Dominica beats Antigua to clinch perfect record in ECVA U-23 Volleyball Championship

Dominica completed a flawless run in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Championship on Monday, defeating Antigua and Barbuda in four sets at the YMCA Indoor Facility.

The Nature Isle squad asserted themselves early, taking the opening set 25–15. Antigua and Barbuda responded in front of their home crowd, leveling the contest with a 25–20 win in the second. Dominica regained control in the third, led by Deye, who guided the team to a 25–17 victory. With a perfect record on the line, Dominica maintained their momentum in the fourth set. Despite a late rally from Antigua and Barbuda, the visitors sealed the match 25–19, completing the championship undefeated at 6–0.

Head coach Itoma James praised his team’s growth throughout the tournament.

“Chemistry was a little bit off coming into the tournament, but I knew we had the skill, the experience, and the talent to go far. We took it one game at a time, and every match you could see the chemistry building. The guys kept showing me they have everything it takes to be a top team for a very long time,” James said in an interview with Antigua Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

James highlighted the squad’s balance as a decisive factor in their success.

“Other teams had one focal point that could score, but we had four. That gave us multiple options to win points and made it difficult for opponents to stop us,” he explained.

Reflecting on his role, tournament MVP Sheron Vidal James emphasized the importance of experience and tactical awareness.

“It’s not always about hitting the ball hard. Sometimes you place it smartly, force errors, and capitalize on opportunities. Using your IQ in the game can make the difference,” he noted.

With the victory, Dominica not only secured the championship but also showcased the depth and promise of its young volleyball talent, setting the stage for continued success in regional competition.