2012 U.S. Boys' Youth National Volleyball Team Press Kit

U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team Press Kit

2012 NORCECA Boys’ Youth (U-19) Continental Championship Tijuana, Mexico June 30-July 8, 2012

For additional information or to schedule interviews, please contact: Deb Stadick, USA Volleyball Communications Intern (deb.stadick@usav.org) BJ Evans, Manager of Communications (bj.evans@usav.org) (719) 228-6800 1

Table of Contents

2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team Roster…………………………..………………………. 3 Media Resources…………………………………………………………………………………………… 4 Event Information…………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 Teams By Pool……………………………………………………………………………………………… 6 Pool Play Schedule………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 Playoff Schedule……………………………………………………………………………………………. 8 2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team Preview…………………………………………………. 9 Athlete Profiles…………………………………………………………………………………………… 11 Staff Profiles……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 24 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team in Review…………………………………………………….. 28 Past Results……..…………………………………………………………………………………………. 32 Volleyball Glossary…………………………………………………………………………………………. 33

2

2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team Roster

No. Name

Pos.

Hometown

Club/Region

Grad

1

Aidan Albrecht

Opp

Old Bridge, N.J.

Warren Juniors/Garden Empire

2013

2

Christian Blough

S/Opp

Ontario, N.Y.

Rochester Elite/Western Empire

2013

3

Cyrus Fa’alogo

S

West Jordan, Utah

Utah Elite/Intermountain

2013

4

Kupono Fey

OH/ Opp

Honolulu, Hawaii

Ku’ikahi/Aloha

2013

5

Connor Lammey

MB

West Grove, Pa.

Yorktowne/Keystone

2013

6

David Parker

OH

Rocklin, Calif.

NCVC/Northern California

2014

7

Mitch Penning

MB

Maryland Heights, Mo.

St. Louis High Performance/ Gateway

2013

8

Alex Pia

MB

Johns Creek, Ga.

Southern Storm/Southern

2013

9

Earl Schultz

OH

Chicago, Ill.

Powerhouse/Great Lakes

2014

10

Erik Sikes

L

Coto de Caza, Calif.

Balboa Bay/Southern California

2014

11

Lee Smith

OH

Sewickley, Pa.

Beaver Valley Premier/Ohio Valley

2014

12

Brendan Surane

Opp

Lockport, Ill.

Ultimate/Great Lakes

2013

16

Ryan Paull

MB

Chicago, Ill.

Southwest Chi-Town/Great Lakes

2013

Head Coach: Daniel Friend Assistant Coach: David Hunt Assistant Coach: Colin McMillan Statistician: Mark Hulse Team Manager: Rick Mischka

3

Media Resources Inquiries Contact: Deb Stadick USA Volleyball Communications Intern Email: deb.stadick@usav.org Phone: (719) 228-6800 Address: USA Volleyball 4065 Sinton Road, Suite 200 Colorado Springs, Colo. 80907 Website: www.usavolleyball.org

Get Connected: USA Volleyball @USA_Volleyball #NORCECA

Other Resources: Federation Internationale de Volleyball www.fivb.org

North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation www.norceca.org

4

Event Information

Tijuana

Event

2012 NORCECA Boys’ Youth Continental Championship

Date

June 30-July 8

Location

Tijuana, Mexico

Venue

Gimnasio Multiusos of the Centro de Alto Rendimiento (CAR)

Training Venue

Cancha de Multiusos of CAR and the Gimnasio de la UABC

5

Teams by Pool Pool A

Pool B

Costa Rica

Mexico

Cuba

Puerto Rico

French St. Martin

Virgin Islands

Nicaragua

United States

6

Pool Play Schedule Group A No.

Date

Time

Teams

1 2 3 4

2-Jul 2-Jul 3-Jul 3-Jul

12:00 14:00 12:00 17:00

Cuba Costa Rica Costa Rica Cuba

vs. vs. vs. vs.

French St. Martin Nicaragua French St. Martin Nicaragua

5

4-Jul

12:00

Nicaragua

vs.

French St. Martin

6

4-July

17:00

Cuba

vs.

Costa Rica

Group B No.

Date

Time

7 8 9 10 11 12

2-Jul 2-Jul 3-Jul 3-Jul 4-Jul 4-Jul

17:00 19:00 14:00 19:00 14:00 19:00

Teams United States Mexico United States Mexico Puerto Rico Mexico

vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs.

Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands US Virgin Islands Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands United States

2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team Pool Play Schedule July 2, 2012: United States vs. Puerto Rico @ 17:00 July 3, 2012: United States vs. US Virgin Islands @ 14:00 July 4, 2012: United States vs. Mexico @19:00

7

Playoff Schedule

Quarterfinals No.

Date

Time

13 14

5-Jul 5-Jul

17:00 19:00

Teams 2nd B 2nd A

vs. vs.

3rd A 3rd B

Classification 5/8 No.

Date

Time

15 16

6-Jul 6-Jul

12:00 14:00

Teams 4th A 4th B

vs. vs.

Loser of M14* Loser M13*

Semifinals No.

Date

Time

17 18

6-Jul 6-Jul

17:00 19:00

Matchup 1st B 1st A

vs. vs.

Winner of M14* Winner of M13*

Final Classification 7/8 No.

Date

Time

19

7-Jul

12:00

Matchup Loser of M15

vs.

Loser of M16

Final Classification 5/6 No.

Date

Time

20

7-Jul

14:00

Matchup Winner of M15

vs.

Winner of M16

Finals No.

Date

Time

21

7-Jul

17:00

18

7-Jul

19:00

Matchup Loser of M17 Winner of M17

8

vs. vs.

