International and Collegiate Reinforcements Revitalize 2025 Season of the LVSF

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, December 23, 2024.- With the Women's Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) set to begin its 2025 season on January 17, the league's teams are strengthening their rosters and adjusting their strategies for the competition. From international signings to the hiring of renowned coaches, the LVSF promises a season full of excitement and a high level of play.

Cangrejeras de Santurce: Defending Champions

The defending champions, Cangrejeras de Santurce, have announced the addition of outstanding American attacker Lindsay Stalzer and the return of star player Helena Grozer. Grozer, who played last tournament under the name Helena Havelková, was a key player for the Cangrejeras’ 2024 championship. During last season, she performed impressively with 297 attacks for points, 51 blocks, 365 passes, 264 defenses and 19 aces.

Stalzer, known for her power and versatility on offense, will bring experience and offensive strength to the team. She has played for several teams outside of Puerto Rico, including:

San Diego Mojo (United States) during the 2023-2024 season

Athletes Unlimited Pro League (United States) for the 2023-2024 season

Apollon Limassol (Cyprus) for the 2022-2023 season

F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (Philippines) for the season 2022-2023

Jakarta BNI46 (Indonesia) in the 2018-2019 season

Petron Blaze Spikers (Philippines) in the 2016-2017 season

Cignal HD Spikers (Philippines) in the 2013-2014 season

Lindsay Stalzer has had a very active international career, playing in various leagues around the world.

In addition, the Cangrejeras have named experienced Spanish coach Pascual Saurín as their new head coach. Saurín brings with him a vast experience of coaching teams in Europe, promising to implement new strategies and tactical approaches to maintain the team's dominance in the league.

Atenienses de Manatí (Runner-Up): Talent and Promising Youth

The runners-up, Atenienses de Manatí, have signed talented American middle blocker Kjersti Strong. With her impressive height and blocking ability, Strong will be a formidable addition to the team's defense. During her senior season at Saint Mary's College in 2023, she was the team's offensive and defensive leader, racking up 308 attack points and 161 blocks, averaging 1.50 blocks per set.

This is effectively her first experience as a professional player.

Criollas de Caguas: Strengthening the Offense

Criollas de Caguas, one of the most competitive teams in the league, have strengthened their attack with the signing of American attacker Kristin Lux. Lux, known for her consistency and offensive ability, is expected to bring her experience and energy to the team. The Criollas' management has expressed their enthusiasm for the addition of Lux, confident that her presence will elevate the level of play and help them achieve their goals for the season.

Juncos Valencianas: New Talents and University Promises

Among other notable signings, the Juncos Valencianas are enriched by the arrival of promising college players such as Jaelyn Hodge and Alexia Kuehl. Hodge, coming from the University of Arizona, and Kuehl, from the University of Colorado and Central Florida, are ready to show their talent at the professional level.

Jaelyn Hodge played in 31 matches during her final season at the University of Arizona (2023), leading the team with 309 points and 2.73 points per set. Hodge plays as an outside hitter.

Alexia Kuehl played at the University of Colorado and most recently at the University of Central Florida. In her final season (2024), she excelled in blocking and attacking. Kuehl, a middle blocker, is known for her blocking ability and dominant presence at the net.

Naranjito Changas re-sign Rollins

Changas de Naranjito have reinforced their team with the addition of American Adanna Rollins, who was the second highest scorer in the tournament last year with 416 points (367 attacks, 42 blocks, 7 serves) in 96 sets, averaging 4.33 points per set.

Guaynabo Mets with new coach

The Guaynabo Mets announced in their networks the hiring of María Clara Carvalhaes and Rebecca Latham.

Maria Clara Carvalhaes, born September 28, 2003, is a Brazilian volleyball player who currently plays as a setter for Osasco Volleyball Clube in Brazil. She is known for her precision and speed in the game, and her dynamic and strategic style makes her a key player for her team.

Rebecca Latham, born June 23, 1997, is an American volleyball player who currently plays as an opposite hitter in the Athletes Unlimited Pro League in the United States. Latham is known for her power and versatility, excelling both on the attack and in the front court.