Thursday, 26 Dec 2024

Men’s Junior Team to Play for NORCECA Gold

The U.S. Men’s Junior National Team, led by Josh Tuaniga, showcased their dominance in a semifinal win over Canada in the NORCECA U21 Men’s Continental Championship. With a 15-point run in the opening set, they established their authority and secured a 25-9, 26-24, 25-21 victory.

On Sunday, the United States (3-0) will face Cuba (4-0) in the gold medal match at 8 p.m. ET. The winner of this match will earn their spot in the 2017 FIVB U21 World Championship. Both teams have been in exceptional form throughout the tournament, with neither side dropping a set so far.

In the first set, Tuaniga, a left-handed setter, served an impressive 14 consecutive points. His exceptional performance kept the U.S. attack running smoothly. Tuaniga, an AVCA second-team All-American setter at Long Beach State University, expressed his astonishment at the feat, stating, “I think that was the first time I have ever done that – that was crazy.” Despite their commanding lead, the U.S. team remained focused and acknowledged the strength of the Canadian team, giving them credit for their spirited fight.

The United States saw standout performances from outside hitter Dylan Missry, who scored 11 points with 11 kills from 24 attacks. Kyle Ensing and Jordan Ewert also contributed significantly with 10 points each. Canada’s Sharone Vernon-Evans and Eric Loeppky led their team’s offense, scoring 11 and 10 points respectively.

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The U.S. Men’s Junior National Team, boasting a slightly older and taller roster than Cuba, will face a formidable opponent in the gold medal match. U.S. Head Coach Jay Hosack highlighted the strength of the Cuban team, stating, “They’re not a finesse team, they just like to go up and bang away. They serve very well. We’re going to have to do a little better job of passing the ball if we want to have a chance.” The U.S. team will focus on improving their passing and preparations ahead of the final showdown.

FAQs

Q: Who is leading the U.S. Men’s Junior National Team?

A: The U.S. Men’s Junior National Team is led by Head Coach Jay Hosack from George Mason University.

Q: What is at stake in the gold medal match?

A: The winner of the gold medal match between the United States and Cuba will secure their spot in the 2017 FIVB U21 World Championship.

Q: Have the United States and Cuba lost any sets in the tournament?

A: No, both teams have remained undefeated in the tournament, not dropping a single set.

Summary

The U.S. Men’s Junior National Team showcased their dominance in the semifinal match against Canada, securing a resounding victory and booking their place in the gold medal match. Led by Josh Tuaniga, the team displayed exceptional performance and a 15-point run in the opening set. The United States will face Cuba in the highly anticipated final, with both teams yet to lose a set in the tournament. Head Coach Jay Hosack is aware of the challenge posed by Cuba’s powerful playstyle and strong serves, emphasizing the importance of improved passing. The stage is set for an exciting clash as the teams vie for the gold and a spot in the 2017 FIVB U21 World Championship.

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