Loser of M18 Winner of M18

2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team Preview The 2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team

were willing to sacrifice their Junior National Champi-

(BYNT), which will compete in the 2012 NORCECA

onships experience this year to compete for the Youth

Boys’ Youth (U-19) Continental Championship being

National Team at NORCECA and a chance to qualify

held July 2-7 in Tijuana, Mexico, has a roster boasting

for the World Championship the following year.”

a wide range of volleyball talent.

The roster carries two setters, three middle blockers, “I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with

six outside/opposite hitters and one libero.

the next great young USA Volleyball Olympic hopefuls,” U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team Head Coach

“We have some really good size and athleticism in all

Dan Friend (Topeka, Kan.) said. “It’s a privilege to

of our positions.” Friend said.

work with USA Volleyball in any capacity, especially The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team made time for some fun while training in Chula Vista.

when you get to compete at NORCECA and have the chance to qualify for the FIVB World Championship.”

The top two teams at the NORCECA Championship will qualify for the 2013 FIVB Boys’ Youth World Championship.

Friend selected his team of 12 players through USA Volleyball High Performance tryouts held across the country. Twenty-four players were initially selected as prospects for the team. A number of factors contributed to selecting the final roster of 12 including skill, experience and availability. The team draws from a large pool of talent nationwide, with representation from 10

Copyrighted by USAV

states and 11 USA Volleyball regions.

Cyrus Fa’alogo (West Jordan, Utah) and Christian The BYNT spent the week prior to the 2012 NORCE-

Blough (Ontario, N.Y.) will run the offense at setter

CA Boys’ Youth (U-19) Continental Championship

for the BYNT. Friend feels their size is a defining fac-

training together at the U.S. Olympic Training Center

tor, setting both setters apart.

in Chula Vista, Calif.

“Both of our setters (Fa’alogo and Blough) bring excel“We have a great group of guys,” Friend said. “They 9

2012 U.S. Boys Youth National Team Preview lent size to the position,” Friend said. “It makes them

ence to the position.

a weapon and blocking force.”

Rounding out the roster is libero Erik Sikes (Coto de Fa’alogo is a fresh face to the USA Volleyball High

Caza, Calif.), an assertive defender who can frustrate

Performance pipeline, but with three Utah high school

opponents with his relentless effort.

state titles already under his belt, he will have no trouble leading the offense. Blough also has experience in

“Sikes is aggressive defensively and will work hard to

high-intensity matches. In addition to setting, Blough

keep us in system,” Friend said. “I think these guys will

also has experience at opposite, making him an offen-

mesh well. Getting the experience to represent your

sive weapon as well.

country, especially in an Olympic year, is awesome. It is always a proud moment to put on the USA colors,

The roster carries six pin hitters. Aidan Albrecht (Old

but may be even a little extra special this year.”

Bridge, N.J.), Brendan Surane (Lockport, Ill.), and Kupono Fey (Honolulu) all hit from the right side. Al-

Alex Pia (Johns Creek, Ga.) was slated to compete, but

brecht and Surane are up-and-coming opposites mak-

health issues kept him from traveling to the NORCE-

ing while Fey has been involved with USAV High Per-

CA Boys’ Youth Continental Championship.

formance events since 2009.

Outside hitters David Parker (Rocklin, Calif.), Lee Smith (Sewickley, Pa.) and Earl Schultz (Chicago) round out the pin-hitter positions.

“The pins hitters bring some great raw ability,” Friend said. “They will push each other to excel as they battle for time on the court.”

Copyrighted by USAV The U.S. Boys’ Youth National spent a week prior to the NORCECA event practicing at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif.

The three middle blockers – Mitch Penning (Maryland Heights, Mo.), Connor Lammey (West Grove, Pa.) and Ryan Paull (Chicago) – are all dynamic players capable of converting on side-out plays. Paull is a fresh face to the USAV High Performance Pipeline, but Lammey and Penning both have been involved with USAV High Performance events in the past, bringing experi10

Athlete Profile—No. 1 Aidan Albrecht

Aidan Albrecht 

Position: Opposite Height: 6-6 Weight: 170 Hometown: Old Bridge, N.J.

PERSONAL: Born Aidan Thomas Albrecht on April

cause they are always there to support him…His favor-

17, 1995…Son of Todd and Kimberly Albrecht…Has

ite moments in life so far were on trips to Disney

two brothers, Colin (1993) and Logan (2001)…Aidan’s

World with family and friends.

distant cousin, Donna Weinbrecht, was a freestyle skier and competed in the 1992, 1994, and 1998 Olympics…

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

His cousin Brittany Iacouzze was a college swimmer

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

from 2006-2010…In elementary school, Aidan was not

2011- Selected to the High Performance A2 Camp.

chosen for his fifth-grade volleyball team, and that motivated him to try even harder…His favorite food is

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Selected to the All-

chicken paprikash…He enjoys hanging out with

Conference Team from Old Bridge High School in

friends and playing sports…His favorite type of music

2011…OBHS Greater Middlesex Conference Champi-

is hip-hop/rap…His favorite musician is Mac Miller…

on in 2012…MVP at the 2012 Raider Invitation-

His favorite movie is Harry Potter…His favorite actors

al...Named to Volleyball Magazine's "Underclassmen to

are Jack Black and Will Ferrell…Aidan cheers for the

Watch" list in 2012...2012 First Team All-State hon-

Pittsburgh Steelers and his favorite athlete is Steve

ors...Named First Team All-GMC and All-GMC Player

Nash …His most admired people are his parents be-

of the Year...2012 MVP at Old Bridge High School.

11

Athlete Profile— No. 2 Christian Blough

Christian Blough 

Position: Setter/Opposite Height: 6-6 Weight: 170 Hometown: Ontario, N.Y.

