Wednesday, 14 Aug 2024

U.S. Women’s Volleyball Team Set to Host Exciting Matches in Long Beach

The FIVB World Grand Prix, one of the biggest international women’s volleyball tournaments, is returning to the United States. The U.S. Women’s National Team, currently ranked number one in the world, will be hosting the Group 1 Pool E preliminary round at the Walter Pyramid on the Long Beach State University campus in California.

A Showcase of Top Teams

The tournament will feature three exciting matches. On June 17 at 7:10 p.m., the U.S. Women’s National Team will face off against Germany, currently ranked 11th in the world. The following day, on June 18 at 7:10 p.m., they will take on Japan, ranked fifth. Finally, on June 19 at 5:10 p.m., they will compete against Turkey, currently ranked tenth.

Preparing for the Olympic Games

This year’s World Grand Prix holds particular significance, as it serves as the final major event for teams to fine-tune their systems before the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The U.S. and Japan, among the 12 teams vying for Olympic qualification, will participate in the tournament as a final opportunity to sharpen their skills.

Team USA’s Strong Start

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The U.S. Women’s National Team has had a promising start to the tournament, with a 2-1 record and six standings points. They achieved victories against Germany and Thailand in the previous weekend before losing to host and number two-ranked China. Despite the loss, Team USA’s performance remains impressive, especially considering their 12-match win streak leading up to the tournament.

A Competitive Field

Team USA currently ranks fourth in the 12-team World Grand Prix Group 1, just behind China, Brazil, and Russia, who are all undefeated. Turkey and Japan follow closely, placing seventh and eighth respectively. The top five teams from the preliminary round will advance to the World Grand Prix Final Round, along with host country Thailand.

Players to Watch

The U.S. Women’s National Team boasts a talented roster, with notable performances from players such as Kelly Murphy, who leads the team in scoring, and Foluke Akinradewo, a powerful blocker. Additionally, Carli Lloyd, the team’s setter, has demonstrated exceptional skill, while Jordan Larson showcases her abilities as a strong receiver.

Competing Nations

Japan and Turkey, with records of 1-2, are also vying for a spot in the Final Round. Japan, like the U.S., has already qualified for the 2016 Olympic Games. Turkey, on the other hand, started the tournament with a win over Belgium but faced defeat against the Netherlands and Russia. Germany, currently at 0-3, will be seeking their first victory in the tournament.

Past Successes and Familiar Territory

The U.S. Women’s National Team has a rich history of success in the World Grand Prix. They have won the tournament six times, most recently in 2015. Japan, one of only two nations to have participated in all 24 editions of the tournament, earned silver in 2014. Germany and Turkey have also achieved success, with bronze medals as their respective high-water marks in the competition.

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A Return to Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is no stranger to hosting international volleyball events. In recent years, the Walter Pyramid on the Long Beach State University campus has seen matches between the U.S. and Japan. The venue has also hosted various other volleyball events, including the USA Volleyball Cup and segments of the FIVB World Grand Prix. Moreover, the Long Beach Arena was the site of the volleyball events during the 1984 Olympic Games.

  • Where will the matches be held?
    The matches will take place at the Walter Pyramid on the campus of Long Beach State University in Long Beach, California.

  • Who is the current number one-ranked team?
    The U.S. Women’s National Team is currently ranked number one in the world.

  • How many teams will qualify for the World Grand Prix Final Round?
    The top five teams from the preliminary round will advance to the World Grand Prix Final Round.

The FIVB World Grand Prix brings the excitement of international women’s volleyball to the United States once again. The U.S. Women’s National Team, currently the top-ranked team in the world, will showcase their skills against Germany, Japan, and Turkey in Long Beach, California. As these teams compete for a spot in the Final Round, fans can expect thrilling matches filled with athleticism and excitement. To learn more about the U.S. Women’s National Team and their upcoming matches, visit Alpinetgheep.