Pan Am Cup Spotlight - USA Stands Tall in Hard Fought Matches

The largest Pan Am Cup crowd (2,950) to date gathered at the Bank United Center to watch the two titans of pool A. As undefeated USA (4-0) faced off against Puerto Rico (4-0). The players on both teams knew that they were involved in the marquee match of pool play.



Set 1.
From the beginning of the set both teams were charged with energy as each team tried to match the other point for point. The game was tied at 2-2, 4-4, then Puerto Rico went on a small run but before they could take a commanding lead the U.S. team came roaring back to tie the game once again at 10-10, 11-11.

A monster shot by Kristin Richards-#10 gave the U.S a lead that they would not relinquish. The front line of Scott-Arruda-#2 and Nancy Metcalf-#12 took over the game as the U.S. asserted itself at the net. The U.S. went on a 14-4 run to take the first set 25-15.

Set 2.
Where the first set was almost two different games in one. An extremely close hard fought match to 11 then a laugher the rest of the way. Set 2 was a hard fought match throughout. The game was tied from 9-9 to 15-15 as chants of USA, USA were met with chants for Puerto Rico. Jordan Larson-#11 had several service points as the U.S. just took the set 25-20.

Set 3.
Puerto Rico raced to an early lead of 5-1 only to be (you guessed it) tied again this time from 8-8 to 15-15 with long lasting volleys where players lay out in full extensions and refuse to let the ball hit the ground as the crown cheered for both teams. Later the game was tied at 20-20, 22-22 to 24-24. Now the crowd is in a frenzy. U.S. fans want the team to put Puerto Rico away. The Puerto Rican fans wanted their team to be the first in this tournament to beat the U.S. at least for one set.

Local FIU star Yarimar Rosa-#6, playing for Puerto Rico served up point 25. She followed that up with a beautiful jump serve that started an amazing volley that seemed to last fore-ever. Then out of nowhere Sarai Alvarez-#5 jumped near the end of the court and hit a bullet to end the game and give the U.S. it's first lost set.

Set 4.
I was sure that the U.S. team was going to come out and avenge it's recent set loss. Just as I expected the U.S. started the game with an early lead only to be tied again at 8-8. The game stayed close throughout with the last tie coming at 20-20. On this night the U.S. team had the perfect vision of staying focused and winning the forth set 25-23.

Overall this was an impressive win from a U.S. team that was recently put together with a new coach and "several players that haven't played together" said,Coach McCutcheon.

“Congratulations to USA for its well-organized play,” Puerto Rico Head Coach Carlos Cardona said. “The game was very emotional and exciting.”

Top Performers:
USA: Kristin Richards and Jordan Larson contributed matching 18 points for the U.S. in the victory, while Nancy Metcalf added 17 points. Danielle Scott-Arruda chipped in 10 points for Team USA.

Puerto Rico:Puerto Rico was led by Aurea Cruz’s match-high 21 points, while Sarai Alvarez added 15 points. Yarimar Rosa charted 10 points off the bench.



Key Stat: U.S Stood Tall - The U.S team attempted 57 blocks to Puerto Ricos 41. The U.S Blocked 13 shots to Puerto Rico's 4.
Interesting Stat: Their were 29 ties in the four matches.

U.S. (5-0), as the winner of Pool A, earns an automatic berth into the semifinal round on July 3. In addition, the Americans earned a berth in to the 2010 FIVB World Grand Prix with the victory and semifinal berth (top three NORCECA teams in Pan American Cup earn berths). With the loss, Puerto Rico finishes second in Pool A with a 4-1 record and will play in the quarterfinal round versus Pool B’s third-place team on July 2.

Womens Pan Am Cup - Day 4 June 29th - Recap

Day 4 was another day of great matches and match-ups. As the tournament progresses it is becoming more obvious who is seperating themselves and making a strong push towards the championship.

Pool A at the Bank United Center on the University of Miami Campus.

Mexico (1-3) defeated Guatemala (0-4) 3-0 (25-23, 25-12, 25-21).

Mexico: Captain Migdalel Ruiz came off the bench to score a match-high 17 points with 11 kills, three blocks and three aces. Martha Revuelta added 13 points and Olivia Meza chipped in 11.

Guatemala: Maria A. Estrada Santizo and Rut Beatriz Gomes Guzman tallied eight points for Guatemala, while Silvia C. Herrera Juarez contributed six points in the loss.


Puerto Rico (4-0) defeated Costa Rica (1-3) 3-0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-11).

Puerto Rico: Aurea Cruz tallied a match-high 14 points for Puerto Rico and she was aided on the scoreboard by Sarai Alvarez and Yarimar Rosa, who each contributed nine points. Sheila Ocasio turned in seven points in the victory.

Costa Rica: Costa Rica was led by Verania Willis’ nine points, while Angela Willis added seven points.

USA (4-0) defeated Peru (2-2) 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 26-24).

This was the first real test that the U.S. team has faced thus far in the tournament. “We expected a tough match from Peru and that is what we got,” U.S. Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon said. “ Scott-Arruda said. “Peru presented us with some challenges, and I think it allowed our team to build some character in coming back. We stayed together in the tough moments and found a way to win.”
- reported by Bill Kauffman of USAV

USA: Five Team USA players reached double-digit scoring in a balanced offense. Jordan Larson (Hooper, Neb.) led the U.S. with a match-high 14 points that included 12 kills and two aces. Kristin Richards (Orem, Utah) added 13 points on 12 kills and an ace, while Nancy Metcalf (Hull, Iowa) chipped in 13 points. Danielle Scott-Arruda (Baton Rouge, La.) was credited with five blocks as part of an 11-point night, while Christa Harmotto (Aliquippa, Pa.) contributed 10 points with three blocks.

Peru: Patricia Soto paced Peru with 11 points, while Yulissa Zamudio added nine points. Leyla Chihuan tacked on eight points in the loss, while teammate Jessenia Uceda put down seven points.

Pool B at the U.S. Century Bank Arena at the Florida International University Campus.

Brazil (4-0) defeated Trinidad & Tobago (X-3) 3-0 (25-11,25-14,25-9).

Brazil: Caroline Gattaz led Brazil with 13 points, including six blocks and Adenizia Silva added 11 with three blocks. Regiane Bidias, Joyce Da Silva and Welissa Gonzaga each contributed 9 points.

Argentina (2-2) defeated Canada (1-3) 3-1 (25-16,25-22,23-25,25-17).

Argentina: Georgina Pineda led the way with 23 points and Leticia Boscacci added 14 tallies.

Canada: Tonya Mokelki had 12 points for Canada and Tammy Mahon and Nadine Alphonse each contributed eleven tallies.

The two marquee match-ups today are both at 8:00P.M with a USA vs. Puerto Rico in pool A and Brazil vs. Dominican Republic in pool B.

Local FIU Star Playing for the Puerto Rican National Team

Yarimar Rosa is playing an important role for the Puerto Rican National team at the Pan Am Cup tournament being held in Miami. On Saturday she starred; scoring 11 points, illustrating her usual high flying - hard slamming act. Her defense was also impeccable with several digs and assisting on several blocks. Locally we are used to seeing her apply her trade for the Golden Panthers of Florida International University.

Since arriving at FIU in 2006, Rosa has been a treasure on the volleyball court for the Golden Panthers. From being the 2006 Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the year, the 2006 AVCA Southeast Region Freshman of the Year, a two-time AVCA All-American, All-Southeast Region and first-team All-Sun Belt Conference player, Rosa has made her kills look like exclamation marks during each season.