PERSONAL: Born Christian “Christy” Leonard

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

Blough on March 8, 1995…Son of Gary and Billie Sue

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

Blough…Has one sister Bailey (1992)…His favorite

2011- Selected to the High Performance A2 Select Red

food is pork tenderloin…He enjoys hunting, fishing

Camp…Selected to the High Performance Holiday

and ping pong…His favorite type of music is country

Camp.

and his favorite musician is Toby Keith…His favorite movie is Blades of Glory…His favorite actor is Will

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: New York State

Ferrell…Christy cheers for the Buffalo Bills and his

Champion in 2010 and 2011…All-Tournament team in

favorite athlete is Chauncey Billups… His favorite

2011… Named First Team All-Greater Rochester in

book is The Count of Monte Cristo…His most ad-

2011…Took sixth place at the 2011 USA Volleyball

mired person is his coach, Cal Wickens, because he

Boys’ Junior National Championship in the 16U Open

inspired Christy in volleyball, culinary skills, and multi-

Division…Earned a 12th-place finish at the 2010 USA

tasking…His favorite moment in life so far was win-

Volleyball Boys’ Junior National Championship in the

ning back-to-back state championships.

15U Open Division...Volleyball Magazine's "Underclassmen to Watch" list in 2012.

12

Athlete Profile—No. 3 Cyrus Fa’alogo

Cyrus Fa’alogo 

Position: Setter Height: 6-4 Weight: 185 Hometown: West Jordan, Utah

PERSONAL: Born Cyrus Ted Fa’alogo on May 29,

favorite athlete is his sister, Chelsea Fa’alogo…His

1995…Son of Hanks and Karen Fa’alogo…Has four

most admired person is his mother for her example of

brothers…Dominique(23), Hanks Jr. (22), Tyler (19)

hard work, love, and faithfulness…His favorite mo-

and Drazen (18)…Cyrus’ sister Chelsea (21) played

ment in life so far was making the Boys’ Youth Na-

volleyball for Utah Valley University from 2009-

tional Volleyball Team.

2011…Brother Hanks played volleyball for Utah Valley University as well…Cyrus and his brothers per-

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

formed at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City,

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team.

Utah…Cyrus’ favorite activity is playing sports with his siblings…His favorite food is Pisupo (a Samoan food)

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: There is no high

…His favorite book is the Book of Mormon…His fa-

school volleyball in Utah, instead there is a club

vorite type of music is hip-hop, but he also enjoys the

league...Cyrus started playing for the club league in 8th

oldies…His favorite musical group is Jackson 5…His

grade...Won the Utah State Championship in 2009,

favorite movie is Blue Streak and his favorite actors are

2011, and 2012 …Named MVP of the State Tourna-

Martin Lawrence and Zoe Saldana…His favorite pro-

ment in 2012… Named to the All-State Team fresh-

fessional team is Manu Samoa (a rugby team)…His

man-junior year.

13

Athlete Profile—No. 4 Kupono Fey

Kupono Fey 

Position: Opposite/Outside Height: 6-5 Weight: 185 Hometown: Honolulu, Hawaii

PERSONAL: Born Kupono Kahuanui Fey January

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

21, 1995 in Honolulu, Hawaii…Son of Kyle and Shel-

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

ley Fey…Has one sister, Keaupono Fey…Started play-

2011- Attended the High Performance A1 Camp…

ing beach volleyball in 2008…Current beach partner is

took fourth place at that event. 2010- Attended the

Colin Peros…Kupono’s favorite food is lomi salmon

High Performance A2 Camp.

and poi…His favorite book is Values of the Game…His favorite type of music is oldies and his favorite band is

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Kupono’s club team

the Eagles…His favorite movie is Space Jam and his

took fifth place at the 2010 USA Volleyball Boys’ Jun-

favorite actor is Neil Patrick Harris…Kupono cheers

ior National Championship…He was named to the All

for the Pittsburgh Steelers…His favorite athlete is Pis-

-Tournament team for the event…Kupono won the

tol Pete Maravich…He enjoys playing basketball in his

Hawaii State Championship in 2012 and was named to

free time…Kupono’s most admired person is his

the All-Tournament team…Kupono was also the run-

grandfather, Harry Kahuanui, because, “He was a great

ner-up at the Hawaii State Championship in 2011...He

athlete, coach, father and grandfather.”… Fey's happi-

was named to Volleyball Magazine's "Underclassmen to

est moments in life so far have been playing basketball

Watch" list in 2012.

in his yard with his sister and cousins.

14

Athlete Profile—No. 5 Connor Lammey

Connor Lammey 

Position: Middle Blocker Height: 6-6 Weight: 185 Hometown: West Grove, Pa.

PERSONAL: Born Connor Joseph Lammey on

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

March 27, 1995…Parents are John and Teresa

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

Lammey…Has two sisters, Cara (1981) and Hannah

2011-Played on the High Performance Select A1

(2001)…Has a brother, Brendan (1993), who plays vol-

Team…Participated in the High Performance Youth

leyball for St. Francis University…Connor’s favorite

Holiday Camp. 2010- Played on the High Performance

food is fettuccine alfredo…His favorite type of music

Select A1 Team…Participated in the High Perfor-

is hip-hop…His favorite movie is Saving Private Ryan…

mance Youth Holiday Camp. 2009- Participated in the

His hobbies include playing volleyball, working out,

High Performance Select A2 Camp.

playing basketball and listening to music…His favorite professional sports team is the Eagles and his favorite

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Played on the varsity

athlete is Jameer Nelson…Jameer Nelson is also Con-

team at Avon Grove High School his freshman and

nor’s most admired person because he came from a

sophomore year…Named First Team All-

bad neighborhood but now plays in the NBA.

League...Named to Volleyball Magazine's "Underclassmen to Watch" list in 2012.

15

Athlete Profile—No. 6 David Parker

David Parker 

Position: Outside Height: 6-1 Weight: 170 Hometown: Rocklin, Calif.

