Dominica’s senior men’s national team, iRep767, suffered an anti climatic result at the recently concluded Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) tournament in Antigua.
After thrashing hosts Antigua on Saturday night, the local team and diasporan supporters expected nothing but excellence against rivals St Lucia in a much hyped-up finals showdown.
Dominica had lost to St Lucia in their opening match of the tournament and looked to exact revenge and cop the grand prize, however the team had to settle for second place.
The team started out brilliantly and won the first set despite a few thrown services.
However, “Lucia pressure” was awakened and took control of the game.
More costly thrown services and defensive blunders coupled with the offensive brilliance of tournament MVP, Lucian Joseph Clercent, brought the demise of the 767 team.
The Dominican block had no answers for this attack and less than par passing also stagnated their offense. Coach Edmund and skipper Ray Robinson urged their team to remember the struggles of the last few months and to fight back.
It would not be enough, however, as St Lucia had the edge and would take the game 3 1 to win consecutive ECVA top honors.
Team iRep767 would not go home empty handed though as team captain Ray Robinson would cop Best Setter honors for the second straight time.
Of notable mention also were rookie middle blockers Yahn Florent and Ronelle Joseph who were among the leaders in blocks and services.
Star outside hitter Lincoln Riviere also came of age in this tournament and was among top scorers in the tournament.
The team looks to work harder and come back stronger next year while highly anticipating the arrival of a promised indoor facility which would alleviate some of the struggle.
Team iRep767 wishes to profoundly thank again all who made it possible including The Dominica Olympic Committee, Sports Division, RBC Royal Bank and iRep767 wear.
Well Done Dominica
Congratulations to my team! It is definitely not an easy task to compete against the other regional islands who are much better equipped (with indoor facilities and support mechanisms). yet we rise against all odds and are still able to represent our island with pride.
If not for our dedication and love for the sport most of us would have given up a long time ago. It is high time that the people responsible for sports administration on the island give our sports men and women the respect that they deserve and lay the foundation in terms of proper facilities and necessary incentives to allow our world beaters to fulfill their true potential. we have had enough lip service, right now it is time to deliver.
once again big up to the DAVA and the entire team..david linky Johny yahn deon kerwin lennon boney ithoma and kairann..Lets continue to keep the ball flying!
When did the national team change it’s name to Team IREP767?
Congratulations fellaz. Keep reaching for the stars man. U guys represented.