Yet as impressive as her resume is now, Rosa started playing volleyball in a more humble setting and with innocent intentions.

“The first time I played volleyball I was 6-years old and in the third grade,” said Rosa. “My sister used to play volleyball for the school so I would go to practices with her. One day I was just waiting for her and the coaches asked me if I wanted to play on the team.”

“I remember just trying to get the ball over the net. The first time you get it over you are so happy, but I also remember being happy about getting my serve over the net.”

From those first days of playing to being a member of the Puerto Rican National team for several years, Rosa has a lot of court time to her credit. However, even with someone so experienced as herself, there are some moments in a set that even Rosa would prefer not to relive.

If you attend one of the Puerto Rican matches especially the highly anticipated USA vs. Puerto Rico match at 8:00PM on Tuesday June 30th be sure to cheer hard for our local All-American even if your going for the U.S. team.



Way to go "Yari" we are all rooting for you!

Special Thanks to Flip Littke for the photo of Yarimar Rosa -#6 warming up During yesterdays match vs. Peru.

Who do you think will Win The Pan Am Cup?

I'm pretty sure I know who the Top 5 Teams will be - not yet sure what the projected finish will be.

USA (3-0) > Really like the U.S. team but they haven't played anyone who has tested them. Today vs. Peru @ 8:00PM and tmrw. (30th) vs. Puerto Rico will be a good test.

Brazil (3-0) > The Olympic Champions really look good as well but they have not been tested either. Look to the match vs. the Dominican Republic, tmrw. (30th) @ 8:00PM to tell us more.

Dominican Republic (3-0) > They are the defending champion of this event last year and have brought a very tall and athletic team to the tournament. The match vs. Brazil will be a good measuring point.

Puerto Rico (3-0) > This high flying team is looking real good - recently beating Peru in 3 matches. Look to the match vs. the U.S. at 8:00PM tmrw the 30th to see where they might end up.

Peru (2-1) > Although they lost in three matches to Puerto Rico they are a tall and athletic team and ranked high in the world. They can easily turn things around and do very well in the tournament.

Rest Of the Pack (6-11):

*** Argentina
*** Mexico
** Canada
** Costa Rica
** Trinidad Tobago
** Guatemala

WHO DO YOU THINK WILL WIN THE PAN AM CUP? Let us know in the comment section.

Womens Pan Am Cup - Day 3 June 28th - Recap

Sunday June 28th was yet another great day of International Volleyball. Below is a Recap of this days great Volleyball Action.



Pool A at Bank United Center at the University of Miami campus.

Costa Rica (1-2) defeated Guatemala (0-3), 3-0 (25-16, 25-17, 25-21).

Costa Rica was able to notch it's first win against the young Guatemalan team.

Top Performers:

Costa Rica: was paced by Verania Willis-#9 with 18 points, while teammate Angela Willis-#6 added 13 points in the victory. Onikca Pinnock Gibbons-#11 chipped in seven points in the match.

Guatemala: Blanca E. Recinos Ocana-#3 led the team with 10 points and Beatriz Gomes Guzman Rut-#6 contributed six points.

Puerto Rico (3-0) defeated Peru (2-1), 3-0 (25-17,25-19,25-23).

Both teams entered the match undefeated with 2-0 records. In what was easily the marquis match of the day. Puerto Rico stood tall and took all that a talented Peru team had to dish out. A large contingency of loud and chanting Peru fans lifted their team to take an early lead only to have Puerto Rico come from behind and take the first match. Both teams have talented high flyers and motivated players.

Top Performers:

Puerto Rico: Aurea Cruz-#9 lead with 12 points via nine kills, two aces and a block. Sarai Alvarez-#5 and Alexandra Oquendo-# each added 11 points in the victory. Tatiana Encarnacion was all over the floor scoring crutial points and making incredible saves. Note: Sheila Ocasio-#17 has had two days with several service errors, maybe coach Humberto Rodriguez needs to place someone else to serve for Sheila.

Peru: was paced by Patricia Soto-#4 scored 14 points, while Carla Ortiz-#15 chipped in six points

Note: Peru Vs. USA will be on Monday the 29th and Puerto Rico vs. USA will be on the 30th. The USA needs to be on it's A-Game vs. these opponents to continue it's goal of winning this tournament and guarantee itself of an ideal position.

USA (3-0) defeated Mexico (0-3), 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-11).

USA defeated a very inspired Mexico team that never gave up.

Top Performers:

USA: Nancy Metcalf-#12 scored a match-high 20 points for the U.S., which included
16 kills, three blocks and an ace. Danielle Scott-Arruda-#2 and Jordan Larsen-#11 each recorded 11 points in the victory. Note: Metcalf has such a quick and powerful release with her left hand. Her kills sounded like cannon shots.

Mexico: was led by captain Migdalel Ruiz-#2 and Martha Revuelta-#10, who each racked up nine points. Olivia Meza-#13 chipped in four points in and played inspired adding key digs and blocks.

Pool B at the U.S. Century Arena at the Florida International University campus.

Canada (1-2) received a bye due to Colombia's absence at the tournament (Visa Problem)

Dominican Republic (3-0) defeated Trinidad & Tobago (1-2) 3-0 (25-6, 25-7, 25-14).

Several people I speak with automatically think that the U.S. team will win the tournament others name the Gold Medal winners Brazil and the high flying Puerto Rican team. I caution all that last years defending champion still has something to say as the Dominican Republic swept it's opponent to stay undefeated in this tournament.

Top Performers:

Dominican Republic: Bethania de la Cruz-#18 led Dominican Republic with 11 points, including four aces, Jeoselyna Rodriguez-#11 had 8 points with three aces, and Prisilla Rivera Brens-#14 also had eight tallies.

Brazil (3-0) defeated Argentina (1-2), 3-1 (26-24, 18-25, 25-13, 25-18).

As is the case in any sport; these South American neighbors had a hard fought match. Argentina came out strong knowing that it would take a special effort to defeat the Olympic Gold Medal team of Brazil. In the end Brazil's size and athleticism was to much for Argentina.

Top Performers:

Brazil: Sheila Castro-#13 led four Brazilians in double-figures in scoring with 15 points. Thaisa Menezes-#6 added 12 including five blocks, Welissa Gonzaga-#10 also produced 12 points, Fabiana Marcelino Claudino-#1 chipped in 11 with three blocks and Natalia Zilio Pereira-#11 contributed nine with four blocks.

Argentina: Georgina Pinedo-#11 and Lucia Fresco-#10 topped the Argentinean scoring with 15 and 10 points respectively.

USAV JO Note: It's been great to see that several teams that are competing at the Championships are making the trek to Coral Gables to see either the Puerto Rican and/or the U.S. team. I have also seen several university coaches that are recruiting for talent also make it to the Pan Am Cup. I hope everyone is enjoying Miami as much as Miami enjoys having you here playing great volleyball.

Womens Pan Am Cup - Day 2 June 27th - Recap

Day two was yet another opportunity to see International Volleyball as teams continue pool play. For those who do not follow International Volleyball the elite teams are differentiating them selves from the pack which will set-up eventful match-ups as the tournament proceeds.

Below is a recap of day 2 action:

Pool A - at The Bank United Center at the University of Miami Campus:

Peru (2-0) defeated Costa Rica (0-2) 3-0 (25-14, 25-10, 25-11)

Top Performers:

Peru: was led by captain Leyla Chihuan-#10 who had 15 points that included 10 kills, three aces and two blocks. Patricia Soto-#4, Yulissa Zamudio-#7 and Carla Ortiz-#15 all added 12 points in the victory.

