Suriname Takes Seventh Place at U23 Pan American Cup

PARAMARIBO, Suriname, September 21, 2024.- Suriname finished in seventh place at the Men's U23 Pan American Cup after defeating Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 3-0 (25-16, 25-13, 25-10) at the Anthony Nesty Sporthal in Paramaribo, Suriname.

Suriname ended the tournament with a 2-4 record, which took place from September 16 to 21. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines closed with a 0-5 record.

It was a match where both teams lacked energy, performing below their capabilities.

The hosts finished their last match with a 28-23 advantage in attacks, 7-3 in blocks, and 4-3 in serves. Suriname benefited from 36 errors by Saint Vincent and conceded 10.

Outside hitters Shemar Jameson and Carlo Huisden of Suriname scored 9 and 7 points, respectively.

Middle blocker Shadron Delpesche of Saint Vincent was the top scorer with 14 points.

Carlos Orta, Suriname's coach: “We knew Suriname had to win this match because of the difference in the level of play between the teams. Our true expectation was to be among the top five. This was a new experience for everyone, even for the spectators, to see that this is not a CAZOVA level, it’s Pan-American. We need to prepare better for future events. I’m happy with the boys because they showed that we’ve made good preparations, but we need to prepare even more”.

Daryl Franklyn, Head coach of St. Vincent: “I think the guys were unmotivated because they were playing for the last spots. They came with a kind of defeated mindset, and it showed on the court. They really didn’t fight”.