Marcela Araya, the MVP of the Women’s Senior Central American Cup
MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 12, 2023 - Marcela Araya, team captain of
Costa Rica was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the XXII AFECAVOL
Women’s Senior Central American Cup, which concluded on Tuesday at the
Alexis Arguello Sports Complex.
Araya played a crucial role in helping Costa Rica win its 19th title in
the history of this tournament, with 16 of them in a row. Araya also
received the award for Best Outside Hitter. Her teammate, María José
Castro, received recognition as the Best Defese and Best Libero.
The Best Service award went to María Andrea Santa Cruz from Guatemala,
the Best Receiver award was given to Carmen Chávez from El Salvador, and
her teammate Daniela Sánchez was awarded Best Setter.
From Belize, Nelissa Ramírez was named the second Best Outside Hitter,
and Nissan Martínez was the second Best Blocker.
The awards for Best Blocker and Best Scorer went to Ana Gabriela
Marcelín from Honduras.
The Best Opposite award was presented to Lolette Rodríguez from
Nicaragua.
AFECAVOL COPA MAYOR FEMENINA
After receiving the recognition as the Most Valuable Player of the
event, Marcela Araya said, “It’s truly a night filled with many
emotions. Thank God we were able to finish strong despite that first set
we had. I am infinitely thankful to God for my health, for allowing me
to play for almost 17 years with the national team, which makes me
proud. I am happy to have ended my indoor volleyball career with this
group of warriors; that’s what they are, and now it’s time to
celebrate”.
She added, “I also want to thank the coaching staff, each and every
person who supports us, and the girls for their commitment, which is
reflected on the court, but it’s the result of what we have cultivated
during our training”.
Costa Rica’s coach, Pablo Acuña, praised Marcela, saying, “She is a
player who is prepared to be the best in every game, with an exemplary
work ethic. Today, she bids farewell to the National Team; it was her
last game, and she deserves all the highest honors as the best player of
the event”. |