PERSONAL: Born David Gregory Parker on Febru-

most admired person is his father because, “He is suc-

ary 9, 1996…Son of Michael and Kirsten Parker…

cessful in almost everything he does.”…His favorite

David’s family has four total children and two sets of

moments in life are those when he knows he can de-

twins…His two older brothers, Trevor (1993) and

pend on others.

Shawn (1993) are the first set of twins… David and twin sister Caitlyn (1996) are the second set of twins…

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

All four siblings are involved in athletics…Caitlyn is a

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

nationally ranked dancer…David’s favorite food is pasta...His favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird…His fa-

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Named to the CAL

vorite type of music is dub step and his favorite artist is

All-League team in 2011 and 2012…Named League

Chris Brown…David’s favorite movies are Inception

MVP in 2012…Also named to the All-City Team,

and Avatar…His favorite actor is Robert Downey Jr.

Whitney High School MVP, and a scholar athlete the

and his favorite actress is Anne Hathaway…His favor-

same year…Took 11th at the 2011 USA Volleyball

ite professional team is the Philadelphia Eagles and his

Boys’ Junior National Championship in the 15U Open

favorite athlete is Blake Griffin…His activities include

Division…Earned a bid to the 2012 USA Volleyball

playing volleyball, other sports and video games…His

Boys’ Junior National Championship.

16

Athlete Profile—No. 7 Mitchell Penning

Mitchell Penning 

Position: Middle Blocker Height: 6-8 Weight: 200 Hometown: Maryland Heights, Mo.

PERSONAL: Born Mitchell Penning on May 26,

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

1995, in Peoria, Ill…Mitchell “Mitch” Penning is the

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

son of David and Debra Penning…Mitchell has two

2011- Attended the High Performance Winter Holiday

sisters, Kelly Penning(1991) and Marci Penning(1993)

Camp.

…His favorite thing to eat is Chic-Fil-A…His favorite book is first book of the Hunger Games series.

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Mitch was named First Team All-State in 2012…Also won the 2012 Great Lakes Qualifier...Named to Volleyball Magazine's "Underclassmen to Watch" list in 2012.

17

Athlete Profile—No. 8 Alex Pia

Alex Pia 

Position: Middle Blocker Height: 6-6 Weight: 180 Hometown: Johns Creek, Ga.

PERSONAL: Born Kenneth Alexander Pia on Febru-

ful career….His favorite moment in life so far was in

ary 9, 1995, to Ken and Deb Pia…Has a brother Erik

seventh grade when he hit a walk-off homerun in the

(1999) and a sister Jessica (1999)…His parents both

13th inning of a baseball tournament to win the whole

played sports in college…His father played tennis and

thing.

his mother played volleyball…His grandfather qualified for the 1960 Olympic fencing team…Alex’s favor-

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

ite food is Japanese hibachi…His favorite book is Fall-

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

en Angels….He listens to hip hop music and his favorite

*Alex Pia was unfortunately not able to travel with or

musician is Eminem…He enjoys baseball, xbox, and

compete with the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team at

coaching youth volleyball…Alex’s favorite movie is Act

the 2012 NORCECA Boys’ Youth Continental Cham-

of Valor and his favorite actor is Tom Hanks…His fa-

pionship due to illness. Though the situation was diffi-

vorite professional sports team is the Atlanta Braves

cult, Alex and his family wished the team luck and

and his favorite athlete is Chipper Jones…Alex’s most

cheered them on from back home.

admired person is Karch Karaly because of his success-

18

Athlete Profile—No. 9 Earl Schultz

Earl Schultz 

Position: Outside Hitter Height: 6-4 Weight: 190 Hometown: Chicago, Ill.

PERSONAL: Born Earl Maximilian Schultz May 7,

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

1996, in Chicago, Ill…Son of Kenneth and Sheila

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

Schultz…Has One sister Michelle (1994)…His hobbies include playing sports, acting, dancing, crossword

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Named to the All-

puzzles, swimming, piano, and modeling…His favorite

Tournament team at the 2011 USA Volleyball Boys’

food is steak…His favorite book is Goodnight Moon…

Junior National Championship…Placed fifth in that

His favorite types of music are hip-hop, rap, techno,

tournament…Won Most Outstanding Player in the

and R&B…His favorite professional sports team is the

2011 Chicago Public Schools Boys Volleyball City

Chicago Bulls and his favorite athletes are Michael Jor-

Championship as he led his team to a first-place fin-

dan and Derrick Rose…His favorite movies are Step

ish…Received MVP at Walter Peyton Prep for the

Up 3 and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy…His most

2010/2011 season...Named to Volleyball Magazine's

admired person in his life is his sister Michelle for,

"Underclassmen to Watch" list in 2012.

"Inspiring me to always put my best foot forward."…

His favorite moment in life so far was winning Most Outstanding Player in the City Championship his freshman year.

19

Athlete Profile—No. 10 Erik Sikes

Erik Sikes 

Position: Libero Height: 5-11 Weight: 140 Hometown: Coto de Caza, Calif.

PERSONAL: Born Erik Sikes on August 24, 1995, in

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012– Made

Laguna Niguel, Calif…Son of Lenny and Dena Sikes…

the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team. 2011-

Has one sister, Alexa (1992)…Erik’s favorite food is

Made the HP Boys’ Select A1 Camp…Also participat-

Sushi…His favorite book is The Kite Runner…His fa-

ed in the Holiday Camp.

vorite type of music is alternative…His favorite movie is Bridesmaids and his favorite actor is Will Ferrell…His

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Won a gold medal at

favorite athlete is U.S. National Team player Reid Prid-

the 2011 USA Volleyball Boys’ Junior National Cham-

dy…His hobbies include hanging out with his friends,

pionship…Named First Team All-Trinity League…In

paddle boarding, and playing beach volleyball…His

2012, he set the Santa Margarita Catholic High School

most admired person in his life is his mother because

single-season record for digs and serve receive percent-

she helps him accomplish anything that he puts his

age.

mind to…His happiest moment in life so far was being selected to the Boys’ Youth National Team.

