At the recent NORCECA Women`s Volleyball Final Six tournament in Guadalajara, two teams receiving support from FIVB Volleyball Empowerment achieved excellent results. Host nation Mexico secured the silver medal, while the Dominican Republic team won bronze. The continental championship gold went to the United States.
Mexico`s national teams, both indoor and beach volleyball, have collectively received USD 1,328,000 in coaching support from FIVB Volleyball Empowerment. Additionally, the Mexican volleyball federation was provided with equipment valued at USD 115,000. Italian coach Nicola Negro has led Mexico`s women`s national volleyball team since 2023. The Dominican Republic, under the same program, has been allocated USD 1,050,000 for coaching support for their women`s team, which is guided by Brazilian head coach Marcos Kwiek and his staff.
Tournament Overview
The NORCECA Final Six tournament commenced with a single round-robin phase. Following this stage, the USA (with a 5-0 record), Mexico (4-1), along with Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic (both 2-3), advanced to the semifinals.
Mexico secured a podium finish with a hard-fought 3-2 (18-25, 25-21, 19-25, 25-20, 15-12) semifinal win against Puerto Rico. In the other semifinal, the Americans bested the Dominicans in four sets, 3-1 (25-20, 16-25, 25-18, 25-22).
In Sunday`s gold medal match, the USA defeated Mexico in straight sets, 3-0 (25-19, 25-17, 25-19), claiming the trophy for the second time in the tournament`s history, following their 2023 victory. For Mexico, this marked their second silver medal, after achieving one in 2021.
“We are pleased with the silver medal. Overall, it was a very strong tournament for us – our only loss was to the United States. We`ve climbed to 19th in the world ranking (from 29th two months ago), which is a significant achievement and a testament to our team`s hard work. The players demonstrated dedication and performed admirably. We are progressing technically and tactically, and now our focus is on mental development to reach an even higher standard.”
— Nicola Negro, Mexico`s Head Coach
The Dominican Republic secured its first bronze medal and fifth overall in the competition, triumphing in a dramatic five-set battle for third place with a 3-2 (25-22, 20-25, 19-25, 25-23, 15-13) victory.
“The players need to become accustomed to this level of play and pressure. It`s beneficial for their development. It`s good that they experience these situations so they can grow as players and understand that success isn`t easily attained.”
— Marcos Kwiek, Dominican Republic`s Head Coach
Canada delivered a decisive 3-0 (25-16, 25-22, 25-21) victory over Cuba in the fifth-place match.
Individual Achievements
Reagan Cooper, USA`s 24-year-old outside hitter, was named the tournament`s Most Valuable Player (MVP). The “Dream Team” included setter Ella Powell (USA), opposite Sofia Maldonado (Mexico), outside hitters Madeline Guillen (Dominican Republic) and Whitney James (Cuba), middle blockers Neira Ortiz (Puerto Rico) and Samantha Francis (USA), and libero Yaneirys Rodriguez (Dominican Republic). Rodriguez also received the Best Digger award. Norah Sis of the USA was recognized as the Best Receiver. Maldonado secured the Best Server award, while Guillen was honored as the NORCECA Final Six`s Best Scorer.
Detailed results, statistics, and final standings from the NORCECA Women`s Final Six are available for review.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood