NORCECA 2008

PRESIDENT REPORT

NORCECA VOLLEYBALL CONFEDERATION Activities Report 2008

By Lic. Cristobal Marte Hoffiz NORCECA´s President

We have the privileged of presenting to the General Assembly of the Trinidad & Tobago National Volleyball Federation the following activities report of NORCECA Volleyball Confederation covering the period from January 1, 2008 to October 10, 2008, as well as, the presentation of the updated competition calendars for the years 2009 and 2010. Regional, Continental, Intercontinental and International events received an decisive support from NORCECA’s staff, technical and support personnel, in order to ensure the organization of events according to FIVB Regulations.

During 2008, with the guidance of FIVB, NORCECA held all its Commission Meetings as programmed at NORCECA Headquarters during the month of February. NORCECA´s Sport Organizing Commission, Refereeing, Beach Volleyball, Technical and Coaches, Medical, Press, Marketing, Legal and Finance held its meetings in the city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic as scheduled. NORCECA Headquarters, a modern facility for its administration equipped with the latest technology available and sufficient office space also served to comfortably host the annual Executive Committee and Board of Administration Meeting. Today NORCECA permanent staff counts with a total of 11 members, complying with NORCECA organizational and operational charts.

EXTERNAL AUDITORS ERNST & YOUNG

ACCOUNTANT LIC. MIGUELINA MARTINEZ, CPA

CONFEDERATION PRESS OFFICER

DR. ROOSEVELT COMARAZAMY SPORTS EVENTS

RAMON A. GARCIA

NORCECA`S ORGANISATIONAL & OPERATIONAL CHART

FINANCE DEPARTMENT LIC. OLGA RIVAS.,

CPA

NORCECA SECRETARIAT MRS. DORIS PONTIER

MS. CINDY GARCIA APONTE

INFO. TECNOLOGY VIS & INTERNET

MR. CAYACOA MOQUETE TECHNICAL

DEVELOPMENT MARK TENNANT

COMMISSIONS

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

BEACH VOLLEYBALL COORDINATOR

Arnaldo Sánchez

SUPPORT PERSONAL & STAFF

MR. CARLOS GUZMAN

NATIONAL FEDERATION COORDINATOR

MRS. ARATEIDE CACERES

PRESS AND MASS MEDIA MR. RENALDO BODDEN

PRESIDENT

TECHNICAL AND COACHES MR. EUGENIO GEORGE L.

PRESIDENT

BEACH VOLLEYBALL MR. CARLOS J. BELTRAN

PRESIDENT

SPORT ORGANIZING PROF. ALEJANDRO SALINAS

PRESIDENT

MARKETING MR. WAYNE ROBERTSON

PRESIDENT

MEDICAL COMMISSION DR. ANDRES PIÑA

PRESIDENT

FINANCES MR. JOHN GRIFFITH

PRESIDENT

REFEREEING MR. JOSE LUIS JIMENEZ.

PRESIDENT

LEGAL COMMISSION DR. GIOVANNI GAUTREAUX

PRESIDENT

NORCECA CONGRESS

NORCECA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE / BOARD

ADMINISTRATION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PROF. NELSON RAMIREZ

PRESIDENT MR. CRISTOBAL MARTE HOFFIZ

SECRETARY GENERAL ING. MARTA CENTENO DE SAJCHÉ

Finances

2008 Finance Commission Meeting received from NORCECA´s Finance Department the Internal 2007 Finance Report, being reviewed by the Commission Members and remitted, after its approval, to our external auditors, Ernst & Young, for the final audit to be performed on NORCECA’s 2007 Financial Statement and Accounts. We must outline that during the 2007 NORCECA’s Budget was strictly followed, that NORCECA affiliated National Federations complied with the payment of their affiliation fees and that all competitions were developed according to the foreseen budget registrating an assets of income that allows us to create a special reserve in order to assist, financially, NORCECA’s Caribbean and Central American affiliated National Federations programmed in 2008 to host the Regional Caribbean and Central American Youth and Junior Championships.

NORCECA's website and Newsletters continues as an indispensable important outflowing tool for the promotion and information of NORCECA activities and competitions at a continental and world wide level. During 2008 more than 60 Newsletters traveled around the world informing NORCECA's activities and competitions that were followed by more than 250,000 subscribers. NORCECA's website constitutes today one of the leading volleyball information websites, being up to date with information and results of NORCECA's Zonal, Regional, Continental and International championships and tournaments. All FIVB information related to NORCECA has been also

posted on NORCECA’s website.

A multi-annual contract agreement has been engaged by NORCECA with Media Sports.TV, a leading pay per view TV Broadcaster and internet streaming company. This new contract agreement will enhance the promotion of NORCECA competitions within our continent and worldwide. All of NORCECA’s mayor volleyball and beach volleyball events will be available to be downloaded by internet thru mediasports.tv creating a file of all of NORCECA’s competitions to be enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of internet viewers.

TELEVISION AND INTERNET COVERAGE 2008

From NORCECA´S

Competitions 222 matches

were Broadcasted during

the 2008 season

560 hours

180 hours

NORCECA's continuous support and assistance to the Central American National Federation Association, AFECAVOL, and to the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association, CAZOVA, has well paid off accomplishing to organize their administration complying, as established, with their competition calendars, as well as, their General Assemblies. In 2007 a new Regional Association was founded. The Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) was created in order to respond to the needs of those National Federations grouped within the Eastern Caribbean States with the responsibility of fulfilling their own competition calendar and regional events that will serve as qualifying tournaments towards the Caribbean Championships that every year are held by CAZOVA. With the creation of the ECVA an important increase in the organization of volleyball and beach volleyball tournaments is expected. Also, a development program has been implemented starting in 2008 in order to ensure the technical and competition level of those National Federations that form part today of the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association, ECVA. To achieve this important goal NORCECA will assist with the organization of seminars and courses, as well as, to provide economical assistance for the organization of youth and junior regional competitions and tournaments.