20

Athlete Profile—No. 11 Lee Smith

Lee Smith 

Position: Outside Hitter Height: 6-5 Weight: 187 Hometown: Sewickley, Pa.

PERSONAL: Born Lee Charlton Smith on December

burgh Steelers and his favorite athlete is Hines Ward…

29, 1995, to parents David and Jill Smith…Has two

Lee's hobbies include volleyball, hanging out with

siblings, a brother Trey (2000) and a sister Erin (1992)

friends, basketball, camping, building things, and

…His father played soccer for Alderson Broaddus Col-

chess…His happiest moments in life so far were learn-

lege and tried out for the Olympic soccer team in

ing he had been selected for the Boys’ Youth National

1978…His sister plays volleyball for Geneva College…

Team and realizing his mom was a “survivor”…His

Has a cousin Nikki Otto who played volleyball for

most admired person in his life is his mother, “Because

Stanford University from 1993-1996…Has a cousin

of all the things she does for me, and for beating (we

Justin Otto who played volleyball for Penn State from

are pretty sure!) cancer.”, and for beating (we are pretty

1996-1997…Lee also has two uncles, Gregg and Gary

sure!) cancer.”

Otto, who played basketball for Cornell, and a cousin,

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

Jeff Otto, who played club volleyball there.…His aunt,

ed to the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team.

Corliss Otto, played basketball at Purdue University

2011/10- Participated in the Ohio Valley Region High

from 1969-1971…He also has an aunt, Jeanne Otto,

Performance Camp and finished second in the 2010

who played volleyball for Indiana University of Penn-

High Performance Championship National Division.

sylvania from 1965-1968…Lee’s favorite food is pie-

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Won the OVR 16U

rogies…His favorite book is Harry Potter…His favorite

Regional Championship with Beaver Valley Premier in

movie is Stepbrothers and his favorite actor is Will Far-

2012…Finished 11th at the 2009 USA Volleyball Boys’

rell…His favorite professional sports team is the Pitts-

Junior National Champion in the 14U Club Division.

21

Athlete Profile—No. 12 Brendan Surane

Brendan Surane 

Position: Opposite Height: 6-7 Weight: 200 Hometown: Lockport, Ill.

PERSONAL: Born Brendan Thomas Surane on July

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012- Select-

19, 1995, in Lockport Ill…Son of Brian and Diane Su-

ed to the Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team…Will

rane…Has two brothers, Jack (1993) and Patrick

participate in the High Performance A2 Camp later

(1999)…Brendan’s favorite foods are steak and cheese-

this year.

burgers…His favorite books are Shutter Island and Dreaming Dexter…His favorite types of music are pop

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Selected to the All-

and rock and his favorite musical group is Cage the

Catholic League Conference Team…Placed fifth with

Elephant…His favorite movie is Dark Knight, and his

Ultimate VBC at the 2011 U.S. Boys’ Junior National

favorite actor is Leonardo DiCaprio…His favorite pro-

Championship…Played varsity as a sophomore…

fessional sports team is the Chicago Bulls and his fa-

Most Improved Player at his high school his sopho-

vorite athlete is Kevin Durant…His hobbies include

more year as well...Named to Volleyball Magazine's

volleyball, basketball, video games and listening to mu-

"Underclassmen to Watch" list in 2012.

sic…His most admired people in his life are his parents .

22

Athlete Profile—No. 16 Ryan Paull

Ryan Paull 

Position: Middle Blocker Height: 6-8 Weight: 194 Hometown: Chicago, Ill.

PERSONAL: Born Ryan Paull on June 27, 1995, in

USA VOLLEYBALL HIGHLIGHTS: 2012– Se-

Chicago, Ill. to parents Art and Laura Paull….Has a

lected to the 2012 U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volley-

younger brother Andrew (1997) and Kirsten

ball Team. 2011– Participated in the USA High Perfor-

(2001)...His favorite movie is The Avengers...His favorite

mance Boys’ Select A1 Camp...Also invited to the High

actor is Liam Neeson...He listens to rock music and

Performance Holiday Camp, but was unable to attend.

likes the Red Hot Chili Peppers...His favorite food is baby back ribs...Ryan cheers for the Chicago Bears and

CLUB/PREP HIGHLIGHTS: Ryan’s high school

his favorite athlete is Derrick Rose...He is involved in

team advanced to the state quarterfinals his junior

Boy Scouts of America and is currently working to-

year….Won the Chicago Catholic League Blue Divi-

ward his Eagle….His most admired person in life is

sion in 2011 and 2012….Named to the Blue Division

Dwight Eisenhower because of his leadership.

All-Catholic League Team in 2011.

23

Staff Profile—Dan Friend

Dan Friend 

BYNT Position: Head Coach College : Lewis University, Head Coach Hometown: Topeka, Kansas

Dan Friend is a familiar face in the USA Volleyball world.

His players earned MIVA Player of the Week acknowl-

Over the past five years, he has served a wide range of

edgments 10 times during the season, and Friend’s fresh-

roles.

man all-star Greg Petty earned National Player of the Week honors.

In 2009, he was the assistant coach for the 2009 USA FIVB World Youth Championship team. Friend also

Before coaching at Lewis, Friend was the head volleyball

served as assistant coach for the 2008 Men’s Junior Na-

coach for both the men’s and women’s programs at

tional Training Team, guiding them to a bronze-medal

Newman University. He started the men’s program in

finish at the NORCECA Men’s Junior Continental

2002 and won NAIA National Coach of the Year acco-

Championship.

lades in 2004 after leading the Newman men’s team to a 29-11 record and an appearance in the national champi-

Friend is currently the Head Men’s Volleyball Coach at

onship.

