Bahamas loses its debut to powerful USA

GATINEAU, Canada, June 13, 2011 - Three-time defending champions the United States defeated the Bahamas 25-14, 25-12, 25-12 in the opening match for both teams on Monday at the Pan American Cup men’s volleyball tournament. It was also the first match ever for the Bahamas in the history of the tournament.

‘’It was a privilege for us to play the USA,’’ said Bahamas head coach Raymond Wilson.  ‘’It allowed to see where we are at and what we need to do in order to compete.’’

It was a special moment as well for Renaldo Knowles, a 12-year national team veteran on the Bahamian squad. ‘’It means a lot to me to compete at this tournament,’’ he said.  ‘’It’s a great tournament to be a part of.’’

Jayson Jablonski led USA with 10 points. Princtanique Wilson led the Bahamas with seven points while Knowles and Shedrick Forbes added six each.

The USA coach was pleased with its solid start. ‘’It was good for our team to get into a game atmosphere,’’ said USA head coach Gordon Mayforth.

‘’We are very pleased with how we came out,’’ added USA team captain Robert Tarr.  ‘’All the guys were chomping at the bit to get into action.’’