Costa Rica: was led by its captain Verania Willis-#9, who had 10 points all on kills. Irene Fonseca Avila-#14 added five points in the loss.

Puerto Rico (2-0) defeated Mexico (0-2) 3-0 ( 25-18,25-15,25-21)

Puerto Rico won decisively despite several errors. Puerto Rico out-blocked Mexico 11-3 for the match and had five aces to Mexico’s one. Mexico scored 27 points off Puerto Rico errors.

Top Performers:

Puerto Rico: was led by Aurea Cruz-#9 who had 16 points on 10 kills, five blocks and an ace. Local All-American, Yarimar Rosa-#6 (FIU) and Sheila Ocasio-#17 added 11 points in the victory, while Alexandra Oquendo-#16 produced nine points.

Mexico: was led by Martha Revuelta-#10 and Oliva Meza-#13, who each turned in eight points.

United States (2-0) defeated Guatemala (0-2) 3-0 (25-7,25-12,25-7)

Team USA held a 34-16 advantage in kills and used its aggressive serve to gain a 9-1 ace margin. At the net, the U.S. put up 12 blocks and the younger Guatemala team was unable to come away with a block.

Top Performers:

USA: Cynthia Barboza-#8 (Long Beach, Calif.) and Jane Collymore-#9 (Seattle, Wash.) led the U.S. attack with nine points apiece. Barboza reached her total with seven kills on 11 attacks and two aces. Collymore tallied five kills, three blocks and an ace.

Guatemala: Blanca E. Recinos Ocana-#3 led Guatemala with five points.

FOR COMPLETE MATCH BREAKDOWNS - PLEASE CLICK HERE!

Pool B at the U.S. Century Arena at The Florida International University Campus:

Argentina (1-1) defeated Trinidad & Tobago (1-1) 3-0 (25-6, 25-15-25-8).

Top Performers:

Argentina: Yamila Nizetich-#3 topped Argentina with 12 points including two aces and one block and Lucia Fresco-#10 added 11 tallies with two aces and a pair of blocks.

Trinidad & Tobago: Darlene Ramdin-#8 and Krystle Esdelle-#16 scored six points apiece for Trinidad & Tobago.

Dominican Republic (2-0) defeated Canada (0-2) 3-1 (23-25, 25-17, 25-21, 25-21).

This was the most contested match of the day with both teams desperately battling for a victory.

Top Performers:

Dominican Republic: Milagros Cabral-#10 had 28 points with 26 attacks and two blocks, and Bethania de la Cruz-#18 added 19 including seven service aces. Prisilla Rivera Brens-#14 added 15 tallies and Lisvel Eve-#3 had seven blocks among her 10 points.

Canada: Tiffany Dodd-#5 and Brittney Page-#17 topped the Canadian attack with 14 and 12 points respectively.

Brazil 2-0 received a bye due to Colombia's unavailability to attend the tournament (visa problems).

FOR A COMPLETE MATCH BREAKDOWNS - PLEASE CLICK HERE!

Women's Pan Am Cup - 1st Day Recap June 26th

June 26th Marks a historical date in US Volleyball because this Pan Am Cup is the first to be held on U.S. soil. This fact should be a great source of pride to all South Floridians. Where attendance was good at both the U.S. Century Bank Arena at FIU (Pool B) and The Bank United Center at UM (Pool A), we know South Florida can show up in greater numbers and cheer on your favorite teams and witness incredible volleyball. Take advantage of this unique opportunity; you never know when your going to have an international event of this magnitude in your backyard.

Below is a recap of the days events:

Puert Rico defeated Guatemala, 3-0 (25-9, 25-15, 25-18) at The Bank United Center at the UM campus.

Top Performers:

Puerto Rico: Aurea Cruz-#9 led Puerto Rico with a match-high 17 points, which included nine kills and seven aces. Sarai Alvarez-#5 added 10 points for the victors in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Guatemala: No player had over 4 points.

Trinidad Tobago defeats Colombia, Forfiet. at the U.S. Century Bank Arena at the FIU Campus. The Colombian team was not able to get their visas in time and where not able to attend the tournament.

Peru defeated Mexico, 3-0 (25-13, 25-15, 25-10) at the Bank United Center at the UM campus.

Top Performers:

Peru: Yulissa Zamudio-#7 tallied a match-high 12 points with six kills, three blocks and three aces for Peru. Carla Ortiz-#15 added nine points in the victory, all on attacks.

Mexico: was led by its captain Migdalel Ruiz-#2, who tallied eight points with seven kills and a block. Martha Revuelta-#10 added six points in the loss.

Dominican Republic defeated Argentina in the most contested match of the day, 3-1, (24-26, 25-13, 25-18, 27-25)at the U.S. Century Arena at the FIU campus.

Top Performers:

Dominican Republic: Bethania de la Cruz-#18 tallied 20 points, including seven aces and two blocks to lead Dominican Republic and Prisilla Rivera-#14 added 18 with three blocks.

Argentina: Leticia Boscacci-#4 was the best Argentinean with 17 points and Natali Flaviani-#9 added 11.

USA defeated Costa Rica 3-0 (25-7, 25-6, 25-16) at The Bank United Center at the UM campus. “This was a nice start to the tournament,” U.S. Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon said. “Costa Rica is a good team, and it showed in the third set. I was glad to see that we managed the game well in the first two sets.”

Top Performers:

USA: Jordan Larson-#11 (Hooper, Neb.), led all scorers with 14 points with 12 kills and two aces. Nancy Metcalf-#12 (Hull, Iowa) scored 11 points on seven kills, three aces and a block. Kristin Richards-#10 (Orem, Utah) chipped in nine points via the attack, while Heather Bown-#7 (Yorba Linda, Calif.) added seven points on five kills and two blocks.

Costa Rica: Verania Willis Lindo-#9 led Costa Rica with seven points, while Melissa Fernandez Monge-#13 added three points.

There was a large and loud number of U.S. supporters present at the match.

Brazil defeated Canada 3-0 (25-11, 25-12, 25-13) at the U.S. Century Bank Arena at the FIU Campus in front of a banting crowd of enthusiastic Brazilian fans. It was easy to get caught up in the several songs, chants and cheers that the Brazilian fans displayed endlessly through-out the match.

Top Performers:

Brazil: Mari Steinbrecher-#3 topped the Gold Medal team with 12 points, including three aces and one block, and Welissa Gonzalez-#10 contributed 10 points, all by kills.

Canada: Brittney Page-#17 was the best Canadian with nine tallies. It would have been interesting to see what would have happened had Coach Pierre Baudin kept in Sofie-Hanna Schlagintweit-#8 and Sherline Holness -#12.

If you get a chance to see the Brazilian team I highly recommend it. In addition I witnessed that all the players are very approachable and open to interact with their fans. Do not miss the opportunity to witness the best volleyball played in the Americas and in the World!

U.S. Roster Set for Historical Women's Pan Am Cup

The Eighth Women's Pan American Cup, scheduled for July 26 to July 4 in Miami, will serve as an historic occasion for the U.S. Women's National Volleyball Team, which has been itching to get back onto the court since winning the silver medal at the 2008 Olympic Games.

In recent history, the U.S. has not hosted many women's international events on domestic soil because of a grueling international schedule. USA Volleyball has never hosted the Women's Pan American Cup in the seven previous years of the event's history and the upcoming tournament represents the largest international volleyball event hosted in the U.S. in terms of country participation.

