Eliud Ortíz from Corozal, “Manager of the Year”

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, October 31, 2024.- The Plataneros of Corozal have accumulated their second award in the 2024 Men's Superior Volleyball League (LVSM) Awards with the appointment of Eliud Ortiz as “Manager of the Year.”

“First of all, I am grateful to God; it was a tough year from the U23 process until now. I’m happy, and above all, I thank my work team. Last year was our first, and our vision was to build a team with a young core that would produce results within five years. But, my friend, we achieved it sooner,” Ortiz said upon receiving the good news.

The young manager also acknowledged the efforts of Ramón “Monchito” Hernández, the team’s head coach, and his assistant, Raúl Papaleo, for their work with the players.

Plataneros of Corozal finished the regular season with a record of 11-9, accumulating 31 points and securing third place in the Metro section. They are currently competing in the quarterfinals against the Yauco Cafeteros in a series tied at two wins each, with a do-or-die match set for Friday, November 1, as they aim to advance to the semifinals.

Ortiz’s efforts were recognized with a total of 55 votes, earning him the title of “Manager of the Year 2024.”

Regarding the decisive match against the Yauco Cafeteros and what they must do to advance to the semifinal series against the Guaynabo Mets, Ortiz added, “We need to keep focusing on our serve, but with precision, and continue blocking, which is one of our strengths. I dedicate this award to my children, who are my driving force,” Eliud concluded.

Dr. Angelo Ferrante Cruz, manager of Caribes of San Sebastián, the league’s reigning champions, came in second place with 49 votes. Ferrante Cruz was named Manager of the Year in 2023, receiving 30 votes.

Third place went to Ramón Rosado of Guaynabo Mets, with a total of 21 votes.

Others receiving votes included Salvador Henry Pérez, who debuted this year as manager (Gigantes of Adjuntas); Jorge Báez (Yauco Cafeteros); and Alexis Aponte (Naranjito Changos), who last season received enough votes to place second. Karimar Brown (Mayagüez Indios) also received votes.