Thursday, 21 Nov 2024

Girls Youth Team Sweeps Mexico at U18 Worlds

The U.S. Girls Youth National Team (GYNT) kickstarted their journey at the 2019 FIVB Girls’ U18 World Championship with an impressive victory over Mexico. In a straight-set match, the American team displayed their skill and determination, winning 25-21, 25-21, 25-16 in Ismailia, Egypt.

Continuing their campaign, Team USA will face Italy on Friday, the reigning champions of the biennial world championship. The Americans will then conclude their pool play with matches against Korea and Canada.

Elena Oglivie from Kapolei, Hawaii led the charge for the U.S. team, earning 10 points with kills from 17 attacks. Jess Mruzik from Livonia, Michigan contributed nine points, including seven kills and two aces. Devyn Robinson from Ankeny, Iowa showcased her versatility with five kills, two blocks, and an ace.

Head Coach Jim Stone expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, especially considering it was the first international match for some players. He praised their execution and looks forward to the next match against Italy.

Kennedi Orr from Eagan, Minnesota displayed her all-around skills with three aces, three blocks, and a kill from her setter position. Caroline Crawford from Lansing, Kansas added four kills and two blocks, while Emily Londot from Utica, Ohio contributed four kills, one block, and one ace. Sydney Taylor from Grove City, Ohio made an impact from the back-row with three aces and a kill.

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The U.S. team showcased their efficiency, converting 40% of their attacks into points with a .253 hitting efficiency. Their strong performance limited Mexico to a 27% kill rate and a .011 hitting efficiency.

In terms of statistics, Team USA held the advantage in kills (33-21) and aces (10-6). Mexico had a slight edge in blocks (11-8). The American team benefited from 24 Mexico errors while committing 21 of their own.

The U.S. libero, Lexi Rodriguez from Sterling, Illinois, displayed exceptional reception skills, handling 22 receptions without an error and achieving a 59% positive reception rate. Mruzik and Oglivie also contributed significantly in the reception department.

Team USA’s starting lineup included Orr at setter, Crawford, and Robinson at middle, and Oglivie, Mruzik, and Londot at the pins, with Rodriguez as the libero. Kami Miner, Lindsay Krause, and Allison Jacobs made appearances as substitutes in one set each.

Having secured a strong start to the tournament, the U.S. team looks forward to the upcoming matches, aiming to fulfill their goals and improve with each game.

FAQs

Q: How did the U.S. Girls Youth National Team perform in their first match of the FIVB Girls’ U18 World Championship?
A: The U.S. Girls Youth National Team defeated Mexico in a straight-set victory, showcasing their talent and determination.

Q: Who were the standout players for Team USA in the match against Mexico?
A: Elena Oglivie, Jess Mruzik, and Devyn Robinson stood out, contributing significantly to the team’s success.

Q: What are the upcoming matches for the U.S. Girls Youth National Team?
A: Team USA will face Italy, followed by matches against Korea and Canada to conclude their pool play.

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Summary

The U.S. Girls Youth National Team made a strong start at the 2019 FIVB Girls’ U18 World Championship with a convincing victory over Mexico. Led by standout players such as Elena Oglivie, Jess Mruzik, and Devyn Robinson, the American team displayed their skill and determination. Head Coach Jim Stone expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance and looks forward to their upcoming matches. With a focus on continuous improvement, the U.S. team aims to reach new heights in the tournament.