Lewis University. Going into his ninth year at the helm, he continues to guide his teams to national renown. Dur-

Friend served as an assistant women’s volleyball coach at

ing his career at Lewis, Friend has tallied an impressive

Washburn University, where he also served as a student

151-92 record.

assistant for four seasons.

This past season, he led the Flyers to their fourth-ever

He earned his bachelor’s degree in athletic training and

National Semifinal appearance. The squad finished the

exercise physiology at Washburn and went on to receive

season ranked sixth in the nation. The team finished tied

his master’s in sports administration at the University of

for most overall wins in the nation, and boasted a perfect

Kansas. He is married to Lewis University’s women’s

16-0 record on their home court.

volleyball coach Lorelee Smith.

24

Staff Profile—Dave Hunt

Dave Hunt 

BYNT Position: Assistant Coach College: Pepperdine, Assistant Coach Hometown: Glendale, Calif.

David Hunt is a young coach, but already has a plethora

Hunt is regarded as an up-and-coming coach in the vol-

of experience at both the national and international lev-

leyball world. In 2010 he received national accolades ac-

els.

knowledging his coaching accomplishments, and he received the AVCA’s Thirty under 30 award.

Hunt was the assistant coach for the 2011 Men’s Junior National Volleyball Team that competed at the 2011

Before coaching at Pepperdine, Hunt was the assistant

FIVB World Championship in Brazil. He also traveled

coach at Harvard-Westlake High School. He helped lead

with the U.S. Men’s Junior National Team to the Pan

the team to a state championship in 2007. In addition,

American Cup in Cuiaba, Brazil and served as the tech-

Hunt worked at the Marv Dunphy Volleyball camp for

nical coordinator.

three years and has participated in Gold Medal Squared coaching clinics across the nation.

Hunt just completed his third year as assistant coach for Pepperdine, but has been with the program for five years.

The UCLA alum graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s de-

The first two seasons were spent as a video coordinator

gree in history. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree

and technical assistant.

in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia.

25

Staff Profile—Collin McMillan

Collin McMillan 

Position: Assistant Coach College: Penn State, Assistant Coach Hometown:

Collin McMillian is no new face to the volleyball world.

Beijing, China. He also competed with the U.S. World League Team in 2001.

He has been involved with the sport for over a decade.

McMillan continued his volleyball career in the coaching

A standout player for Ohio State University from 1997-

world. He served as the graduate assistant coach at Ohio

2000, McMillan went on to play international volleyball

State in 2003.

for clubs in Turkey, Puerto Rico, Marseille, and France until 2005.

McMillan, who was a middle blocker during his playing days, works with middle blockers, breaks down opponent

McMillan also trained within the USA Volleyball pipeline

video, and trains blocking defense at Penn State. He is

and was a member of the 2001 U.S. Men’s Junior Nation-

going into his fifth season, and serves as an assistant

al Team that took gold at the World Universe Games in

coach.

26

Staff Profile—Mark Hulse

Mark Hulse 

Position: Statistician/Assistant Coach College: Loyola University, Assistant Coach Hometown: Evanston, Ill.

Mark Hulse is in his first season as assistant men’s volley-

Hulse graduated from Pepperdine in 2009 with a degree

ball coach at Loyola University, Chicago.

in political science.

Hulse played college volleyball for Rutgers-Newark Uni-

After graduation, he coached at his high school alma mat-

versity and Pepperdine. In 2008, his Pepperdine squad

ter as well as local Chicago club volleyball programs and a

garnered and NCAA 2nd-place finish. As starting middle

D1 men’s club program that was competitive nationally.

blocker that season, Hulse tallied a .305 hitting percentage and 146 blocks.

He will serve as an assistant coach during the training block at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif.

27

U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team in Review U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team Wins NORCECA Gold

U.S. Boys’ Team Finishes 10th at Worlds COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Sept. 5, 2009) – The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team finished the FIVB Boys’ Youth (U-19) World Championship in 10th place after falling to Brazil 1-3 (25-27, 19-25, 27-25, 19-25) in Bassano del Grappa, Italy.

MIAMI, Fla. (August 8, 2008) – The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team defeated Puerto Rico 25-19, 25-21, 25-22 in the gold-medal match of the NORCECA Boys’ Youth Continental Championship Friday evening. A day earlier, the team qualified for the 2009 FIVB Boys’ Youth World Championship by reaching the championship match.

The U.S. Boys’ Youth Team completes the World Championship with a 5-3 overall record. Brazil finishes ninth with a 6-2 record. Iran and Serbia, which were in the United States’ original pool, will play for the gold medal on Sunday.

Ian Satterfield (Manhattan Beach, Calif.) led the USA with 12 points on nine kills, two blocks and one service ace while celebrating his 17th birthday. Taylor Sander (Norco, Calif.) followed right behind with 10 points on six kills, three blocks and a service ace.

Officially, Maurice Torres (Riverside, Calif.) led all scorers with 22 points on a match-high 17 kills, three blocks and two aces. Taylor Sander (Norco, Calif.) added 15 points on 15 kills. Dylan Davis (Corona del Mar, Calif.) totaled eight points on five kills, one block and two aces.

“We had to beat them in the serving passing game,” U.s. Boys’ Youth National Team head Coach Andy Read said. “Our servers have to beat their passers.

Our ability to pass their serves allows us to be in system more and I think that Puerto Rico is a very good serving team with very live arms. If we did that our block, in time, would make up for errors and win us the match.”

Weston Nielsen (Corona del Mar, Calif.) tallied eight points in the USA victory, while Dylan Davis (Corona del Mar, Calif.) added six points. Rounding out the scoring was Scott Kevorken (Westlake Village, Calif.) with five points and Oliver Deutschman with a single tally.

