15 (16:15 UTC).
The United States will start the defense of their 2023 U19 world title with a Pool C game against Spain at 21:15 (19:15 UTC).
These three time slots will apply to all four pools on all five competition days of the first phase of the tournament, from July 2 through July 7, with a rest day on July 5.
The top four teams in the final standings of each six-team pool will continue their quest for world honors in the elimination rounds leading up to the medal matches on July 13. The rest will continue their participation in the playoffs for the distribution of the places from 17th to 24th. All 24 teams will go through the respective number of playoff rounds (direct up-or-down matches) to fill all the places from first to 24th in the final competition standings.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 16, 2025. – The Dominican Volleyball Association in Puerto Rico, which is part of the Dominican Volleyball Federation, recently held its second Independence Cup, an event that brought together six teams and celebrated the achievements of the Dominican community in Puerto Rico.
The tournament took place at the Bayamón Military Academy, with the team from Villa Tapia emerging as the champions.
“We successfully held the second Independence Cup with the participation of six teams, two of which came from Villa Tapia in the Dominican Republic. The Villa Tapia teams were led by José Francisco Fernández, treasurer of the Dominican Federation. It was an excellent event,” said Rafael Paniagua, President of the Association.
Paniagua was joined by other Association members, including Yeye Ventura, Juan Garabito Matos, Cristian Cruz, Dr. Carlos Pérez, and Dr. Ángeles Alonso.
As part of the Association’s ongoing activities, a triangular tournament will take place on May 17 and 18 at the Bayamón Military Academy, featuring two visiting teams from the Dominican Republic.
“We’ll have two teams from Monte Plata, one men’s and one women’s. Matches will be played Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. This is part of our programming for the enjoyment of our community in Puerto Rico,” Paniagua added.
The local teams participating include Las Primas (women’s), Team Chercha (men’s), and Voly Rumba (both divisions).
Additionally, in July, the Association will conduct a second talent identification initiative for Dominicans and their descendants up to the third generation, across both genders and various age categories.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 16, 2025 – With strong international participation and a notable female presence, the Level 1 International Coaching Course successfully concluded in the Dominican Republic, held from May 6 to 10.
The event was organized by the NORCECA–FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center and brought together 38 coaches from Colombia, Panama, Puerto Rico, Aruba, Venezuela, Curaçao, the United States, and the Dominican Republic.
Over five intensive days, participants received comprehensive training in both theoretical and practical aspects, under the guidance of international instructor Ariel Sainz from Cuba, who led the course with extensive experience and professionalism.
A highlight of the course was the participation of 13 female coaches, reaffirming NORCECA and FIVB’s commitment to promoting female leadership in volleyball.
At the conclusion of the course, all participants received their Level 1 Coaching Certificate, and the most outstanding individuals were recognized for their excellent performance: Adalberto Morales Rosa and Leira Ortis from Puerto Rico, along with Samaret Carraballo from the Dominican Republic.
This type of initiative continues to strengthen the technical development of volleyball in the region, equipping coaches with up-to-date tools and a comprehensive understanding of the game, in alignment with the international standards promoted by FIVB and NORCECA.
In a communication sent to the Regional Volleyball Development Center in Santo Domingo by the FIVB Development & Sustainability Department, Takahiro Fujino expressed “Your dedication and expertise have played a vital role in enhancing the coaching capabilities of local participants. It is especially encouraging to see such a high number of female coaches involved in this edition, reflecting our shared commitment to promoting gender equality in the sport”.
The Regional Development Center thus reaffirms its commitment to educational excellence and the sustainable growth of volleyball across the Americas.
May 16, 2025.- In a landmark moment for the Global Volleyball Movement, the FIVB Athletes’ Commission with support from the FIVB has launched its first-ever athlete post-career seminar – “Beyond the Court”. This pioneering program is designed to guide volleyball and beach volleyball athletes as they transition from elite competition into post-professional-athlete careers.
Taking place from 6 to 10 October 2025 at the FIVB Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland, the seminar has been developed by the FIVB Athletes’ Commission in collaboration with the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES), the FIVB and other key partners. The initiative aligns with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is driven by the motto “Together as One” and anchored in the core values of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. By offering structured support for life beyond the court, the FIVB is not only preserving the heritage of its athletes but is also actively building pathways for them to remain at the heart of the sport – as leaders and mentors.
Over five days, participants will engage in expert-led workshops, connect with global industry leaders and receive personalized mentorship opportunities.
The seminar is open to retiring or recently retired high-performance volleyball and beach volleyball athletes. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have represented their national team or club at top World or Continental level events.
Speaking about the upcoming seminar, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo stated:
“I am extremely proud that the FIVB is launching ‘Beyond the Court’. Through the seminar, we are turning another pillar of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 – ‘Athletes, History and Heritage’ – into reality. Athletes are at the very heart of our sport, and we want to celebrate them, while also empowering them to create new chapters of success. Together as One, we are encouraging future leaders and strengthening bonds across the Global Volleyball Movement.”
FIVB Athletes’ Commission President Louise Bawden added:
“Every athlete reaches a point where the focus begins to shift from performance on the court to what comes next—and that transition isn’t easy. ‘Beyond the Court’ is about recognizing the wide horizon of opportunities beyond playing. It’s great to see the FIVB supporting athletes in building those new pathways—offering the tools, networks and confidence needed to thrive in the next chapter, while staying connected to the sport we love.”
May 14, 2025.- Osvaldo Idel Martinez Arias and Mireya Luis Hernandez have been elected to lead the Cuban Volleyball Federation (FCV), following General Assembly held in Havana on May 9 to define the sport’s leadership for the 2025-2028 cycle.
Osvaldo Idel Martinez Arias, a long-time coach and sport administrator, was elected President, while Mireya Luis, one of the most celebrated figures in international volleyball, was named Vice President. The session was chaired by Cuban Olympic Committee President Roberto Leon Richards and Minister of Sport Osvaldo Vento Montiller.
Martinez’s connection to volleyball spans more than four decades, starting as a physical education teacher in Camaguey before moving into coaching and national team development. His track record includes guiding youth and school teams, international assignments in Venezuela, and leadership within the FCV, where he most recently served as Secretary General.
The strength of the newly elected Executive Committee lies in shared experience and commitment, as he works alongside Mireya Luis and Yumilka Ruiz, both fellow Olympians and former teammates from Camaguey.
Mireya Luis brings exceptional stature and international influence on the role. She is a three-time consecutive Olympic gold medalist, having led Cuba to titles in 1992, 1996 and 2000. She captained Cuba’s golden generation and remains one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
She currently serves as Executive Vice President of the FIVB and is a member of its Board of Administration and Executive Committee, playing a central role in global governance and development initiatives.
Yumilka Ruiz, also a former Olympic champion and now the national commissioner, joins the FCV executive as a board member, alongside Ricardo Borroto (Secretary General), Lorenzo Martinez (Treasurer), Jorge Sosa, and Jorge Luis Garcia.
The appointments come at a decisive moment, as Cuba prepares for the men’s VNL, World Championships at multiple age levels, and the Junior Pan American Games in both indoor and beach volleyball. Teams are also expected to compete in the NORCECA Beach Circuit and the Beach Pro Tour.
Before Cuba start their VNL campaign in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, they will play two warm-up matches against Argentina in San Juan.
In compliance with the FIVB Regulations, a detailed verification of the documentation for every National Federation election is conducted by the FIVB.
May 15, 2025.- Following an exciting season that culminated with the Paris Olympics in 2024, the biggest men’s international volleyball stars are ready to return to action with their national teams during the Volleyball Nations League 2025.
The rosters of the 18 national teams that will take part in the seventh edition of the event were released and published on the tournament’s website, further increasing the excitement for the initial week of competition, from June 11-15.
Reigning VNL and Olympic champions France will have the entire roster that took them to the top of the podium in Paris available for head coach Andrea Giani, including two-time Olympic MVP and star outside hitter Earvin Ngapeth. Other key players in the French squad are setter Antoine Brizard, middle blocker Barthélémy Chinenyeze, outside hitter Trévor Clévenot, opposite Jean Patry and libero Jenia Grebennikov.
Robertlandy Simón de Cuba
FIVB World Ranking leaders Poland is bringing the majority of their stars back in 2025, with outside hitter Wilfredo Leon, opposite Bartosz Kurek and middle blocker Jakub Kochanowski standing out in the list produced by head coach Nikola Grbić.
World champions Italy also preserved the core that took the team to the top of the world in 2022, having outside hitters Alessandro Michieletto and Daniele Lavia, setter Simone Giannelli and libero Fabio Balaso as key pieces.
Paris bronze medalists the United States will take a different approach, entering the VNL with a squad mostly formed by exciting young players, who will have the opportunity to represent their country and show what they are about in the VNL. Leading the team managed by new head coach Karch Kiraly on the court will be libero Erik Shoji, appointed as the captain, middle blocker Jeffrey Jendryk, setter Micah Ma’a and opposite Kyle Ensing.
Brazil is another country that will have new faces on the court with the absences of longtime pillars Bruno Rezende, Lucas Saatkamp and Yoandy Leal. The only returning player from the Brazilian winning campaign at the Rio 2016 Olympics, star outside hitter Ricardo Lucarelli will be one of the faces of the new squad, alongside opposite Darlan Souza, middle blocker Flavio Gualberto and setter Fernando ‘Cachopa’ Kreling.
With a new coach at the helm in Laurent Tillie, Japan will try to continue its recent rise in the international scene having outside hitters Yuki Ishikawa and Ran Takahashi and libero Tomohiro Yamamoto as their top players.
International volleyball stars are spread out among every VNL team, including Argentina’s Agustin Loser, Bulgaria’s Aleksandar Nikolov, Canada’s Ryan Sclater, China’s Zhang Jingyin, Cuba’s Robertlandy Simón, Germany’s György Grozer, Iran’s Amin Esmaeilnezhad, the Netherlands’ Nimir Abdel-Aziz, Serbia’s Drazen Luburić, Slovenia’s Tine Urnaut, Türkiye’s Adis Lagumdzija and Ukraine’s Yurii Semeniuk.
Head coaches will have until next week to make last-minute changes in the list, with up to substitutions allowed per team. For each week of the VNL, a team line-up of 12-14 players and up to four reserve players is selected among the 30 on the long list.
The men’s VNL 2025 will start from June 11-15, will pools held in Xi’an, China, Quebec, Canada, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 15, 2025. – The 2025 Men’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSM) will kick off on June 6 with the participation of eight teams: Caribes de San Sebastián (defending champions), Mets de Guaynabo (runners-up), Plataneros de Corozal, Patriotas de Lares, Changos de Naranjito, Gigantes de Carolina, Gigantes de Adjuntas, and Cafeteros de Yauco.
This season highlights the highly anticipated return of the Patriotas de Lares and the renewed rivalry between the Caribes and the Mets de Guaynabo, who played an electrifying championship series last year that went to a thrilling seventh match.
While the Caribes will aim for their third consecutive title, the Mets are back with one goal: to rewrite history and claim the championship.
Meanwhile, the Changos de Naranjito have added national team players Arturo Iglesias and Omar Hoyos to their roster.
The Gigantes de Carolina arrive with a revamped squad, featuring Rickyto Vega and Jonathan Rodríguez, both acquired in a trade with Naranjito.
The Plataneros de Corozal announced on their social media that Ramón “Monchito” Hernández Cruz will continue as head coach, assisted by Raúl Papaleo and Carlos Rodríguez. The team will feature players such as Dennis Del Valle, Luzgardo “Galdi” Liciaga, and Arnaldo Torres, among others. Their home court will be the Juan C. Berríos gym in Barranquitas while repairs are finalized at the Coliseo Carmen Zoraida Figueroa in Corozal.
The Gigantes de Adjuntas continue their preparations under the leadership of team owner Salvador Pérez, while the Cafeteros de Yauco are gearing up with a new international reinforcement. It’s a renewed team with the same ambition.
This season will be dedicated to Gregorio “Goyito” Mejill Vega and Francisco “Frankie” Santana Quiñones in recognition of their impact on Puerto Rican volleyball.
“This new edition of the LVSM reflects the passion and growth of our sport. We are proud to honor two great figures in Puerto Rican volleyball and to welcome back the Patriotas de Lares. We also look forward to another thrilling battle among all teams. Without a doubt, we will witness how the level of our league continues to rise.” — Dr. Trabanco, President of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation.
May 8, 2025.- A long line of international stars of the highest caliber headline their national team rosters for the upcoming edition of the women’s Volleyball Nations League 2025.
As the 30-player team lists were finalized and published on the VNL competition website, a number of stellar names attract the fans’ attention in exciting anticipation of the first major event on the 2025 volleyball national team calendar.
Defending VNL champions Italy will once again be led by two-time VNL Most Valuable Player Paola Egonu, who was also named MVP of the Paris 2024 Olympic volleyball tournament. In fact, most of the reigning Olympic champions are back on coach Julio Velasco’s squad, including Olympic Dream Teamers Alessia Orro, Anna Danesi, Myriam Sylla and Monica De Gennaro.
In the absence of retired Sarina Koga, VNL 2024 runners-up Japan will be led by new captain Mayu Ishikawa. Rising star Yoshino Sato is also on the team. VNL 2024 Dream Team libero Manami Kojima is among the many other stars in new coach Ferhat Akbas’s selection.
The Best Middle Blocker of last year’s edition, Agnieszka Korneluk, highlights the stellar squad of bronze medalists Poland, along with the likes of fabulous Magdalena Stysiak and rising star Martyna Czyrnianska.
Brazil, who finished fourth in VNL 2024 and took bronze at the Olympics, will feature a long line of outstanding athletes, headlined by their charismatic captain Gabriela Guimaraes, a Paris 2024 Dream Team outside hitter, and featuring quality players like Julia Bergmann, Kisy Nascimento, Rosamaria Montibeller, Macris Carneiro, etc.
Three-time VNL champions and Paris 2024 Olympic silver medalists USA are putting forward a very strong line-up as usual, highlighted by Jordyn Poulter, Avery Skinner, Alexandra Frantti and many others.
The reigning crown bearers of the last two editions of the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship Serbia will be spearheaded by prominent opposite Tijana Boskovic, while her powerful Turkish counterpart Melissa Vargas will lead the reigning European champions and semifinalists at Paris 2024. Among more experienced players like Teodora Pusic, Katarina Lazovic and Maja Aleksic, younger-generation athletes like Hena Kurtagic are expected to shine on Zoran Terzic’s squad, while Daniele Santarelli seems to have kept a core of established Turkish players like Zehra Gunes, Hande Baladin, Ebrar Karakurt, Cansu Ozbay, etc.
Asian champions Thailand, who are getting ready to host the World Championship later this year, are set to offer a solid presence in the VNL with the likes of Chatchu-On Moksri, Pimpichaya Kokram or captain Ajcharaporn Kongyot on the squad. NORCECA champions Dominican Republic will also rely on their top-caliber stars like Brayelin and Jineiry Martinez, Yonkaira Pena or Brenda Castillo.
There will be plenty of world-class talent on the other nine teams as well – Belgium’s Britt Herbots, Bulgaria’s Zhana Todorova, Canada’s Kiera Van Ryk, China’s Gong Xiangyu, Czechia’s Helena Grozer, France’s Helena Cazaute, Germany’s Anna Pogany, Korea’s Kang Sohwi, or Netherlands’ Nika Daalderop, to name a few.
The current lists of 30 players per team are not completely final, as the head coaches can make up to two replacements within the next week. Then, for the participation in each competition week of the VNL, a team line-up of 12-14 players and up to four reserve players is selected among the 30 on the long list.
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, May 7, 2025.– In a productive virtual session, the Executive Committee of the Central American Volleyball Association (AFECAVOL) approved key measures to boost volleyball development in the region. Highlights include the official recognition of Final Four tournaments as ranking events for the FIVB World Ranking, the implementation of new competition formats, and confirms El Salvador as host country for the Central American U19 Women’s Championship.
AFECAVOL President Félix Sabio emphasized the need to reach the highest competitive standards in the region. “It is imperative for our zone to pursue the highest standards. If our events don’t grant world ranking points, we limit opportunities for our countries.” In line with FIVB regulations, Sabio stressed the importance of aligning the calendar and competition criteria to avoid disadvantaging any member federation. “We must put aside national interests and think collectively.”
Sabio also stressed that all AFECAVOL member countries must make the effort to participate in the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour stages to be held in Central America. The aim is to promote this discipline throughout the region and secure valuable ranking points for qualification to continental, Pan American, and world events.
Additionally, Sabio shared that during the recent FIVB Board of Administration meeting, it was decided that multi-sport events in the Olympic cycle would not award world ranking points. Consequently, it was confirmed during the discussions that, this year, the Final Four tournaments will be the ranking events for the region, with the Senior Volleyball Cups to be included starting next year to meet FIVB point requirements. The calendar for these ranking events will take place annually between May and October.
New Competition Formats
With the goal of enhancing the sporting spectacle and creating new revenue streams, AFECAVOL agreed to replace the traditional round-robin format with a competition system that includes a preliminary group stage, qualification rounds, semifinals, and medal matches. Each tournament’s regulations will detail the competition format based on the number of participating teams.
El Salvador to Host U19 Women’s Championship
El Salvador has been confirmed as the host of the 15th Central American U19 Women’s Volleyball Championship, scheduled for November 7–15, 2025.
Visibility, Equality, and Development
AFECAVOL will promote and strengthen female representation within the coaching staff of each national team in all women’s competitions in the zone, in compliance with the requirements approved by FIVB and NORCECA. Additionally, members were informed that Carlos Enrique Santis was appointed as the international technical delegate for the 2025 Central American Games in Guatemala, where indoor volleyball will take place from October 15 to 23 at the Teodoro Palacios Flores Gymnasium, and beach volleyball from October 23 to 31 in Jalapa.
Technical Training and Digital Tools
It was also announced that member countries are required to train at least three referees per country in the use of the electronic scoresheet via the FIVB e-learning platform. This tool, key to the professionalization of volleyball in the region, will be mandatory for referees and scorers in official tournaments. Additionally, during the U23 Men’s Pan American Cup in Guatemala from July 27 to August 4, AFECAVOL VIS staff will receive training as part of the Zonal Development Plan approved during the AFECAVOL General Assembly. This training responds to NORCECA’s push for the standardization and strengthening of zonal associations. The goal is for each national federation, or each zonal association, to have VIS supervisors to reinforce the statistical structure and ensure continuous growth.
In his closing remarks, President Sabio highlighted AFECAVOL’s commitment to seriousness and professionalism. “We must ensure that the majority of countries participate in all competitions and that our authorities recognize that, as a Zonal Association, we are working responsibly, promoting mass participation and raising the competitive level. AFECAVOL will continue to implement technological tools and stay at the forefront of international trends. Our zone is moving forward.”
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, May 7, 2025.- The FIVB is proud to present the second edition of its Empowering the Global Volleyball Movement leaflet, a report outlining the impressive progress made in growing the sport of volleyball and empowering its community worldwide.
The second edition of Empowering the Global Volleyball Movement is now available here. It offers a comprehensive look at a new era of volleyball, driven by a mission to make volleyball more accessible, impactful and a force for positive societal change.
This latest edition highlights the exciting progress made during FIVB President Fabio Azevedo’s first 100 days in office, a period defined by driving progress towards the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032. Work is well underway to strengthen opportunities for global volleyball development while deepening engagement with stakeholders across the Global Volleyball and Olympic Movements.
Among the many milestones celebrated in this edition are the successful Brahmaputra Volleyball League Season 5 Finals, a testament to volleyball’s power to inspire and unite at grassroots level, and the recent FIVB Board of Administration meeting. In addition, the FIVB has expanded its collaborative efforts, forging new partnerships and reinforcing existing ones to amplify volleyball’s reach and impact worldwide.
This period has also seen continued efforts to empower women and youth, building on the success of the initiatives launched in late 2024 , and setting the stage for more in the months ahead. With a dynamic and packed calendar for 2025, the FIVB remains fully committed to driving progress and serving the Global Volleyball Movement – Together as One.
ISTANBUL, Türkiye, May 7, 2025.- The FIVB this week met with the leadership of the Turkish Olympic Committee (TOC) at its headquarters in Istanbul, following the country’s successful hosting of the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) Champions League Volley 2025 Final Four Women on 3-4 May.
The meeting focused on further strengthening volleyball development in Türkiye and celebrating the nation’s continued success in the global game. It was hosted by TOC President Ahmet Gülüm, a former captain of the Türkiye men’s national volleyball team and long-time advocate for the development of sport in the country. Also in attendance were TOC Treasurer Mustafa Tankut Turnaoğlu, TOC Board Member Özkan Mutlugil, who has previously served as a FIVB Board of Administration member, CEV Vice President and Treasurer, and Turkish Volleyball Federation (TVF) President, as well as the TOC Secretary General Neşe Gündoğan.
Representatives from the Global Volleyball Movement included FIVB President Fabio Azevedo, CEV President and FIVB 2nd Executive Vice-President Roko Sikirić, TVF Director of International Relations and Organizations Department Nilüfer Basak Shimonsky, FIVB General Sports Director Steve Tutton, Volleyball World Chief Business Officer Guido Betti, and FIVB Head of International Affairs and Communications Anna Manuelian.
During the meeting, the FIVB presented its Strategic Vision 2032, a roadmap for advancing the sport through the pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation. Aligned with its motto, “Together as One”, the FIVB delegation reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the TOC and TVF to further grow volleyball in Türkiye.
Türkiye has become a global powerhouse in volleyball, particularly in the women’s game, with the national team achieving historic successes and clubs consistently performing at the highest levels in international competitions. The recent CEV Final Four underscored the country’s ability to host world-class events and engage fans worldwide. The country is set to host the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) women’s pool in Istanbul later this year.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 6, 2025.- With the participation of 38 coaches from Aruba, Curaçao, Colombia, Haiti, Panama, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic, the NORCECA-FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center in Santo Domingo, has officially launched the International Level I Coaching Course.
