Costa Rica earns first win in pool play

BURNABY, Canada, May 14, 2026: Costa Rica won its final pool match today at the U19 NORCECA Boys’ Continental Volleyball Championship Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.

Costa Rica defeated Barbados 3-0 (25-21, 28-26, 25-14) for the team’s first win of the tournament.

Blocking was a difference-maker for Costa Rica with 14 successful blocks compared with 6 for Barbados. The winning team also scored more attack points (37-32) than its opponent and more aces (5-2).

Costa Rica’s Felipe Bolaños Alvarado topped the scoresheet with 19 points (17 kills, 2 blocks). Piere Gill led Barbados' scoring effort with 10 points.

After the match, Costa Rica's Head Coach Robertocarlo Arguello said: “It was a match that helps us start to build a bit more confidence. We began the tournament on the wrong foot, and since we arrived, we’ve had difficulties with some players. The guys who were able to come have responded very well, and this win is a boost of confidence for what’s coming tomorrow when we face Panama in a big match. Tomorrow, we will give it everything!”

Costa Rica advances to the quarterfinals, which will be held on Friday. Barbados is winless so far at this tournament.