In an electrifying showdown at the 2023 NORCECA Senior Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship, the Dominican Republic emerged victorious by upsetting the USA, in a five-set battle that ended 3-2 (12-25, 25-21, 19-25, 25-19, 15-13). The Dominican team’s exceptional performance, characterized by strong teamwork and skillful adjustments, led to their fourth NORCECA title. The championship took place at the PEPS’ Amphithéatre Desjardins-Université Laval, providing an unforgettable spectacle for volleyball enthusiasts.
Displaying remarkable resilience, the “Reinas Del Caribe” fought back after a slow start against the USA. Despite losing the first set, the Dominicans rallied to win the second, setting the stage for a nail-biting back-and-forth battle. While the USA led in attacks (60-53), the Dominican Republic led in blocking (9-8). USA secured more aces (7) compared to the Dominican side (3), but errors proved costly for the USA, losing more points due to errors (31-28).
Individual standout performances were noteworthy as well, with Jordan Thompson leading all scorers with 21 points, backed by 17 attack points, 3 blocks, and a serve. Brayelin Martinez contributed 20 points, primarily from attacks (18) and 2 blocks. The Dominican Republic’s Brenda Castillo, named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the championship, expressed her joy and credited the team’s unity for the victory. She highlighted the tremendous support from the crowd that has consistently cheered for them.
USA’s head coach, Karch Kiraly, acknowledged the Dominican Republic’s impressive adjustments and described their performance as exceptional. Despite his team’s disappointment, he commended the Dominicans for their victory and recognized their quality as a formidable opponent.
Canada claimed the bronze medal by defeating Cuba 3-1 (25-21, 25-17, 17-25, 25-16) in a sold-out arena, pleasing their home crowd. Kiera Van Ryk led the scoring with 24 points, Jazmine White with added 14, and Hilary Howe 10 for Canada. Greisy Fine led Cuba in scoring with 16 points.
The awarding ceremony recognized outstanding individual performances throughout the championship. Brenda Castillo of the Dominican Republic not only secured the MVP title but also received accolades as the Best Digger and Best Libero. Her teammate Lisvel Eve Mejia was honored as the Best Server. From the USA team, Justine Wong-Orantes and Jordan Thompson received awards for Best Receiver and Best Opposite, respectively.
The accolades continued with Kiera Van Ryk and Alexa Gray of Canada earning recognition as the Best Spikers. Emily Maglio of Canada was celebrated as the Second Best Blocker, while Brie King was named the Best Setter. Puerto Rico’s Neima Ortiz received the award for First Best Blocker, and Paola Santiago was celebrated as the Best Scorer.
Gold medal match
Dominican Republic vs. USA 3-2 (12-25, 25-21, 19-25, 25-19, 15-13)
Bronze medal match
Canada vs. Cuba 3-1 (25-21, 25-17, 17-25, 25-16)
STANDINGS
1.  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC2.  UNITED STATES3.  CANADA4.  CUBA5.  MEXICO6.  PUERTO RICO7.  COSTA RICA |