28

U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team in Review U.S. Boys’ Youth Team Takes Silver at NORCECA

Boys’ Youth Beat Mexico for for Pan Am Bronze COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (July 16, 2011) – The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team captured the bronze medal on Saturday after defeating Mexico, 25 -23, 25-19, 25-21, at the Boys’ Youth (Under-19) Pan American Cup in Mexicali, Mexico.

The Americans (3-2) beat Mexico (2-2) in a rematch of their pool play battle. Mexico had previously beaten the U.S. in its second match, securing a position in the semifinals.

Cody Caldwell (Newport Beach, Calif.) led the United States with 14 points off of nine kills, three blocks and two service aces. Both Aaron Russell (Ellicott City, Md.) and Scott Rhein (Pleasant View, Tenn.) tallied 10 points each with Russell delivering a matchhigh 10 kills. Rhein recorded seven kills, one block and two service aces.

As a team, the U.S. out-attacked Mexico 38-20. It also led in blocks (11-5) and in aces (6-2).

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (April 11, 2010) – The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team finished second on Sunday at the NORCECA Boys’ Youth (U-19) Continental Championship in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Cuba swept the U.S. Boys Team 25-16, 25-18, 25-22 in Sunday’s final and qualified for the 2011 Youth Olympic Games on Aug. 14-26 in Singapore. Both Cuba and the United States qualified for the 2011 FIVB Boys’ Youth World Championship at a site and date still to be determined.

Cuba finished the tournament with a perfect 5-0 record. The United States finished 3-2, with the only losses coming to Cuba.

The United States’ Aaron Russell (Ellicott City, Md.) was named the tournament’s Best Blocker. He finished with a total of 15 stuff blocks. Cuba’s Wilfredo Leon was named Most Valuable Player, Best Scorer and Best Spiker. An estimated crowd of 3,000 was on hand for the match.

29

U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team in Review U.S. Boys’ Youth Team Takes 11th Place Over Egypt

Andrew Sato led the U.S. back-row with 11 digs and 20 excellent receptions on 35 attempts. Kingi charted 10 excellent receptions on 23 attempts to go with nine digs.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Aug. 28, 2011) The U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team (BYNT) defeated Egypt 29-27, 23-25, 25-20, 25-20 on Sunday afternoon and finished in 11th place at the FIVB Volleyball Boys’ Youth World Championship Argentina 2011 being played in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

"We are very happy with how our team finished,” West said. “Today everyone did his job. This experience made us closer not only on the court, but also as a team."

"This tournament has been a great experience for us,” U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team Head Coach Ken Shibuya said. “Argentina has been a great host and my players have gained a lot of confidence through this competition.”

U.S. Boys’ Youth Head Coach Ken Shibuya started Shaw at setter, Patch at opposite, Kingi and Rhein at outside hitter, and Kirchner and Russell at middle blocker. Sato served as the libero for the match. West started the fourth set. Antonijevic, Caldwell and Petty subbed into the first set and started in the final three sets. Petty entered the match in the second set and started the final two sets. Patch subbed into the third set and started the fourth set.

The Americans had already faced and defeated Egypt in their first match of the tournament, winning in five sets after Egypt came back from a 0-2 set deficit.

The U.S. held a 53-49 advantage in kills and built a 137 block ratio. Both Egypt and Team USA scored four aces apiece. Egypt out-dug the U.S. 48-43 and both teams had 32 team errors.

Greg Petty (Downers Grove, Ill.) scored nine kills on 25 attacks, three aces and two blocks for 14 points to lead the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team against Egypt. Cody Caldwell (Newport Beach, Calif.) tallied 13 points with 11 kills on 31 attacks, a block and an ace. Austin Kingi (Thousand Oaks, Calif.) contributed 12 points on 10 kills via 27 swings and two blocks. Aaron Russell (Ellicott City, Md.) and James Shaw (Woodside, Calif.) both contributed nine points apiece.

Russell racked up his points with seven kills on 13 attacks and two aces, while Shaw scored his points on six kills via eight errorless attacks and three blocks.

"Congratulations to Team USA,” Egypt's Head Coach Hossameldin Eissawy said. “It was a very good match, and I am also happy with the performance of my team.”

Egypt’s leading scorer, Islam Abdelkader, contributed 19 points and was the highest scorer in the match. Mohamed Masoud was Egypt’s other double-digit scorer, adding 15 points.

Nikola Antonijevic (Buffalo Grove, Ill.) added five points on three kills through four swings and two blocks. Ben Patch (Provo, Utah) chipped in three points, all on kills. Josh Kirchner (Sussex, Wis.) and Scott Rhein (Pleasant View, Tenn.) scored four points collectively on two kills apiece. Matt West (Seattle) scored a block for the match winning point.

In the other final matches, Spain and Serbia will battle in the gold-medal match. Cuba swept France 25-18, 25 -17, 25-21 in the bronze medal match. Argentina defeated Bulgaria 25-20, 25-11, 25-19 to finish fifth.

Greece swept China 25-17, 25-21, 25-15 to finish seventh. Brazil will face Iran in the battle for ninth place.

Russia defeated Korea 25-18, 25-18, 25-27, 25-15 for thirteenth place. Puerto Rico defeated Tunisia 26-24, 25-22, 21-25, 25-21 for fifteenth place.

The U.S. converted 41.4 percent of its attacks into points with a .273 hitting efficiency with 18 attack errors. Egypt held a kill percent of 37.7 percent and a .192 hitting efficiency with 24 attack errors. Shaw tallied 16 assists on 70 set attempts, while West added six assists on 26 set attempts.

