XI’AN, China –
The Canadian men’s volleyball team has punched its ticket to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Canada defeated Mexico 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-15) in an Olympic qualifying tournament on Sunday.
The Canadians defeated Argentina, which also had a 5-2 record, to secure the second and final qualifying spot in Pool C in a tiebreaker. Leaders Poland finished the group 7-0.
Canada had a chance to qualify on Saturday but lost 3-1 to Belgium, leaving second place open. Belgium dropped a 3-2 decision to Bulgaria, aiding Canada’s efforts to seal the deal.
“After yesterday, it was an important game,” said team captain Nicholas Hoag, a two-time Olympian. “It was disappointing and scary to be in this position, but we were given another chance today and we took it.”
“We improved and also beat the teams we needed to at the start of the tournament. I’m really happy with the boys’ performance; we got the job done. The celebrations begin and we will have the year to prepare for Paris.” !”
For the Canadian men it is the third Olympic participation in a row, the only other defeat in the tournament came at the hands of the Poles.
“It’s unbelievable,” said head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo. “I’m just so excited for volleyball in Canada and the history of what people have done with this program for many years to now be a regular at the Olympics.”
Canada led in offense (39-33), blocking (13-5) and aces (8-1), but conceded more penalty points to Mexico (17-15).
Eric Loeppky of Steinbach, Man., led Canada with 16 points, followed by Stephen Maar of Aurora, Ont., with 12.
Josue Lopez Rios led Mexico with 11 points.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 8, 2023.
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