NORCECA’s Regional Associations

Development Center

NORCECA has become an important source of support for all the activities of the FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center that is located in the city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. International Coaches Courses, School Volleyball Teachers Courses, Beach Volleyball Courses, Refereeing Courses and Special Technical Seminars were held successfully during 2008. Also, NORCECA provides to its affiliated National Federations the necessary support to establish training camps for their national teams within the facilities of the FIVB Regional Volleyball Development Center, providing room accommodation, meals, technical assistance and equipment. During 2008 several National Federations took advantage of these facilities in the preparation of their national teams towards their Zonal, Regional and Continental Championships. With the economical assistance of FIVB, NORCECA has engaged an international instructor who is now serving the Central American and Caribbean National Federations preparing and supervising their national team programs as well as conducting national coach’s courses, high performance coaches courses and seminars.

2008 Norceca Competitions

The 2008 NORCECA Men’s Continental Olympic Qualification Tournament held in the city of Caguas, Puerto Rico on January 4-12, 2008, being this event a qualifying competition to the 2008 Olympic Games Beijing, China. This

extraordinary and exciting event held in Puerto Rico with the participation of the National Men teams from USA, Cuba, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Canada and Puerto Rico captivated the attention of more than 72,000 fans during the six day period of the event. Also, local press newspapers gave a extraordinary coverage to the event with more than 12 pages daily in the main four national newspapers. Live TV and internet coverage was available to be followed by satellite and internet around the world. This competition counted with the participation of the best 8 men’s national teams of our region battling for the ultimate goal of classifying for the Olympic Games in Beijing. The final results of this championship accredited the USA National Men’s Volleyball Team with a ticket to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games giving the opportunity to Puerto Rico, 1st runner up and Cuba, 2nd runner up to also participate in the FIVB Men’s World Olympic Qualification Tournament with a chance to qualify to the Beijing Olympic Games.

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 CUBA

2 COSTA RICA

3 PUERTO RICO

4 TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

5 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

6 BARBADOS

7 GUATEMALA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Dominican Republic , 19-24 March

USA and Cuba crowned in Boca Chica Beach Volleyball BOCA CHICA, Dominican Republic, March 23, 2008.- Americans Ed Ratledge-David Fischer and Cubans Ion Canet-Nirian Sinal were crowned as the champions of the Boca Chica Beach Volleyball Tournament sponsored by Presidente Light with a total prize money of US$10,000. Ratledge-Fischer came from behind to edge the Puerto Rican (2) pair of Orlando Irrizarry-Roberto Rodriguez in an emotional match by score of 18-21, 21-13, 17-15. Meanwhile, Canet-Sinal beat the Costa Rican duo of Ingrid Morales-Natalia Alfaro by score of 21-14, 21-16.

USA and Cuba crowned in Boca Chica Beach Volleyball BOCA CHICA, Dominican Republic, March 23, 2008.- Americans Ed Ratledge-David Fischer and Cubans Ion Canet-Nirian Sinal were crowned as the champions of the Boca Chica Beach Volleyball Tournament sponsored by Presidente Light with a total prize money of US$10,000. Ratledge-Fischer came from behind to edge the Puerto Rican (2) pair of Orlando Irrizarry-Roberto Rodriguez in an emotional match by score of 18-21, 21-13, 17-15. Meanwhile, Canet-Sinal beat the Costa Rican duo of Ingrid Morales-Natalia Alfaro by score of 21-14, 21-16.

FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 USA

2 PUERTO RICO

3 JAMAICA

4 CUBA

5 COSTA RICA

6 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

7 BARBADOS

8 SAINT KITTS

9 GUATEMALA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Dominican Republic , 19-24 March

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 MEXICO

2 CUBA

3 PUERTO RICO

4 GUATEMALA

5 CANADA

6 USA

7 NICARAGUA

8 EL SALVADOR

9 SAINT KITTS

10 TRINIDAD TOBAGO

Mexicans won the gold in both genders in Guatemala GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, April 20, 2008.- Mexico swept the gold medals in the Guatemala’s leg of the 2008 NORCECA Beach Volleyball circuit on Sunday with victories for Juan Virgen-Aldo Miramontes in the men’s division and Bibi Candelas-Mayra Garcia in the women’s side. Virgen and Miramontes won with a come-from-behind victory over the Cuban tandem of Yoendry Kindelan-Leonel Munder. Virgen-Miramontes recovered from losing a close first set and took the victory 21-23, 21-17, 15-11.

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Guatemala, 16-21 April

FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 MEXICO

2 CUBA

3 PUERTO RICO

4 NICARACUA

5 DOMINICANA

6 USA

7 GUATEMALA

8 COSTA RICA

9 EL SALVADOR

10 SAINT KITTS

Mexicans won the gold in both genders in Guatemala GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, April 20, 2008.- Mexico swept the gold medals in the Guatemala’s leg of the 2008 NORCECA Beach Volleyball circuit on Sunday with victories for Juan Virgen-Aldo Miramontes in the men’s division and Bibi Candelas-Mayra Garcia in the women’s side. Virgen and Miramontes won with a come-from-behind victory over the Cuban tandem of Yoendry Kindelan-Leonel Munder. Virgen-Miramontes recovered from losing a close first set and took the victory 21-23, 21-17, 15-11.

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Guatemala, 16-21 April

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Salvador on April 23-28

USA dominated Beach Volleyball in El Salvador SAN SALVADOR, April 27, 2008.- The USA tandems dominated the 2008 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Circuit in El Salvador by sweeping the gold medals in both genders on Sunday. Americans Ed Ratledge-David Fischer, also winners in the first stop in Boca Chica, took the men’s gold medal with a clear 21-16, 21-14 triumph over the Puerto Rican duo of Orlando Irrizarry-Roberto Rodriguez. They finished the event with 6-0 and 12-0 record in matches and sets respectively.

FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 USA

2 PUERTO RICO

3 EL SALVADOR

4 COSTA RICA

5 DOMINICANA

6 GUATEMALA

7 HONDURAS

8 NICARAGUA

9 TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

10 ARUBA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Salvador on April 23-28

USA dominated Beach Volleyball in El Salvador SAN SALVADOR, April 27, 2008.- The USA tandems dominated the 2008 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Circuit in El Salvador by sweeping the gold medals in both genders on Sunday. Americans Ed Ratledge-David Fischer, also winners in the first stop in Boca Chica, took the men’s gold medal with a clear 21-16, 21-14 triumph over the Puerto Rican duo of Orlando Irrizarry-Roberto Rodriguez. They finished the event with 6-0 and 12-0 record in matches and sets respectively.

