Posted on: Monday, August 23, 2004

Hawai'i players earn gold in U.S. youth volleyball

Advertiser Staff

Hawai'i's three-man volleyball contingent helped lift the USA Boys' Youth National Team to a gold medal at the NORCECA Zonal Championship yesterday in Mexico City. The Americans swept Canada in the final, 25-19, 27-25, 25-17.

After a five-game victory in the opener against Puerto Rico Wednesday, the unbeaten U.S. swept its final five matches.

Three Hawai'i players started for Team USA. Punahou sophomore Spencer McLachlin had five points yesterday and helped anchor the U.S. passing with libero Adam Tuifaga, a Kamehameha graduate who was named the tournament's Best Service Receiver. Iolani junior Kawika Shoji captained the team and earned Best Setter honors.

Shoji added five points yesterday. His terminator was San Diego's Chase Budinger, who had 22 points and was tournament MVP and Best Attacker.

University of Hawai'i men's assistant Tino Reyes was part of the U.S. coaching staff. He and the Hawai'i players will return today.