The five-day course, which includes both theoretical and practical sessions, is led by FIVB Instructor Ariel Sainz Rodríguez from Cuba. He is joined by renowned sports experts Bernardo Mesa, Alexander Gutiérrez (Venezuela), Marcos Kwiek (Brazil), Juvenal Collado, and Víctor Figueroa both from the Dominican Republic.
Opening ceremony
The opening ceremony was presided over by Professor Nelson José Ramírez, Director of the Development Center, and featured welcoming remarks from Mr. Ramón García, President of the Dominican Volleyball Federation. Also in attendance was Professor Neftalí Ventura, representing the Minister of Sports, who congratulated all national and international participants for their dedication to enhancing their knowledge of the most advanced volleyball techniques.
Special recognition was given to Professor Nelson José Ramírez for his efforts to promote sports education not only in the Dominican Republic but also in countries such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, and Mexico, among others.
The course is being held at the Albergue Olímpico and the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center, with the support of the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, led by Mr. Cristóbal Marte, and the National Institute of Physical Education.
This significant initiative underscores the region’s commitment to the professional development of volleyball coaches and the overall advancement of the sport across the continent.
Jamaica, May 6, 2025.- The Jamaica Volleyball Association’s 2025 Club League concluded in thrilling fashion over the weekend, with the University of the West Indies (UWI) women and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) men emerging Champions in the finals held at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport.
In the Women’s division, reigning champions University of the West Indies (UWI) successfully defended their title, securing a dominant victory over the Mico Old Students Association (MOSA) in straight sets 25-15, 25-10, 25-17.
UWI Women
The Men’s final featured a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s championship showdown between the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).
In what proved to be a fiercely contested final that went the distance and culminated in a nail-biting fifth set, Jamaica Defence Force emerged victorious once again, retaining their championship crown, winning 3 sets to 2 (25-23, 21-25, 25-21,19-25, 15-9).
CUL- DE- SAC, St Lucia, May 4, 2025.- The St. Kitts and Nevis combination of Shajunee Gumbs and Shanicia Dyer have champed the Women’s segment of the 2025 Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Senior Beach Volleyball Championship here at the Cul- de- Sac Bay.
Gumbs and Dyer registered a 2-0 (21-14, 22-20) win over Bermuda’s Hailey Moss and Megan Hands in the gold medal match.
Before facing off in the final, Gumbs/ Dyer had overcome Clio Phillip/ Tenayestlni Joseph of St. Lucia Team Three 2-0(21-15, 21-18), while Moss/ Hands ensured that there will be a new champion, by defeating Grenada Team One of Thornia Mitchell/ Renisha Stafford, 2-0(26-24, 21-15).
However, Mitchell/ Stafford did not leave empty handed, as they got the better of Phillip/ Joseph, 2-0 (22-20, 21-13), to claim the bronze.
Elated on the country’s triumph, Dyer said: “I am very, very happy for the win, more so my partner, who is relatively new to Beach Volleyball. It is more gratifying as we learned each other’s style of play along the way”.
“We did not win any of our matches in the pool round, but we kept saying that since we can win a set, we can win a match, and we went unbeaten from the Round of 12, straight to the final”.
Magnanimous in their defeat, both Moss/ Hands believed that they are better players, after the three days of competing in the championship.
Moss thus summed up, “ We are proud of how we played and our improvement throughout the Championships. After all, it is an improvement from last year’s showing. We gained a lot of experience, especially how to lift ourselves from the low points”
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 4, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas were crowned champions of Puerto Rico’s Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) this Sunday, dethroning the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, in Game 6 of the KIA Finals Series held at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan.
Caguas sealed the title with a 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-13, 25-21) victory, clinching the series four games to two and securing the 15th championship in franchise history.
With the match tied at one set apiece, the Criollas tightened their net defense and pulled ahead, reaching the second technical timeout with a 15-7 lead following an attack by Temi Thomas Ailara off Santurce’s block. They then extended the lead to 16-7 after a hitting error by Helena Grozer into the antenna.
Santurce never recovered. Caguas reached set point at 24-13 after a hitting error by the Cangrejeras and closed the set on the next play due to a double contact by setter Mynelis Rivera.
In the fourth and final set, Caguas led at both technical timeouts, narrowly at 8-7 in the first, and 16-13 in the second, helped by a hitting error from Andrea Rangel.
Santurce tied it to 18 with a spike from Rangel, but the Criollas held firm. Kristin Lux kept the pressure on from the service line and closed out the match, and the championship, with back-to-back aces.
Lux scored 30 points (26 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces) and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Finals Series. Temi Thomas and Kath Bell added 16 and 15 points, respectively.
For Santurce, Andrea Rangel led with 25 points, followed by Kara McGhee with 15 and Helena Grozer with 12.
In overall stats, Caguas outperformed Santurce in attacks (62-57), blocks (9-3), and aces (7-1). However, Santurce led in digs (96-91), receptions (41-38), and assists (21-16).
The Cangrejeras were without their captain, Debora Seilhamer, who was absent due to a medical emergency.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 4, 2025.- What should have been a vibrant and emotional celebration for the Criollas de Caguas and their fans, after winning the KIA Finals Series of the LVSF, was marred by an unexpected incident that sparked outrage and concern.
As the team and its supporters celebrated their championship, secured in four sets over the Cangrejeras de Santurce, the lights at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum were abruptly turned off, disrupting the award ceremony and jeopardizing the safety of those in attendance.
Dr. César Trabanco, president of the Puerto Rican Volleyball Federation, addressed the situation, emphasizing that beyond the interruption of the trophy presentation, his main concern was the safety of everyone present, especially children and the elderly, who were suddenly exposed to a potentially hazardous situation due to the sudden loss of lighting. “This isn’t just about a disrupted event, it’s about an act that put the well-being of those there to celebrate at risk. Safety must be the top priority at any sporting venue, and incidents like this should never happen under any circumstances,” Trabanco stated, visibly concerned.
The sound system also went out, affecting the Cangrejeras de Santurce, who were waiting to receive their runner-up trophy.
While the exact cause of the blackout remains unclear, reports confirmed there were no electrical failures in the area that could justify the interruption. This makes the incident even more troubling, as it is not considered an isolated case. A similar situation occurred during the 2023 finals held at the same venue, in a series against Corozal.
The continued lack of corrective measures to ensure uninterrupted award ceremonies leaves a poor impression and raises doubts about commitment to safety and respect for the sport.
Additionally, the live broadcast of the match on the digital platform Island Hub, used by the Cangrejeras’ management to stream games online via a pay-per-view model, was interrupted multiple times during the match. Paying fans voiced their frustration, as they invested in the service and were unable to watch the end of the game.
A night that was meant to honor the effort and talent of the Criollas ended on a sour note.
The Federation, teams, and fans all deserve celebrations that are carried out with respect and safety, upholding the spirit of the sport and its positive impact on the community.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 2, 2025. – The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, kept their title hopes alive on Friday night by sweeping the Criollas de Caguas (25-18, 25-21, 25-21) in the KIA Finals Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
Coming into the match down 1-3 in the series and having lost the previous three matches in straight sets, Santurce faced a packed Roger Mendoza court ready to witness a championship celebration.
Up two sets, the Cangrejeras maintained their rhythm and took a 16-14 lead in the third set thanks to a successful attack by Andrea Rangel from zone two, going off Stephanie Enright’s block. Later, Rangel delivered an ace followed by a back-row attack from Tamara Otene to extend the lead to 19-15. Caguas struggled to recover.
Santurce reached set point at 24-20 with a block on Enright, and it was Otene who sealed the victory with a clean attack from zone two.
After the match, Cangrejeras setter Andrea Fuentes praised her team’s character, saying they overcame the 1-3 series deficit with determination: “Coming here tonight, to a court ready to celebrate, and being able to win in straight sets shows how much character we have,” said the young setter from Caguas.
Fuentes highlighted team unity and mental composure as key factors in the win. She also stated that she feels no internal conflict playing against Caguas, explaining that at this stage of her career, she prepares to face any opponent with the same mindset.
Meanwhile, Criollas middle blocker Diana Reyes acknowledged her team’s struggles at the net and with passing but emphasized that the series is not over yet: “Now we just need to go to practice tomorrow (Saturday), focus on what went wrong, fix it, and head into Sunday ready,” she concluded.
Offensively, Andrea Rangel led Santurce with 22 points (14 attacks, 3 blocks, and 5 aces). Tamara Otene added 15, Kara McGhee scored 14, and Helena Grozer chipped in with 11 points.
No player from Caguas reached double digits; Kath Bell was their top scorer with 9 points.
The Cangrejeras dominated in all facets of the game; 47-34 in attacks, 12-3 in blocks, 7-4 in aces, 54-51 in digs, 43-34 in passes, and 18-10 in assists.
The series now returns to the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, home of the Cangrejeras, for Game 6, scheduled for Sunday at 6:12 p.m.
ASUNCION, Paraguay, April 30, 2025.- In an emotional ceremony at the Ignacio A. Pane Municipal Theater in Asuncion, Paraguay, the medals for the II Junior Pan American Games were unveiled.
The medals, which were created inspired by the guarania, a musical expression that embodies the Paraguayan soul, have the score of Jejuí (first guarania) in their design.
As the sun set over the heart of the Mother of Cities, the iconic Ignacio A. Pane Municipal Theater welcomed guests to a special evening that celebrated culture, history, and sport. In a ceremony filled with symbolism, one of the most anticipated emblems of the Games was revealed: the official medal of the Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025—a piece that honors Paraguay’s soul and identity.
During this symbolic evening, with words shared by Camilo Pérez López Moreira, President of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee and IOC member; Neven Illic, President of Panam Sports; and César Ramírez Caje, Minister of Sports, the most emblematic symbol of the event was officially unveiled: the medal of the Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025.
Inspired by the guarania, a musical expression that embodies the Paraguayan soul, the medal was presented alongside an emotional reinterpretation of Jejuí, the first guarania composed by José Asunción Flores, the father of the genre.
With just 100 days to go before the most important youth sporting event of the continent, Asunción is preparing to welcome hundreds of young athletes who will chase Olympic glory and seal their dreams with the highest honor worn on their chest: the medal.
From Inspiration and Design to a Symbol of Continental Sport
One hundred years ago, in Asunción, a young José Asunción Flores, at just 21, composed a piece whose emotional depth and lyrical beauty would come to define the Paraguayan spirit. He translated the emotions of an entire people into song, immortalizing the Paraguayan soul in the form of the guarania. This legacy, now recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, was the starting point for designing the ASU2025 medal.
The Local Organizing Committee, in collaboration with biographer Antonio Pecci—who provided invaluable insights into Flores’ life—and with the brilliant work of María Victoria Sosa Zárate, Director of the Asunción Symphony Orchestra, who succeeded in visually translating the score of Jejuí—the first guarania—into the official design of the medal. After countless hours of research and design, the medal took shape with a minimalist aesthetic, deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Paraguay.
The front of the medal begins with the characteristic 6/8 tempo of the guarania and continues with the musical notes of Jejuí, engraved within the staff that circles most of the medal’s edge. On the back, the inscription reads: “Tribute to the Centennial of the Guarania: Jejuí.” This icon will accompany each athlete as a reminder that Asunción was a turning point on their path to glory—just as it was for the creator of the genre that represents us.
Jejuí x ASU2025
As part of this tribute, Jejuí was reinterpreted by the National Symphony Orchestra. This moving version was performed live during the gala, filling the Ignacio A. Pane Municipal Theater with its sound. A renewed rendition that conveys the strength and energy that will define the Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025.
In total, 1,077 medals will be awarded at ASU2025: 333 gold, 333 silver, and 411 bronze.
The Junior Pan American Games will officially open in Asunción on August 9 and run through August 23, bringing together over 4,000 athletes from across the continent to make history.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 30, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas earned their third victory over the Cangrejeras de Santurce, moving just one win away (3-1) from claiming the Kia Final Series title of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico.
Caguas won in straight sets, 3-0 (27-25, 25-18, 26-24).
With the visitors up two sets, both teams split the technical timeouts in the third set. Santurce led the first one 8-7, with Neira Ortiz performing effectively through the middle. Caguas took the second technical timeout at 16-15 thanks to an attacking error by Helena Grozer, whose hit from zone four got caught in the net.
Kath Bell of Criollas
Attacking from zone four, Santurce’s Andrea Rangel committed an error that gave the Criollas a three-point lead (18-15). Santurce responded with pressure, showing strong net play and defense. After trailing 21-24, they rallied with three consecutive points to tie the set and force extra points. However, their surge wasn’t enough to extend the match.
The Criollas earned set point at 25-24 when Sofía Victoria broke through the Cangrejeras’ block. On the next play, Temi Thomas Ailara sealed the win for Caguas with an attack from zone four.
Following the victory, Criollas libero Okiana Valle De Jesús said:
“This series isn’t over yet; we have to come out and play again on Friday. That’s our focus. It’s not over until the final point is played and the whistle blows.”
She revealed that Caguas’ key to success, winning nine straight sets so far, has been staying focused on the present:
“We’re not thinking about the future or the championship. We’re going game by game, point by point, trying to do our best and make adjustments in the moment to win the first set, then the second, and the third, and ultimately the match. Most of all, we hope to close the series in Caguas and enjoy it,” she concluded.
The top scorers for Caguas were Kath Bell with 18 points, followed by Temi Thomas Ailara with 15, and Kristin Lux with 11.
For Santurce, Tamara Otene led with 15 points, followed by Neira Ortiz with 12, and Kara McGhee with 10.
The series returns to Caguas this Friday at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum at 8:00 p.m.
Las Cangrejeras de Santurce are the defending champions.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 30, 2025.- The FIVB welcomed a senior delegation from Orlando, Florida, to the Volleyball House in Lausanne for high-level discussions centered on strategic collaboration and the advancement of volleyball initiatives in the region.
The Orlando delegation was led by Mayor Buddy Dyer (City of Orlando), Mayor Jerry Demings (Orange County) and Jason Siegel, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission.
The visit began with a tour of the Volleyball House, followed by a formal presentation of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 by FIVB President Fabio Azevedo. This long-term framework is built on four key pillars: Professionalism, Integration, Empowerment, and Mass Participation. These principles are designed to ensure the continued global development of volleyball, with a focus on broad accessibility, growth and positive impact.
During the visit, discussions were held on the potential hosting and activation opportunities in Orlando in the lead-up to the Olympic Games LA28. This follows a highly successful Olympic Games Paris 2024 for the USA in volleyball. The USA clinched the silver medal in the women’s competition and bronze in the men’s competition.
The discussions today demonstrate the FIVB’s ongoing efforts to further elevate the profile of volleyball and amplify its reach and impact around the world.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 29, 2025.- FIVB President Fabio Azevedo and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation President Dr Ary Graça met with representatives from the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS). Their meeting aimed to further deepen their growing collaboration aimed at transforming lives through volleyball and education.
The KIIT and KISS delegation was led by Dr Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, and Dr Varun Suthra, the universities’ Director of International Relations.
During the meeting, both parties discussed a wide range of exciting initiatives, including further collaboration opportunities through volleyball events, expanded coach education opportunities and beach volleyball coaching support for the universities. Discussions also included a prospective FIVB visit to a KIIT-KISS Centre of Excellence, scholarship opportunities for talented athletes and joint celebrations for World Volleyball Day, which was recently confirmed by the FIVB Executive Board as 7 July.
This meeting builds upon the landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in October 2024 between the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, KIIT and KISS. The agreement marked a new chapter in the organization’s shared mission to drive youth participation in volleyball and open pathways for education, empowerment and development through sport.
The strength of this partnership was demonstrated during the KISS Volleyball Foundation Festival in Bhubaneswar, India, in October 2024 which set a Guinness World Record for the most players in a volleyball exhibition match, bringing together 430 participants. The festival welcomed more than 40,000 children, including 5,000 young volleyball players, in a powerful celebration of the sport’s ability to unite and inspire.
Through the FIVB’s Strategic Vision 2032, the FIVB is committed to creating more opportunities for young people through volleyball, and the collaboration with KIIT and KISS helps to make volleyball more accessible, impactful and a force for positive societal change worldwide.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 27, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas defeated the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-23) in the third match of the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
With a two-set lead, the Criollas opened the third set with a 4-0 run, including two service aces. Two consecutive attacks by Temi Thomas-Ailara, one from zone four to zone four, and another to zone one, gave the Criollas the first technical timeout with an 8-4 lead. They also reached the second technical timeout with the same four-point advantage, 16-12, thanks to an attack error by Helena Grozer of the Cangrejeras.
A kill by Diana Reyes pushed Caguas ahead by five points (18-13), prompting Santurce’s coach Pascual Saurin to call his second timeout of the set.
Temi Thomas Ailara of Caguas
A surge from Santurce closed the gap (19-20) and later (23-24), but their hopes ended there, under the guidance of Spaniard Pascual Saurin and Puerto Rican Javier Gaspar.
Kristin Lux attacked from zone four, breaking through the Cangrejeras’ block to seal the victory and give Caguas a 2-1 lead in the series.
The series will pause until Wednesday, April 30, when the Cangrejeras will host Caguas at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum starting at 8:12 p.m.
Caguas’ offense once again leaned on their three imports, with Kristin Lux leading the way with 14 points, followed by Kath Bell with 12, and Temi Thomas-Ailara with 11.
For the Cangrejeras, Helena Grozer scored 14 points, Kara McGhee contributed 12, and Neira Ortiz added 11.
After the match, Cangrejeras assistant coach Javier Gaspar said:
“It’s sad because we couldn’t get it done. The effort was there; we just didn’t execute. Credit must be given to Caguas; they made the necessary adjustments and were consistent, particularly in K-2, where we were not, and that was the difference in these two games here in Caguas.”
Regarding the return to the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, Gaspar added:
“We’ll meet to work on a few things, prepare for the next match, defend our home court, and even the series.”
Meanwhile, Caguas assistant coach Juan Albarrán commented:
“We have done a good job with our service. I think we have caused some positive things with that skill, and our reception, unlike that first match in Santurce, has remained quite stable, especially Okiana, who has maintained over 70% in reception. So, reception has kept us in it and has allowed us to distribute the offense better. We defended our home court, which was our goal for these two matches.”
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 26, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas tied the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) by defeating the Cangrejeras de Santurce 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-17) at home, the Roger Mendoza Coliseum.
With a two-set lead, the Criollas took the first technical timeout of the third set 8-5 and pulled ahead 13-9 after an attack error by Kara McGhee, prompting Spanish head coach Pascual Saurín to call his first timeout.
The home team maintained a stable passing and took the second technical timeout 16-11 following another attack error by the Cangrejeras.
Kath Bell attacked from the back row to extend the lead, and Diana Reyes served an ace that pushed Caguas ahead 18-12, a gap from which Santurce never recovered.
The Criollas reached set point at 24-16 with an effective attack from Kristin Lux on the outside (zone 4). After one point from Santurce, Lux struck again to seal the victory with another precise attack.
The series will continue Sunday at the same venue, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Caguas celebrated
After the match, Cangrejeras head coach Pascual Saurín said:
“You never expect to lose. I always come to play expecting to win. What I knew was that it would be difficult and tough, this is going to be the final series: two strong teams, two evenly matched teams, and the home-court advantage will likely play a big role. We knew today would have an atmosphere like this. Caguas came out to give it their all, and we weren’t comfortable on the court. We tried, but in the end, it just didn’t happen for us.”
Regarding what the Cangrejeras did successfully in the first match but not in this second one, the Spanish coach added:
“It’s simply about having the right sensations. In the first match, we blocked a lot. Today, our blocking wasn’t effective, mainly because we didn’t serve well. Our serving was very weak, very soft, and they, on the other hand, served very well and felt comfortable. They blocked us quite a bit. Tomorrow is another match. First, we need to recover well, and we’ll surely see a different match than what we saw today.”
Caguas head coach Juan Carlos Núñez commented:
“We didn’t come looking for a 3-0 sweep; we just came to do what we had to do: defend our home court. We needed to improve a lot from the way we played the first day because statistically, nothing worked for us. We had to find a way to serve better, be more effective at the net, and offensively match up with them. Things worked out for us today. We matched their energy through our defense, and it turned out pretty well.”
As for the plans for tomorrow’s match, Núñez concluded:
“The series is now tied. We’re heading into a third match, and we’ll keep doing what we have to do: defend our home court.”
The Criollas’ offense was well distributed among their three foreign players. Kath Bell led the team with 17 points (15 kills and 2 blocks), followed by Kristin Lux with 12 points and Temi Thomas-Ailara with 11.
For Santurce, Tamara Otene was the only player in double digits with 13 points (12 kills and 1 block).
Caguas outperformed Santurce in attacks (42-35), blocks (10-7), aces (2-0), and digs (58-57). Santurce led in receptions (48-28) and assists (26-19).
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 24, 2025.- The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, capitalized on their home-court advantage at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum to take the opening match of the KIA Final Series of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), edging out the Criollas de Caguas in an exciting five-set battle (23-25, 25-13, 25-20, 24-26, 15-7).
Holding a 2-1 set lead, the home team took the first technical timeout of the fourth set 8-4 after a block by Kara McGhee on Alba Hernández. Caguas responded with a 12-7 run and clinched the second technical timeout by a narrow margin following a service error from Santurce.
Both teams continued in a fierce back-and-forth, testing each other’s serve reception. A deflected attack by Temi Thomas Ailara gave Santurce a two-point edge at 21-19. However, the Criollas regrouped, tied the set at 22 after an attack error by Andrea Rangel, and snatched the set 26-24 thanks to an ace by Thomas and a clean finish from Kath Bell.
Andrea Rangel of Cangrejeras
In the fifth and deciding set, Santurce jumped ahead 6-3 and reached the side switch with an 8-4 lead, boosted by a service ace from Tamara Otene. Caguas was unable to recover.
Following the win, Cangrejeras captain Débora Seilhamer stated:
“We knew it was going to be an extremely tough game. We were prepared to go to the full five sets. Obviously, it’s going to be a hard-fought series from start to finish.”