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 USA

2 EL SALVADOR

3 PUERTO RICO

4 GUATEMALA

5 CANADA

6 COSTA RICA

7 SAINT LUCIA

8 NICARAGUA

9 SAINT KITTS

10 TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Mexico (Manzanillo, Colima) on April 30- May 5

Cuba swept the gold in Manzanillo MANZANILLO, Mexico, May 4, 2008.- Cuba swept the gold medals of the 2008 Maeva Manzanillo Beach Volleyball that concluded on Sunday with a brilliant ceremony. The Cuban women’s pair of Ion Canet and Nirian Sinal, winners of the NORCECA Circuit’s first leg in Dominican Republic, repeated with a 21-19, 21-19 victory over Mexicans Martha Revueltas and Diana Estrada.

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 CUBA

2 MEXICO

3 PUERTO RICO

4 COSTA RICA

5 EL SALVADOR

6 USA

7 CANADA

8 SAINT LUCIA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Mexico (Manzanillo, Colima) on April 30- May 5

FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 CUBA

2 PUERTO RICO

3 CANADA

4 COSTA RICA

5 MEXICO

6 GUATEMALA

7 USA

8 HONDURAS

9 ANTIGUA

Cuba swept the gold in Manzanillo MANZANILLO, Mexico, May 4, 2008.- Cuba swept the gold medals of the 2008 Maeva Manzanillo Beach Volleyball that concluded on Sunday with a brilliant ceremony.

The Cuban women’s pair of Ion Canet and Nirian Sinal, winners of the NORCECA Circuit’s first leg in Dominican Republic, repeated with a 21-19, 21-19 victory over Mexicans Martha Revueltas and Diana Estrada.

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Mexico (Guadalajara) on May 7-12

Cubans Kindelan-Munder repeat as champions GUADALAJARA, Mexico, May 11, 2008.- Mexicans Martha Revueltas and Diana Estrada won the women’s gold medal of the Guadalajara Beach Volleyball Tournament while Cubans Yoendri Kindelán-Leonel Munder repeated their success of a week earlier in Manzanillo. Revueltas-Estrada triumphed in the fifth leg of the NORCECA Circuit with a victory in the final match over Rosario Reyes and Hilda Gaxiola of Mexico 2 by score of 21-14, 21-16.

FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 CUBA

2 PUERTO RICO

3 MEXICO

4 CANADA

5 GUATEMALA

6 USA

7 EL SALVADOR

9 JAMAICA

10 SAINT KITTS

11 HONDURAS

12 ANTIGUA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Mexico (Guadalajara) on May 7-12

Mexicans Revueltas-Estrada won at home GUADALAJARA, Mexico, May 11, 2008.- Mexicans Martha Revueltas and Diana Estrada won the women’s gold medal of the Guadalajara Beach Volleyball Tournament while Cubans Yoendri Kindelán-Leonel Munder repeated their success of a week earlier in Manzanillo. Revueltas-Estrada triumphed in the fifth leg of the NORCECA Circuit with a victory in the final match over Rosario Reyes and Hilda Gaxiola of Mexico 2 by score of 21-14, 21-16.

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 MEXICO

2 CUBA

3 USA

4 PUERTO RICO

5 COSTA RICA

6 EL SALVADOR

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Puerto Rico on May 21-26, 2008

Americans Byrd-Chapek won the gold in Puerto Rico

CAROLINA, Puerto Rico, May 25, 2008.- Erin Byrd and Stephanie Chapek triumphed against Martha Revueltas and Diana Estrada of Mexico 1 by score of 22-20, 21-19 to take home the gold medal. Yarleen Santiago and Sheila Conley of Puerto Rico 4 won the bronze medal scoring a 21-17, 21-19 victory against Vanessa Virgen and Alejandra Acosta of Mexico 2. Byrd-Chapek made it to the final match by defeating Virgen-Acosta in a hard fought match that finished 21-15, 19-21, 15-11, while Revueltas-Estrada reached the gold medal match with an easy 21-10, 21-11 win against Santiago-Conley.

FINAL RANKING (WOMEN)

# Flag Country

1 USA

2 MEXICO

3 PUERTO RICO

4 GUATEMALA

5 CANADA

6 COSTA RICA

Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit 2008 Puerto Rico on May 21-26, 2008

Veterans Papaleo-Hernandez crowned in Carolina CAROLINA, Puerto Rico, May 25, 2008.- Veterans Raul Papaleo and Ramon Hernandez were crowned on Sunday as kings of the Coors Light Carolina Beach Volleyball Tournament dominated by Puerto Ricans in the men’s division. Papaleo-Hernandez of Puerto Rico 3 defeated Abdel Otero-Juan Carlos Rivera of Puerto Rico 2 by score of 21-17, 28-26 in the match for the gold medal. Orlando Irrizarry and Roberto Rodriguez of Puerto Rico 1 obtained the bronze medal with a 21-14, 24-22 victory over Jorge Gonzalez and Javier Mendez of Puerto Rico 4. FINAL RANKING (MEN)

# Flag Country

1 PUERTO RICO

2 USA

3 JAMAICA

4 GUATEMALA

5 CANADA

6 SAINT KITTS

7 DOMINICANA

8 COSTA RICA

2008 Norceca Beach Volleyball Circuit Final Ranking

Women´s Stage final Ranking

Men´s Stage final Ranking

VII Pan American Women’s Volleyball Cup held in the cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, State of Baja California, Mexico on May 28- June 8, 2008

with the participation of the top 12 teams of America, being this event a qualifying competition to the FIVB 2009 World Grand Prix. Live TV and internet coverage was available to be followed by satellite and internet around the world.

III Pan American Men’s Volleyball Cup held in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada on June 2-7, 2008 being this event a qualifying competition to the Americas Cup. The final results of this important event qualified the USA Team as the champion of the event followed by host Canada, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago and Puerto Rico.

The 2008 NORCECA Men’s Junior Continental Championship, U-21 held in the city of San Salvador, El Salvador on June 28 – July 6, 2008 being this event a qualifying competition to the 2009 FIVB Men’s Junior World Championship. This competition counted with the participation of Puerto Rico, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Cuba, Canada, United States and El Salvador (Host Country). The final results of this competition qualified Cuba, Canada and USA for the 2009 FIVB Men’s Junior World Championship

The 2008 NORCECA Girls Youth Continental Championship, U-18 held in the city of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico on July 3-11, 2008

being this event a qualifying competition to the 2009 FIVB Girls Youth World Championship. This competition counted with the participation of US Virgin Island, Mexico, United States, Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico (Host Country). The final results of this competition qualified USA, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Mexico (Host Country) to the 2009 FIVB Girls Youth World Championship.