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Further, Team USA has not hosted a women's senior-level international tournament since the 1998 FIVB World Championship Qualifier tournament in 1998. Due to international scheduling and professional league commitments, matches on domestic soil have become a rarity with only seven contests against foreign teams in the most recent Olympic quadrennial (2005-2008). In the Pan American Cup and the FIVB Women's World Championship Qualifier July 6-8 at Orlando, the U.S. will have played at least 10 matches in the span of 13 days.

"We are very happy to be playing in the United States to start the season," U.S. Women's National Team Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon (Christchurch, New Zealand) said. "It is always great to play here in front of the USA fans."
Pan American Cup pool play, scheduled for June 26-30, is a five-day, round robin preliminary to determine classification round matches. The U.S. Women's National Team, part of Pool A at University of Miami with matches at Bank United Center, starts competition on June 26 versus Costa Rica. The Americans face Guatemala on June 27, followed by a June 28 contest versus Mexico. Team USA hosts Peru on June 29 before concluding pool play on June 30 versus Puerto Rico. All U.S. pool matches are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET.

Pool B, played at nearby Florida International University's U.S. Century Bank Arena, includes Argentina, top-ranked Brazil, Canada, Dominican Republic and Trinidad & Tobago. The 2008 Olympic Games gold-medal participants of U.S. and Brazil are on opposite sides of the bracket. Colombia was originally part of Pool B, but was unable to attend.

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SEE YA THERE!

Women Pan American Cup comes to Miami

All eyes will be watching Miami this coming week as the Women's Pan Am Cup comes to Miami in unison with the USAV JO Championships in the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Each country in the Pan Am Cup will play five pool matches in a round-robin format from June 26 to July 30, followed by an off-day on July 1st. The winner of each pool advances to the semifinals on July 3, while the second- and third-place pool finishers play cross-pool quarterfinal matches on July 2. The championship match is schedule for July 4. All match times and pool schedules are listed below.

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The U.S. Women’s National Team, part of Pool A at University of Miami’s Bank United Center, starts competition on June 26 versus No. 30 Costa Rica. The Americans face No. 48 Guatemala on June 27, followed by a June 28 contest versus No. 26 Mexico. Team USA hosts No. 17 Peru on June 29 before concluding pool play on June 29 versus No. 19 Puerto Rico. The U.S. captured the silver medal at the 2008 Olympic Games and is currently ranked second in the world.

Brazil, the 2008 Olympic Games gold medalist and leader of the FIVB world ranking, headlines Pool B at Florida International (U.S. Century Bank Arena) where it will be part of a round-robin group of No. 13 Dominican Republic, No. 23 Canada, No. 31 Argentina, No. 43 Colombia and No. 53 Trinidad & Tobago. Full schedule for both pools can be found at the end of this release.

Cuba, a 2008 Olympic Games semifinalist and currently ranked third in the world, Venezuela and Uruguay were eligible for the Pan American Cup but elected to withdraw from the event.

Classification round matches will be played on July 2 and July 3 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. (all Eastern Time). The final classification matches on July 4 will be played at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. (all Eastern Time).

The Pan American Cup serves as a qualification event into the 2010 FIVB World Grand Prix, the premier annual international women’s volleyball tournament. The Pan American Cup’s top three teams from NORCECA and the top team from South America earn berths into the World Grand Prix.

USA Volleyball has never hosted the Women’s Pan American Cup in the seven previous years of the event’s history. The 2009 Women’s Pan American Cup is the largest international volleyball event hosted by USA Volleyball in terms of country participation.

Miami will be a busy location for volleyball the last week of June and first week of July. The 2009 USA Junior Olympic Girls’ Volleyball Championships will be played June 26-July 5 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Typically, the tournament attracts 788 teams and approximately 9,500 athletes in addition to parents and relatives. A total of 19 championships are contested in age groups ranging from 12 to 18.

Women’s Pan American Cup Schedule (all times Eastern Time)

Pool A
June 26: Puerto Rico vs. Guatemala, 3 p.m.
June 26: Peru vs. Mexico, 5:30 p.m.
June 26: United States vs. Costa Rica, 8 p.m.
June 27: Costa Rica vs. Peru, 3 p.m.
June 27: Mexico vs. Puerto Rico, 5:30 p.m.
June 27: United States vs. Guatemala, 8 p.m.
June 28: Costa Rica vs. Guatemala, 3 p.m.
June 28: Puerto Rico vs. Peru, 5:30 p.m.
June 28: United States vs. Mexico, 8 p.m.
June 29: Mexico vs. Guatemala, 3 p.m.
June 29: Costa Rica vs. Puerto Rico, 5:30 p.m.
June 29: United States vs. Peru, 8 p.m.
June 30: Guatemala vs. Peru, 3 p.m.
June 30: Mexico vs. Costa Rica, 5:30 p.m.
June 30: United States vs. Puerto Rico, 8 p.m.

Pool B
June 26: Colombia vs. Trinidad & Tobago, 3 p.m.
June 26: Dominican Republic vs. Argentina, 5:30 p.m.
June 26: Brazil vs. Canada, 8 p.m.
June 27: Argentina vs. Trinidad & Tobago, 3 p.m.
June 27: Colombia vs. Brazil, 5:30 p.m.
June 27: Canada vs. Dominican Republic, 8 p.m.
June 28: Colombia vs. Canada, 3 p.m.
June 28: Trinidad & Tobago vs. Dominican Republic, 5:30 p.m.
June 28: Brazil vs. Argentina, 8 p.m.
June 29: Brazil vs. Trinidad & Tobago 3 p.m.
June 29: Argentina vs. Canada, 5:30 p.m.
June 29: Dominican Republic vs. Colombia, 8 p.m.
June 30: Colombia vs. Argentina, 3 p.m.
June 30: Canada vs. Trinidad & Tobago, 5:30 p.m.
June 30: Brazil vs. Dominican Republic, 8 p.m.

July 1: Off Day

Classification Rounds
July 2: #31 Pool A 6th vs. Pool B 6th, 11 a.m. (class 11-12)
July 2: #32 Pool B 4th vs. Pool A 5th, 1 p.m. (class 5-10)
July 2: #33 Pool A 4th vs. Pool B 5th, 3 p.m. (class 5-10)
July 2: #34 Pool B 2nd vs. Pool A 3rd, 5:30 p.m. (quarterfinals)
July 2: #35 Pool A 2nd vs. Pool B 3rd, 8 p.m. (quarterfinals)

July 3: #36 Loser #32 vs. Loser #33, 11 a.m. (class 9-10)
July 3: #37 Winner #32 or #33 vs. Loser #34 or #35, 1 p.m. (class 5-8)
July 3: #38 Winner #32 or #33 vs. Loser #34 or #35, 3 p.m. (class 5-8)
July 3: #39 Pool B Winner vs. Winner #34 or #35, 5:30 p.m. (semifinals)
July 3: #40 Pool A Winner vs. Winner #34 or #35, 8 p.m. (semifinals)

July 4: #41 Loser #37 vs. Loser #38, Noon (class 7-8)
July 4: #42 Winner #37 vs. Winner #38, 2 p.m. (class 5-6)
July 4: #43 Loser #39 vs. Loser #40, 4 p.m. (class 3-4)
July 4: #44 Winner #39 vs. Winner #40, 6 p.m. (Final)

TEAM TO WATCH AT THE USAV JO OLYMPICS: BOOMERS ELITE 18

This week we have the pleasure of spot-lighting a unique team that is filled with talented ALL-State and All-County top performers. Several members of the team will be playing for universities nest season.