The series now moves to Caguas at the Roger Mendoza court for back-to-back matches on Saturday and Sunday. About this, the veteran Seilhamer added:
“We need to prepare physically for that. Caguas has a deep bench, so they can rotate players more. We need to manage ourselves better, take care of our bodies, and try to steal one or two games in Caguas.”
Criollas captain Raymarielys Santos commented:
“We must keep working. Every night there will be a battle, so we must continue improving in every area. I believe the next practice will be very important. We need to keep studying Santurce and improve our serving. It’s going to be a long series, and we have to keep going.”
On offense for Santurce, standouts included Tamara Otene with 27 points, Helena Grozer with 20, Andrea Rangel with 18, and Kara McGhee with 15.
For Caguas, Temi Thomas Ailara led with 21 points, followed by Kristin Lux with 12 and Kath Bell with 11.
Santurce dominated the stats: 64-51 in attacks, 17-13 in blocks, 9-3 in service aces, 119-110 in digs, 48-40 in receptions, and 41-25 in assists.
The series is a best-of-seven; the first team to win four games will be crowned champion.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 24, 2025.- In an unprecedented step for the development of volleyball in the region, the NORCECA Confederation held the first official meeting of its Athletes’ Commission, reaffirming its commitment to the well-being, development, and participation of athletes both on and off the court.
The session, held virtually, followed the format adopted by other NORCECA working commissions and marked a significant step toward integrating athletes’ voices into strategic decision-making processes.
In his opening remarks, NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz emphasized that this commission was created with athletes in mind. “We are very excited to have you on board. This is the first meeting in the history of the Athletes’ Commission, which creation represents a major step forward in NORCECA’s development. The main goal is to preserve the well-being of athletes, because without them, we wouldn’t be here.”
Cuban volleyball legend and Commission President Mireya Luis gave a moving address, highlighting the importance of this new body. “This is a very important commission. NORCECA deserves for us, as athletes, to get involved. We are at a high level and must take on a major role by providing support to both active and retired athletes.”
The commission will focus on specific objectives: ensuring the overall well-being of athletes, supporting their transition to professional life after their sporting careers, protecting their rights, strengthening ties with their communities, and promoting ongoing training and education.
During the session, innovative proposals were discussed, such as a mentoring program to guide athletes seeking to enter professional sports, and training initiatives for female coaches, following the FIVB’s decision requiring that each women’s team competing in official tournaments include at least one woman on its staff.
Félix Sabio, President of AFECAVOL, highlighted that the Central American association was the first in the region to establish an athletes’ commission. “During the pandemic, there was a need to listen to and involve athletes in the process of returning to sports activity. This approach is aligned with the IOC’s strategy and should be embraced by national federations. NORCECA is at the forefront and must build a strong commission with renowned and visionary athletes.”
Mushtaque Mohammed, NORCECA Vice President and President of the Development Commissions of both NORCECA and the FIVB, presented a historical overview of NORCECA. He also emphasized the importance of preparing athletes for retirement and praised NORCECA’s credibility in development matters, highlighting the Development Center in Santo Domingo as one of the most recognized in the world.
Dr. Víctor Figueroa, President of the Medical Commission, briefly outlined the courses available to athletes on topics such as anti-doping, and physical and mental health.
Professor Nelson Ramírez, Director of the NORCECA-FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center in Santo Domingo, emphasized the center’s role in training coaches, referees, and technical personnel, as well as motivating athletes to remain involved in the sport through courses and seminars.
Key areas from the FIVB Strategic Vision 2024–2032 were also outlined, focusing on the global growth of volleyball and ensuring that athletes are supported and empowered. Among them was the Volleyball Foundation, presented by Mireya Luis.
At the conclusion of the session, Cristóbal Marte expressed his satisfaction with the success of this inaugural meeting, marking the beginning of a new chapter in NORCECA volleyball, where athletes will play leading roles not only in competition but also in the sport’s governance and evolution.
With her trademark passion, Mireya Luis closed the session with the inspiring phrase: “Athletes to the Top of the Podium.”
April 21, 2025.- The North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) expresses its profound sorrow following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a spiritual leader whose humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to peace and unity touched millions around the world.
Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, President of NORCECA, extended his heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community and to all those mourning the loss of a man who dedicated his life to service and dialogue.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” said Marte Hoffiz. “His moral leadership, tireless advocacy for the poor and marginalized, and his message of love and unity have left an indelible mark on humanity. On behalf of the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, we send our thoughts and prayers to the Vatican and to all members of the Catholic Church around the world.”
Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit Pope, was a symbol of hope for many across the globe, transcending religious and cultural boundaries with his simple yet powerful message of fraternity and inclusion. His papacy reminded the world of the importance of humility, social justice, and human dignity.
A strong advocate for the unifying power of sport, Pope Francis recognized athletics as a path to building community and promoting values such as respect, teamwork, and perseverance. In 2016, under his leadership, the Vatican co-organized the “Faith and Sport” conference with the United Nations and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). In 2022, he initiated and presided over the “Sport for All” conference, reaffirming his belief in sport as a tool for inclusion and peace. These events demonstrated his commitment to ensuring that sport remains a bridge between people of different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds.
NORCECA joins the international community in honoring the life and legacy of Pope Francis, remembering his enduring contributions to peace, faith, and global solidarity—and his genuine belief in the transformative power of sport.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, April 20, 2025. – In a thrilling battle last Thursday night, the Criollas de Caguas secured their spot in the finals of the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (25-19, 20-25, 25-20, 26-24) at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum.
With this victory, the Criollas broke the home-court trend and sparked an outburst of celebration among their fans. They claimed the semifinal series 4-2.
The Criollas de Caguas will now face the defending champion, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, in the Gran Serie Final KIA.
Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in attacks (56-53), blocks (17-11), and service aces (3-2). The Mets led in digs (62-54), receptions (40-34), and assists (39-14).
Standout offensive contributors for the Criollas included Kath Bell with 20 points (19 kills and 1 block), followed by Temi Thomas Ailara with 16 points and Kristin Lux with 14. Alba Hernández led the net defense with 6 of the team’s 9 blocks.
For the Mets, Chiaka Ogbogu shined with 20 points, and Rebecca Latham added 19.
KIA Finals Series Schedule
The Gran Serie Final KIA will be played as a best-of-seven. The first team to reach four wins will be crowned champion:
Tuesday, April 22: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Thursday, April 24: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
Saturday, April 26: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Monday, April 28: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
If necessary:
Wednesday, April 30: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 8:00 PM
Friday, May 2: Criollas de Caguas at Cangrejeras de Santurce – 8:12 PM
Sunday, May 4: Cangrejeras de Santurce at Criollas de Caguas – 7:00 PM (NEUTRAL VENUE)
April 15, 2025.- The countdown is on, as the venues for volleyball and beach volleyball at the Olympic Games LA28 have now been confirmed.
The City of Long Beach, a 2028 Venue City, will showcase Beach Volleyball at the iconic Alamitos Beach. Volleyball will be held at the Arena in Anaheim, a premier entertainment and sports venue that will undoubtedly provide the perfect Olympic stage for an unforgettable volleyball experience.
This announcement follows the extraordinary success of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 – widely celebrated as the most successful Games ever for volleyball and beach volleyball. From record-breaking viewership, incredible performances on the field of play and iconic backdrops, the sports captured unprecedented global attention.
Building on this momentum, the FIVB is confident that the LA28 Games, set to take place from 14-30 July 2028, will continue to raise the bar for volleyball at the Olympic level, and that these landmark locations will offer a spectacular setting for the world’s best volleyball athletes to compete on sport’s greatest stage.
“We are extremely excited by the confirmation of these venues and the opportunity they represent to showcase our sports at the Olympic Games LA28.” said FIVB Secretary General Hugh McCutcheon. “The Paris 2024 volleyball competitions showed volleyball and beach volleyball at their absolute best, and we are confident LA28 will continue that legacy. The FIVB looks forward to continuing to work closely with the LA28 Organizing Committee, the IOC, and all of our partners in the lead-up to what promises to be an outstanding Games.”
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 13, 2025. – Within the framework of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Board of Administration meeting, NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz held a friendly meeting with International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach at the Olympic House in Lausanne.
The conversation took place in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reinforcing institutional ties and highlighting a shared commitment to the development of sport globally, particularly in Latin America.
Thomas Bach expressed his admiration for the Dominican Republic women’s volleyball national team program, which he has followed closely after visiting the team on two occasions: during the Lima 2019 Pan American Games and later in Santo Domingo. On both occasions, the IOC President had the opportunity to witness firsthand the structure, vision, and achievements of a program that is now considered a model in the region.
“The Dominican project is a benchmark for sport throughout Latin America. It is a model to follow that shows how a clear vision and sustained investment can generate results with global impact,” Bach stated.
Marte Hoffiz took the opportunity to share the program’s key pillars, achievements, and future projections. The Dominican initiative has become a strategic national investment, yielding success in international competitions while also serving as a solid platform for talent scouting, athlete development, and the professionalization of women’s volleyball.
“This is not just a sports project, it’s a nation-building project that invests in the future of our youth and has positioned the Dominican Republic as a global volleyball power,” said Marte Hoffiz.
Thomas Bach praised the program’s long-term vision and reaffirmed the IOC’s commitment to strengthening sports in Latin America. He acknowledged that initiatives such as the Dominican women’s volleyball program inspire other nations to embrace structured development in their respective disciplines.
This meeting represents international recognition of the Dominican Republic’s women’s volleyball model, an example of how a well-executed national strategy can transcend borders and make a mark on the global sports stage.
The Dominican Republic women’s national volleyball team is currently ranked 11th in the world, consolidating its status as an emerging force in international volleyball.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 14, 2025.- Among the proposals approved were the establishment of World Volleyball Day (7 July), the expansion of the World Ranking, and much more!
The FIVB Board of Administration took several key decisions on various proposals from the Commission and Councils during its meeting, all aligned with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032’s mission to serve the Global Volleyball Movement.
Volleyball Council – World Ranking expansion
The Board approved a World Ranking proposal aligned with the current international volleyball landscape. The new proposal expands the number of event categories included and aims to foster the expanded participation of national teams. The FIVB’s dynamic World Ranking system provides an accurate assessment of a team’s technical performance, and is a credible tool for tracking a team’s progress and development over time.
Under the new framework, each Continental Confederation may include up to two Annual Continental Events in the World Ranking, while each Zonal Association may include one Annual Zonal Event. To be eligible for World Ranking points, official competitions must feature a minimum of four senior national teams.
Another key change is related to team inactivity. Previously, teams were considered inactive after one year without competition. Following the Board’s approval, this period has now been extended to two years, effective as of 2025.
The Board also approved several competition structure updates in volleyball. Notably, team rosters for Age Group World Championships will expand from 12 to 14 players to align with evolving competition demands. Meanwhile, the structure of U17 events will be brought into line with U19 and U21 tournaments, featuring 24 teams, the same qualification processes, competition formats, and world ranking points allocation.
Following the request of the Volleyball Federation of Serbia, the FIVB U19 Girls’ World Championship will see logistical adjustments, with the addition of an extra day to assist with travel, and a change in host city from Belgrade to Vrnjačka Banja, Serbia.
Heritage and Legacy Commission – World Volleyball Day!
Following the approval of the FIVB Board of Administration, 7 July has officially been established as World Volleyball Day. The date commemorates the first public demonstration of volleyball by William Morgan in 1895, and will annually serve as a global celebration of volleyball.
In line with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, in which beach volleyball turnaround is one of 15 priorities, the Board approved a proposal to launch a test in 2025 to allow beach volleyball coaches to coach on the field of play.
Focused on enhancing athlete development and creating richer in-game narratives, the pilot will cover 15 events from 23 July to 5 October 2025, including four Elite, three Challenge and eight Futures events. Should the trial be positive, then phase two of the test will see the initiative extended to all remaining events in 2025 and 2026, including the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships Adelaide 2025.
Medical Commission – 2026 FIVB Medical Congress
The Board also approved the proposal to organise a FIVB Medical Congress in 2026. The Congress will explore medicine, health and fitness within the context of volleyball. Further details will be released in due course.
Rules of the Game & Refereeing Commission – Enhancing clarity and flow
Several changes were approved to streamline the sport and make it more accessible to fans.
In volleyball, to reduce sudden rally interruptions, teams will no longer be able to request a mid-rally Challenge. Instead, teams can request a Challenge at the end of rally to review the referees’ decision regarding any action during the rally, including the service.
In both volleyball and beach volleyball, a new interpretation of the double touch rule was approved for testing. Double contact will be allowed during the setting action, provided the ball remains on the same side of the court, with faults only called for two clear consecutive touches. For balls played into the opponent’s court, as well as catches and lifts, the current interpretation will still apply. In volleyball, this new rule interpretation will be applied during the VNL 2025, then assessed before wider application across events. Meanwhile, in beach volleyball, it will be applied at the Gstaad Elite, Montreal Elite, Brazil Challenge and Baden Challenge, before being applied more widely.
Finally, the Board approved changes to the beach volleyball video challenge regulations to align with a regulation existing in volleyball where the referee’s decision remains final, but the team retains its Challenge in case of inconclusive video evidence.
Coaches Commission – New initiatives
Following the Board’s approval, a test will be conducted at the VNL 2025, age group and senior world championships, to amend out-of-rotation rules for the receiving team. Specifically, it will test the out of rotation error for the receiving team where the referees’ whistle defines the rotation, and the toss of the serve defines the moment that the athlete can change position on the court.
In addition, ongoing efforts will continue to promote female coaches and increase their visibility as role models within the sport. The Board approved a proposal for all female national teams at the VNL 2026 and Age Group World Championships to have at least one female coach registered on the match roster list
Communication Commission – Global Volleyball Movement campaign in 2025.
The Board supported the recommended launch of the Global Volleyball Movement campaign, a major digital initiative designed to expand the sport’s reach and enhance engagement worldwide. The campaign aims to strengthen volleyball’s relevance in society and promote positive change through sport.
Legal Commission – Regulatory updates
Finally, the FIVB Board of Administration approved proposed updates to the Terms of Reference (Article 5.5 of the FIVB General Regulations), reflecting recent changes to the structure and naming of the FIVB Commissions and Councils.
In addition to the Terms of Reference, important amendments to the FIVB Sports Regulations were approved to allow for more flexibility for younger athletes. Among the key regulatory changes were updates to the rules regarding national team representation and Federation of Origin (FoO). A player may now change their Federation of Origin to the Federation of Origin of his/her nationality if their FoO differs from the nationality they held prior to the initial determination of their FoO. This change must be made before either the player is registered on an O-2 form for the national team of their original FoO or before the player reaches the age of 18.
Further updates were made to the special case related to eight-year residency. Specifically, the maximum age at which a player can benefit from this special case has been increased to 38 years old. Players who apply for this special case may also have previously represented a senior national team of their initial Federation of Origin but will not be eligible to represent the national team of their new Federation.
The tracked change version of the updates to the Regulations will be published next week on the FIVB website.
Puerto Rico, April 12, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas are now just one win away from the Final after defeating the Mets de Guaynabo in Semifinal A, while the Cangrejeras de Santurce swept the Atenienses de Manatí on Saturday in Semifinal B of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico.
Home teams continue to dominate in Semifinal Series A of the LVSF. On Saturday night, the Criollas de Caguas moved one step closer to the Final with a straight-sets victory (25-23, 29-27, 25-13) over the Mets de Guaynabo at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas.
The Criollas’ offense was led by Diana Reyes and Kristin Lux, who both scored 15 points. They were followed by Sofía Victoria and Stephanie Enright, who each added 11 points.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham led the scoring with 13 points, while Paola Santiago contributed 10.
The series will continue on Wednesday, April 16, at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Cangrejeras de Santurce swept the Atenienses de Manatí in Semifinal B on Saturday with another dominant 3-0 victory (25-15, 25-17, 25-18) at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum. With this win, the Cangrejeras advance to their third consecutive final.
Santurce faced the Pinkin de Corozal in the 2023 final, where Corozal came out on top. In 2024, Santurce defeated the Atenienses de Manatí, and now they await the winner of Caguas vs. Guaynabo.
The Cangrejeras had three players in double digits: Andrea Rangel (16), Tamara Otene (14), and Kara McGhee (10).
For Manatí, last season’s runners-up, Karla Santos and Jovyrelis Ayala scored 14 and 10 points, respectively.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 13, 2025.- The FIVB Board of Administration concluded an inspiring two days of meetings, marking a historic milestone as the second day’s morning and afternoon sessions were held at the Olympic House and the Olympic Museum, respectively.
Ahead of the second day’s proceedings, FIVB Board of Administration members joined a tour of the Olympic House, deepening their connection to the heart of the Olympic Movement. The day was further elevated by the presence of several notable guests from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The FIVB Board of Administration was warmly welcomed by IOC President Thomas Bach, who shared a few words on the FIVB’s development over the years.
“We have built excellent relations [with the FIVB] over all the many years. I would like to repeat in front of all of you, that volleyball is really one of the very few International Federations which has made a real difference in setting a benchmark in the development of their sport in the last couple of years,” said President Bach.
“That means on the field of play you are a much more competitive, with more National Federations having the opportunity to compete, to compete at a higher level, and to be able to achieve diplomas, medals and distinctions to really make a difference. And off the field of play, you have embraced the social responsibility of sport. You understand that in life it’s always about giving and taking, and you cannot always only take.”
IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry also addressed the FIVB Board of Administration, stating:
“I think it’s very exciting, the future of volleyball around the world. I agree with all the sentiments that you [Fabio Azevedo] just said, spreading the sports, making them more affordable, more accessible to more people. And doing that by inspiring the younger generation to be healthier and more active is a huge priority for all of us. I’m very much looking forward to walking this journey with you.
“I think your Together as One [motto] is very much like my campaign Ubuntu philosophy, that is ‘I am because we are’. It’s very much how my leadership will continue in that style – that we need to work together to strengthen various things.”
Both IOC Director General Christophe De Kepper and Olympic Games Executive Director Christophe Dubi also joined the FIVB Board. In addition, Dubi delivered a presentation on the upcoming Olympic events – Dakar 2026, Los Angeles 2028, and Brisbane 2032.
Discussing what a sports movement means, Dubi stated: “This narrative of the power of inspiration starts at grassroots. And I think to grow a movement, it starts at grassroots…. bringing together the younger generations who are inspired… because of the display of humanity that we show in sport is incredibly powerful. [Olympic Games and World Championships] are platforms we need to use because this is where we reach the audience, this is where we build a spark. But it’s any actions outside that really matter. So, this is where actions like solidarity, actions like anything you do with your National Federations down to clubs, including the education of coaches and entourage of the teams and the athletes. This is where we make a difference. For me, this all translates into, we have a spark at the time of our events, but how do we translate it to grassroots.”
James Macleod, IOC Director of NOC Relations, Olympic Solidarity, and Olympism365, provided a comprehensive report, highlighting the successful collaboration with the FIVB.
Regarding Olympic Solidarity, Macleod commented: “It is really what we would call from the IOC side and the Olympic Movement, the development engine that we have at everyone’s disposal. And that is where our collaboration with you and your development department has been really successful. And it’s because of that collaboration that we’re able to develop volleyball across the world as much as we can.”
In addition, ASOIF Executive Director James Carr presented on the ASOIF Good Governance Report. Overall, since the initial ASOIF review in 2016-2017, the FIVB has climbed 95 points, reflecting its unwavering commitment to implementing the highest standards of good governance.
The FIVB Board also heard key updates across various Commissions, including Volleyball Empowerment, Development & Sustainability and Legal. Presentations from Volleyball World and the Volleyball Foundation, meanwhile, highlighted volleyball’s commercial growth and growing societal impact.
To conclude the meeting, the Board members received updates on an exciting calendar of volleyball and beach volleyball events, with 2025 and beyond promising an action-packed schedule. Major highlights include the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships Adelaide 2025, the VNL 2025, and the FIVB Volleyball Men’s and Women’s World Championships, set to be staged in the Philippines and Thailand, respectively.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 12, 2025.- Volleyball-loving nation of Dominican Republic set to welcome the Global Volleyball Movement next year.
The FIVB Board of Administration unanimously approved Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, as the host of the 40th FIVB World Congress 2026.
The proposal to bring the Congress to Punta Cana was presented by NORCECA President and FIVB 1st Executive Vice-President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz. The proposal highlighted the country’s vibrant sporting culture, its strong connection to the volleyball community and its reputation for delivering world-class events. Punta Cana will also host the IOC Session in 2027.
The FIVB will work hand-in-hand with the Dominican Republic Volleyball Federation to ensure an unforgettable and productive Congress in 2026.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 11, 2025. – Members of the Executive Committee of the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation NORCECA actively participated in the Board of Administration meeting of the International Volleyball Federation FIVB, held in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Led by President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, the NORCECA delegation also included Second Executive Vice President Sabinah Clement, along with Executive Vice Presidents Mireya Luis, Mark Eckert, Félix Sabio González, and Mushtaque Mohammed.
As part of the working sessions, the NORCECA officials visited the Olympic House and the Olympic Museum, two iconic spaces that embody the legacy and values of the Olympic Movement. During this meaningful visit, they had the opportunity to engage in a warm and friendly conversation with outgoing International Olympic Committee IOC President Thomas Bach.
The meeting with President Bach took place in a cordial atmosphere marked by mutual recognition. NORCECA representatives expressed their appreciation for his valuable contribution to the global development of volleyball and highlighted the bonds of friendship and cooperation he has nurtured with the volleyball community throughout his tenure.
NORCECA’s active participation in such international platforms reaffirms its commitment to the growth of volleyball and its continued integration within the global Olympic framework.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 11, 2025.– As part of the Board of Administration meeting of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), members of the Executive and the Board gathered at the Olympic House and the Olympic Museum for a day filled with inspiration, reflection, and discussions on the future of global volleyball.
