United States wins opening match of the

2026 NORCECA Women's Continental Championship

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, August 21, 2026 – The United States opened the 2026 NORCECA Women's Continental Championship with a dominant 3-0 (25-6, 25-11, 25-4) victory over Trinidad and Tobago in Group A action at the Prof. Ricardo Gioriver Arias Volleyball Palace.

In addition to the continental title, three berths for the 2027 FIVB Women's World Championship are at stake, as well as one spot for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

On the second day of competition, the United States will face Mexico, while Trinidad and Tobago will take on Canada, continuing the Group A action.

The Americans easily dominated Trinidad's offense, which only reached double figures in the second set, sealing their debut with a decisive 25-4 victory in the third set.

The United States team was superior in attacks (41-7) and aces (19-2), while Trinidad and Tobago led in blocks (1-0).

The top scorer for the Americans was Asjia O'Neal with 18 points, followed by Stephanie Samedy with 14 and Dana Rettke with 9.

For Trinidad and Tobago, Thia Wilson had 4 points and Sadie Torkar added 2.

Erik Sullivan, US coach: “I’m very happy with the way we played and how the girls handled the fundamental tactics. It’s a good start to the tournament for us.”

Gideon Dickson, Trinidad and Tobago coach: “The United States played us hard from the beginning. Our team is very young and still learning, so this game gives us valuable experience to keep improving.”