SPOTLIGHT IS ON: THE BOOMERS 18 ELITE

Many of these players came from different schools accustomed to be the top player or one of the top players from their respective school. On this team, they have had to deal with different roles and have had to learn to play together. Add a coaching change where head coach Todd Raasch had to leave due to a new job with Boston College mid way through the season and you would think this team would fall apart. Nothing could be further from the truth. The players and new Head Coach Lynze Roos continue being committed to winning.



New Head Coach Lynze Roos is in her third season at the helm of the Lynn University volleyball team. Already the all-time winning head coach in program history, she has developed the Fighting Knights into one of the premier squads in the Sunshine State Conference and has the Blue and White knocking on the door of national prominence. She has brought her presence and leadership to the Boomers team and has helped guide this talented team to the USAV Junior Olympics.

It is time that we meet the dynamic group of players that make up this years Boomers 18 Elite Team:

1 LINDSEY CHILDS LEFT/RIGHT 6Ft-1 Inch SOUTH PLANTATION H.S
High flying hitter is a presence at the net. 1st Team All Broward County - Signed with Florida Gold Coast University (FGCU).
2 CASSADY COOK LEFT/SETTER 5Ft-11 Inches RPB HIGH SCHOOL
Possesses excellent instincts and can play all around the court. Player of the Year for Palm Beach County.
3 ALEXANDRA DENNIS MIDDLE/LEFT 5Ft-11 Inches ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Solid Blocker/Hitter - Hon. Mention All-County
4 ASCHELY GADDY MIDDLE/LEFT 6Ft-0 Inches TRINITY CHRISTIAN
Dominant Hitter - 1st Team All County
5 ANNE LANGSENKAMP LIBERO/LEFT 5Ft-10 Inches ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Solid skill sets - Hon. Mention All Palm Beach County
6 BRITTANY LINDER MIDDLE/MIDDLE 6Ft-1 Inch ST THOMAS AQUINAS
Very strong presence at the net. Can most definitely play at the next level. 2nd Team All Broward County
7 KELLY MARBLE SETTER/LEFT 5Ft-11 Inches ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
High Flying hitter with soft touch as a setter - 2nd Team All Broward County
9 CINTIA NIGHTINGALE LIBERO/ 5Ft-3 Inches WEST BOCA
Tenacious defender with complete skill sets. 1st Team All Palm Beach County - Signed with FLorida Atlantic University
10 JENNA SHAWVER DS/ 5Ft-4 Inches NORTHEAST
Versatile player / strong defender. 2nd Team All Broward County
11 DARIAN WEPPNER LIBERO/DS 5Ft-4 Inches CALVARY CHRISTIAN
Quick to the ball, she has excellent ability to read opposing players. 1st Team All Broward County.
12 STEPHANIE ZIELINSKI SETTER/LEFT 5Ft-10 Inches ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Is a gifted setter who possesses great size and knowledge of the game. Player of the Year for Broward County - Signed with Rutgers University.

If your going to see the USAV Championships in Miami Beach then we recommend that you make the time to see these girls play, you'll be impressed with their size, strength and team work.

We wish the very best for the players and the coaches of this years Boomers Elite 18.

Special Thanks to the Parents of the team with-out who's help this spotlight would not be possible.

USA Volleyball Junior Olympics Championship ( Starting this Weekend) June, 26th - July 5th.

We in South Florida are being treated to some of the best Volleyball on our planet in both the adult and Junior levels as both the USA Junior Olympic Girls' Volleyball Championships will run concurrently with the Eighth Annual Women's Pan American Cup starting June 26 in the city of Miami, Fla. The USA Junior Olympic Girls' Volleyball Championships will be staged at the Miami Beach Convention Center between June 26 and July 5. The nine-day Pan American Cup, which will be played on the campuses of the University of Miami and Florida International University, crowns its champion on July 4. We urge all fans to not only attend; but to invite friends and family to witness and embrace the sport that we all love and admire.

For Tickets and further event information, please click here.

Miami will be hosting its first USA Volleyball Championship in either Junior Olympic or Adult Open formats. However, USA Volleyball hosted the 2008 NORCECA Boys' Youth Continental Championship at Florida International University in August. In addition, neighboring Fort Lauderdale has hosted the 2006 and 2007 USA Volleyball High Performance Championship, and it will again host the 2009 event at the Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center between July 22-26. Overall, the Miami-metro area has gained favorable reviews as a host for major junior-level volleyball events involving international teams.



"USA Volleyball is extremely excited about the opportunity to host one of the largest international volleyball events in Miami and to pair it with the 2009 USA Junior Olympic Girls' Volleyball Championships," USA Volleyball Chief Executive Officer Doug Beal said. "It will provide a unique opportunity for our developing young volleyball players to be exposed to elite international volleyball teams from North America, South America and the Caribbean. The two events will also generate terrific excitement in the community and lead to greater popularity for the sport."

"We are delighted with the partnership and support already given by the Miami Sports Commission, University of Miami and Florida International University in making these two events spectacular," USA Volleyball Managing Director of Events Mike Chandler said.

The USA Junior Olympic Girls' Volleyball Championships qualifying process will have a slightly different look in 2009 as it expands from nine to 10 qualifying events. The Sho-Me Qualifier, set for April 3-5 in Kansas City, has been added to the slate of qualifying tournament options. All 10 qualifiers will have Open, National and American Division bids with specific bid totals available later in the qualifier bid manual.

As you attend the Junior Olympics below are a few Florida teams to look at and cheer for:

12's - Blue Lightning 12 - American Divition
12's - Cape Coast 12 National - National Divition
12's - OVA 12 Asics - National Division
13's - Boomers 13 Elite - American Division
13's - OVA 13 Molten - American Division
13's - Gainesville Jr. Black - National Division
13's - OVA 13 Asics - National Division
14's - Cape Coast 14 National - American Division
14's - OVA 14 Molten - American Division
14's - Top Select 14 Elite - National Division
14's - OVA 14 Asics - Open Division
15's - Club Florida Mizuno - American Division
15's - Gainesville Black - American Division
15's - Boomers 15 Elite - National Division
15's - OVA 15 Asics - National Division
15's - Pinellas Heat Elite - Open Division
16's - OVA 16 Elite - American Division
16's - Pinellas Heat Elite - American Division
16's - Top Select Elite - National Division
16's - Tampa Bay Black - Open Division
17's - Pinellas Heat Elite - American Division
17's - TVA-WS National - American Division
17's - JJVA 17N - Adis - National Division
17's - USA South National - National Division
17's - Tampa Bay Black - Open Division
18's - Boomers 18 Elite - American Division
18's - NFVA 18 Elite - American Division
18's - Pinellas Heat Elite - American Division
18's - Inland VBC 18-1 - National Division
18's - OVA 18 Asics - Open Division

A Parents Perspective at the AAU Championship - We need to start them Younger w/ Top Coaches

As a parent who's child is playing volleyball at a high level for the first time, the AAU National Championship was the grand crescendo to an incredible year. We were all amazed on the opening ceremony with the players parade and a fantastic choreographed dance routine to kick off the tournament by Mickey Mouse and company on Friday.

To see hundreds upon hundreds of young ladies from across our great nation competing was truly a joy to see. During Pool play: Saturday, Sunday and Monday we won some but lost most. Finally on Tuesday our team played well into the semi's before falling short. Our team was just an average Tri-County type team and was clearly over matched as we faced elite teams from Puerto Rico, Texas, Indiana and Louisiana.

Over-all, our girls have realized more than ever that they truly love the sport of Volleyball and most agree that they have to get to work and greatly improving their skills.

