Panama is fifth overall after U19 win

BURNABY, Canada. May 17, 2026: Panama earned a fifth place at the U19 NORCECA Boys’ Continental Volleyball Championship in Burnaby, British Columbia.

In a very competitive match for fifth and sixth, Panama came out the winner 3-0 (25-22, 26-24, 26-24).

Although Puerto Rico led in attack points 45-41, blocking went to Panama 12-3, as well as ace serves 4-3. Panama gained one more point from Mexico’s errors (20-19).

“I am very happy about this day and to be here,” said Panama’s team captain Wen Downer who was consistently one of the top scorers of the tournament.  “We are very proud of the fifth-place finish. The team went far and stayed very united.”

Downer was match top scorer again today with 23 points.  Elvis Gonzalez Cruz led the scoring for Puerto Rico with 13 points.  

Top four teams from this tournament qualified for the U19 World Championship.