Canada Tops Dominican Republic

Long Beach, California, May 7, 2012 – Canada Republic defeated Dominican Republic 25-21, 25-13, 25-15 in the opening match of the NORCECA Men’s Continental Olympic Qualification Tournament on Monday at the Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, Calif. The winner of the eight-team tournament earns a spot in the 2012 Olympic Games volleyball competition.

Gavin Schmitt led Canada with 12 points, while Justin Duff added 11 points. Dominican Republic was led by Jose Miguel Caceres Gomez’s 12 points.

Canada held an 8-3 margin in blocks and took advantage of 19 Dominican Republic errors in the match. Canada converted 49 of its 76 attacks into points.

Canada challenges Puerto Rico at 6 p.m. Pacific Time on the second day of Pool B action, while Dominican Republic takes on Cuba on Tuesday at 1 p.m. Pacific Time.

 “We’re obviously very happy,” Canada Coach Glenn Hoag said. “This was our first match together since last summer. The guys stayed focused. Every match we play here will be a step forward. We have to make adjustments to tour setting and serving.”

“Every time we play the Canadian team they play well,” Dominican Republic Coach Jacinto Compechano said. “Normally the games are closer. They played well and we have to give them the credit.”