The 2008 NORCECA Women’s Junior Continental Championship, U-20 held in the city of Saltillo, State of Coahuila, Mexico on July 20-28, 2008 being this event a qualifying competition to the 2009 FIVB Women’s Junior World Championship. This competition counted with the participation of Canada, Cuba, Puerto Rico, United States, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago and Mexico (Host Country). The final results of this competition qualified USA, Dominican Republic, Cuba and Mexico (Host Country) for the 2009 FIVB Women’s Junior World Championship.

The 2008 NORCECA Boys Youth Continental Championship, U-19, held in the city of Miami, Florida, USA on August 1-9, 2008

being this event a qualifying competition to the 2009 FIVB Boys Youth World Championship. This competition counted with the participation of Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Mexico, Costa Rica, Us Virgin Island, El Salvador and United States (Host Country). The final results of this competition qualified USA, Puerto Rico and Mexico to the 2009 FIVB Boys Youth World Championship.

Martinique’s Men won CAZOVA crown

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, July 21, 2008.- Is it possible for ten-time defending champions to lose a final in their own backyard after leading by two sets and holding four match points with a 24-20 lead in the third?

The unthinkable became reality Saturday night when Barbados, who have never lost a men's title in the history of the Caribbean Volleyball Championships, crumbled against Martinque in the title match at Sir Garfield Sobers Complex, Barbados. Leading 24-20 after pocketing the first two sets (26-24, 25-17), the hosts failed to convert four match points, and then another after the Martiniquans made it 24-24. , led from the front with 20 points.

Women of Trinidad & Tobago remain as queens of the Caribbean

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, July 21, 2008.- Trinidad and Tobago Volleyball Ladies proved they are Caribbean dominants when they silenced the 5,000 fans at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium and defeated host Barbados 22-25, 25-15, 25-22, 25-17 in the final match of the Women’s Caribbean Championship. The T&T women had a very nervous start with Barbados home crowd being very responsive. The first set ended 22-25. T&T soon got into there rhythm and with powerful kills from their inspirational leader won the remaining sets to repeat as the Caribbean Champions.

Cuba aiming for the gold in Beijing

BEIJING, August 6, 2008 (AFP).- The women’s volleyball team of Cuba was confident on Wednesday about its chances for the gold in the Olympic Games of Beijing, three days before debuting against Poland in a tournament where they are among the favorites along Brazil and China. “We relieve that the gold medal is a possibility,” said veteran assistant coach Eugenio George after the training session of Wednesday. Cuba, the champions in 1992, 1996 and 2000, had to settle for the bronze in Athens 2004 and in Beijing .

Record number of Coaches in Course Level II

SANTO DOMINGO.- A record number of coaches from 18 countries are taking part in the International Course for Coaches Level II which began here organized by the Regional Development Centre. The course is directed by Prof. Gustavo Meczyk of Argentina, with the asístanse of Cuban professor Justo Morales. “The amount of countries represented here is a clear sample of the growth of our sport and I can anticipate positive results,” said Meczyk. The opening ceremony was atended by the Under Secretary of Sports, Manuel –Cholo- Suero,

Brazil announces Final Four Tournament

RIO DE JANEIRO, August 7, 2008.- The Brazilian Confederation of Volleyball announced today the participation of its women team in the new tournament “Final Four” to be held on September 3-7 with the participation of Argentina, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The event is organized by the Pan American Volleyball Union.

USA Men have 2-0 mark in Beijing

BEIJING, China, August 13, 2008.- The USA beat Italy in four sets (24-26, 25-22, 25-15, 25-21) improving to a 2-0 mark in the Olympic Men's Volleyball Pool A match at Capital Gymnasium on Tuesday.

Both teams displayed their strong blocking games, stopping big hits on many rallies during the two-hour contest. Clayton Stanley and Reid Priddy led the Americans with 23 and 20 points respectively. Ryan Millar (12), Riley Salmon (11) and David Lee (10) also finished in double figures.

Cuba’s Women off to a good start

BEIJING, China, August 13, 2008.- Sydney Olympic champion Cuba claimed its second straight win at the Women's Volleyball preliminaries of the Beijing Games with a commanding 3-0 sweep of the United States here on Monday.

The world No. 3 successfully limited the American offense with strong serving on its way to the 25-15, 26-24 and 25-17 victory at the Capital Indoor Stadium to improve to a 2-0 record in Pool A, which also includes China, Japan, Poland and Venezuela. Yumilka Ruiz (15), Nancy Carrillo (11) and Rosir Calderon (10) were the top Cuban scorers.

Cuba defeated China coming from behind

BEIJING, China, August 13, 2008.- Cuba staged an inspiring comeback from two sets down to defeat champion China in five sets in Pool B of the Olympic Women's Volleyball tournament on Wednesday.

It took the Cubans more than two hours to claim their third consecutive victory 18-25, 14-25, 25-23, 32-30 and 15-13 despite the overwhelming cheers of more than 15,000 home fans for the Chinese.

The two teams, both unbeaten after two preliminary rounds, needed to win this match to ensure a better position in the quarter-finals.

St Kitts and Nevis dominates match to beat St Lucia

BASETERRE, St. Kitts.- St. Kitts and Nevis playing in front of home fans started their 2008 OECS Male Volleyball Championships by registering a convincing win over OECS powerhouse St Lucia last night. The match, played at the Marriott Dome, saw St Kitts and Nevis winning the high paced aggressive game. St Kitts and Nevis backed by a small but very vocal crowd demonstrated why they are feared by many as a powerhouse in OECS volleyball after they whipped St Lucia inside four sets. The match was the second on the opening night and after a very high paced start fans.

St Martin disposes Anguilla as 2008 OECS Male Volleyball Championships Opens

BASETERRE, St. Kitts.- The 2008 OECS Male Volleyball Championships got off to a thrilling and exciting start last night at the Marriott Dome, St Kitts. Five teams are contesting this year’s championships after two teams; Antigua and Montserrat pulled out. In the first match Anguilla lost 1-3 to St Martin. Anguilla got off to a fiery start winning the first set 25-22 but they can only blame themselves for a loss that should have never occurred. After taking the first set the Anguillans were outplayed by swift and timely passes by the St Martin team.