One of the highlights of the event was the meeting with Thomas Bach, outgoing President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who shared moments with the FIVB leadership in a warm and mutually respectful atmosphere.
During the encounter, Mireya Luis, Executive Vice President of both the FIVB and NORCECA, expressed her heartfelt joy at reuniting with the Olympic leader. She fondly recalled her time on the IOC Athletes’ Commission, a period during which Bach played a key supportive role. “Our conversation was emotional and heartfelt. We reminisced about my time on the IOC Athletes’ Commission, a chapter during which President Bach was a tremendous support to me. Today, I had the chance to personally thank him for that invaluable guidance.”
They also exchanged thoughts on Bach’s future after completing his term at the helm of the IOC, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities that await him beyond the Olympic institution that has deeply marked their lives.
The meeting concluded with a spontaneous and symbolic gesture: a selfie that Mireya Luis described as “a cherished keepsake” from a day that reaffirms the enduring ties between volleyball and the Olympic movement.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 11, 2025.- The FIVB Board of Administration gathered yesterday for the first day of its meeting at the Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland, with serving the Global Volleyball Movement through the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 at the heart of discussions.
Ahead of the meeting, the Board of Administration joined a tour of the Volleyball House, which has recently undergone several upgrades focused on creating a more team-oriented environment, featuring collaborative workspaces.
The meeting opened with a special address from Sébastien Griesmar, Director of the Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation, who welcomed Board Members and highlighted the strong bond between the city of Lausanne, the FIVB and Global Volleyball Movement.
Griesmar stated: “On behalf of the City of Lausanne and Canton de Vaud, allow me to welcome you all. The City of Lausanne serves as the home of nearly 60 International Federations and of course, of the FIVB since 1984, followed by Volleyball World and then the Volleyball Foundation. We are grateful for your continued trust and presence here.
“We are committed to making this ecosystem even more visible in the future. A few weeks ago, we had exciting discussions with the FIVB team. We are impressed with what the FIVB has done, and we are excited for what is to come.”
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo also took a moment to congratulate several members of the Global Volleyball Movement on their recent achievements and milestones, celebrating their contributions both within and beyond the world of volleyball.
A key highlight of the day was an update on the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032. President Fabio Azevedo outlined the progress made toward the Vision’s core pillars – professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation – and reaffirmed the FIVB’s unwavering commitment to growing volleyball at all levels.
“Together as One is more than just a motto – it is a way of life and a true commitment. We want to share this message with everyone around the world,” said President Fabio Azevedo. “Through the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, we are moving from an international governing body to a Global Volleyball Movement. We want to make volleyball more relevant in society. And we want to make the world better through our sport.”
During the meeting, the appointment of Isha Ambani and Louise Bawden to the FIVB Board of Administration for the 2024-2028 Olympic cycle was announced. Meanwhile, the Board approved the recognition of two new Volleyball Associations – the Arab Volleyball Association and Association of Portuguese-Speaking National Volleyball Federations (AFVCPLP).
The Board were also presented reports and innovative proposals from the various FIVB Commissions and Councils. In addition, members were presented the Financial Report 2024 and Budget 2025.
The Board of Administration meeting continues on 11 April, with members heading to the Olympic House and Olympic Museum for a day of inspiration and further discussions.
Puerto Rico, April 10, 2025. – While the Mets were evening up Semifinal A with two wins apiece against the Criollas de Caguas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, captured their ninth consecutive set in Semifinal B against the Atenienses at the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum in Manatí.
The Mets defeated the Criollas 3-1 (20-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-15).
The series now moves to the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas this Saturday, April 12, for Game 5, in a matchup that has so far favored the home teams.
Guaynabo outperformed Caguas in attacks (53-51), aces (10-2), and digs (87-77). Both teams finished with 11 successful blocks, while Caguas led in receptions (40-28) and assists (24-20).
Guaynabo’s offense featured three players in double figures: Rebecca Latham (28 points), Paola Santiago (17), and Valeria Flores (16). For Caguas, Kristin Lux tallied 15 points, followed by Sofía Victoria with 13, and Diana Reyes and Alba Hernández with 12 each.
In Game 3 of the other semifinal series, the Cangrejeras de Santurce moved within one win of advancing to the LVSF Final after sweeping the Atenienses de Manatí 3-0 (25-17, 29-27, 25-18).
Manatí has yet to win a single set in the series. Santurce will look to complete the sweep at home this Saturday.
On offense, Santurce was led by Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer with 14 points each, along with Andrea Rangel who contributed 10 points. For Manatí, Karla Santos scored 12.
The semifinals are best-of-seven series, with the first team to win four games advancing.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 10, 2025.- The FIVB Executive Committee convened today at Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland, to address key matters and proposals aimed at strengthening and empowering the Global Volleyball Movement.
Reflecting the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 – built on the pillars of empowerment, professionalism, integration, and mass participation – the meeting placed a strong emphasis on reviewing proposals from the FIVB Commissions and Councils.
The Executive Committee also enjoyed a tour of the Volleyball House, which has recently undergone several upgrades. The redesign focused on creating a more team-oriented environment, featuring joint workspaces to foster greater communication, collaboration and efficiency.
In line with the FIVB’s commitment to sustainability, several green initiatives have also been introduced, including the elimination of single-use plastics and the promotion of environmentally responsible practices throughout the Volleyball House.
During the meeting, the Executive Committee also reviewed the agenda for the upcoming Board of Administration meeting and considered a range of proposals from the FIVB Commissions and Councils, which will be submitted to the Board.
Other key topics discussed included Changes of Federation of Origin and various administrative matters.
The FIVB Board of Administration meeting also gets underway today and will continue tomorrow on 11 April 2025.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 9, 2025.- In a key moment for the development of volleyball, the FIVB today welcomed a delegation from USA Volleyball for a high-level strategic meeting at Volleyball House in Lausanne, Switzerland. The discussions focused on strengthening the sport’s presence across America as the world looks to the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028.
The USA, a recognised powerhouse in volleyball, continues to demonstrate its talent on the world stage – most recently securing silver in the women’s competition and bronze in the men’s competition at Paris 2024.
The FIVB delegation was led by President Fabio Azevedo, who emphasised the importance of global collaboration through the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is built around the core message: Together as One. The meeting highlighted current and future opportunities to elevate both indoor and beach volleyball and expand digital engagement.
Another key focus of the discussions was the upcoming Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025, which will feature two stops in the USA: Arlington, Texas and Chicago, Illinois. These host cities will play a significant role in welcoming the world’s top teams, in what will be one of the first major volleyball competitions since Paris 2024.
USA Volleyball had the opportunity to take part in a full-day programme featuring a variety of focused sessions with department heads across the FIVB and Volleyball World. These sessions covered key areas such as legal topics, event strategies for volleyball and beach volleyball, commercial developments and innovations in digital engagement and marketing.
The USA Volleyball delegation was comprised of CEO John Speraw, Marketing Advisor Craig Thompson, and General Counsel Rachel Stafford. Present at all meetings was FIVB Secretary General Hugh McCutcheon, a former USA volleyball coach who led the USA men’s team to Olympic gold in 2008 and the women’s team to silver in 2012.
This meeting demonstrates the FIVB’s roadmap to elevate volleyball’s global impact over the next eight years. Through the principles of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation, the FIVB is aiming to make volleyball even more accessible and impactful, bringing people together, inspiring positive societal change and ensuring a brighter future for the sport.
Puerto Rico, April 8, 2025.– In the semifinals of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) of Puerto Rico, the Criollas de Caguas successfully defended their home court at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum against the Mets de Guaynabo to regain the lead (2-1) in Series A, while the Cangrejeras de Santurce continue to dominate in Series B (2-0).
The Criollas secured the victory with set scores of 25-21, 26-24, 22-25, and 25-16.
Kristin Lux led the Criollas’ offense with 24 points, followed by Sofía Victoriá with 22. Diana Reyes and Stephanie Enright each contributed 12 points. For Guaynabo, Valeria Flores tallied 22 points, and Rebecca Latham added 18.
In Series B, the Cangrejeras de Santurce once again overpowered the Atenienses de Manatí at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in straight sets, 3-0 (25-20, 25-15, 25-23). Manatí has yet to win a set in the series.
Tamara Otene led Santurce’s offense with 22 points, on 17 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. Andrea Rangel contributed 16 points, while Helena Grozer chipped in 11. For Manatí, Solimar Cestero stood out with 10 points.
The series continue on Thursday, April 10, when Santurce visits Manatí at the Juan Aubín Cruz Abreu “Bincito” Coliseum at 8:30 p.m., while Guaynabo will host Caguas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum starting at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, April 6, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo successfully defended their home court, the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, defeating the Criollas de Caguas 3-1 (25-17, 28-26, 20-25, 25-18) in the second match of Semifinal Series A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF).
The series is now tied 1-1 and will continue on Tuesday at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum in Caguas.
Rebecca Latham led with 22 points, followed by Paola Santiago with 17, Valeria Flores with 15, and Alejandra Argüello with 10. For Caguas, Diana Reyes contributed 14 points, while the team committed 25 attack errors.
Maria Carvalhaes
The home team dominated the first set from the start and held off a late surge by the Criollas. The second set was a fierce battle, eventually won by Guaynabo thanks to a key block by Alejandra Argüello. Caguas responded by taking the third set, but the Mets sealed the victory with a strong finish in the fourth.
Guaynabo outblocked Caguas 13 to 8, edged them 77 to 76 in digs, and led 40 to 30 in receptions. Both teams finished with 53 attacks and 7 aces. Caguas had the edge in excellent digs, 20 to 18.
In the other semifinal, the Santurce Cangrejeras took the first match against the Manatí Atenienses in straight sets (25-21, 25-23, 25-18), led by standout performances from Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer with 16 points each, along with 12 from Andrea Rangel and 10 from Kara McGhee.
For Manatí, in a losing effort, Tristin Savage and Solimar Cestero each scored 13 points.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 4, 2025.- The FIVB proudly welcomed participants from the LEAP Programme to Volleyball House this week, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn more about the work of the International Federation, the activities within the Global Volleyball Movement, and the development of volleyball around the world.
LEAP, the International Leadership Programme for German Sport Officials and Athletes, is designed to equip future sports leaders with the skills and knowledge required to take on senior roles in international sports organizations. Led by the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and supported by the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI) in Germany, the programme aims to strengthen German representation in global sports governance while promoting values of integrity, transparency and sustainability.
During their visit to Volleyball House, LEAP participants were given a guided tour and attended a series of presentations from FIVB executives. FIVB President Fabio Azevedo shared the organization’s Strategic Vision 2032, outlining the long-term roadmap for global volleyball development under the motto “Together as One”.
The participants also heard from FIVB Head of Legal and General Counsel Stephen Bock on such important topics as good governance and the ASOIF Report, highlighting best practices in international sports administration as well as about the major volleyball and beach volleyball events, with presentations on the Olympic Games Paris 2024, the upcoming 2025 World Championships, and LA 2028. The work of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, which uses the global reach and power of volleyball to support community projects worldwide that have a positive impact has also been presented.
The participants also heard about major volleyball and beach volleyball events, with Alise Kessler, FIVB Head of Volleyball, and Yu Cao, FIVB Head of Beach Volleyball, presenting on the Olympic Games Paris 2024, the upcoming 2025 World Championships, and LA 2028.
Paulo Barone, Head of Development and Sustainability, introduced the work of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, which uses the global reach and power of volleyball to support community projects worldwide that have a positive impact.
Speaking about the visit, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo said:
“It was an honour to welcome the participants of the LEAP Programme to Volleyball House today and share insights about the FIVB, Volleyball World and the Volleyball Foundation. Collaboration and knowledge sharing is the foundation of progress in sport. We are glad to have played a part in encouraging that, to empower and inspire future leaders who I have no doubt will play a positive role in the development of global sport in the years to come.”
Julius Brink, Olympic Champion in beach volleyball in London 2012, LEAP participant added: “The warm welcome at Volleyball House was spectacular – coming here with the LEAP programme and discussing key developments in our sport and the federation was very insightful and valuable for our entire group, but also rewarding for me personally.”
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 5, 2025. – The Legal Commission of the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) held a productive virtual meeting on Saturday, marking the conclusion of the latest round of NORCECA’s virtual commission sessions. The Finance Commission meeting will be scheduled at a later date, once the external audit of NORCECA’s Financial Statements by Ernst & Young (EY) is completed.
The meeting was officially opened by NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, who emphasized the primary objective of the session: reviewing the updated version of the NORCECA Constitution. “This revised draft, originally proposed by the Board of Administration (BOA) and Executive Committee and approved by the 2024 NORCECA Congress, represents a significant step forward in aligning the Confederation’s governance structure with FIVB standards”.
Marte Hoffiz praised the “extraordinary work” of Commission President and NORCECA Second Vice President, Sabinah Clement, who has been instrumental in leading the revision process. “The members of the Legal Commission, all experienced legal advisers, play a vital role in guiding the BOA and Executive Committee from a legal standpoint. We are deeply grateful to Sabinah for her time and expertise in this process,” he stated.
In her opening remarks, Sabinah Clement welcomed the new members of the commission and highlighted the importance of a thorough and spirited discussion on the proposed amendments to the organization’s constitution. “Our focus today is on finalizing the constitutional amendments before they are circulated for review and subsequently submitted for formal approval by the BOA and Executive Committee,” she said. Once approved, the updated Constitution will be available on the official NORCECA website.
Clement presented a report on the NORCECA Congress held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on July 6-7, 2024, which she described as a great success. The Congress was well-attended, with the participation of prominent volleyball leaders including, Dr. Ary Graça and Fabio Azevedo, who at the moment held the positions of FIVB Presidentand General Director respectively. Key highlights of the Congress included the presentation of comprehensive reports on NORCECA events, commission activities, financial matters, and the President’s annual report. Additionally, the Congress saw the re-election of Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz for a new term as NORCECA President and election of the BOA and Executive Committee members.
During the Congress, constitutional amendments were introduced to ensure alignment with the FIVB Constitution.
The NORCECA Constitution, including the amendments, was presented as a draft within the Legal Commission. A comprehensive review of the draft Constitution was the central topic of discussion.
The meeting concluded as Commission members were tasked with reviewing the document in full, as part of NORCECA’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and continued progress.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, April 4, 2025. – The Criollas de Caguas kicked off Semifinal A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) on the right foot, defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (25-19, 15-24, 26-24, 25-23) at home in the Roger Mendoza Coliseum.
With the match tied at one set apiece, both teams battled point-for-point in the third set, with ties at 21, 22, 23, and 24.
Caguas closed the set with back-to-back points: Raymariely Santos surprised the defense with a second touch, and Lauren Matthews followed with a strong spike off the Mets’ block.
Criollas celebrated
In the fourth set, the Criollas once again came from behind. Guaynabo pulled ahead 11-5 and led 16-12 at the second technical timeout, after a successful spike from Valeria Flores on the left wing (zone four).
The Mets couldn’t hold on to their 18-12 lead, and the Criollas responded with a 7-1 run to tie the score to 19, capped by a service ace from Lauren Matthews.
The teams remained tied up to 23-all. Caguas earned set point with a back-row attack by Ivania Ortiz and sealed the victory in the next play with a solid kill from Matthews on the right side (zone two).
Lauren Matthews led the Criollas’ offense with 19 points (14 attacks, 3 blocks, and 2 aces), followed by Kristin Lux with 14 and Diana Reyes with 13.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham scored 24 points, Paola Santiago added 17, and Valeria Flores contributed 15.
Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in blocks (13-11), aces (6-3), and assists (21-17). The Mets had the edge in attacks (59-51), digs (87-71), and receptions (46-43).
The next match of this best-of-seven series (first to four wins) will take place on Sunday, April 6, at the Mario Morales Coliseum in Guaynabo, starting at 5:00 p.m.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 4, 2025.- National Volleyball Federations around the world now have the opportunity to offer their registered members direct access to the sport’s premium content through a partnership with Volleyball World’s streaming service VBTV.
The agreement allows National Federations to provide their members with free or discounted VBTV subscriptions, giving them full access to the platform’s extensive digital catalog in the exciting 2025 season, which will see volleyball and beach volleyball stars begin their journeys toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
VBTV streams live all major international volleyball and beach volleyball tournaments, including the World Championships for both disciplines, the Volleyball Nations League, and the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour. The platform also showcases premier national volleyball leagues, such as the Italian, Brazilian, Japanese, and Polish leagues.
The program was designed to deliver world-class volleyball content directly to local communities through National Federations, offering them the ability to:
– Increase local engagement and loyalty.
– Improve fan experience and global integration.
– Collaborate on digital activations and marketing efforts with VBTV and the FIVB.
As many as 12 National Federations have already joined the program, including the ones of Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Hungary, Italy, Laos, Puerto Rico, Singapore and St. Eustatius.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 4, 2025.- The NORCECA Development Commission held its virtual meeting on Friday, highlighting the Confederation’s remarkable development structure, which has set the foundation for the FIVB Development Program. As a leading Confederation in sustainable support, NORCECA continues to enhance development programs for its regional members.
NORCECA President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz delivered enthusiastic opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of this initiative, “We are privileged to have our NORCECA Vice President Mushtaque Mohammed as President of the FIVB Development Commission. Mushtaque convinced me that development takes time. In addition, NORCECA Vice President Glenn Quinlan is President of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Program”.
Marte Hoffiz further acknowledged the importance of the commission as an essential channel for all NORCECA National Federations, stating that since 2008, the Confederation has worked to meet the needs of its members, not only by providing equipment annually but also by offering financial support. He underscored that sports require financial backing, and NORCECA has implemented transparent financial support mechanisms to assist National Federations, particularly those in categories 1 and 2. This support has enabled many Federations to build their local organizations and successfully host both regional and continental events.
“NORCECA proudly leads among Continental Confederations by organizing this year twenty beach volleyball tournaments and sixteen indoor tournaments, demonstrating its commitment to growing the sport at all levels” Marte added.
Mushtaque Mohammed, President of the Development Commission, reiterated the commission’s critical role in making informed proposals to the NORCECA Board of Administration and Executive Committee on highly technical matters. Expressing his appreciation for NORCECA President Cristobal Marte’s unwavering support, “I am more enthusiastic than ever, as our journey began in 2001. Thanks to Cristobal Marte’s leadership, we have had the tools to make significant progress in NORCECA and in the FIVB”.
The members were presented with a two-part commission report which highlighted the FIVB and NORCECA structures for development.
As for the FIVB, its program is modeled after NORCECA’s development structure, which has evolved to address the region’s needs and now serves as a blueprint for FIVB. Members of the Development Commission are long-time volleyball advocates who bring invaluable experience to the program.
The FIVB Development Commission now includes the Empowerment Program, which provides targeted support for National Federations, including coaching assistance, volleyball equipment, and knowledge transfer initiatives.
A vital tool introduced during the meeting is the FIVB E-Learning Platform, which offers essential resources such as coach and referee education, mandatory courses for athletes, and tutorials on various aspects of the sport, such as VIS registrations. This platform will soon be available on the NORCECA website, reinforcing education as a key development component.
The Development Commission aligns with three strategic goals of the FIVB Strategic Vision: Development, Volleyball Empowerment, and the Volleyball Foundation. However, challenges remain in ensuring that National Federations not only apply for support but successfully execute their programs. The Commission stressed the need to provide additional guidance and resources to help Federations implement their development plans effectively.
Education and e-learning are integral to this initiative, particularly for young athletes. Programs such as Play Clean and the Sport Manipulation Program must be emphasized to ensure ethical participation. Additionally, compliance with the FIVB’s new regulations on female coaching staff in women’s competitions will be implemented in NORCECA starting in 2025, with at least one female coach mandatory per team.
NORCECA’s Development Plan represented a significant financial investment, underscoring the importance of sustainable management at the National Federation level. The commission proposed a Sports Management Program for the National Federations aimed at educating local administrators in effective management practices, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Glenn Quinlan, responsible for the Empowerment Program, highlighted his commitment to assisting small National Federations in developing a system that fosters professional growth for athletes, coaches, and referees. He emphasized the importance of creating viable career pathways in volleyball, especially in countries with limited resources. “My role is to bring the experience I have gathered over the years working with small National Federations, helping them not only establish but also sustain their development”.
Additionally, Quinlan announced that the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) is in the planning stages of implementing a Sports Management Program, which could serve as a model for NORCECA’s Development Program in this area.
Professor Nelson Ramírez presented a detailed report on the NORCECA/FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center in Santo Domingo, which he directs, with details available on the NORCECA website. NORCECA is stepping forward to implement training programs for female coaches and referees in 2025, vie the Development Center, to meet FIVB’s 2026 requirements.
The meeting concluded with Mushtaque Mohammed’s closing remarks, reaffirming “NORCECA’s dedication to pushing boundaries and advancing volleyball development from success to significance is remarkable and with everybody stepping on board we will not only accomplish our goals but go beyond”.
The final round of commission virtual meetings will take place tomorrow with the Legal Commission.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 3, 2025 .– The NORCECA Beach Volleyball Commission held its virtual meeting to discuss the ongoing development and future of beach volleyball within the Confederation. With a commitment to year-round competition and structured growth, NORCECA continues to strengthen its position as a global force in beach volleyball.
Cristobal Marte Hoffiz, NORCECA President, emphasized the remarkable growth and sustainability of beach volleyball in the region over the past 20 years. “In 2025, NORCECA will host 20 Continental events, 13 stages of the NORCECA Beach Tour, two stages Under-23 NORCECA Tour, the NORCECA Qualification event for the 2025 FIVB World Championship, two underage (U18 and U21) NORCECA Qualification events for the respective FIVB World Championships and two multi-sport events (Junior Panamerican Games in Asunción and Central American Games in Guatemala).
Beach Volleyball Commission president, Eduard Drakich, welcomed the commission members, expressing gratitude for the dedication of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Department and recognizing the positive impact of NORCECA’s calendar expansion. He highlighted recent international achievements, such as Cuba’s gold medal in an Elite Volleyball World Beach Pro event and Canada’s Olympic silver medal in women, emphasizing that these teams developed within NORCECA’s system.
