Cayman hosts 40 teams for NORCECA Beach Volleyball

(CMR) Just days after the conclusion of the NORCECA Under 23 Beach Volleyball Tournament, the Cayman Islands Volleyball Federation (CIVF) is preparing to host an even bigger international competition this weekend.

Forty teams from 16 countries are expected to compete in the Security Centre NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tournament from Friday, 11 November, to Sunday, 13 November, on Seven Mile Public Beach.

The teams will compete on four courts over the three days to accumulate points that will go toward NORCECA Finals in 2023 and qualification for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Competing for the Cayman Islands are Jessica Wolfenden, Heather Thompson, Deajra Tulloch, Anjia Delapenha, Ileann Powery, Stefania Gandolfi, Casey Santa Maria, Jesario Ebanks, Terek “TC” Wright, Jesper Barrozo, Declan Van Dam and Jabari Powery.

“By all accounts, the Under 23 tournament was a success. It provided our young athletes with valuable experience on an international stage with the benefit of being at home, motivated them to work harder, and showed them areas where they need to improve as some of them continue on the Under 23 tour,” said Dr. Trevor Theroulde, Technical Director.

“Now we look forward to welcoming the seniors who are at a whole different level in terms of skill and are always an inspiration for those youngsters who are hoping to go as far as possible in the game,” he added.

The countries competing in this weekend's tournament are Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Cayman, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts & Nevis, Trinidad & Tobago, and the USA.

Hon. Bernie Bush, Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, took in a few of the Under 23 matches, officially opened the tournament, and presented awards at its conclusion.

“I was very impressed with the talent I witnessed on the court last weekend. Cayman should be proud. Our youngsters played with the heart and spirit of champions, and this exposure was a good learning experience for them. The Ministry of Sports is committed to supporting the development of these young athletes; I see a lot of potential but, more importantly, a passion for the game and a commitment to the sport.

“I am looking forward to watching our senior players compete at The Security Centre NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tournament and wish them all the best,” said Minister Bush.

Bleachers Free

As hundreds of residents flock to the beach over the long weekend, event organizers have made it easy for them to watch the volleyball for free. Bleachers have been set up for spectators to watch the action on four courts, and there is also paid covered seating and a VIP tent option available.

Three food trucks – Murph's Kitchen, A La Kebab, and Burger Shack – will be selling food in the parking lot, and the kids and young at heart can enjoy unlimited play on a variety of inflatables for just $10 courtesy of McGee Adventure Park. 

The Security Centre will also be doing some on-site promotions during the Tournament as part of the company's sponsorship. 

“Our title sponsorship of The Security Centre 2022 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour is to first and foremost contribute our expertise and professional security services and measures to ensure a successful event for all our community and visitors. Our support for NORCECA fuels our goal. of providing an opportunity for Cayman's young and established athletes to compete at a regional level, build their skill set, and inspire another generation of volleyball players,” said Abe Ghazarian, Chief Executive Officer, The Security Centre.

“We are also proud to have partnered with the Central Caribbean Marine Institute and repurposed many of our sponsor benefits to support their education and research efforts, giving the organization our platforms to share initiatives and fundraise for their programs. The CCMI team will be at The Security Centre Coral Reef Experience tent throughout the tournament and will host a daily coral reef talk for NORCECA attendees,” he continued.

The Security Centre NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tournament takes place on Seven Mile Public Beach from 11 to 13 November. Uncovered seating is free; covered seating is $20 per day or $50 for three days, and the VIP is $125 per day or $325 for three days. Tickets can be purchased at EventPro.ky. 

For more information, log on to www.civf.ky or email [email protected].