St Kitts and Nevis takes lion share of awards

BASSETERE, St. Kitts.- The 2008 OECS Male Volleyball championships climaxed last evening with the bronze and gold medal places being contested. The championship which was being contested by five teams was held over a four day period at the Marriott Dome; saw St Kitts and Nevis capturing four of the seven special awards at stake. Defending champions Dominica found the going too tough and they failed to reach the finals. However in the bronze medal match Dominica made amends for their preliminary round defeat to St Martin and had sweet revenge when they beat them 3-0.

Morales/Alfaro, Araya/Piskulich: Central American Champions GUATEMALA, August 19, 2008.- Ingrid Morales and Natalia Alfaro of Costa Rica were crowned as Champions of the Eighth Central American Cup of Beach Volleyball. Morales/Alfaro faced Ivonne Soler/Laura Molina of El Salvador in the finals. The champions won by score of 21-13, 21-17. María José Orellana/Ana Lourdes Ramírez of Guatemala, won the bronze medal by defeating the pair of Costa Rica 2 of Ivette Alas/Marianela Alfaro by score of 21-18, 21-12. Morales/Alfaro reached the match for the gold medal by defeating Orellana/Ramírez 21-12, 22-20.

USA Women to play for the Olympic Gold Medal

BEIJING, August. 21, 2008.- The U.S. Olympic Women's Indoor Volleyball Team, ranked fourth in the world by the FIVB, returns to an Olympic gold-medal match for the first time since 1984 after it defeated third-ranked Cuba 25-20, 25-16, 25-17 on Thursday afternoon in the Olympic Games semifinal round at Beijing's Capital Gymnasium. The U.S., which has defeated the second- and third-ranked teams in back-to-back matches, play for the gold medal at 8 p.m. on Saturday versus Brazil, winner against China in straight sets.

Americans May-Treanor, Walsh Make History on the Beijing Beach

BEIJING, August 21, 2008.- The U.S. team of Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh won their second consecutive gold medal in women's Olympic beach volleyball (2004, 2008) by defeating top-ranked Tian Jia and Wang Jie of China 2-0 (21-18, 21-18) on Thursday in the pouring rain at the Chaoyang Park Beach Volleyball Grounds. A packed house of 12,200 sang, chanted and clapped in pastel-colored rain ponchos while enjoying the hard-fought match. “Although the rain makes the ball heavier and can interfere with vision, the rain made it better,” said Walsh. “We felt like warriors out there. It's an honor to win this gold medal. It was a team effort.”

Dr. Acosta to formally hand over FIVB presidency at ceremony in Beijing after 24 years of peerless leadership; Mr. Wei to take mantle until 2012

Beijing, August 22, 2008 - Dr. Rubén Acosta will officially transfer the FIVB presidency to Mr. Jizhong Wei at a special Handover Ceremony in Beijing on Sunday 24 August after 24 years of unparalleled success as leader of Volleyball's world governing body. President Acosta will formally address invited distinguished guests and media from around the world on the final day of the Olympic Games at the Beijing Institute of Technology (second Volleyball venue) at 3:00 p.m., after the Men's Gold Medal match which will take place at Capital Indoor Stadium at 12:00.

Dr. Acosta made official his previously announced retirement at the end of the 31st FIVB World Congress in June in Dubai, with the Congress unanimously electing FIVB First Executive Vice President Wei as incoming President. Mr. Wei will be President until elections in 2012..

Dr. Rubén Acosta, FIVB President, and Mr. Jizhong Wei, who will become the new FIVB President on August 24

USA Women Claim Olympic Silver Medals

BEIJING, China, August 23, 2008.- The U.S. Olympic Women's Indoor Volleyball Team had its run toward a first-ever Olympic Games gold medal end just short of the target with a loss to top ranked-Brazil 15-25, 25-18, 13-25, 25-21 Saturday evening in the Olympic Games title match at Beijing's Capital Gymnasium. The U.S. silver medal matched its previous best finish from the 1984 Olympic Games. Team USA, ranked fourth in the world by the FIVB, also finished with a bronze in 1992, its last time reaching the medal round. The Americans defeated second-ranked Italy in the quarterfinals and third-ranked Cuba in the semifinals to reach the gold-medal match, but ran into a hot Brazil squad that had not lost a single set in the tournament before the night started.

USA Men Find Glory and Gold at the End of Olympic Games

BEIJING, China, August 24, 2008.- The U.S. Men’s Olympic Volleyball Team put tragedy aside and embraced triumph as it defeated defending Olympic champion and world No. 1-ranked Brazil, 20-25, 25-22, 25-21, 25-23, and won the Olympic gold medal on Sunday at Capital Gymnasium. The U.S. Men finished the tournament undefeated at 8-0. Brazil won the silver medal with a 6-2 record. Russia defeated Italy, 25-22 25-19 25-23, to win bronze.

American Stanley MVP in Beijing, Cubans Calderon and Santos among best players

BEIJING, China, August 27, 2008 - USA's Clayton Stanley, the FIVB-ranked MVP, Best Scorer and Best Server in the Men's Olympic Volleyball Tournament, pinpointed the factors for the Americans' success that saw them match USSR as the most-decorated Men's Olympic champions with three gold medals apiece. Cubans Rosir Calderon and Yanelis Santos ranked as best Spiker and Server respectively of the women’s tournament and American Logan Tom was the best scorer. Brazilian Paula Pequeno was elected as MVP.

Americans Dalhausser and May Treanor, Named 'Most Outstanding Players' of the 2008 Games

BEIJING, China, August 27, 2008.- After teaming with Todd Rogers to win the United States’ second beach volleyball gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, Phil Dalhausser was named the Most Outstanding Player for the men’s competition at Chaoyang Park Beach Volleyball Ground. As the second-seeded tandem in the 24-team men’s field, Dalhausser and Rogers matched the efforts of Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh a day earlier by defeating fourth-seeded Marcio Araujo.