The Beach Volleyball Department is working diligently to increase participation across more countries and to secure FIVB ranking points for zonal association events, where permanent facilities in countries such as Nicaragua, El Salvador, Bonaire, Trinidad & Tobago, and the Dominican Republic was highlighted, and which ensure the smooth organization of events and ease of travel arrangements for athletes. While the Dominican Republic remains a key hub for beach volleyball, consistently hosting several high-profile events.
Zonal associations have been in continuous growth, in which the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) was praised delivering tournaments with massive participation, as well as the Central American Volleyball Association (AFECAVOL) who has successfully launched underage Beach Volleyball events, completing the full cycle of age-group tournaments. In addition, the NORCECA Beach Tour, in coordination with AFECAVOL, has strengthened the Central American Tour, integrating four stages within the NORCECA Beach Tour.
Among the major events scheduled for 2025 is the Senior World Qualification Tournament in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to be held before September 22, in which twelve teams per gender based on the 2024 NORCECA country rankings will compete. The Commission also discussed preparations for two U23 events leading up to Asunción, further solidifying NORCECA’s commitment to developing young talent.
A significant topic addressed was that the underage tournaments will align with FIVB’s revised age groups, U18 and U21. NORCECA U18 and U21 World Championships Qualifiers which will further showcase the Confederation’s strength in youth development. The top three countries from each of the CAZOVA and ECVA zonal qualification tournaments, the top four countries from the AFECAVOL zonal qualification tournament and all six countries from the Central Zone will compete in these Continental qualifiers.
Ariel Sainz, NORCECA First Vice-president and member of the Sports Organizing Commission, provided updates on the Junior Pan American Games to be held this year in Asunción, Paraguay. He also explained that for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games to take place in Santo Domingo, the representatives from Colombia and Venezuela must compete in the 2025 NORCECA Tour to qualify, requiring a top eight finish in the final ranking, however, for NORCECA rankings, these teams will be excluded.
Ed Drakich expressed in his closing statement, “I praise the efficiency of the meeting, and the valuable discussions held, reaffirming NORCECA’s commitment to collaboration and excellence. The Confederation’s structured approach ensures that beach volleyball continues to flourish, delivering high-level competition throughout the year”.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 2, 2025. – The NORCECA Confederation Refereeing Commission held its virtual meeting to discuss various resources aimed at optimizing referee performance and the training of new officials in the region.
NORCECA President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz welcomed the participants, emphasizing the key role that referees play in ensuring neutrality and the success of NORCECA competitions. Marte Hoffiz stated, “In recent years, refereeing has improved significantly thanks to a strong training program, I am pleased with the increase in the number of female referees, achieving gender balance. However, we need to continue these efforts as we aim to have more female referees and elevate the level of development we aspire to.”
Pati Rolf, President of the Refereeing Commission, expressed her enthusiasm for continuing the work initiated by former commission president Guy Bradbury and reaffirmed the importance of collaboration among the various working groups that have contributed to the training of new NORCECA referees. “The love for officiating is the driving force of our commission. We are a team within the team, pushing for excellence in our competitions,” Rolf stated.
During the meeting, reports from AFECAVOL, CAZOVA, and ECVA were presented, all with the goal of uniting efforts for a better future. Training initiatives, including virtual clinics and courses for continental referees, were discussed. A model was proposed where zonal clinics would serve as the foundation for replicating continental certification courses, allowing candidates to advance in their certification process.
The implementation of a “Knowledge Transfer” project was introduced, aiming to ensure that refereeing experience and training are backed by proper certification. Working groups will be established to design the necessary training programs, exposing that our Confederation is committed to creating opportunities for developing referees to gain experience and validate their knowledge under the supervision of instructors.
Pati Rolf emphasized the need for a training model that provides direct education during competitions while ensuring compliance with FIVB criteria regarding content and required preparation hours.
Mushtaque Mohammed, NORCECA Vice President and FIVB Development Commission President, suggested a combination of online theoretical classes before events and practical sessions during zonal tournaments, with different certification levels depending on the type of competition.
On this topic, Glenn Quinlan, NORCECA Vice President and FIVB Empowerment Commission President, outlined a project currently being planned for ECVA events. As ECVA President, he emphasized the need for the NORCECA Referee Commission’s collaboration to implement this initiative, which could later serve as a model for other zonal associations.
Andre Trottier and Jorge Villalobos presented a report on the general activities of Referee Coaches at beach and indoor volleyball events, respectively. They highlighted the progress of candidates in the 2024 referee courses held in Puerto Rico and the continuous supervision provided during the NORCECA Tour.
In beach volleyball, the 2025 NORCECA Tour, which includes fifteen stops, presents a major opportunity for referee candidates to complete their certification requirements. The importance of zonal associations nominating referees to participate in these events is a must.
Forms and reports that Referee Coaches will complete at the end of each competition were introduced. These documents will help track referees’ performance, categorization, and future assignments.
The need for the updates to the rules of the game was emphasized. Guy Bradbury highlighted three key rule adaptations for indoor volleyball, which will be explained by Referee Coaches to coaches during the preliminary inquires.
Manuel Calderón, member of NORCECA’s VIS Commission, announced that he is preparing a step-by-step guide for the use of Volley Station Pro and Volley Station Referee, stressing the importance of synchronizing both systems to ensure accurate data management. Additionally, he explained that pre-tournament clinics have been implemented during competitions to train scorekeepers and ensure proper use of these tools.
The urgent need to update NORCECA’s referee database in the FIVB VIS system was reaffirmed. Each zonal association will be responsible for compiling and providing this data.
In her closing remarks, Pati Rolf expressed gratitude to NORCECA for its ongoing support to referees, stating, “The positive work environment and our achievements in competitions and meetings like this one, are the result of NORCECA’s commitment, including that of its referees.” She added, “I am excited for the upcoming events and reaffirm that our commission is dedicated to the growth and professionalization of refereeing in the region.”
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 1, 2025.- The Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) delegation, led by Secretary General Hugh Graham – who also serves as the Executive Vice-President of the FIVB and President of the Oceania Zonal Volleyball Association (OZVA) – embarked on a week-long visit to Lausanne, Switzerland, to meet with the leadership and key departments of both the FIVB and Volleyball World.
The visit focused on strengthening collaboration, enhancing operational knowledge and reinforcing a shared vision for the global growth of volleyball.
A key highlight was a meeting with FIVB President Fabio Azevedo, where discussions centered on the continued development of volleyball around the world through the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, and the pivotal role of Continental Confederations in driving progress. The delegation also attended an insightful presentation by the FIVB General Sports Director Steve Tutton, who provided a detailed outline of the strategic vision, which emphasizes four core pillars: Professionalism, Integration, Empowerment and Mass Participation.
Throughout the week, AVC representatives engaged in detailed discussions with various FIVB departments, collaborating on a broad range of topics. These included Volleyball Empowerment and Development programs, communications and social media management, organization of corporate events, legal framework and good governance, and sustainability, which all explored initiatives aimed at ensuring the long-term growth of volleyball. Additionally, sessions with Administration, HR & Finance as well as the Legal department addressed key regulatory frameworks and governance. Technical discussions were also held with the Heads of both Volleyball and Beach Volleyball, who outlined the exciting plans for the future of each discipline under the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032.
The delegation also spent significant time with Volleyball World, the commercial arm of the FIVB, dedicated to growing the sport’s visibility and business portfolio. These discussions covered multiple aspects of the organization’s operations, including sponsorship and media strategies, marketing and digital content, technology and VBTV, finance and event management, and overall business growth.
The delegation additionally had the opportunity to explore more of Lausanne, visiting the Olympic Museum as well as the historic Lausanne Cathedral.
This visit demonstrated the shared commitment of the FIVB, Volleyball World and AVC to empower the Global Volleyball Movement and to elevate the sport globally through sharing expertise and aligning on strategic priorities.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 1, 2025. – The NORCECA Technical and Coaches Commission held its virtual meeting focused on coach development and knowledge transmission, aiming to strengthen volleyball within the NORCECA Confederation.
NORCECA President, Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, highlighted in his welcome speech the importance of the commission’s role and its members in fostering the growth of volleyball in the region. “Our Confederation has greatly supported the efforts of the FIVB Empowerment Program, a highly significant plan for strengthening national teams.”
During the meeting, strategic plans for 2025 and 2026 were discussed, focusing on increasing support and equipment for the National Federations most in need. Additionally, the necessity of developing national teams and coaching programs was emphasized, encouraging coaches to complete Level 1 and 2 courses, especially women. This aligns with the new FIVB regulation that, starting in 2026, will require all national women’s teams to include at least one female member in their coaching staff for international championships.
The commission’s president, Francisco Cruz Jiménez, underscored the importance of active participation from all members to address key issues and continue raising the level of volleyball in NORCECA. Cruz highlighted the need to evaluate the relationship between investment and performance in competitions, promoting an effective assessment of the impact of development programs.
The challenges faced by National Federations in various zonal associations were recognized, as well as the need to find sustainable solutions to overcome them. Among the recommendations was conducting a country-specific diagnostic of what needs to be implemented, evaluating its execution, and periodically reviewing its effectiveness.
A key discussion point was the implementation of the “Coach-to-Coach” program, designed to assess each federation’s needs and ensure proper execution through periodic reviews.
Mushtaque Mohammed, NORCECA Vice President and President of the FIVB Development Commission, stressed that the solution does not lie solely in coach training but also in improving governance within National Federations. Additionally, Mohammed emphasized the importance of efficient management in National Federations, as proper governance is crucial for the success of development programs in all aspects of the sport.
Mohammed elaborated on the idea that, besides technical training, coaches should incorporate athlete education into their development programs, define investment strategies, and work in collaboration with National Olympic Committees and local governments.
The session also included discussions on implementing training courses for coaches through the NORCECA-FIVB Regional Development Center in Santo Domingo. The need to offer refresher seminars for Level 3 coaches and to restore specialized clinics, which had been part of NORCECA programs in previous years, was also addressed.
The meeting featured the participation of John Kessel from the United States, a member of the commission, and NORCECA Vice President and Volleyball Canada President Mark Eckert, who shared experiences on empowerment programs. Kessel referenced the “Let’s Keep the Ball Flying” and “Volleyball Foundation” initiatives, which drive social development worldwide, leveraging the power of volleyball to tackle social imbalances and bring about positive social change. Meanwhile, Mark Eckert highlighted that Canada’s women’s volleyball program has benefited from the FIVB Empowerment Program, a model that helped improve their world ranking from 18th to 8th place in just four years.
Finally, Marte Hoffiz expressed his satisfaction with the session’s outcomes, noting that several proposals will be presented to the NORCECA Board of Administration for consideration. In his closing remarks, he stated, “Above all, there must be a strong will to ensure that coaching education programs and all aspects of development achieve the results we aim for.”
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 31, 2025. – As the virtual meetings of NORCECA commissions continued, the NORCECA Sports Organization Commission met to assess key points for establishing criteria and procedures that will guide the preparation of the Confederation’s competition calendars, including the Olympic cycle.
NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz emphasized the importance of this commission as the backbone of the Confederation, “With the planning and execution efforts of the Sports Organization Commission, we ensure effective preparation for the events in our calendar, both for 2025 and the next four years.”
Commission President Ariel Sainz highlighted, “Working together is crucial for the continuous development of volleyball. We have fundamental points that must be considered for the effective functioning of NORCECA, serving as a platform and support system for the other working commissions of the Confederation.”
The members addressed the details of two multi-sport events in 2025, as well as 14 continental tournaments and 15 stops on the NORCECA Tour, all scheduled for 2025, reinforcing the Confederation’s reputation and its impact on the development of volleyball in the region. Additionally, financial support was confirmed for all national federations for their preparation.
Besides reviewing NORCECA’s 2024 annual activity report, presented by Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, the meeting also discussed the work report presented by Sainz, who emphasized preparations for the 2025-2028 events.
Preparations for multi-sport events include technical visits, drafting technical manuals, and structuring competition calendars. This process has already been completed for the 2025 II Junior Pan American Games in Asunción, Paraguay. Progress has also been made for the 2026 XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, highlighting the qualification process of Colombia and Venezuela. For the 2027 XX Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, work is underway on the qualification system, which includes the winners of the 2025 II Junior Pan American Games and the highest-ranked team from a Confederation that does not win the championship. Meanwhile, for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, USA, it was confirmed that the champions of the 2026 Continental Championships will qualify.
The commission’s mission is to ensure effective organization to guarantee the success of each competition. A preliminary calendar for 2026 was also established, allowing host countries to plan ahead and submit proposals to NORCECA.
The importance of setting clear procedures and criteria for selecting host cities for major events, such as Olympic and World Championship qualifiers, was emphasized. Applicant countries must have prior experience in organizing competitions of the corresponding category.
The 2025 competition regulations and the 2024 NORCECA ranking are already available on NORCECA’s website. Additionally, zonal associations (AFECAVOL, CAZOVA, ECVA) were urged to prepare zonal rankings by category, as NORCECA continues to award ranking points for all events organized by these associations.
The strategic vision of the FIVB for 2024-2032 was also reviewed, which sets 15 priorities for the development of volleyball and beach volleyball. NORCECA aims to strengthen its Continental Championships, Senior Pan American Cups, and the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour to enhance the relevance of regional events, elevating their competitive and organizational levels.
Finally, the resumption of the XIII Central American Sports Games 2025, to be held in Guatemala, was highlighted, with Carlos Enrique Santis, NORCECA’s General Secretary and President of the Guatemalan National Federation, acting as FIVB Supervisor.
Ariel Sainz concluded, “Strong foundations guide our Confederation in tackling the complexities of the 2025 calendar, with the establishment of control committees to ensure the growth and development of volleyball in the region.”
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 30, 2025.– The Mets de Guaynabo became the fourth semifinalist of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after dominating Section A of the quarterfinals with a third consecutive victory over the Changas de Naranjito.
The Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Changas de Naranjito 3-0 (25-20, 26-24, 25-23) on Sunday at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum. Despite the loss, Naranjito fought until the last play of each set.
In the semifinals, the Mets de Guaynabo will face the Criollas de Caguas in Series A. Meanwhile, Series B promises to be a memorable battle between the defending champions, the Cangrejeras de Santurce, and the runners-up of the last tournament, the Atenienses de Manatí. The semifinals will begin on April 4.
During the quarterfinal match, the Changas were close to taking the second set with a 23-20 lead, but a 6-1 run by the Mets denied them the opportunity. In the third and decisive set, Naranjito came within 23-24, but a service error cost them the match and ultimately their postseason hopes.
Naranjito ended the season without securing a single road victory, including this quarterfinal series.
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham with 16 points, supported by Valeria Flores and Paola Santiago, who each contributed 14 points.
For Naranjito, the top scorer was Genesis Collazo with 11 points.
Statistically, Guaynabo dominated in key areas, holding advantages in attacks (41-38), blocks (10-8), aces (8-2), digs (51-48), receptions (31-29), and assists (18-14).
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, March 29, 2025. – The Cangrejeras de Santurce swept their quarterfinal series in Section B of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) against the Valencianas de Juncos after securing their third consecutive victory.
The Cangrejeras defeated the Valencianas 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-17) on Saturday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan.
With two sets in their favor, the Cangrejeras sealed the victory after dominating the second technical timeout of the third set with a 16-13 lead. Neira Ortiz attacked through the middle, Helena Grozer scored from zone four, and Ortiz struck again with two consecutive attacks. A block on Markenzie Benoit extended the lead to 20-13, a deficit that Juncos could not recover from.
Santurce reached set point at 24-17 with a powerful cross-court attack from Tamara Otene in zone four, then secured the win on the next play with an ace from Cristina Martínez.
Helena Grozer led the Cangrejeras with 15 points (13 attacks, 1 block, and 1 ace). Andrea Rangel contributed 14 points, while Tamara Otene added 13. For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge stood out with 16 points.
The Cangrejeras outperformed the Valencianas in attacks (46-33), blocks (9-7), and assists (18-12). Juncos had the advantage in aces (5-2), digs (45-38), and receptions (31-27).
In the semifinals, the Cangrejeras will face last season’s runners-up, the Ateniensesde Manatí, who advanced directly to this stage after finishing second in the regular season.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 29, 2025.– In recent years, the NORCECA Confederation has been a leader in anti-doping controls, with a growing commitment to ensuring the education and health of athletes, which was reinforced during the organization’s Medical Commission virtual meeting.
Under the leadership of NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, the Confederation has been a pioneer in conducting anti-doping tests, including testing in junior and youth competitions for several years.
Dr. Víctor Figueroa, President of the Medical Commission, expressed his gratitude to the members for being part of the commission and highlighted their commitment during competitions.
Dr. Figueroa emphasized, “NORCECA has reached agreements with local anti-doping agencies, leading to significant progress in complying with international regulations. The Medical Commission has undergone major changes with the inclusion of new members and the definition of specific duties for medical delegates, which have been extensively discussed with the members.”
During the Medical Commission meeting, key topics were addressed to improve the performance of medical delegates and strengthen their role in sports events. NORCECA has implemented clear procedures that have been in practice for several years, which were presented to the FIVB with the aim of being replicated in international events.
The well-being of athletes and referees remains a priority for the commission. It was highlighted that athletes must be well-informed about medication use and anti-doping regulations. NORCECA expects medical professionals to contribute their expertise for the benefit of athletes while maintaining trust, confidentiality, and loyalty.
The commitment to making decisions in the best interest of volleyball and NORCECA was reaffirmed, avoiding conflicts of interest. Medical Commission members must meet annually for updates, participate in working groups, and maintain constant communication to share insights and improve processes.
In Dr. Víctor Figueroa’s report, the responsibilities of the medical delegate during competitions were outlined, including: ensuring the presence of local medical personnel before the competition; verifying medical facilities and doping control areas; ensuring the availability of sports medical staff during training and matches; explaining medical protocols in preliminary meetings; verifying the proper completion of medical forms; conducting medical check-ups for referees; supervising the adequate nutrition and hydration for teams; collecting injury forms; acting as a safeguarding officer for athletes and referees; and ensuring that all teams have medical insurance.
At NORCECA events, anti-doping education has been provided to athletes before competitions, and this practice will continue as part of its educational program. The goal is to raise awareness of the consequences of using prohibited substances and their serious health risks, therefore all competition regulations establish that athletes must complete the FIVB “Play Clean” program, with medical delegates reinforcing compliance.
Although alcohol testing is no longer mandatory, if requested, all necessary elements must be made available to conduct the tests.
NORCECA has signed an agreement with the Pan American Regional Anti-Doping Organization (ORAD-PAN) for sample collection during competitions, with the medical delegate responsible for facilitating and supervising the process to ensure efficiency.
In 2024, all anti-doping tests conducted at NORCECA events returned negative results. For 2025, the agreement and testing will continue across all competitions, reaffirming NORCECA’s commitment to athlete health.
Significant advances have been made in medical care, and the work of the Medical Commission remains essential for its implementation.
NORCECA’s virtual commission meetings will continue until April 5, with the next meeting, scheduled for March 31, bringing together the members of the Sports Organization Commission.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 27, 2025.- In what was a highly productive meeting this week, the FIVB team met with key representatives from the Canton de Vaud of Switzerland. With collaboration opportunities in mind, discussions centered around impactful social projects and the growth of volleyball and sport in the canton.
Representing the FIVB were President Fabio Azevedo; Volleyball World Chairman Fernando Lima; FIVB Finance and Administration Director Giuseppina Rigamonti; Head of International Affairs and Communications Anna Manuelian, and Head of Volleyball Alise Kessler.
The Canton de Vaud was represented by President of the Council of State of Vaud Christelle Luisier Brodard ;DeputyHead of Physical Education and Sport Raoul Vuffray, and Director of the Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation Sébastien Griesmar.
A key focus of the meeting was the presentation of the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, a long-term plan aimed at strengthening the global volleyball ecosystem through four core pillars; Professionalism, Integration, Empowerment and Mass Participation. These principles aim to make volleyball even more accessible and impactful, bringing people together, inspiring positive societal change and ensuring a brighter future for the sport.
The FIVB team also showcased a series of social impact projects that reflect the Federation’s commitment to using volleyball as a tool for positive change in the world.
Another key topic was partnership opportunities between the FIVB and the Canton de Vaud. As the home of the FIVB headquarters, the Canton de Vaud plays a crucial role in supporting international sport. Both sides expressed a shared interest in strengthening collaboration for future initiatives.
During the meeting, President Fabio Azevedo highlighted the strong leadership of Madame Luisier Brodard, stating:
“The leadership of President Christelle Luisier Brodard has been instrumental in ensuring a positive and supportive environment for the growth of volleyball and sport in a region so often seen as the heart of the Olympic Movement. We are grateful for her ongoing commitment to our shared goals and the continued strong relationship between the FIVB and the Canton de Vaud.”
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 29, 2025.- The FIVB delegation, led by President Fabio Azevedo, recently met with the German Volleyball Federation (DVV) to discuss the sport’s development in Germany. Discussions focused on the impact of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program, recent success of volleyball athletes from Germany, and plans for the future as the two organizations explored additional collaboration opportunities.
The German delegation was represented by DVV President Markus Dieckmann and CEO René Beck.
A key focus of the meeting was reviewing the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program’s contributions to volleyball in Germany. To date, the FIVB has invested CHF 288,000 across four projects, primarily supporting coaching development to enhance the performance of national teams. This investment has already led to significant milestones, including the women’s national team qualifying for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 in Thailand, the men’s national team securing a spot at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 in the Philippines, and the girls’ U19 national team earning qualification for the FIVB Volleyball U19 World Championship 2025 in Croatia and Serbia.
The discussions also centered around FIVB and Volleyball World’s global strategies and priorities, the current status of volleyball in Germany, key challenges and potential solutions, future collaborations, including funding and marketing initiatives, and shared targets for the sustainable development of volleyball in the country.
