Panama, December 22,2004,-It was a matter of repetition for Panama during the XIII Men’s Volleyball Central American Cup in Honduras. Not only the country won the crown for second edition in a row but its star player Jose Cunningham validated his title as the Most Valuable Player of the regional competition. 

Cunningham led three Panamanian players in the All-Star Team as he was joined by libero Victor Herazo and blocker Donaldo Urena. 

Honduras, runner-up in the event, had two players in the ideal team with receiver Mario Palma and attacker Luis Salgado. Costa Rican Jeffry Calderon was the best server and Nicaraguan Lenin Ruiz the best setter. 

Cunningham is a 23 years-old player with excellent overall qualities. He started playing volleyball eight years ago and was instrumental in the sixth crown obtained by Panama in the history of the tournament. 

With its victory Panama earned the opportunity to play as representative of the Central American region in the 2005 NORCECA Continental Championship. 

“We must work harder because in that competition we are going to face stronger teams,” said Jose Remon, the Panamanian coach who is also President of Panama Volleyball Federation. 

On their arrival to Panama, Remon said there is a need to finish the construction of a gymnasium exclusively for volleyball that started with block to block donations and has been stalled for five years now. 

Yesterday, the Panamanian Team was scheduled to be received at the Municipal Palace by the Major of Panama Mr. Carlos Navarro. During the week the group is expected to meet with the President of Panama, Mr. Martin Torrijos.