Women’s Final Four in Brazil organized by Pan American Union

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 1, 2008.- Brazil will host during the early days of September, in Fortaleza, the first edition of the Women’s Final Tour Volleyball Tournament. During five days, on September 3-7, Argentina, Brasil, Cuba and Dominican Republic will dispute the competition at the Paulo Sarasate Gymnasium. The event is the first official competition

organized by the Volleyball Pan American Union, founded last year and presided over by Mr. Ary Graca, of Brazil. Starting with this edition, the Final Four will be played annually, and the participants will be defined by the results obtained in the Pan American Cup. Those will be the top two qualified teams from the South American Volleyball Confederation and the two best teams from NORCECA. In 2008, the Pan American Cup was staged in Mexico. In the final, Dominican Republic defeated Brazil, represented by the national young team, by score of 3-2.

Cuba vs Dominican Republic and Brazil vs Argentina in Opening Day of Final Four

FORTALEZA, Brazil, August 2, 2008.- The matches Cuba vs. Dominican Republic and Brazil vs. Argentina kick-off on Wednesday the Final Four Women’s Tournament, the first competition organized by the Volleyball Pan American Union. It will be the first presentation of the Brazilian National Team after winning the gold medal at the Olympic Games. Cuba is the vice-champion of the 2008 World Grand Prix, Dominican Republic won the Pan American Cup where Argentina was a bronze medallist.

Dominican Republic defeated Cuba

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 4, 2008.- In the opening games of the first edition of the Final Four Tournament, which takes place in Fortaleza, Ceará, in the Northeast of Brazil, the Dominican Republic defeated Cuba 3-1 and Brazil beat Argentina 3- O.´ In the first match, the Dominicans, coached by Brazilian Marcos Kwiek, won 25/16, 21/25, 26/24, 25/14, in 1hour and 42 minutes. The Brazilians, Olympic champions, had no difficulties to close their game in 25-19, 25-15 and 25-17, in 69 minutes. In the Dominican triumph, Bethânia was the highlight, with 17 points. They will now face Brazil.

Brazil anticipate tough match against Dominicans

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 4, 2008.- In FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 4, 2008.- In their first game after winning the unprecedented Gold medal in the Beijing Olympics, in the end of last month, Brazil easily defeated Argentina 3-0, scoring 25-19, 25-15 and 2517 in 1h 09. Sheilla was the leading scorer of the game with 13 points. The players were overwhelmed to play at home after the Olympic title. After 15 days away from the court, the team took a while to get into the game. Argentina managed a 4/1 lead but that was all. From then on, the Brazilians set the pace. “We took to the court in great joy. I was very moved to see the crowd cheering and singing the national anthem along with us. It was very exciting”, revealed setter Fofão.

Brazil works hard to defeat the Dominican Republic

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 5, 2008.- The Brazilian national volleyball team won their second straight match in the Final Four Tournament, played in Fortaleza, in the Northeast of Brazil. The Olympic Champions counted on the support of six thousand fans to defeat the Dominican Republic 3–1 (15-25, 25-19, 25-22 , 25-12), in 1h 30. Bethânia de La Cruz, from the Caribbean side, was the top scorer of the match, with 25 points, being 21 in attacks and four in serves. In Brazil’s side, Fabiana was the most efficient in scoring: 17 points (11 in attacks, five blocks and one serve). Sheila Castro and Marianne Steinbrecher added 13 and 11 respectively.

Cuba blanked Argentina

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 5, 2008.- Runner-up in the Grand Prix, in Asia, last July, the Cuban national team assured their first victory in the Final Four, beating Argentina 3- 0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-20) in1h 17. The game’s top scorer was Cuban Yusleyni Alvarez, with 15 points, being ten in attacks, two blocks and three serves. Yalenis Santos had 14, Kenia Carcaces and Rachel Perez – each added 13 points. The third round of the final four will see a clash between Brazil and Cuba – two sides that have lived memorable moments in women volleyball.

Dominican Republic swept Argentina FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 6, 2008.- The Dominican Republic defeated Argentina 25-12, 25-19, 25-17 in 1h 13 minutes in the last round of the qualifying phase of the Final Four Tournament, in Fortaleza. Once again, Bethania de La Cruz was the most outstanding player in the Dominican Republic side. Top scorer against Brazil , De la Cruz totaled 13 against Argentina, being 11 in attacks and two in serves. Annerys Vargas and Sidarka Nunez each scored 10 points. Natali Flaviani was the best of Argentina with 9 points.

Brazil shines against Cuba

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 6, 2008.- In the third and last round of the qualifying phase of the Final Four Tournament, in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza, the hosts overcame Cuba on straight sets and advanced to the semifinals as the only unbeaten side. With a convincing performance that thrilled the fans in the Paulo Salasarte Gymnasium, the Brazilians scored 25-18, 25-15 and 25-13 in 1h 10 minutes. In the semifinals, which will be played this Saturday, Brazil will meet Argentina, while Cuba and the Dominican Republic will clash for the other spot in the final, to be played on Sunday. Fabiana Claudino led Brazil with 10 points, and Sheila Castro and Maru Steinbrecher each had 8 tallies.

Brazil joins Dominican Republic in the finals

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 7, 2008.- The Brazilian women’s volleyball team secured, without difficulties, its berth for the decision of the Final Four. The Olympic champions defeated Argentina 3-0 with the scores 25-15, 25-12, 25-12 in 1 hour and 4 minutes at the Paulo Sarasate Gymnasium of the Ceara’s capital. Fabiana was the best scorer of the match with 15 points -eight in attacks, four in blocks and three with serves. Jacqueline Carvalho added 11. The final of the first tournament disputed by the winners of the gold medal in Beijing.

Dominican Republic is the first finalist

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 7, 2008.- The Dominican Republic women’s team is the first finalist of the Final Four in Fortaleza after defeating Cuba 3 sets to 0 and scores of 25-17, 25-16, 25-20 in 1h 9 minutes at the Paulo Sarasate Gymnasium. Dominican Bethania de la Cruz once again was the top scorer. Bethania had 16 points via 11 attacks, three blocks and two aces. Sidarka Nunez and Milagros Cabral each had 12 points. Even without the result of the other today’s semi final between Brazil and Argentina, the coach of Dominican Republic, Brazilian Marcos Kwiek, has no doubts that the opponent in Sunday’s finale will be Brazil.

Brazil is the champion of Final Four and ends 2008 with three golds FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 8, 2008.- Once again Brazil climbed to the highest step of the podium. Supported by partisan fans who crowded the Paolo Serasate Gymnasium in the capital of Cearaa, the Brazilians defeated the Dominican Republic in the last match of the Final Four by score of 3-0, with the sets finishing 25-21, 25-17 and 25-18 in 1 hour and 17 minutes.

