MIAMI, Florida, August 8, 2008.- USA swept to a categorical victory over Puerto Rico in the gold medal’s match of the U-19 NORCECA Boys’ Continental Volleyball Tournament. Both teams were already qualified to the 2009 FIVB Youth World Championship.

The Americans combined power with consistent serve and blocking in route to a 25-19, 25-21, 25-22 triumph. USA dominated Puerto Rico in blocks (7-2) and in serves (6-3).

Ian Satterfield and Taylor Sander led USA with 12 and 10 points respectively and Weston Nielsen added 8. Puerto Rican Jorge Lopez topped all the scorers of the match with 15 tallies.

“It was a fabulous win for us against a very strong team with high spirit like Puerto Rico,” said Andy Read, the American coach. “I am very happy to go to the World Championship as the top team of our zone. My players did everything we have asked and deserve all the credit.”

“We executed our game plan and played as a team. We served and blocked well and did all the basics of good volleyball,” said Jake Kneller, the USA captain.