Another key topic was Germany’s recent success in international volleyball and beach volleyball, particularly at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 with Nils Ehlers and Clemens Wicklerwinning silver medal in beach volleyball.
The FIVB and DVV also explored opportunities to host future FIVB events in Germany, reflecting the country’s position as a key market for volleyball.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing collaboration, ensuring that German volleyball continues to grow at all levels, in line with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032. The stage is set for an exciting future for volleyball in Germany.
NARANJITO, Puerto Rico, March 29, 2025.– In the continuation of the Section A quarterfinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), held at the legendary Gelito Ortega court in Naranjito, the Mets de Guaynabo secured their second consecutive victory over the Changas de Naranjito, putting them just one win away from the semifinals.
The Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Changas de Naranjito 3-1 (25-19, 17-25, 26-24, 25-23).
With the match tied at one set apiece, the third set proved to be the most intense, extending into extra points, where the visiting team emerged victorious by holding off the home team’s surge.
In the fourth set, Naranjito refused to back down, making a strong push in the final phase, but was unable to complete the comeback. Guaynabo reached set point (24-19) with a powerful spike from Rebecca Latham. Although Changas scored four consecutive points, a hitting error by Génesis Collazo sealed the match.
Rebecca Latham once again stood out as Guaynabo’s key player, scoring 27 points, including 25 attacks and two blocks. Paola Santiago contributed 20 points, while Valeria Flores added 13.
For Naranjito, Adanna Rollins led the scoring with 27 points, followed by Aury Cruz with 14 and Génesis Collazo with 13.
The Mets dominated in attacks (62-50) and digs (80-60). Both teams recorded three aces, while the Changas led in blocks (17-13), receptions (42-35), and assists (23-16).
The Section B quarterfinals between the Cangrejeras de Santurce and the Valencianas de Juncos will continue with their third match on Saturday, March 29, at 8:12 PM at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum. Santurce leads the series 2-0, and a victory would send them to the semifinals against the Atenienses de Manatí.
If necessary, a fourth match would be played at the Rafael G. Amalbert court in Juncos on Monday, March 31, at 8:30 PM.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 28, 2025. – The NORCECA Marketing Commission met to discuss efforts aimed at strengthening the institution through the implementation of strategic plans designed to attract regional and local sponsorships.
This marks the third session of NORCECA’s working commissions, all of which have been held online.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to developing and strengthening the local market at each event, with the goal of generating revenue for the Confederation and supporting local sponsorships.
In his opening remarks, NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz highlighted the Confederation’s commercial relationship with MIKASA, its main sponsor, “NORCECA and MIKASA Corporation established a historic, long-term partnership through which we have provided equipment and balls for volleyball and beach volleyball events. With this in mind, I want to emphasize that we can explore the possibility of establishing new regional sponsorships with medium-term contracts, thereby expanding the Confederation’s financial support and visibility”.
Marketing Commission President Carlos Beltrán led the discussions with a focus on the importance of self-management within the organization, “Our efforts must be more proactive and collective to create greater opportunities that attract sponsors. We need to establish clear terms and conditions for commercial agreements that will allow NORCECA and its members to take the next step in the development of volleyball in the region”.
Commission members shared their insights and proposals based on their experience, emphasizing the need for a solid Marketing Plan to serve as a guide for event organizers. Going forward, event organizers will be required to submit a marketing plan, ensuring that each event has defined strategies to attract sponsors and a larger audience.
Key elements of the strategic plan include identifying potential global sponsors through in-person negotiations and long-term public relations efforts. Sponsorship models based on “in-kind” contributions remain beneficial alliances for both brands and event organizers. Additionally, promotional strategies may be adapted according to the age group of the events.
Broadcasting through local and international television, as well as digital media, is vital for NORCECA’s growth, ensuring visibility for the sport, if good-quality production is guaranteed to appropriately project the organization’s image.
The Marketing Commission will seek to implement a support system and advance planning for countries hosting an event for the first time.
NORCECA continues to work on innovative strategies to strengthen its presence, ensuring that each event is successful both in terms of organization and impact on the sports community.
NORCECA’s commission meetings will continue with the Medical Commission.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 27, 2025 – The President of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), Fabio Azevedo, joined in expressing condolences to the Arias Family following the passing of Ricardo Arias, the “Father of Dominican Volleyball,” who passed away recently in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
President Fabio Azevedo sent a warm felt letter addressed to the Family of Ricardo Arias on behalf of the FIVB in which he underlined that Ricardo Arias was more than a coach, he was a visionary, a mentor and a role model for many athletes.
“His passion and unwavering dedication to volleyball transformed the sport in Dominican Republic and beyond, and his influence reached far beyond the court. He helped to shape not only skilled athletes but also strong and confident individuals”.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ricardo was a cherished colleague and friend, whose kindness, knowledge and support was appreciated by many.
Azevedo’s words offer comfort to the Family of Ricardo Arias, “May you find comfort in knowing that he left an indelible mark which will be felt for generations to come, and that his spirit will continue to live on through our sport”.
President Fabio Azevedo and the FIVB send out heartfelt sympathies as they join not only his family, but his friends, his colleagues as well as the volleyball and sports communities in the Dominican Republic and beyond in celebrating his life and honouring his contributions to volleyball.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, March 27, 2025. – Defending champions Cangrejeras de Santurce are just one victory away from advancing to the semifinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after defeating Valencianas de Juncos 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-19) at the Rafael G. Amalbert court.
With a two-set lead, the Cangrejeras maintained control in the third. After the second technical timeout, a block against Emily Elliot put them ahead 19-15.
Juncos closed the gap to 18-19 thanks to an attack from Kelly Sánchez from zone four, but two errors by the home team allowed the Cangrejeras to regain a 21-18 lead, never looking back.
Santurce secured the set with two consecutive blocks, reaching 23-18. They earned match point at 24-18 after an off-target attack by Emily Elliot and sealed the victory at 25-19 with an attacking error from Hodge in zone four.
The statistics reflected Santurce’s dominance: 31-28 in attacks, 10-4 in blocks, 5-4 in aces, 52-47 in digs, and 12-11 in assists. Juncos had led in receptions (30-18).
On the offensive side, Andrea Rangel and Tamara Otene led the Cangrejeras with 14 and 11 points, respectively. For Juncos, only Emily Elliot reached double digits, scoring 11 points.
The next match in this Section B quarterfinal series will take place on Saturday, March 29, at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, home of the Cangrejeras de Santurce, starting at 8:12 p.m.
In the other quarterfinal series, corresponding to Section A, the Mets de Guaynabo (1-0) will face the Changas de Naranjito (0-1) this Friday, March 28, at the legendary Gelito Ortega court at 8:00 p.m.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 27, 2025. – The Technical, Statistics, and Volleyball Information Systems (VIS) Commission held a virtual meeting in preparation for an exciting 2025 filled with events and advancements in volleyball statistics.
The President of the Technical, Statistics, and VIS Commission, Judith Sandino, highlighted during the commission meeting the importance of maintaining the standard of work, strengthening the statistical area, and reaffirming the commitment to continuous improvement.
The meeting was key to consolidating the management of Volley Station Pro and enhancing work interconnection as growth opportunities for the VIS supervisors appointed to NORCECA competitions.
In addition to the Commission’s report, members discussed the reports presented by NORCECA’s Zonal Associations. Commission members Manuel Calderón and Claudia Rivera were responsible for the reports from the North and Central Zone (NCVA) and the Central America Zonal Association (AFECAVOL), respectively. Both highlighted the progress within their respective zones. NORCECA Vice President Mushtaque Mohammed presented the developments in the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA), while Glenn Quinlan outlined the improvements and advancements made by the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA).
Among the most significant achievements of the Commission was the collaborative work with the Refereeing Commission to integrate the electronic scoresheet and tablets used in events, ensuring proper correlation of information.
Discussions focused on ensuring VIS delegates actively engage alongside competition directors to certify that the personnel responsible for the electronic scoresheet records the information accurately and promptly, maintaining match control.
The constant updating of refereeing officials and the implementation of technological tools will facilitate match development.
A detailed manual will be established for managing the electronic scoresheet, including clear steps and criteria for individual awards. Additionally, practical clinics will be developed to test the systems and train the technical team in their use.
NORCECA has made the necessary efforts and measures to integrate VIS with Volley Station, aligning with FIVB standards, optimizing data collection and management, and improving the quality of statistical analysis. Although the transition to the new system has been challenging, significant progress has been made.
One of the key factors driving the VIS Commission is the continuous development and training of local personnel, contributing to the preparation of new delegates to strengthen the system in NORCECA’s zonal tournaments through enhanced technical support and technology.
The impact of statistics on the development of national teams is crucial, as they provide essential data on athletes’ performance.
As the meeting progressed, it evolved from a series of report presentations into a dynamic working session addressing specific issues related to the timely management of statistics.
Manuel Calderón presented a Zonal Development Plan focused on the standardization and strengthening of zonal associations. The goal is for each National Federation or Zonal Association to have VIS supervisors, reinforcing the statistical structure to ensure continuous growth.
With these advancements, the VIS Commission reaffirms its commitment to continuous improvement, the efficient use of technology, and the professionalization of volleyball in the region.
The next NORCECA Working Commission meeting will be led by the Marketing Commission.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 27, 2025 .– The Mets de Guaynabo kicked off Section A of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) quarterfinals on the right foot by defeating the Changas de Naranjito 3-1 (25-19, 25-23, 20-25, 25-17).
Facing two sets down, the Changas managed to maintain a more solid passing game, allowing them to execute a fast attack from the wings and extend the match to a fourth set.
The top scorers for the Mets victory were Rebecca Latham, who tallied 28 points (25 in attacks, 2 blocks, and one ace); Paola Santiago with 20; Valeria Flores with 15; and Alejandra Argüello with 11.
Maria Clara Carvalhaes of Guaynabo
For Naranjito, which has yet to secure a win on the road this season, the best scorers were Adanna Rollins with 23 points, Génesis Collazo with 16, and Taylor Trammell with 11.
Guaynabo was superior in attacks (63-56), blocks (14-9), digs (96-89), and receptions (38-33). Naranjito led in aces (4-3) and assists (31-20).
Series A will continue next Friday at the legendary Gelito Ortega court in Naranjito, starting at 8:00 p.m.
In Section B, the quarterfinals will resume on Thursday, March 27, at the Rafael G. Amalbert court in Juncos, where the Valencianas will host the Cangrejeras de Santurce, who claimed victory in five sets in their first encounter.
March 26, 2025.- Mexico’s women’s volleyball team is moving forward with a new sense of purpose. The program is gaining better coaching, stronger training and more opportunities to grow through the support of FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. The goal was not only to improve results, but to also build a system where athletes feel supported and confident – an approach that is already making a difference on and off the court.
The women’s program is experiencing a shift driven by new ideas and renewed direction. The Empowerment initiative has provided the platform to introduce structural improvements, focused development plans and a stronger framework for long-term growth. What once felt fragmented is gradually being shaped into a clearer pathway for players and staff alike.
“For years our national women’s team has been nurtured by very talented young people who have trained from the youth categories at the national and international level,” said Mexican Volleyball Federation (FMVB) President Jesús Perales Navarro.
“We’ve always been known for having young and very brave teams across all categories. One of our biggest challenges was losing experienced players who had stood out at the professional level. But thanks to the excellent work of coach Nicola Negro, the national team – made up of very young girls playing in the NCAA – developed a new style of play and strong potential for the future.”
Mexico’s Key Achivements with Volleyball Empowerment
Since 2020, Mexico has received more than CHF 1 million in Empowerment support from FIVB, focused primarily on technical leadership. In 2023, the program delivered CHF 108,000 through application-based support and CHF 274,000 in targeted support. In 2025, the Empowerment support has entered its most significant phase yet, with CHF 320,000 allocated for a further 12 months of coaching support.
“For us as a country, this marked a turning point in Mexican volleyball,” Perales said. “It was a radical change from the start, as we had always relied on local coaches to lead our national teams. When Petry arrived, we began to see a new way of working – how we trained, how we prepared for competitions, and how we approached match analysis. Later, when Nicola and his team joined, this transformation grew stronger. The demands on the team increased, the players’ commitment to the national team deepened, and both the pace and quality of training improved. It created a new mindset and a stronger sense of belonging among our athletes.”
Perales said the arrival of experienced coaching and consistent support helped reshape the program.
“The Empowerment program has made a real difference, especially through coaches who adapted their training systems across all categories. The support, including materials and funding for experienced coaches, has transformed the national team,” he said. “This support has helped us build a stronger foundation, which we hope will shape our future senior team. We have young players with great potential and physical ability who will strengthen the team.”
“The work, discipline and clear objectives of each team member, all guided by coach Nicola Negro, helped our team reach a higher level with the support of the Empowerment program. We trained in better conditions, and this brought us closer to our coach’s system and style of play,” he added.
As the team prepares for the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship, Perales said the program is focused on every detail.
“We have worked together with the technical team to prepare for the start of the season,” he said. “The physical trainer monitors each athlete’s progress daily, and we’re organising tournaments at home to help create the best possible conditions for the team before the World Championship. We’re also planning pre-camps and friendly matches.”
He said Negro’s tactical approach has brought a new rhythm and identity to the team.
“Nicola Negro gave another perspective to our game, taking advantage of and playing with the physical conditions that our team presents, adapting a faster game that makes it more complicated when playing against our country.”
Mexico’s results are already telling the story. Since 2021, the team has participated in three editions of the Women’s Pan American Cup, the NORCECA Senior Continental Championship and the Central American and Caribbean Games.
From 2023 onwards, their performances have stepped up. Mexico secured a silver medal at the U23 Pan American Cup in 2023, bronze at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, silver at the 2024 NORCECA Women’s Final Four and bronze at the 2024 NORCECA Women’s Final Six. Several players have earned places in tournament Dream Teams, including awards for best blocker, best attacker and notably best setter at the 2023 Pan American Games.
“It has had a major impact and is very important for our national team. The Mexican Olympic Committee (COM) and the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport (CONADE) continue to support international events in our country because they recognize our team’s potential and what it can achieve,” said Perales.
“The support has given us the tools to evaluate the current state of our program, and from there, start building with stronger foundations,” he added. “We are now working to define roles and responsibilities within the program to build a stronger structure for the future. This has helped players feel more supported and confident. The change in direction is giving athletes a better environment to grow. It’s not just about training harder — it’s about training smarter, knowing our goals, and trusting that there’s a system behind them guiding the way.”
Athletes themselves recognize the shift.
“In my opinion, it had a big impact, and all for the better,” said Grecia Castro. “From the very beginning, when we were able to bring in a new staff, it had an impact because it gave us the chance to see volleyball in a different way than what we were used to. I’m preparing in the same way I always have – with consistency and a lot of sacrifices, staying focused and always trying to bring out the best version of myself. Because I feel that having learned so much has opened the door to new teams for me.”
“The FIVB Volleyball Empowerment support has helped us in the best way possible, as it gave us the opportunity to have a highly professional foreign coach, with a lot of experience, and we’ve seen quite a few changes since he joined the Mexican women’s national team,” captain Jocelyn Urias said.
“We’ve significantly improved our level. With the preparation for the World Championship, I feel we will be much better prepared than in previous years, as there have already been more Mexican players abroad, whether in universities or professionally, and that expands our level. Having the support and connections within our own staff members has helped many players who have been able to experience leaving the country and increasing their level.”
Mexico already has its eyes on the next challenges.
“The team is seeking to qualify and be on the podium in the following Central American and Caribbean Games in 2026,” said Perales. “The qualification for the second edition continues to the Pan American Games and we seek to reach the podium again, as well as the qualification for LA28.”
He said the wider impact of the program is already being felt. “It has grown considerably, as the young people of our country see our players as an example to follow. It has opened a great door for women of all ages, since in our country there is an immense number of teams in each city and this has increased the number of female teams in our maximum event, which is the Youth Festival. We have also been able to identify future talents for the national teams.”
“We are working on this to constantly improve our women’s team, seeking sponsorship and reviewing areas of opportunity to improve the teams,” he added.
“We appreciate this great support, and we are aware of how much this support has meant for the development of our national team in recent years. We are working on creating a professional league, which we know will create a great opportunity for future generations who have not yet managed to establish themselves in a team abroad. This will ensure that, by staying in constant competition, each athlete’s performance will continue to improve.”
With a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, the Mexican women’s team is transforming their game from within.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, March 25, 2025. – The Cangrejeras de Santurce claimed victory in the opening match of Section B in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) quarterfinals, defeating the Valencianas de Juncos 3-2 (29-27, 22-25, 26-24, 19-25, 15-12) at home in the Roberto Clemente Coliseum.
The Cangrejeras showcased resilience and skill in a match defined by intensity and strategic play.
The offensive leadership of players like Tamara Otene and Andrea Rangel proved crucial, especially in the final points of each set. Meanwhile, Juncos demonstrated strong blocking but failed to maintain key leads, allowing Santurce to capitalize on opportunities and take control of the game.
Santurce’s offense was led by Tamara Otene with 25 points, Andrea Rangel with 20, Kara McGhee with 17, and Helena Grozer with 16.
For the Valencianas, Jaylen Hodge recorded 30 points, followed by Emily Elliott with 22, Kelly Sánchez with 14, and Adriana Rodríguez with 10.
Santurce outperformed Juncos in attacks (73-68), aces (6-5), digs (94-86), receptions (57-51), and assists (22-16). The Valencianas led in blocking (12-5).
The quarterfinal series will be played in a best-of-five format, with the first team to secure three victories advancing to the semifinals.
Quarterfinal action continues with Section A as the Mets de Guaynabo take on the Changas de Naranjito on Wednesday, March 26, at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum at 8:00 p.m.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 26, 2025 .– The Press Commission inaugurated the virtual meetings of NORCECA’s Working Commissions, which will run until April 5.
Members of NORCECA’s Executive Committee, led by NORCECA President Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, had the opportunity to review the communication efforts carried out in 2024 and discuss future challenges in the field.
Press Comission
The meeting featured a presentation by Commission President Carolina Rivas, who provided an overview of communication-related activities. Yinet Cruz, NORCECA’s Community Manager, highlighted the exciting growth of the Confederation’s social media accounts. Additionally, Volleyball Canada’s Director of Communications, Jackie Skender, explained the key responsibilities of Press Delegates and Photographers during events, ensuring timely updates to NORCECA’s website and social media platforms.
Carolina Rivas emphasized that “our primary goal is to effectively manage and coordinate media coverage, ensuring a broad and positive representation of the Confederation. This includes producing press releases, managing media relations, overseeing digital communication strategies, and supporting the promotion of key events and initiatives”.
Members discussed ongoing efforts to establish strong relationships with media outlets, journalists, and digital platforms to maximize the reach and engagement of volleyball audiences across the region.
NORCECA’s commission meetings will continue with the Technical, Statistics and Volleyball Information System (VIS) Commission.
COSTA NAVARINO, Greece March 21, 2025.- Dr Ary S. Graça F°, Volleyball Foundation President and FIVB Honorary Life President, received the highest honor of the Olympic Movement, the Olympic Order, during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece.
The Olympic Order is the highest distinction awarded by the IOC, to recognize people who have performed remarkable services for the Olympic Movement. Notable past recipients include French President Emmanuel Macron, Pope Francis and Nelson Mandela, to name just a few, alongside numerous heads of state, royalty, athletes and distinguished figures.
IOC President Thomas Bach said:
“Throughout his long and distinguished career in sport, Ary Graça has been a true pioneer. Redefining volleyball. Championing innovation. Expanding the global reach of volleyball. And thereby also spreading our shared Olympic values to ever more people around the world. Your presidency of the International Volleyball Federation has been nothing short of transformative. Some may even say revolutionary.
“Over the past 12 years, you have led the volleyball community into a new era of progress and global expansion. Under your leadership, the sport has flourished, growing in popularity and accessibility across all continents.
“Through the FIVB Foundation, you have brought volleyball to communities worldwide, giving thousands of young people the chance to play, to dream and to build a better future. The record-breaking volleyball festival in India with 40,000 children participating is just one of many shining examples of your belief in the power of sport to inspire and unite. Your leadership in volleyball is part of a much larger legacy.”
During his acceptance speech, Volleyball Foundation President Dr Ary S. Graça F° stated:
“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the prestigious Olympic Order. My goal has always been to showcase the incredible power of our sport. Today, I continue this mission as president of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation.
“Under the leadership of the IOC, all of us in the Olympic Movement strive to build a more peaceful and better world through sport. Through the Volleyball Foundation, we have provided opportunities to people around the globe through our sport. We have broken barriers and given hope to communities in need. We have seen first-hand how volleyball can positively shape lives, foster inclusivity and help overcome differences in a world divided by conflict.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to create opportunities through volleyball, and receiving the Olympic Order only deepens my passion to continue this work.”
Leading the FIVB from 2012 to 2024, Dr Graça oversaw a period of remarkable progress, with innovation and opportunity as the key pillars of his mandate.
Now at the helm of the Volleyball Foundation, he remains dedicated to empowering communities worldwide through volleyball, using the sport to inspire, connect, and serve societies globally.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, March 19, 2025. – The president of the North, Central America, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) and first vice president of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, expressed his sorrow this Wednesday over the passing of sports immortal Ricardo “Gioriver” Arias, whom he described as one of the great “Icons of Dominican Volleyball.”
Marte Hoffiz stated that volleyball in the region has lost a true enthusiast of the sport since his youth, the founder of Club Mirador, and a genuine “talent scout” for players who, after being trained at Mirador, went on to join the National Team.
“We want to express our condolences to Gioriver’s entire family, to Doña Mayo Sibilia, his children, and relatives. We have lost the father of volleyball, and we already know that he is by the Lord’s side,” he said.
He emphasized that every player of the “Caribbean Queens” from the 1990s to the present passed through the hands of Ricardo Arias. “His love and dedication to the women’s national team, in all its categories, were priceless,” he added.
Gioriver was born on February 7, 1940, and discovered his passion for volleyball at the age of 14 while studying at the Argentina High School. He later played in the senior categories with the San Carlos and Villa Francisca (Centro Social Obrero) clubs.