The match was historic: It was the farewell to a symbol of the generation of the Brazilian Selection, the setter and captain Fofao. In her match 340 with the shirt of the national team, said good bye with another gold medal on her chest. In her brilliant career, she won two Olympics medals -gold (Beijing 2008) and bronze (Atlanta 96)- two in world championships -silver (in 94 and 2006)

Argentina upsets Cuba and wins the bronze medal

FORTALEZA, Brazil, September 8, 2008.- The young Volleyball team of Argentina upset the experienced Cuba and finished in third place of the Final Four, the competition organized by the recently founded Volleyball Pan American Union, staged in Fortaleza, Ceara.

In 1 hour and 45 minutes, with score of 26-24, 25-19, 16-25 and 25-22, Argentina showed that they are on the right track in its renovation process. They finished in third place of the Pan American Cup last May in Mexico. “The third place in a competition with Brazil, Cuba and Dominican Republic is the best result we could expect.

NORCECA Beach Volleyball to have 11 stops in 2009

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, September 15, 2008.- The 2009 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Circuit will have 11 stops in eight countries – an increase of almost 100 per cent from last year when the competition had six tournaments.

The competition in both genders is scheduled to begin in Cayman Islands on March 25-30 and to finish in Nicaragua on August 26-31. Mexico, who last year hosted two competitions, will have four next year, including Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, Pachuca and Veracruz.

St Kitts and Nevis Men’s OECS Champions

BASSETERE, St. Kitts.- St. Kitts and Nevis took home the trophy as OECS Male Champions and its star player St. Clair Hodge was elected as the Best Spiker and Most Valuable Player of the competitions contested by five teams at the Marriott Dome. The powerful team of St. Kitts and Nevis twice defeated St. Lucia during the four-day event. They dropped one set in the opening day of the tournament and then blanked their rivals in the gold medal match.

2008 America’s Cup: Cuba edged USA 3-2

CUIABA, Brazil, September 25, 2008.- Cuba edged United States in five sets in the opening match of America’s Cup, a contest between the two representatives of the NORCECA Confederation in the men’s international tournament.

The Cubans overcame a 2-1 deficit and went on to defeat the Americans by score of 25-19, 25-27, 23-25, 25-21, 15-8 in 2 hours and two minutes. Matthew Anderson of USA was the top scorer of the match with 24 points, while Roberlandy Simon and Oreol Camejo each recorded 20 points for Cuba. In the other match of Day One, the renovated Brazil defeated Mexico in straight sets by score of 25-18, 25-16, 25-20 in 1 hour and 10 minutes.

USA lost to Argentina in America’s Cup

CUIABÁ, Brazil, September 26, 2008.- The United States suffered they second loss in the America’s Cup and now are out of the semi finals. After losing to Cuba, the Americans were edged by Argentina 3-2 with scores of 17-25, 25-16, 16-25, 25-17 and 13-15 in 1 hour and 59 minutes. American Evan Pata kwas the best scorer of the match with 30 points, including 26 attacks, three aces and one block. Guillermo Garcia led Argentina with 20 tallies. After their two losses, the USA Team will dispute the fifth place of the America’s Cup this Saturday probably against Mexico, which is in the same group as Brazil.

Gaxiola-Garcia in quarterfinals at Puerto Vallarta

PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico, September 27, 2008.- The Mexican couple of Hilda Gaxiola and Mayra Garcia became the first to advance to the quarterfinals of the International Beach Volleyball Tournament in Puerto Vallarta, a test event for the 2011 Pan American Games. Gaxiola-Garcia first crushed Patricia Castro and Hyze Napky of Honduras by score of 21-5, 21-9 and then defeated the team of American Chastity Nobriga 21-14, 21-16.

America’s Cup: Cuba finished Pool A with 2-0 mark

CUIABA, Brazil, September 27, 2008.- Cuba defeated Argentina 3-0 (25-21, 25-16, 25-18) and advanced to the semi finals of the Men’s America’s Cup with a perfect 2-0 record in Pool A. Cuba now will meet Venezuela, winner 3-0 (25-20, 25-17, 25-20) over Mexico, while Argentina has to meet host Brazil in the other semi final match on Saturday.

America’s Cup: Brazil and Cuba to play for the title Cuiaba, Brazil, September 27, 2008.- Brazil and Cuba will decide for the third time the Volleyball America’s Cup -in 2000, Cuba took home the title in Sao Paulo, and Brazil prevailed in Argentina the following year. On Saturday, the team of Bernardinho Rezende defeated Argentina 3 sets to 0 (25-17, 25-22, 29-27) in 1 hour and 22 minutes. The Brazilians will be seeking for their fourth title.

Cuba edged Brazil for the title

CUIABA, Brazil, September 28, 2008.- Cuba edged Brazil in five sets to take home the gold medal in the America’s Cup prevailing by score of 26-24, 19-25, 27-25, 16-25, 15-9 in 1 hour and 59 minutes. It was the second title for Cuba in the competition’s history with the first one coming in 2000. Brazilian Murilo Endres was the top scorer of the match with 19 points, while Cuban middle-blocker Roberlandy Simon led the champions with 17.

Costa Ricans Alfaro-Morales scored a huge triumph

PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico, September 28, 2008.- Natalia Alfaro and Ingrid Morales achieved the most important feat of their Beach Volleyball career by winning the International of Puerto Vallarta defeating the experienced pair of Mexicans Hilda Gaxiola and Mayra Garcia. The Costa Ricans prevailed in a three-set big battle by score of 21-19, 17-21, 15-13. In the semi final phase, Alfaro-Morales downed Italians Manuela Broccolini and Silvia Bottasi.

Trinidadains and Guadaloupeans triumph in Beach Volley Classic ANTIGUA.- Two new champions were crowned over the weekend of September 27-28 when the Fifth Annual Sizzlin Sand Antigua SUNSPLASH concluded at beautiful Castaways Beach , Jolly Harbour. The event which featured 21 teams from Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis along with host country Antigua got off to a wet start with intermittent.

