The men’s and women’s beach volleyball teams, representing the Cayman Islands in Rhodes, Greece next month, are ready for what the games have in store. Starting in January, 10 men and 10 women signed on for the rigorous training program designed by head beach volleyball coach Carl Brenton.
From left: assistant coach Jennifer Bi-ly, Tiffany Maier, Wanda Brenton, Head Coach Carl Brenton |
The training program was developed with the aid of the Brazilian coaches for the number 1 men’s team in the world, the coach of the number 2 women’s team in the United States and a Canadian FIVB coach who helped his women’s team reach the ranking of 19th in the world. Eventually the players were narrowed down to the two men and two women who will represent Cayman in Greece. For the men, Shervin Rankin and Bero Bobus will play in the first ever beach volleyball competition held as part of the Island Games. The women will be represented by Tiffany Maier and Wanda Brenton.
The Cayman women’s team had their first international test last weekend playing two different Jamaican women’s teams and beating each team in 2 straight sets. ‘I was extremely pleased with how our Women’s team played this weekend. The Jamaican women’s teams were very big and powerful players but our team managed to keep their composure, even when down by as many as 6 points in 2 of the games, and pull out the victory.
They didn’t drop a single game and proved quite dominating in the 4 games played. These victories were a culmination of 6 months of tremendous effort by both these ladies.’ commented coach Brenton. The real test comes July 1-3 when the men and women compete in Greece for the 3 days of beach volleyball. CIVF president Noel Williams likes their chances at bringing Cayman back a medal. ‘The men’s and women’s teams look extremely fit and well trained. It was impressive to see our women’s team play so calmly and professionally against the bigger intimidating Jamaican teams. Their training and effort really shows, I am looking forward to seeing great results in Greece by both teams.’
CIVF officials thanked their sponsors, the Island Games Committee, the Olympic Committee and the community. ‘Their support has helped to ensure that Cayman’s athletes received the best training possible and the best possible chance of bringing home a medal for Cayman,’ said an official.
Information and updates on the Island Games can be found at www.rhodes2007.info or www.islandgames.net. Anyone interested in finding out more about current beach leagues and tournaments can contact the CI Beach Volleyball Committee at [email protected]
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