There were a few things that I observed from many 10U and 12U teams that is not commonly seen in the South Florida area. First hand I witnessed teams that had most of their girls jump serving line drives over the net. These girls were playing bump set, spike to perfection - again I said 10-12yr olds. As I witnessed this high level of play I realized that I had not witnessed anything like it when I attended Tri-County tournaments. Which brought about a profound question - WHY NOT?

Seeing that I am no expert I can only propose a question to all the club directors and coaches in the South Florida area.

What can we all do to make our girls perform at a higher level and at an earlier age?

A few suggestions:

* All clubs need to have a developmental league for 9-11 yr old beginners.
* The girls need talented teachers (coaches) that can show them to play at a high level. Within the second month the girls need to be scrimmaging with one another.
* By the forth month all the clubs need to have their young beginner team participate in a tournament.
** There needs to be an aggressive beginner program that can transform the girls from sweet little novice players to elite or a least solid player in 4-6 months.
* We need to see greater participation of the different clubs by offering more gym time to members and more practices during the season.

EXAMPLE: During the recent AAU Championship we spoke with one of the Puerto Rican teams and they practice 4 days a week for four hours a practice. No wonder they are so good. I was literally in shock when they told us how much they practice that It took several minutes for mind to ask a simple question: so when do the girls study for school?

Overall - as a first time parent involved in travel volleyball I must admit I love it, my kids love it - it's great. Although I am concerned that other states seem to do it better.

SFVR: Special thanks to the above parent that wished to write anonymously but shared a very interesting perspective on a players commencement at a young age into the sport. We all need to do our part to make sure that our girls and our teams excel Nationally and Internationally.

AAU CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM TO WATCH: OBV 17 NATIONAL QUIKSILVER

In the 17's division of the AAU Championships in Orlando we are spotlighting a "Team to Watch", I've had the pleasure of seeing a team made up of ALL-County players from Broward and Palm Beach with extreme athleticism and tenacity. The team is made up of five (5) first team County Players. That's a bit less than half of all the first team All-County players that Broward and Palm Beach counties have to offer.

TODAY'S SPOTLIGHT IS ON: OCEAN BREEZE VOLLEYBALL (OBV) 17 NATIONAL QUIKSILVER TEAM

The team is lead by Coach Virginia Kelly who has college coaching experience (Lynn University) as well as several High School Coach of the Year Awards. Coach Kelly has worked diligently with the players to insure that the team plays at peak performance and currently has the team on the rise.


We recently asked Coach Kelly a few questions regarding her National Quicksilver 17's Team:






SFVR: Your team is stacked with All-County players. Have the girls been able to adapt to different roles on this team and different playing time?
KELLY: It was an easy transition because they all respect each other and want to play with each other. Being on a team with equally talented players is challenging and fun. Some of their roles are different but we are open and honest when they are chosen for the team.

SFVR: Some of the players on the team are from rival schools. Was that a problem during the initial phases as the team started to come together?
KELLY: No, not at all. These players came in with a positive frame of mind to do what ever was asked of them.

SFVR: I understand it is Latoya Harvin's first club season. How has the club experience help her evolve her game?
KELLY: I think she has been over whelmed at times because the game is much faster and more intense every day. Overall she has had a positive experience as have had all our players!

SFVR: What has been the most memorable game thus far this year?
KELLY: When we played Tampa United 18's. We stepped to the next level as individuals and as a team. We played strong, aggressive and intense throughout the match. This match gave us the confidence that we have continued to play well with. We are a 17 team playing in the 18 open division so we lacked a little confidence and consistency. Since that match we have played very well.

SFVR: It's funny how a season can have a clear a turning point where either things go down or the team just takes off and doesn't look back. I had the pleasure of seeing your team play in the Cloverleaf and they were very impressive. I could see that the team was well coached and you have the pleasure of working with some very talented players.



NUMBER NAME HEIGHT SCHOOL

#1 KENDALL PUTNAM 5'8'' Douglas HS
- Kendall Putnam is our libero/outside hitter. Good all around player. All-County 1st Team

#2 JENNA KEELER 6'1'' Plantation HS
-Jenna Keeler is a strong blocker and a presence at the net.

#3 LATOYA HARVIN 5'10'' Royal Palm Beach HS
-Latoya Harvin is playing in her first club season. She is learning a lot an improving with each practice/tournament. She is being recruited heavily for a first year club player. She is athletic, can jump, hang, and hit! Very good blocker. All-County 1st Team.

#4 ALYSSA ROBERTSON 5'11'' Monarch HS
-Alyssa Robertson is the most improved player from last year. She is a strong hitter and blocker. Will be one of our "Go To" players by the end of the season.

#5 JESSICA SANTANEILLO 5'9'' West Boca HS
-Jess Santaneillo is athletic, strong and the best all around skills. All-County 1st Team.

#11 SHAINA ABDELL 5'11'' Royal Palm Beach HS
-Shaina Abdell is the hardest working, most passionate player on the team. Very driven and will do whatever it takes to play at the next level. All-County 1st Team

#12 SUZI SOLENSKI 5'11'' Cardinal Gibbons HS
- Suzi Solenski never stops supporting her teammates. She plays hard all the time. Constanly encouraging and cheering her teammates in all matches.

#13 KATELYN HUMMEL 5'6'' North Broward Prep
- Katelyn Hummel is one of our setters. She is quick and can make a play out of every ball dug. All-County 1st Team

#15 MOLLY MACEK 5'8'' Cardinal Gibbons HS
- Molly Macek is our defensive specialist. Great passer and server. Gives an emotional lift every time she comes in. All-County Honorable Mention

Special thanks to Coach Virginia Kelly and Club Director Mike Zarate for all you do to help promote Volleyball and its players in South Florida. Coach Kelly, Thanks for all your input and assistance in helping us SPOTLIGHT this years OBV 17 National Quiksilver Team.

AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS: TEAM TO WATCH - THE SOUTH FLORIDA FLYERS

This club season I have had the pleasure of witnessing several top teams that could be referred to as Elite, Nationals, etc. In speaking with club directors, coaches and parents I've realized that many of these teams are comprised of several special All-County and All State players. Seeing that several of these teams are traveling nationally, I thought our readers would enjoy getting a closer look at some of these teams in a multi-part feature SPOTLIGHTING on TOP TEAMS.

THE SOUTH FLORIDA FLYERS

The South Florida Flyers are an AAU/USAV 17U team comprised of several ALL-Dade players and are lead by Greg Shanower, one of the brightest young coaches in Dade County. The Flyers are one team with a common goal: To get better, to have fun and to win. The team has had great success this season either winning the gold or placing very high within the gold bracket.



In our spotlight on the Flyers we asked a few questions to Coach Shanower:

SFVR: How did the idea of formulating an AAU/USAV team of All-County players come to fruition?
SHANOWER: Well to be honest with you the All-County players had nothing to do with the formation of this team. When these girls were freshman a parent came to me and asked me if I would take a group of girls to the AAU Nationals held in Orlando. So we went looking for girls that would be interested. After that I took them again to only that tournament, they all played for different club during club season. They kept trying to get me to coach a club team, but I didn’t have the time because I was coaching boys and also I have 2 kids myself under the age of 5. Finally I retired from coaching boys and decided to coach a club team. I had told these girls from their freshman year that if I ever coach club then they could play for me. Therefore that is how we got the team together.


SFVR: Did the players from different schools already know each other?
SHANOWER: Some of them knew each other from playing middle school volleyball together, but the majority of them met their freshman year. And then we played in the AAU tournament their sophomore year.


SFVR: When the team first got together what was your message to the players?
SHANOWER: That everyday they come into practice they should push themselves to get better. You have to bring 100% of yourself to practice.

