Historic victory of Dominican Republic at U18 event

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The Dominican Republic scored one of the biggest surprises of the year in San Jose, Costa Rica from June 24-29 when its U18 Girls Team put an end to the reign of United States at the continental event.

The American representatives arrived in the Central American country as six-time defending champions and winners of seven of eight editions of the competition since 1998 only to suffer a loss to the hands of the brave Dominicans in four sets (25-14, 25-21, 20-25, 25-20).

The two teams had reached the gold medal match after winning all their three matches without losing a single set before the much anticipated duel at Gimnasio Nacional of San Jose.

The victory of the Dominican Republic confirmed the country as a major female volleyball power in the continent with a strong program that keeps its pipeline flowing talented athletes.

Natalia Martinez, one of the outside hitters of the new champions, earned the honors as Most Valuable Player of the nine-team competition.

Mexico defeated Puerto Rico 3-1 (26-24, 25-20, 19-25, 25-19) to claim the bronze medal and thus completing the three NORCECA teams qualified to the FIVB U18 Girls World Championship to be held in Lima, Peru from August 7-16.

The reaction of Alexander Ceccato, the Brazilian coach of the Dominican Republic, reflected the meaning of the victory.

“It is a valuable achievement for several reasons,” Ceccato stated. “First, we are making history with our first gold medal, second the victory against the powerful United States, third, and finally, because our players could see the results of the hard work.”

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