Twenty years later, in 1961, he pursued a career as a physical education teacher and began sharing his knowledge at Juan Bautista Safra School in Los Mina and at the United States of America High School. In 1966, he moved to Manuel Rodríguez Objío High School, where he dedicated to teaching for 35 uninterrupted years, until 1996.
Earlier, in 1972, he became an international volleyball referee and officiated two years later at the 12th Central American and Caribbean Games, Santo Domingo 1974.
He had a combined career as a coach, leading the women’s national team at the 1970 Central American Games. Four years later, he served as the head coach of the men’s national team at the Volleyball World Championship and also led the women’s junior national team at the NORCECA 1992 tournament in Santo Domingo, NORCECA 1993 in Colorado Springs, and the senior team at the 1993 Central American and Caribbean Games in Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Arias founded the most successful institution in Dominican women’s volleyball, Club Mirador, on July 14, 1970, along with his wife, Mayo Sibilia, journalist Bienvenido Rojas, and Francisco Antonio Santos Saviñón, who was the organization’s first president.
Gioriver Arias’ contributions to Dominican volleyball have been recognized at the highest levels. More than 80 percent of the players who have been part of the national teams at different stages, youth, junior, and senior categories, have passed through his hands and his club.
Arias and his wife, Mayo Sibilia, made personal sacrifices, offering their home as a sports residence and using their personal vehicle to transport and support young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds across the country.
Gioriver played key roles at every level of volleyball, as a player, referee, coach, associate director, federation leader, technical delegate for various national teams and categories, member of NORCECA’s Coaches Commission, and as Club Mirador’s head coach at the Club World Championships.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 18, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo secured fourth place in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF) after defeating the Valencianas de Juncos, setting up a quarterfinal matchup against the Changas de Naranjito.
The Mets claimed a dramatic 3-2 (23-25, 25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 15-10) victory over the Valencianas at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum.
Guaynabo outperformed Juncos in attacks (62-58), service aces (5-3), and digs (84-69). Juncos, on the other hand, led in blocks (14-13), receptions (58-50), and assists (14-12).
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham, Paola Santiago, and Valeria Flores, who scored 28, 20, and 19 points, respectively.
Despite the loss, Juncos earned one point and finished with a 5-14 record and 15 points. Their top offensive player was Jaylen Hodge, who scored 32 points: 27 in attacks, four in blocks, and one service ace.
Quarterfinal Matchups Set
The teams ranked 3rd to 6th in the regular season have advanced to the quarterfinals, divided into two sections:
Section A: Mets de Guaynabo (4th) vs. Changas de Naranjito (5th)
Section B: Cangrejeras de Santurce (3rd) vs. Valencianas de Juncos (6th)
The Criollas de Caguas (1st) and Atenienses de Manatí (2nd) have a bye to the semifinals.
The quarterfinal series will be played in a best-of-five format, with the first team winning three matches advancing to the semifinals.
The LVSF regular season will conclude on Saturday, March 22.
March 17, 2025.- The FIVB and Hellenic Volleyball Federation (HVBF) met to discuss the promising road ahead for volleyball and beach volleyball in Greece, focusing on development plans and strategic initiatives for the sport in the region.
The HVBF delegation was represented by President George Karampetsos, Secretary General Mrs Chroni Efi, Treasure Mr Veroutis John, Board Member Mr Nektarios Chalvatzis, Executive Director Mr Periklis Bakodimos and Director Mr Nikos Sofianos.
Key topics centred on the sport’s growth in Greece, with the FIVB delegation – consisting of President Fabio Azevedo, Secretary General Hugh McCutcheon and Head of International Affairs and Communications Anna Manuelian – presenting the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 under the motto “Together as One”.
In addition, the FIVB delegation had the opportunity to visit the HVBF Headquarters to see the facilities and meet with various staff members.
The meeting also reviewed the impact of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, through which the FIVB has invested CHF 402,000 in 11 projects in Greece, covering both coach and volleyball equipment support. In particular, the Greece men’s national team and the women’s and men’s national beach volleyball teams have received support through Volleyball Empowerment.
As part of several volleyball equipment support projects, two Gerflor Taraflex courts have been, one of which was co-funded with the CEV to equip National Federations hosting Age Group European Championships with top-tier flooring – Gerflor Taraflex Performance (9mm, 693m², three-color).
It is an exciting year for Greek volleyball, as the women’s national volleyball team has qualified for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship for the first time in 22 years, marking a significant achievement for the sport in Greece.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, March 16, 2025. – The Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) now has two teams directly qualified for the semifinals following Saturday night’s results.
At the Roger Mendoza Court in Caguas, the Criollas made a comeback against the Mets de Guaynabo, pushing the match to an exciting fifth set, which secured their first-place finish in the standings. Caguas had already guaranteed its direct spot in the semifinals.
With the victory, the Criollas earned two points, solidifying their record at 14-5 and reaching 42 points in the standings. The win was sealed 3-2 (21-25, 25-20, 14-25, 25-17, 15-13).
Kristin Lux led the Criollas with 16 points (13 attacks and 3 blocks), followed by Paulina Pérez with 13 points and Alba Hernández with 11.
For Guaynabo, Valeria Flores led with 23 points on offense. Despite the loss, Guaynabo earned one point, holding an 8-11 record and 23 points in fourth place.
Statistically, Caguas outperformed Guaynabo in blocks (13-8) and assists (26-21), while the Mets dominated in attacks (70-52), aces (7-3), digs (108-83), and passes (48-35).
Atenienses Sweep Cangrejeras
At the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the Atenienses de Manatí defeated the Cangrejeras de Santurce in straight sets (25-21, 25-20, 25-23).
This victory granted Manatí three points, securing second place in the standings with a 12-7 record and 38 points, thus earning a direct spot in the semifinals. Santurce, on the other hand, did not add any points and remains in third place with a 10-8 record and 30 points.
Karla Santos was the key player for the Atenienses with 20 points, followed by Dariana Hollingsworth, who contributed 12. On the Cangrejeras’ side, Tamara Otene led with 15 points.
Valencianas Dominate Changas
The Valencianas de Juncos secured a 3-0 victory (25-15, 25-22, 25-23) on the road against the Changas de Naranjito at the legendary Gelito Ortega Court.
Jaylen Hodge stood out as the top scorer of the match with 23 points for the Valencianas, while Emily Elliot added 19. For the home team, Aury Cruz contributed 10 points.
With this result, Juncos improved its record to 5-13 and accumulated 14 points in the standings, while Naranjito, in fifth place, now holds a 7-12 record and 21 points.
March 14, 2025.- The future of volleyball in Spain is looking bright as key stakeholders from the FIVB and the Real Federación Española de Voleibol (RFEVB) came together to discuss exciting plans for the sport’s development in the region.
The Spanish delegation was represented by Felipe Pascual (President), Javer Garcia (Vice-President), and Luis Muchaga (Former Technical Director), who expressed their enthusiasm for collaborative efforts with the FIVB.
The meeting covered a range of topics aimed at strengthening the growth and visibility of volleyball in Spain. Central to the discussions was the presentation of the RFEVB’s new strategic vision, as well as exciting plans to elevate the sport at both national and international levels. The FIVB delegation, led by President Fabio Azevedo, also outlined the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is driven by the motto “Together as One.”
A key highlight was the review of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program’s impact in Spain. To date, the FIVB has invested CHF 324,000 across six projects, primarily focused on providing coach support to help develop the country’s national teams.
Additionally, the two organizations discussed the many successful volleyball events in the region and explored plans for hosting future FIVB events in Spain.
Spain’s national women’s team was another source of pride during the talks. The team recently secured their spot at the 2025 Women’s Volleyball World Championship in Thailand – an achievement that demonstrates the progress made in ensuring volleyball’s development across the country.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico, March 14, 2025. – In an intense Thursday night of action in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Cangrejeras de Santurce, Atenienses de Manatí, and Mets de Guaynabo secured crucial victories in their respective matchups.
This week, the final stretch of the regular season, promises to be electrifying as the Cangrejeras and Atenienses fiercely battle for a direct semifinal berth.
Cangrejeras and Criollas in an Epic Showdown
At the iconic Roger Mendoza court, the Cangrejeras de Santurce allowed little room for the already-qualified Criollas de Caguas, claiming a four-set victory (25-21, 21-25, 25-16, 25-23) and securing all three points at stake.
Santurce’s superiority was evident in attack, leading 67-48 in kills, and in aces, with a 6-3 advantage. They also dominated in digs (76-64), receptions (35-31), and assists (22-19). However, Caguas had the edge in blocks, outscoring Santurce 9-7.
The Cangrejeras’ offense was commanded by Tamara Otene, Andrea Rangel, Helena Grozer, and Kara McGhee, who scored 23, 19, 17, and 15 points, respectively. For Caguas, Kristin Lux stood out with 13 points, while Diana Reyes and Paulina Pérez contributed 10 each.
With this victory, Santurce improved to a 10-7 record and 30 points, securing third place. Meanwhile, Caguas remains atop the standings with a 13-5 record and 40 points.
Cangrejeras block
Atenienses Claim Three Points Against Valencianas
At the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, the Atenienses de Manatí edged closer to the top spot held by the Criollas after sweeping the Valencianas (25-15, 29-27, 25-21), earning three crucial points and improving their record to 11-7 with 35 points.
Manatí did not have any players reaching double digits in scoring, with Dariana Hollingsworth, Kjersti Strong, and Karla Santos each tallying nine points. For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge was the standout performer with 24 points.
Juncos remains in last place with a 4-13 record and 11 points.
Mets Defeat Changas at the Quijote
The Mets de Guaynabo secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory (25-19, 25-19, 12-25, 25-23) at home in the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum against the Changas de Naranjito.
Rebecca Latham led Guaynabo’s offense with a stellar 24-point performance, followed by Valeria Flores, who added 17 points.
For Naranjito, Génesis Collazo was the top scorer with 19 points, while Aury Cruz, Adanna Rollins, and Taylor Trammell contributed 17, 16, and 10 points, respectively.
With this victory, Guaynabo climbs to fourth place with an 8-10 record and 22 points, while Changas drop to fifth place with a 7-11 record and 21 points.
A Decisive Weekend Ahead
LVSF action continues Saturday with three thrilling matchups.
The Atenienses de Manatí will visit the Cangrejeras de Santurce in a showdown that could determine second place or bring Santurce closer to securing the desired spot. The match is scheduled for 8:12 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Criollas de Caguas, needing just one point to clinch first place, will host the Mets de Guaynabo. Additionally, the Valencianas de Juncos will travel to the legendary Gelito Ortega court to take on the Changas de Naranjito. Both matches are set to begin at 8:00 p.m.
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, March 12, 2025. – The Mets de Guaynabo and the Criollas de Caguas delivered a thrilling showdown for their fans at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, with Caguas securing a 3-1 victory (28-26, 27-25, 21-25, 28-26). This win makes them the first team to qualify directly for the semifinals of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
Caguas earned three points, improving their record to 13-4 with a total of 40 accumulated points.
The Atenienses de Manatí (10-7, 32 points) and the Cangrejeras de Santurce (9-7, 27 points) will battle for second place, which grants another direct spot in the semifinals.
Caguas had the edge in attacks (64-63) and blocks (14-9), while the Mets dominated in aces (7-2), digs (86-82), and receptions (46-41). Both teams finished with 24 assists.
The Criollas’ offense was led by Stephanie Enright with 24 points, including 20 kills, 2 blocks, and 2 aces. Kristin Lux followed with 19 points, and Sofía Victoriá added 18.
For Guaynabo, Rebecca Latham scored an impressive 37 points, with 33 kills, 1 block, and 3 aces.
With this victory, the Criollas now lead the head-to-head series against the Mets 2-1.
Newly signed Paola Santiago, who recently played in Turkey, did not see action in the match.
The Women’s Volleyball Superior League continues this Thursday, March 13, with three matches:
Santurce visits Caguas at 8:00 p.m.
The Mets de Guaynabo host the Changas de Naranjito at 8:00 p.m.
The Atenienses de Manatí travel to the Rafael G. Amalbert court to face the Valencianas de Juncos at 8:30 p.m.
March 11, 2025.- With 32 teams vying for the prestigious world champions title, the tournament will feature 64 thrilling matches over 14 competition days, hosted across four iconic cities: Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima.
The tournament will commence on August 22 with an exciting pair of opening matches at 16:00 local time (09:00 UTC). Czechia meets Argentina in Pool D while Puerto Rico faces France in Pool C. An hour later, action in Pools A and B will begin with the Netherlands meeting Sweden and Belgium competing against Cuba.
Reigning Volleyball Nations League 2024 champions and Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalists Italy will open their Pool B campaign against Slovakia in Phuket at 20:30 (13:30 UTC)
Host nation Thailand will wrap up a historic opening day, meeting Pool A opponent Egypt in front of a passionate home crowd also at 20:30 local time, but in Bangkok. Thailand, known for their fast-paced and energetic style of play, will be looking to capitalize on home-court advantage and deliver strong performances in front of their fans.
Defending world champions Serbia, aiming for a third consecutive title, will instead begin their campaign in Pool H against Ukraine on August 23 at 20:30 (13:30 UTC).
Competition in the first phase will see each pool play on alternate days, with Pools A, B, C, and D competing on August 22, 24, and 26, while Pools E, F, G, and H take the court on August 23, 25, and 27.
Following the conclusion of the pool stage, the top two teams from each of the eight pools will advance to the knockout phase, starting with the Round of 16 from August 29 to September 1. The Quarter-Finals will be held on September 3 and 4, followed by the Semi-Finals on September 6. The tournament will culminate on September 7 with the bronze medal match at 15:30 (08:30 UTC), leading into the final gold medal match at 19:30 (12:30 UTC) in Bangkok, where the next world champions will be crowned.
As the host nation, Thailand is set to provide a vibrant and unforgettable experience for players and fans alike. With top-tier volleyball action and an electric atmosphere, the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 – the first-ever to be held in Southeast Asia – promises to be a landmark edition of the sport’s premier event.
Watch the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025 live on VBTV.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 9, 2025.- The FIVB and the City of Lausanne leadership met at the City Hall in Lausanne, Switzerland to discuss their shared vision for the role of sport in the development of society.
During the discussions, both organizations explored exciting opportunities for future collaboration, strengthening their long standing relationship. The FIVB has been headquartered in Lausanne since 1984 and maintains strong ties with the city’s leadership.
Azebedo and Lausanne City Officials
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo led the FIVB team during the meeting with Grégoire Junod, Mayor of Lausanne and the Head of the Department of Arts and Urban Development. Also present at the meeting were Émilie Moeschler, Municipal Councilor and Director of Sports and Social Cohesion (SCS), Myriam Pasche, Head of the Sports Department, and Sébastien Griesmar, Director of the Lausanne Olympic Capital Foundation.
At the beginning of the discussions, the FIVB President outlined the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is founded on the key pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation, under the motto “Together as One”.
Both parties then shared their vision for sport as a vehicle for community development and a promotion for healthier living, whilst exploring opportunities for future collaboration to benefit the population of Lausanne and beyond.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 9, 2025.- FIVB President Fabio Azevedo and the FIVB team met with Bourdanne Bello, the President of the Cameroon National Federation (NF) and the Zonal President of the African Volleyball Confederation’s (CAVB) Zone IV. The meeting saw discussions on key opportunities for volleyball’s development in both Cameroon and the wider region.
A key topic of discussion was support for Cameroon’s national teams, following the Cameroon women’s team’s successful qualification for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Thailand in August/September 2025. The meeting also covered ongoing and future support provided through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, to both Cameroon and the wider Zone IV region of the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB).
To date, the FIVB has contributed CHF 618,000 across 57 projects in eight countries to Zone IV, as well as CHF 208,000 across 16 projects in Cameroon, through the Volleyball Empowerment programme. This funding has aimed to enhance coach development and overall volleyball infrastructure in the regions.
Puerto Rico, March 9, 2025. – The results from Sunday night in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) are starting to highlight just how tight the battle for the top two spots will be, as these teams will advance directly to the semifinals.
At the Juan Aubín Cruz Coliseum, the Atenienses added three more points after defeating the Mets de Guaynabo 3-1 (18-25, 25-19, 25-15, 25-16), closing in on the tournament leaders, the Criollas de Caguas, who lost to the Changas de Naranjito without earning any points.
The Atenienses now hold a 10-7 record with 32 accumulated points, just five behind Caguas. Manatí won two matches this week, both in four sets.
Manatí’s offense was evenly distributed among Dariana Hollingsworth with 19 points (14 attacks and 5 blocks), Ariana Pagán with 15, Karla Santos with 13, and Tristin Savage with 11.
The Atenienses outperformed the Mets in attacks (51 to 43), blocks (13 to 8), digs (82 to 71), receptions (38 to 30), and assists (29 to 13). Both teams recorded four service aces.
For Guaynabo (7-9, 19 points), now in fifth place, Rebecca Latham led with 23 points.
Santurce Closes the Week with Three Consecutive Wins
The Cangrejeras de Santurce dominated the Valencianas de Juncos 3-1 (25-18, 23-25, 25-17, 25-19) at the Rafael G. Amalbert court, improving their record to 9-7 with 27 points, securing third place with four matches left in the regular season.
Santurce’s top scorer was Tamara Otene with 21 points (20 attacks and 1 block), while Andrea Rangel and Kara McGhee each contributed 14 points, and Neira Ortiz added 10.
Santurce outperformed Juncos in attacks (48 to 44), blocks (17 to 8), and digs (70 to 57). The Valencianas led in service aces (5 to 3) and receptions (34 to 28). Both teams finished with 10 assists.
For Juncos (4-12, 11 points), the top scorers were Jaylen Hodge with 17 points, Emily Elliot with 13, and Adriana Rodríguez with 10.
The Cangrejeras had a perfect week, securing wins against Guaynabo, Naranjito, and Juncos.
Changas Defeat Criollas Again
The Changas de Naranjito once again defeated the Criollas de Caguas in their legendary home court, this time 3-1 (28-26, 25-20, 18-25, 29-27). The head-to-head series between both teams ended in a 2-2 tie.
With the victory, the Changas moved up to fourth place with a 7-10 record and 21 points, while the Criollas failed to add points this week, finishing with a 1-2 record, standing at 12-4 with 37 total points.
Caguas remains the tournament leader.
All of Naranjito’s wins were at home.
Andrea Serra, Aury Cruz, and Génesis Collazo led Naranjito’s offense with 19, 16, and 14 points, respectively.
For Caguas, Stephanie Enright led with 21 points, followed by 11 points from Kristin Lux and Diana Reyes, along with 10 from Alba Hernández.
Naranjito was superior in digs (103 to 88), receptions (55 to 38), and assists (28 to 26), while Caguas dominated in attacks (58 to 51) and blocks (13 to 10). Both teams recorded six service aces.
March 6, 2025.- The FIVB met with the Small Countries Association (SCA) this week to discuss key initiatives aimed at strengthening volleyball in the respective nations, including increased development support, the introduction of World Ranking points in zonal competitions and the SCA’s ambitious but realistic four-year strategic plan.
The meeting was attended by SCA President Gary Stewart, alongside Secretary General Blair Pettigrew and Treasurer Joanna McCrory. The FIVB team was led by President Fabio Azevedo, with the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) joining online.
During the meeting, the 13-member SCA outlined its vision for the future, with a focus on maximising FIVB’s Volleyball Empowerment support to enhance national teams and exploring additional funding opportunities for Zonal Associations. A key discussion point was the impact of awarding World Ranking points to Zonal competitions, which will allow for greater competitiveness and the growth of SCA events.
The FIVB’s support for the SCA continues to be significant, with over CHF 2 million invested since 2017. So far, 87 projects have been approved across 12 countries, and ten coach support development programmes are currently running in SCA’s National Federations .
Within discussions, FIVB President Azevedo outlined the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is founded on the key pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation, under the motto “Together as One”. Meanwhile, the SCA reflected on the achievements of its first 100 days under new leadership, including establishing a fixed multi-year events calendar, reconnecting with previously inactive stakeholders, and exploring a potential rebrand to elevate its profile. The organisation also shared its challenges and long-term ambitions.
The meeting demonstrated an exciting future for collaboration between the FIVB and the SCA, as both organisations look to develop volleyball, ensuring long-term growth, stronger national teams and increased global recognition through strategic investment.
March 5, 2025.- Opportunities for volleyball’s development in India was discussed this week, as Olympic champion from India, Mr Abhinav Bindra, visited the FIVB headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Meeting with FIVB President Fabio Azevedo and the FIVB team, he discussed potential collaboration opportunities to enhance volleyball in schools across India.
Abhinav Bindra became the first athlete from India to win an individual Olympic gold medal – at the Olympic Games Beijing 2008 in the men’s 10m air rifle event. He also holds the distinction of being the first athlete from India to win a World Championship gold medal in air rifle shooting.
Following his retirement from sports competition, Mr Bindra founded the Abhinav Bindra Foundation Trust (ABFT), a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting grassroots athletes in India through cutting-edge sports science technology. The Foundation is working with the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) on the initiative across 63,000 schools in partnership with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Foundation for Culture and Heritage (OFCH) and state governments in Odisha and Assam, in India.
During the meeting both leaders discussed opportunities to host mass participation volleyball events in India, as well as including volleyball in the OVEP programme across the country. This is in line with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is built on four key principles, Professionalism, Integration, Empowerment and Mass Participation.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, March 5, 2025. – While the Cangrejeras de Santurce dominated the Mets de Guaynabo at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey to claim the Metropolitan Cup, the Criollas de Caguas secured their twelfth victory of the season at the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum, maintaining their position as the absolute leaders of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League.
The Criollas de Caguas defeated the Valencianas de Juncos 23-25, 25-22, 27-25, and 25-20, earning all three available points from the match and moving closer to a direct berth in the semifinals with a 12-2 record and 37 points accumulated.