SFVR: On your first tournament, did you feel any pressure to win seeing that it was the first time that many of these girls had played together?
SHANOWER: You know the more I have been coaching to less I care about wins and losses. I know that sounds strange. But at this point I am more concerned about teaching the player as a whole. As long as a person can leave my program being a better person then that is all that matters to me. Now if I can teach them about volleyball along the way then that is a great bonus. Don’t get me wrong, I love to win as much as the next person, but if I can see positive improvement each day then I know I am doing my job.

SFVR: Thus far what has been your most memorable game?
SHANOWER: I would have to say betting the Navy South Dade Team. That Paulina is one of the greatest players I have seen for a long time. When she is on her game then it is hard to beat their team. When we played them in the Championship of the Ft. Lauderdale Inv. They won because the rest of her team stepped up and out played us. They have a really nice team.

SFVR: Have there been any surprises as of yet? (positive or negative)

SHANOWER: No real surprises, just a great enjoyment of coaching such a great group of girls. It is hard to fine a team where they all get a long. But this group really does that. When we travel we get homes rather than hotel rooms. My stomach hurts because of the laughing and good times we have together. I try to run my program like a family. I think to myself how I would want a coach to coach my own daughter. That really has changed a lot of the messages I have given to the girls. I want to get the parents involved. I have an open door policy, which means I let parents come in to the practices and see what is going on. That way when they have questions later about why I make my decisions they understand more. I find that the parents will respect and be more willing to help you when you show them you really care about them and their children.

WOW Coach, I hope my girls get to play for you some day.

A great coach can teach, motivate and put his/her team in a position to win games and matches but it takes great players to make great teams. So without further adieu
it is time for you to meet the players that make up the South Florida Flyers of 2009.





Alex Walewski - ALL County 5’7/OH #2 Ferguson
- Alex is one of the best all around players in Dade County. She will make a strong defensive specialist at the next level








Kristin Walewski ALL-State 5’4/S #6 Ferguson
- Kristin is the leader on and off the floor. She runs a very smooth and effective offense.









Alex Beverly ALL-County 5’11/OPP #11 Ferguson
- Alex has a great serve that gives our team a lot of points. She uses her height to her advantage to control the net.









Danielle Pohl - Hon. Mention 6’0/MH #1 Ferguson
- Danielle has turned into a great middle hitter. She is able to find holes in the opponents’ defense. She is coming back from shoulder surgery and getting stronger every tournament.






Mackenzie Webster - Hon. Mention 5’9/OH #9 Ferguson
- Mackenzie is a complete player with tons of talent and strength. Her greatest contribution to the team is her ability to never give up. She can hit from any place on the court.








Aly LeNoble Hon. Mention 5’8/OPP #4 Killian
- Aly is a utility player. She can play any position on the floor. Her positive attitude and her work ethic are contagious and rub off on anyone around her.







Jenni Machado Hon. Mention 5’6/DS #7 Killian
- Jenni has developed into a great defensive specialist. She will always give 100% effort for every ball and proudly displays any bruises obtained while getting to a ball.







Lauren Silva Hon. Mention 5’9/MH #8 Lourdes
- Lauren is slowly developing into one of the best middle hitter in Dade County. Her power and understanding of the game is amazing.


If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing this team Hustle, Dive and Fly you still have a chance to see the South Florida Flyers at THIS YEARS AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ORLANDO FLORIDA.

SPECIAL THANKS TO COACH SHANOWER AND SEVERAL PARENTS OF THE FLYERS FOR THE EXCELENT PICTURES AND GREAT SUPPORT.

WE ARE LOOKING TO SPOTLIGHT SEVERAL TOP TEAMS IN THE SOUTH FLORIDA AREA. LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR TEAM.

The South Florida Volleyball Report Wants You!

There are hundreds if not thousands of people in South Florida that are involved in Volleyball in some form or fashion. Maybe your a player, a coach, a parent, a club director and event organizer. All of you have stories to tell, tips to share, events to invite us too, etc.

The South Florida Volleyball Report was started because there was not one place that a parent or would be player could find out general information about the game and or joining a team to help them develop their skill. The interesting thing about the Report is that it has become much more.

It belongs to all of us in South Florida. The power of the Internet has allowed America to realize the quality of Volleyball that is being played in Florida. We receive hundreds of hits from across the Nation, Florida and from our community here in South Florida.

In less than a year we have had the privilege to interview local high school Coaches, University Coaches, players for their Player Profiles and have covered several local high school, universities and USAV tournaments. Soon we will have the honor on covering the Pan Am Cup games that will be held in Miami, Florida.

Sure it feels good to know that the Report lets America know what's going on in South Florida but I feel that the report could be so much more . . . . when I think of the hundreds of you that have your stories to tell your coaching tips to give your experiences to share I realize that the report isn't even 1% of what it can be.

I know, I know - your busy right. I work well over 50hours a week, have a loving wife and two great kids to attend too and I still find time. Why - because just like you I really love the game of Volleyball.


"BE A GUEST WRITER"

So here it is . . . A formal invitation to be a Guest Writer on The South Florida Volleyball Report. If you want to be anonymous that's O.K. you let me know.

E-mail me with your stories or with any questions you might have - volleyballreport@gmail.com

Just as a helpful hint here's a few possible story lines:

* Parents there's a bunch of you that are new at attending volleyball games and going to USAV matches - maybe some of those parents can share ideas and concerns. Maybe some parents that have been doing the above for years can give some advice with some personal experiences. Earlier this year a parent submitted a story based on a Sports Illustrated article about athletes playing with injuries.

* Players - You have the most to write and contribute. If your new lets us know how you feel about the game tell us of a few experiences. If you've played a few years let us know what it was like in the beginning and how you feel now. A great story could be your experience during a tournament. A day before the tournament write down how your feeling, then write down how pool play went the good and the bad. Let us know how the last day went. If you won it all great - if you did not win it all - explain to us how you and your team dealt with the adversity of loosing and what you will do to be better prepared for the next match and or tournament.

* Coaches your expertise and wisdom would be so helpful. Any tips, observations or idea you wish to publish will be extremely helpful to the volleyball community.

* Event organizers let us know what your doing. Currently we have Beach Volleyball Tournaments going on and we'd like to post stories about your events and recaps of what transpired during the tournaments.

* Where to Playy - Let us know where courts exist in South Florida (either sand or hard court). We'll have a section similar to our summer camps and Life's a beach that will take you to a list of places to play.

* Boys Volleyball - I can only do so much covering girls volleyball - Which of you will be the Boys Volleyball corespondent for the Report?

Folks there's a bunch of things that you can write and share and help your community Volleyball Report truly represent all of you. A little bit of effort can go a long way!

Come on South Florida Share your Stories!

36th AAU girls Jr. National Volleyball Championships to be held at Disney from June 12th - 20th, 2009

The 36th AAU Jr. National Girls' Volleyball Championships will be held at Disney's Wide World of Sports complex and the Orlando Convention Center. Although the bulk of the courts are located at the Orlando Convention Center, most teams will have an opportunity to play at Disney's Complex as different age divisions are allocated different venues from day to day.

The tournament includes pool play preliminary round which will determine placement and seeding of each team in the bracket rounds. All teams will have four days of competition. Competition will be held at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex and the Orange County Convention Center.

Entry into the National Championship is open to any girls' team, so no qualifying is required. Entries are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until all brackets are full. Age divisions include 10:U, 12:U, 13:U, 14:U, 15:U, 16:U, 17:U and 18:U. Open and Club divisions are offered for ages 14 through 18. The age determination date is September 1.

