Dominican Republic earns U21 semi spot  

Toronto, Canada. June 28, 2024:   Dominican Republic secured its spot in the semifinals of the Women’s NORCECA U21 Continental Championship at the Pan Am Sports Centre in Toronto, Ontario.

The Dominican team defeated Mexico 3-0 (25-12, 25-13, 25-23) in Friday’s quarterfinal match.

The winning side led in attack points (38-32), blocks 4-2 and ace serves 11-1. Mexico also made more errors 22-13.

Dominican player Ariana Rodriguez contributed 18 points, which included 3 aces; and teammate Selanny Puente scored 14 (also including 3 aces).

Middle blocker Arleth Marquez Ceja was the Mexican team’s top scorer with 12 points.

This U21 Dominican team now faces the challenge the United States in tomorrow’s semifinal at 4:30 pm ET.

Head coach of the Dominican Republic, Cristian Cruz, was pleased his team fought off Mexico's late comeback attempt:  “In the last set we were a little bit confused, but I trusted in the girls,  and I knew they would adjust. Our attitude played the biggest role in the game.”