Juncos did not earn any points from the result and now holds a 3-11 record with 9 points, remaining at the bottom of the standings.
For the Criollas, Stephanie Enright and Diana Reyes both reached double digits with 14 points each, followed by Kristin Lux with 13 points. Raymariely Santos contributed 26 assists.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge, Adriana Rodríguez, and Lindsay Stalzer scored 22, 13, and 10 points, respectively.
Caguas outperformed Juncos 27-18 in assists. Juncos led in attacks (53-50), service aces (5-4), defenses (78-75), and receptions (54-40). Both teams finished with 12 successful blocks.
Cangrejeras Dominate the Mets
The Cangrejeras de Santurce secured a commanding 3-0 (25-21, 25-23, 25-17) victory over the Mets de Guaynabo.
With this win, the Cangrejeras lifted the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Metropolitan Cup, an award born from an alliance between both franchises that recognizes the team with the best record in their head-to-head series.
Andrea Rangel and Tamara Otene led Santurce’s offense with 15 points each.
For the Mets, Rebecca Latham stood out with 18 points, but her effort was not enough to prevent the defeat.
Santurce claimed all three available points and now sits in third place with a 7-7 record and 21 points accumulated. Guaynabo holds the same record but trails by three points, sharing fourth place with the Changas de Naranjito at 18 points.
February 3, 2025.– Over the weekend in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), the Cangrejeras de Santurce caused a three-way tie, while the Valencianas de Juncos defeated the Changas de Naranjito.
On Sunday, the Cangrejeras secured a 3-1 victory (25-22, 25-17, 19-25, 25-22) over the Atenienses de Manatí at the Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu Coliseum, creating a three-way tie with the Mets de Guaynabo and the Changas de Naranjito. Each team now has 18 accumulated points.
Santurce holds a record of 6-7 with 18 points. Manatí did not add any points and remains in second place with a record of 8-7 and 26 points.
The Cangrejeras’ offensive effort was evenly distributed, with Kara McGhee scoring 14 points, while Tamara Otene and Helena Grozer contributed 13 points each, and Neira Ortiz added 12.
For Manatí, Dariana Hollingsworth and Karla Santos each recorded 20 points.
Santurce dominated in blocks (12-6), while Manatí led in attacks (52-48), aces (7-4), digs (72-65), and receptions (51-41). Both teams ended with 17 assists.
On Saturday, the Valencianas de Juncos fought hard to defeat the Changas de Naranjito in a five-set thriller (25-21, 15-25, 22-25, 25-22, 15-6).
With this result, both teams earned points. The Valencianas claimed two points, breaking a four-game losing streak. Despite still being at the bottom of the standings, they improved their record to 3-10 with 9 points.
This victory marked the first win for their new head coach, Juan “Juanchi” Figueroa, who replaced Gerardo De Jesús following his resignation. Figueroa now holds a 1-1 record.
Juncos had not won since February 9, when they defeated the Atenienses de Manatí at their home court, the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum. All of the Valencianas’ victories have come at home.
The Changas earned one point and now stand at 6-9 with 18 points, tying for third place with the Mets de Guaynabo. Naranjito has yet to win an away game.
Juncos’ offensive leaders were Jaylen Hodge with 32 points (31 in attacks and one ace), followed by Emily Elliott with 23 points and Adriana Rodríguez with 12. For the Changas, Adanna Rollins led with 21 points, while Génesis Collazo contributed 18.
Juncos outperformed Naranjito in attacks (67-49), digs (81-49), receptions (51-34), and assists (17-15). Both teams registered 10 successful blocks, while Naranjito had the edge in aces (7-6).
LVSF action continues on Wednesday, March 5, with two matches: the Criollas de Caguas will visit the Valencianas de Juncos at 8:30 p.m., while Santurce will host the Mets de Guaynabo in a match set to begin at 8:12 p.m.
February 27, 2025.- The Criollas de Caguas, Changas de Naranjito, and Atenienses de Manatí secured victories on Thursday in the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF).
At the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, the “Dominican Night” took place, during which the Cangrejeras’ management gave away 3,000 tickets for the match. The Consul of the Dominican Republic in Puerto Rico, Mr. César Cedeño, performed the honorary first serve.
Caguas earned a hard-fought 3-1 (26-24, 22-25, 25-22, 25-23) victory over the Cangrejeras de Santurce.
The win improved Caguas’ record to 11 wins and only 2 losses, accumulating 34 points to remain at the top of the tournament standings. Meanwhile, the Cangrejeras dropped to fifth place with a 5-7 record and 15 points.
For the Criollas, Sofía Victoria led the offense with 20 points, followed by Kristin Lux with 13 and Julie Oliveira Souza with 10.
On Santurce’s side, Tamara Otene scored 26 points, Andrea Rangel added 19, and Helena Grozer contributed 14.
Changas Get Revenge on Mets at the Gelito
At the Gelito Ortega Coliseum, the Changas de Naranjito avenged their previous loss to the Mets de Guaynabo by sweeping them in straight sets.
Naranjito claimed a 3-0 (25-15, 25-22, 25-16) victory, securing all three available points from the match. With this win, they improved their record to 6-8 with 17 points, moving up to fourth place.
Guaynabo failed to earn any points, remaining in third place with a 7-6 record and 18 points.
The Changas’ offensive leaders were Génesis Collazo (13 points), Adanna Rollins (12), and Andrea Serra (11).
Atenienses Spoil Juan Figueroa’s Debut
The Atenienses de Manatí spoiled the debut of Juan Figueroa, the new head coach of the Valencianas de Juncos, who replaced Gerardo De Jesús. Manatí secured a 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-16) victory.
Manatí’s double-digit scorers included Dariana Hollingsworth with 13 points, Tristin Savage with 12, and both Karla Santos and Kjersti Stong with 11 each.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge was the only player to reach double digits, scoring 15 points.
Manatí collected three points to maintain second place with an 8-6 record and 26 points. Juncos remains at the bottom of the standings with a 2-10 record and 7 points.
February 27, 2025.- The leadership of the FIVB and Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) met at the FIVB Headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss opportunities for volleyball’s growth and development in Qatar.
His Excellency Secretary General Jassim bin Rashid Al-Buenain represented the QOC, while FIVB President Fabio Azevedo led discussions on behalf of the FIVB.
The meeting built on discussions held in December 2024 between the two organisations, further advancing the roadmap for volleyball activities in Qatar and the Middle East. It also further strengthened cooperation in line with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032, which is founded on the key pillars of professionalism, integration, empowerment and mass participation, under the motto “Together as One”.
Qatar has a strong history in the sport, particularly beach volleyball. Qatar’s Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan claimed bronze for Qatar at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Doha also hosts major international events, including the Beach Pro Tour Finals, and last year successfully staged the historic 2024 WAVA U20 Women’s Beach Volleyball Championship—the first-ever junior female beach volleyball tournament in the Middle East, supported by Olympic Solidarity.
February 26, 2025.- Volleyball Canada is pleased to announce that Kingston in Ontario, Canada, will be the host city of the women’s U19 Pan American Cup, which will take place at Queen’s University’s Athletics & Recreation Centre, June 24 to 29, 2025.
The local organizing committee will include Tourism Kingston, Queen’s University and the Kingston Rock Volleyball Club.
The U19 Pan Am Cup will bring together eight teams (TBA) of top age-class athletes from NORCECA – the North, Central, and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation. Many of these young athletes will go on to represent their country at the senior level at events such as the World Championships and Olympic Games.
The event was last held in Puerto Rico in 2023 and saw the U.S. win gold, followed by Mexico with silver, and host Puerto Rico winning bronze. This year, Team Canada will get to play on home soil, joining its zonal rivals for the five days of competition. Team Canada will host a week-long training camp for 18 athletes prior to competition at Queen’s University. The team will also use this training camp and tournament to prepare for the FIVB Girls’ U19 World Championship to be held in Croatia and Serbia in July.
With an active, growing volleyball community in Kingston and with support from the Ontario Volleyball Association, excitement for this event is expected to be significant. Queen’s Athletics & Recreation Centre offers an excellent host facility, fresh off hosting the 2024 U SPORTS Men’s Volleyball National Championships and with strong, nationally ranked varsity volleyball programs.
Kingston’s successful bid to host the U19 Pan Am Championships was announced to volleyball supporters this past weekend at the Queen’s Gaels men’s & women’s volleyball home playoff games.
“Kingston Rock Volleyball Club is thrilled to welcome Volleyball Canada and an international competition to our city. With a strong community of athletes, coaches, and supporters, our club continues to grow, providing opportunities for over 400 athletes between the ages of seven and 18 to develop their skills and love for the game. This event is an exciting milestone, and we can’t wait to showcase the energy and talent that make Kingston a fantastic volleyball destination”, stated Matt Somerville – Executive Director, Kingston Rock Volleyball Club.
“The U19 Pan Am Cup offers an exciting opportunity for our rising stars to compete against top opponents from across the region. This event will also serve as excellent preparation for the upcoming FIVB U19 World Championships in Croatia and Serbia following this event. Any time we play in Canada it’s special. Hosting an international tournament on home soil allows us to showcase our country’s commitment to the sport, while giving athletes the chance to gain memorable exposure and experience in front of friends, family, and the wider volleyball community”, expressed Shannon Winzer, Volleyball Canada High Performance Director (Women’s indoor)
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, February 25, 2025. – In the only match of Tuesday’s schedule in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Guaynabo Mets comfortably defeated the Naranjito Changas 3-0 (25-19, 25-13, 25-14) to claim sole possession of third place in the standings.
Guaynabo secured all three available points from the match, improving their record to 7-5 with 18 points, breaking a tie they previously held with the Santurce Cangrejeras. Naranjito failed to earn any points and remains in fifth place with a 5-8 record and 14 points.
The Mets’ offense was led by Rebecca Latham with 17 points, while Legna Hernández and Valeria Flores each contributed 15 points. For Naranjito, Génesis Collazo finished with 10 points.
Guaynabo outperformed Naranjito in attacks (50-23), blocks (7-5), aces (6-4), digs (76-52), and assists (21-8). Naranjito had the advantage in receptions (32-22).
The Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) action continues Thursday, February 27, with three matches:
Puerto Rico, February 24, 2025. – In last weekend’s matches of the Women’s Volleyball Superior League (LVSF), the Mets de Guaynabo closed out the sixth week with a perfect record, while the Changas de Naranjito ended the winning streak of the Criollas de Caguas.
On Sunday at the Mario “Quijote” Morales Coliseum, the Mets de Guaynabo defeated the Atenienses de Manatí 3-2 (22-25, 25-21, 25-20, 15-25, 15-10).
With this result, both teams earned points: the Mets secured two points, tying for third place with the Cangrejeras and improving their record to 6-5 with 15 points. Meanwhile, Manatí earned one point to remain in second place with a 7-6 record and 23 points, trailing the Criollas de Caguas.
Guaynabo’s top scorers were Rebecca Latham with 36 points (34 in attacks, 1 block, and 1 ace), followed by Valeria Flores with 17 points and Legna Hernández with 10.
For the Atenienses, Dariana Hollingsworth and Karla Santos each contributed 20 points, while Chareika Carrión added 16 and Tristin Savage 15.
Guaynabo outperformed Manatí in aces (8-4), while Manatí led in attacks (64-62), blocks (12-7), digs (78-64), receptions (45-44), and assists (15-13).
On Saturday, the Changas de Naranjito ended the Criollas de Caguas’ winning streak with a five-set victory (25-22, 25-22, 20-25, 22-25, 15-10) at the legendary Gelito Ortega court.
The Changas earned two points, improving to 5-7 with 14 points and moving into fourth place behind the Cangrejeras de Santurce.
The winning offense featured several players in double figures, led by Adanna Rollins with 24 points (21 in attacks and 3 in blocks), followed by Génesis Collazo with 19 and Taylor Trammel with 13.
For Caguas, Julie Oliveira Souza tallied 27 points (24 in attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace), followed by Paulina Pérez with 16 and Diana Reyes with 11.
Naranjito outperformed Caguas in blocks (22-9), while Caguas had the edge in attacks (67-53), digs (96-92), receptions (48-34), and assists (21-18).
HAVANA, Cuba, February 24, 2025. – With the participation of 31 coaches from four countries, the International Level 2 Coaches Course in Cuba was successfully completed.
This significant educational event lasted five days and was led by FIVB instructor Luis Muchaga from Spain. The organization was under the direction of the NORCECA/FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center, based in the Dominican Republic.
During the course, participants received specialized training in advanced coaching methodologies, aiming to strengthen their knowledge and skills in volleyball. Among the attendees, the presence of the legendary world-elite volleyball athlete Regla Torres stood out, who received her Level 2 coaching certificate upon course completion.
The closing ceremony was attended by the officials of the Cuban Volleyball Federation, led by its president, Osvaldo Idel Martínez. Also present were Dr. Yumilka Ruíz, instructor Luis Muchaga, coordinator Frank Almendariz, Nelson José Ramírez, director of the Development Center, and speaker Enrique Pacheco.
At the end of the course, participants expressed their satisfaction with the quality of the knowledge acquired and highlighted the importance of such initiatives for the development of volleyball in the region.
The event was supported by the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation and the organization of the NORCECA/FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center, reaffirming their commitment to the training and professionalization of coaches across the continent.
February 22, 2025.- On February 16, the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association, CAZOVA, held their 2025 Online Congress.
During the meeting, presided by CAZOVA President Mushtaque Mohammed, several key points were discussed, which included 2024 reports and achievements, as well as plans for 2025.
CAZOVA 2024 regional events included the U19 Men’s and Women’s Championships held in Jamaica, the U19 Men’s and Women’s Beach Volleyball Championships, which took place in Trinidad and Tobago and the Senior Men’s and Women’s Beach Volleyball Championships in Bonaire.
In addition to these important regional tournaments, CAZOVA hosted the seventh stage of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour in Bonaire and the U23 Men’s Pan American Cup in Suriname.
This year is set to include the following CAZOVA tournaments:
· U17 Men and Women Championships in Jamaica
· U23 Women Championship in Trinidad and Tobago
· U23 Men Championship in Cayman Islands
· Senior Men and Women Championships in Bahamas
· U21 Men and Women Beach Volleyball Championships (WCQ) in Cayman Islands
· U19 Men and Women Beach Volleyball Championships in Jamaica
· U19 Men and Women Beach Volleyball Championships (WCQ) in Trinidad and Tobago
· U19 Men and Women Beach Volleyball Championships in Aruba
CAZOVA plans for 2025 will focus on the national federations to take advantage of the FIVB Empowerment Program, have more national federations hosting tournaments, increase the number of teams participating in regional tournaments, improve the administration and governance structure of national federations, workshops, referee development workshops and a beach volleyball strategic planning project (road to 2032).
NORCECA President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz, presented the NORCECA activity report and took the opportunity to acknowledge Bonaire for their excellent hosting of both a NORCECA beach volleyball continental tour event, as well as the CAZOVA beach tournament. Additionally, he praised Suriname for successfully hosting Men’s NORCECA U23 tournament.
JUNCOS, Puerto Rico, February 20, 202. – In Thursday’s action in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF), the Mets, Criollas, and Cangrejeras all secured victories.
At the Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum in Juncos, the Mets de Guaynabo edged out the Valencianas de Juncos 3-2 (13-25, 25-19, 19-25, 25-23, 25-23).
With this result, both teams earned points. Guaynabo picked up two points, improving to a 5-5 record with 13 points overall, moving up to fourth place. Juncos remains in last place but gained a point despite the loss, now standing at 2-9 with seven total points.
Rebecca Latham led the Mets’ offense with 32 points, including 28 kills and four blocks. She was followed by Valeria Flores with 19 points and Legna Hernández with 10.
For Juncos, Jaylen Hodge registered 30 points, with 27 kills and three blocks, while Lindsay Stalzer and Adriana Rodríguez contributed 16 points each.
Criollas Unstoppable
At the Juan Aubin Cruz Coliseum in Manatí, the Criollas defeated the Atenienses 3-1 (26-24, 25-22, 14-25, 25-20), earning their 10th win of the season.
The Criollas de Caguas have not lost a match since January 30. They hold a 10-1 record with 30 accumulated points, maintaining their position at the top of the standings.
The Atenienses, currently in second place, now have a 7-5 record with 22 points.
This marks the third time Caguas has defeated Manatí this season, all in four sets.
Caguas’ offense was powered by Sofía Victoriá, Kristin Lux, and Alba Hernández with 14, 12, and 11 points, respectively.
For Manatí, Dariana Hollingsworth, Kjersti Strong, Karla Santos, Tristin Savage, and Chareika Carrión contributed 21, 16, 15, 11, and 10 points, respectively.
Caguas outperformed Manatí in blocks (14-8). Both teams recorded 90 digs, while Manatí led in kills (63-48), aces (5-4), receptions (52-24), and assists (30-28).
Cangrejeras Secure Sole Possession of Third Place
At the legendary Gelito Ortega Court, the Cangrejeras defeated the Changas de Naranjito in straight sets (26-24, 25-23, 25-17), earning all three available points and securing sole possession of third place in the standings.
The Cangrejeras’ offensive efforts were led by Helena Grozer with 15 points, followed by Andrea Rangel and Gina Prososki with 11 each, and Neira Ortiz with 10.
With this win, the Cangrejeras improved to a 5-6 record with 15 points, while the Changas failed to earn any points, dropping to fifth place with a 4-7 record and 12 points overall.
The Cangrejeras outperformed their opponents in kills (40-30), blocks (11-7), digs (64-53), and receptions (47-34). Both teams finished with 12 assists, while Naranjito had the edge in aces (4-3).
LIMA, Peru, February 20, 2025. – After two days of fruitful work between Panam Sports and the Lima 2027 Organizing Committee, the host city contract for the 20th edition of the Pan American Games was signed in the Peruvian capital.
“We are very pleased with the signing of this contract. We see a highly committed and passionate Organizing Committee with whom we share the same goal: to ensure the success of this sporting celebration, always keeping the athletes at the center of our decisions,” said Panam Sports Secretary General Jimena Saldaña.
With many lessons learned and tasks ahead, the first in-person meeting between Panam Sports and the Lima 2027 Organizing Committee came to an end.
The Panam Sports team, led by Secretary General Jimena Saldaña, included Major Events Director Ana Paula González, Sports Director Andrea Carvajal, Olympic Solidarity Director Karla Lecona, Marketing Director Mathias Hanna, and Communications Director Alejandro Goycoolea.
Panam Sports and Lima 2027 Organizing Committe
On the other hand, the Lima 2027 Organizing Committee was headed by its President, Federico Tong, along with Peruvian Olympic Committee President Renzo Manyari, Peruvian Olympic medalist and IOC member Cecilia Tait, and athlete Evelyn Inga, who earned an Olympic diploma at Paris 2024, among others.
The two highly productive working sessions focused on knowledge and experience transfer from Panam Sports, as well as updates on progress made so far, along with the projects and guidelines for ensuring the success of the continental sporting event.
“There are only 30 months left until the Games begin. While Lima already has much of the necessary infrastructure, there is no time to waste. There is a lot of work ahead, and as Panam Sports, we are here to reaffirm our commitment. We have not come to supervise; we have come to work together for this great event, the most important in the continent,” emphasized Jimena Saldaña.
“We are very happy about the signing of this contract. We see a highly committed and passionate Organizing Committee with whom we share the same goal: to ensure the success of this sporting celebration, always keeping the athletes at the center of our decisions,” she added.
Meanwhile, the President of the Organizing Committee and the President of the Peruvian Sports Institute, Federico Tong, stated, “The Pan American Games are already underway, the wheel is turning. That is why the Government of Peru has a firm commitment to strengthening sports in the country. Lima is already a sports hub in the Americas, and we want to offer athletes a rewarding experience and world-class infrastructure.”
Peruvian Olympic Committee President Renzo Manyari highlighted the significance of this meeting and the exchange of knowledge, emphasizing that all organizations working on this project are a single team striving for the success of the Lima 2027 Games.
“The meetings were extremely positive. We strengthened coordination with Panam Sports, presented all the progress made in the organization of Lima 2027, and the working teams demonstrated their professionalism and deep passion for sports,” said the COP President.
“Today, we reaffirmed that Peru and Panam Sports are strategic partners in support of our Pan American athletes and their families. Without a doubt, Lima 2027 is a reality,” concluded Renzo Manyari.
HAVANA, Cuba, February 19, 2025. – The NORCECA/FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center has inaugurated the International Level 2 Coaching Course in Havana, Cuba.
A total of 32 coaches from Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, and Cuba are participating in the course. They attended the opening ceremony, presided over by Mrs. Teresa Yamila Méndez Álvarez, Deputy Minister of the National Institute of Sports of Cuba; Yumilka Ruíz, Volleyball Commissioner; Osvaldo de Martinez, President of the Cuban Volleyball Federation; Professor Nelson José Ramírez, Director of the NORCECA/FIVB Volleyball Development Center based in the Dominican Republic; and FIVB instructor Luis Muchaga from Spain, who is also the course director. Muchaga will be joined by lecturers Enrique Pacheco from Puerto Rico and Gilberto Herrera, as well as FIVB instructors Francisco Cruz Jiménez and Justo Morales. Additionally, Dr. Lenin Hernández will present on medical aspects, while Rusber Campos from Venezuela will discuss current volleyball statistics.
Prof. Nelson Jose Ramirez
Classes will be held at the facilities of the National Institute of Sports and the Cuban Volleyball Federation’s National Training Center until Sunday, February 23.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Teresa Yamila Álvarez expressed gratitude to NORCECA and the International Volleyball Federation FIVB for their support of this initiative. She encouraged all coaches to apply the knowledge they acquire in service of their countries, especially the local participants, to ensure that Cuba remains a global volleyball reference.
Professor Nelson José Ramírez emphasized that the Volleyball Development Center is dedicated to addressing the needs of all countries, following a policy established by Cristóbal Marte. He affirmed, “NORCECA is committed to all the initiatives of the Development Center to provide training in all areas of volleyball.”
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