Teams are representing states from across the country with Florida, Puerto Rico and Illinois having the greatest number of teams. In total 631 teams will be competing on 50 courts. We wish all teams a wonderful experience in Orlando and we'll be rooting for all of the South Florida Teams listed below:

FOR MORE INFO VISIT THE AAU SITE BY CLICKING ON THE TITLE OF THIS POST OR YOU CAN CLICK HERE http://www.aausports.org/sprt_volleyball.asp















SOUTH FLORIDA TEAMS COMPETING AT THE AAU-VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

TopSpin Volleyball 12U
Palm Beach Jrs 12U
Boomers Elite 13U
Club Florida Volletball 13U
Palm Beach Jrs 13U
Palm Beach Jrs. 14U
Boomers Elite 15U
OBV National Quiksilver 15U
Boomers Elite 16U
Palm Beach Jrs. 16U
* OBV National Quiksilver 17U
* South Florida Flyers 17U
Top Spin Volleyball 18U

* Note these teams have previously been spotlighted and can be found on the side-bar under TOP TEAMS.

Lets Help Increase ESPN's Coverage of NCAA Indoor Volleyball

The recent NCAA Ladies NCAA Softball World series coverage on ESPN has made me think of the minute coverage that ESPN gave The Ladies NCAA tournament.

Not to say that softball is not entertaining but quite frankly Volleyball is a faster action packed ladies sport that if given the proper exposure could eclipse all other NCAA Ladies sports in just a few years.

CLICK ON THE TITLE AND LET THEM KNOW THAT WE WANT TO SEE MORE VOLLEYBALL GAMES AND A MORE COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE THE LADIES NCAA VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT!

We as a group we have the ability to enforce change within ESPN.

I am a strong believer that if ESPN increases it's coverage of NCAA Ladies Volleyball - America will fall in love with the sport and it's players.

After-all there is no ladies sport that is faster paced and can keep you on the edge of your seat like Ladies Volleyball can. If you believe the same, then let ESPN know.



CLICK ON THE TITLE AND LET THEM KNOW THAT WE WANT TO SEE MORE VOLLEYBALL GAMES AND A MORE COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE THE LADIES NCAA VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT!















NOW IS THE TIME TO TAKE ACTION - WE HAVE TO GIVE TIME FOR ESPN EXEC'S TO PLAN ON INCREASING COVERAGE OF THE UPCOMING SEASON. DO NOT LEAVE FOR TOMORROW WHAT CAN BE DONE TODAY!

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE !

Dominican Republic upsets Cuba at international event in China

Kunshan, China, June 3 , 2009 - Dominican Republic twice rallied from a set down to claim a 3-2 upset win over Cuba, while China downed Turkey here on Wednesday in the second leg of the China International Women's Volleyball Tournament.

In the first match, Bethania Dela Cruz scored 23 points to lead the Dominicans to a 20-25, 25-15, 20-25, 25-23, 17-15 victory, while Altagracia Mambru and Lisvel Eve added 13 and 11 points respectively for the winning side.

In the tiebreaker, Cuba overcame an early 7-5 deficit and withstood two match points to tie it at 15, but Dominican Republic converted on the third match ball with Mambru driving the ball home. The Cubans, fourth-place finishers at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, were led by Nancy Carrillo with 17 points.

Dominican Republic comes into the Pan Am Cup in Miami ranked as the 13 best team in the world and should improve on that mark with the impressive win over Cuba. Dominican Republic starts tournament play in Miami in pool "B" in U.S. Century Bank Arena at the FIU campus on June 26th vs. Argentina @ 5:30P.M.

CANCELLED - Pat Powers Sports Clinic Coming to South Florida June 22nd-23rd

WE are happy to post that Olympic Gold Medalist; Pat Powers will be bringing his Volleyball Camp to South Florida June 22-23rd. Usually his Florida camp is reserved for the Tampa area but Pat is making a special trip to South Florida to work with our talented volleyball players. To give further reflection on this unique opportunity - During a recent trip to Puerto Rico, a top coach advised me if I can do only one thing to help improve my kids game - make sure they go to Pat Powers camp in Tampa. The great thing is that Pat is bringing his camp to us in South Florida.

The best instruction available!
A three page hand-out covering the skills of the clinic.
Hours of personal instruction.
A non-intimidating environment.
Juniors: Learn how to increase your chances for a scholarship.
No camper burnout.
The advanced secrets of hitting.
Learn how to spin the ball for better control when passing and hitting.
Players matched by skill level.

*Click on the title of this post * For more info: *Click on the title of this post



Below are the details of the event.

The clinic will be at The Sports Complex and will start promptly at 5:00 PM on Monday the 22nd of June and go until ~10:30 PM (I will talk to junior players and parents about club, high school, college and scholarships after the first evening. On Tuesday the 23rd of June, we will starting at 5:00 PM and go until 10:30 PM. We will take several short breaks each evening for food and beverage. You will want to bring food and drinks.

Get ready to have a great time! You will learn a lot about volleyball in a short period of time! I have found it useful if you show up in relatively decent shape and most important; don't compare yourself to others in the clinic. If you feel intimidated or bored, the learning process shuts down. I do an excellent job of matching each player with drills and competition suited for the appropriate levels of play. There will be young players in attendance as well as adults. I will group you by age and skill level an hour into the clinic--I do it for safety reasons. The coaching staff will be watching each individual execute the skills on an individual basis. Please remember it is not important who you play against or who you play with, all that matters is how you are performing each skill during "Survivor."

You will want to bring: an extra T-shirt, knee pads, water and other personal items you may need.

*****Important***** If you are under 18 years old and received a ride to the clinic, please inform the staff when your parents plan to pick you up. Until a responsible party arrives, we would ask that you remain inside the facility. Thank-you for your cooperation in this matter.

Parents are more than welcome to spend all day with us. The best time to watch is the last hour of each day as that is when we will be playing Survivor.

I want you to bookmark this page on your browser http://www.vbclinics.com/members.asp You can download the "Tips Sheet" anytime in either MS Word or PDF format. I am also going to be continually adding video to remind you of several technical things we do during the clinic. It should help you in your effort to master the sport.

If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me via e-mail or phone (760) 635-3994

Contact Information

The Sports Complex
3650 SW 10th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
www.clubfloridavolleyball.com
Director of Volleyball: Rick Reyes
(954) 647-0702
rickreyes@hotmail.com

Directions

Please click on this link for Mapquest
http://tinyurl.com/cmhumu


The Sports Complex is between 2 major freeways (turnpike and I-95). Turnpike exits are more complicated.

From North on 95: Exit SW 10th st. head west 1.2 mi., on SW corner of SW 10th and Powerline.

From South on 95: Exit SW 10th st. head west 1.2 mi., on SW corner of SW 10th and Powerline.


Hotels

El Palacio Sports Hotel and Conference Center (about $80 a night)
1485 NW 27th Avenue
Miami, Florida, 33056
Phone: 305.621.5801

Paradise Beach Resort Pompano Beach (about $90 a night)
1380 S. Ocean Blvd.
Pompano Beach FL US 33062
1 800 529-7744

Super 8 Pompano Beach (about $95 a night)
US Hwy 1 & 10th Street
Pompano Beach, FL, 33062 US
Phone (954) 943-3500



Look forward to working with you!

Pat Powers
760 635-3994 W
760 473-8236 C





ATTENTION: This is a unique opportunity to learn from an Olympic Gold Medalist. We hope you all take advantage of this unique opportunity - SFVR.