FIVB 2010 Volleyball World Championships: Drawing of lots completed in Turin

Turin, Italy, September 28, 2008 – The Drawing of Lots for the 2010 FIVB Men’s and Women’s World Championships’ preliminary rounds took place in Turin, Italy, on Monday. The teams which will participate in the first-, second- and third-round preliminary tournaments have now been allocated their groups for what is set to be the most successful World Championships in FIVB history, with a record 214 national teams registered to take part.

Mr. Theofanis Tsiokris, FIVB Second Executive Vice President, introduced the event that begins the long road to the Finals in Rome and Tokyo. “Today I am pleased to say that the eyes of the world rest on Turin as Volleyball fans from all four corners of the globe await the drawing of lots that will signal the start of the most successful World Championships in history,” said Tsiokris. Mr. Carlo Salvatori, President of the 2010 Volleyball World Championship Italian Organising Committee, Mr. Carlo Magri, President of the Italian Volleyball Federation, Mr. Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, President of the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, Mr. André Meyer, President of the European Volleyball Confederation, and a representative of the Mayor of Turin were also present at the drawing of lots.

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 1, 2008.- NORCECA is pleased to announce that a Confederation’s record breaking of 65 teams from 33 countries have registered entries for next year’s World Championships Qualification Rounds. “NORCECA has officially closed the registration of national teams and we are very proud to inform that a 98 percent of our members will take part in the process of qualifying their teams towards the final round in 2010 in Italy and Japan,” said Mr. Cristobal Marte Hoffiz, President of NORCECA. He expressed that 33 men’s teams and 32 women’s squads are expected to participate in 17 World Championships Qualification Rounds (1st, 2nd and 3rd) in 2009. “The NORCECA members have positively responded and supported the efforts of Dr. Ruben Acosta Hernandez to increase the number of National Teams participating in the 2010 World Championships,” he said. “That is recognition to the titanic work that the FIVB President has done over the years towards enhancing and developing volleyball worldwide.”

Sixty-five NORCECA Teams registered for 2010 World Championships

1st. OF GROUPS F,G,H,I AND 1ST & 2ND OF GROUP J

QUALIFY TO THE FINALS IN JAPAN FOR THE 2010

FIVB WOMEN´S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

GROUP – F CUBA (HOST)

WINNER– C

1st. GROUP –E

2nd. GROUP - E

GROUP - G USA

(HOST)

COSTA RICA

WINNER– D

2nd. GROUP - C

GROUP - H DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

(HOST)

MEXICO

3rd. GROUP – C

3rd. GROUP – E

GROUP - I PUERTO RICO

(HOST)

CANADA

2nd. GROUP – D

3rd. GROUP - D

GROUP - C TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

(HOST)

WINNER –A

NETHERLAND ANTIILLES

ARUBA

SURINAN

US. VIRGEN ISLANDS

GROUP - D BARBADOS

(HOST)

WINNER –B

JAMAICA

HAITI

CAYMAN ISLANDS

BAHAMAS

GROUP - E NICARAGUA

(HOST)

BELIZE

GUATEMALA

EL SALVADOR

PANAMA

HONDURAS

GROUP - A BRITISH VIRGEN ISLANDS /

FRENCH ST. MAARTEN

(HOST)

DOMINICA

ST. KITTS & NEVIS

ANGUILLA

BERMUDA

GROUP - B ST. LUCIA

(HOST)

ST. VINCENT & GRANADINES

GRENADA

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDAS

GROUP – P/O TBD (HOST

2nd. GROUP – F

2nd. GROUP – G

2nd. GROUP – H

2nd. GROUP – I

1st. Round GRUPO-E (NIC) Dec. 7/14, 2008

GRUPO-A (BVI/St. Martin) Jan. 11/18, 2009 March 15/22, 2009 April 26 / May 3

GRUPO-B (ST. LUCIA) March 25/30, 2009

3rd. Round GRUPO-F (Cuba) Jun. 2/7, 2009

GRUPO-G (USA) Jul. 7/12, 2009

GRUPO-H (DOM) Jun. 16/21, 2009

GRUPO-I (PUR) Jul. 7/12, 2009

2nd. Round GRUPO-C (TTO) May. 2/9, 2009

GRUPO-D (Barbados) May. 24/31, 2009

Finals GROUP P/O

(HOST TBD) Jul. 29 / Aug. 3, 2009

Dates

1st. OF GROUPS F,G,H AND 1ST & 2ND OF GROUP I

QUALIFY TO THE FINALS IN JAPAN FOR THE 2010

FIVB MEN´S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

GROUP – F USA

(HOST)

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.

WINNER – E

2nd. GROUP - E

GROUP - G PUERTO RICO / MEXICO

(HOST)

BARBADOS

WINNER – D

2nd. GROUP - C

GROUP - H CUBA

(HOST)

CANADA

WINNER – C

2nd. GROUP – D

GROUP - D JAMAICA

(HOST)

WINNER -A

MEXICO

HAITI

BAHAMAS

CAYMAN ISLANDS

GROUP - A ST. LUCIA

(HOST)

ST. VINCENT & GRANADINES

GRENADA

DOMINICA

BERMUDA

GROUP - B ANTIGUA & BARBUDAS

(HOST)

ST. KITTS & NEVIS

ANGUILLA

MONTSERRAT

BRITISH VIRGEN ISLANDS

GROUP - E NICARAGUA

(HOST)

BELIZE

EL SALVADOR

GUATEMALA

PANAMA

COSTA RICA

HONDURAS

GROUP - C TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

(HOST)

WINNER -B

SURINAME

ARUBA

NETHERLANDS ANTILLES

US. VIRGEN ISLANDS

GROUP – P/O FINALS

(HOST TDB)

2nd. GROUP – F

2nd. GROUP – G

2nd. GROUP – H

BEST 3RD OF GROUP F,G,H

1st. Round GRUPO-E (NIC) Nov. 27 – Dec. 6, 2008

GRUPO-A (St. Lucia) April 13/20, 2009

GRUPO-B (Antigua B.) March 30 /April 6, 2009

2nd. Round GRUPO-C (TTO) May. 2/9, 2009

GRUPO-D (Jamaica) May. 17/24, 2009

Finals GROUP- P/O (HOST TBD)

Aug.18/23, 2009

3rd. Round GRUPO-F (USA) Jul. 29 – Aug. 3, 2009

GRUPO-G (PUR /MEX) Jul. 21/26, 2009

GRUPO-H (Cuba) Aug. 4/9, 2009

Dates

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