After Egypt scored the first point of the match, Patch and Kirchner scored consecutive kills and Team USA 30

U.S. Boys’ Youth National Team in Review forced an error on Egypt to gain a 3-1 lead. Egypt gained momentum to take a 6-4 advantage, but Russell hammered a kill to side out. Egypt was able to keep a slight advantage, but the U.S. kept battling. Egypt gained its first three point advantage a 9-6, but Shaw struck a kill to side out. With Egypt leading 15-11, Kingi fired a kill, but Egypt responded with a threepoint run. Egypt climbed to a 19-14 advantage when Shaw and Kirchner scored consecutive kills. Egypt accumulated a 21-17 lead when Kingi scored the first U.S. block of the set. At this point, the U.S. gained momentum as Egypt made an error and Kingi followed up with a kill and another block to tie Egypt at 21-all. The two teams battled back and forth, tying all the way through 27-all. Petty scored the winning point with a block to give the U.S. a 29-27 victory.

kills. Gregory followed up with a kill, giving Team USA a 13-11 lead. Egypt was quick to catch up, challenging the U.S. to tie scores at 13-all through 16-all.

Caldwell’s kills were unstoppable as he scored the next four of five points. The U.S. mounted a 22-18 advantage. Kingi fired a kill to allow the U.S. to lead 2319. Egypt sided out, but did not score again. The U.S. won the match 25-20 after another Kingi kill and a block from West.

Egypt took the first two kills of the second set. Egypt gained a 5-3 advantage when Shaw scored a thunderous block. Egypt scored consecutive points, but Caldwell scored a kill to break the opponent’s momentum.

The two teams tied at 9-all and 10-all. Antonijevic scored a block for the U.S. to gain a brief and slight lead, but Egypt battled back. The teams tied again at 12-all and Kingi made a kill in efforts to break the tying streak. The teams played it close and kept the score within two points all the way to 20-18 in Egypt’s advantage. The teams tied from 20-20 through 22-22.

Team USA gave Egypt a run for its money, but Egypt put a cap on the second set with a 25-23 victory.

In the third set, the two teams tied 2-2 and battled back and forth to 6-all. Team USA scored consecutive points off of an Egypt error and a block from Russell.

Caldwell’s kill helped the U.S. break away from the 8all tie. Shaw followed up with consecutive kills. Egypt sided out, but Antonijevic scored another kill for Team USA. The U.S. accumulated a 20-16 advantage and propelled its momentum to a 25-20 third set victory.

The two teams split the first two points of the fourth set. The teams tied 4-all. Russell’s kill allowed for the U.S. to tie Egypt at 7-all. Egypt scored consecutive points, but Caldwell responded with scoring a kill and a block. Egypt took the next point and led 10-9, but Caldwell scored the next three of four points off of 31

Past Results NORCECA Boys’ Youth Continental Championship Results 1998 Held in Dominican Republic: Dominican Republic (gold), Mexico (silver), Puerto Rico (bronze) 2000 Held in Mexico: Mexico (gold), Puerto Rico (silver), Canada (bronze) 2002 Held in Dominican Republic: Puerto Rico (gold), United States (silver), Mexico (bronze) 2004 Held in Mexico: Cuba (gold), Canada (silver), Mexico (bronze) 2006 Held in Dominican Republic: Puerto Rico (gold), United States (silver), Cuba (bronze) 2008 Held in Miami: United States (gold), Puerto Rico (silver), Mexico (bronze) 2010 Held in Guadalajara: Cuba (gold), USA (silver), Puerto Rico (bronze)

32

Volleyball Glossary Ace - a served ball that directly results in a point.

fore serving the ball.

Bagel - winning a game 25-0.

Free Ball - a ball the opponent cannot attack and must yield by passing over the net.

Block - an attempt by a player or players to interrupt the ball before, as or just after itWin crosses the net.

Husband and Wife - when a serve drops untouched Bump (Pass) - technique of playing the ball using fore- between two receivers who fail to move. arms, hands together, to direct the ball.

Joust - when two players on opposing sides attempt to block the ball by vying to push it onto each other’s side Bump (Set) - a forearm pass used as a set. of the net.

Carry - a fault called if the ball comes to rest in the Kill - an attack that results in an immediate point. course of contact by one player.

Chickenwing - a last-ditch way to dig a ball using your Paint Brush - a wipe off shot by the spiker (painter) on a blocker. elbow and a bent arm.

Court - the playing surface divided into two equal areas by a net. In its official form, volleyball is played on a rectangular court 18 meters (59 feet 0.75 inches) long and 9 meters (29 feet 6.475 inches) wide; the women’s net placed at 2.24 meters (7 feet 4.125 inches) high and the men’s net at 2.44 meters (8 feet) high.

Pancake - a one-handed floor defensive technique where the hand is extended and slid along the floor, palm down, and the ball rebounds off the back of the hand, rather than the floor.

Pass - the first of three contacts on the offensive side overhead or forearm.

Coverage - most often, refers to backing up a teamPerimeter Defense - backrow defenders work in the mate’s hit when the block is up and the ball comes back. area a meter in from the backline and sidelines up to the Cross Court/Cut Shot - an offensive hit when a player, three-meter line. instead of hitting with power, slices the ball just over and nearly parallel to the net.

Pipe - a ball set in the middle of the court, on the threemeter line, for a backrow player to hit.

Dig - to pass a very hard hit spike; a ball brought up (saved) with any part of the body, particularly from a spike attempt.

Quick - the first of the three attack options. The attacker contacts the ball immediately after it is released from the setter’s hands.

Dink - a very softly-hit spike; ball played just over the net or the blockers hands.

Red card - a severe sanction given by the up-referee.

Down-Referee - secondary referee. He/she stands on the floor at the opposite end of the net as the upreferee. Also known as the second official.

Dump - when the setter, instead of setting the hitters, attacks the ball over the net.

Facial Disgracial - a spike that hits the opposing blocker or floor defender in the face.

Roof - to block a spike, usually straight down and for a point.

Screening - an attempt by a player to conceal the start of a teammate’s serve by obstructing an opponent’s line of sight. Screening is illegal.

Seams - the space between the blockers and between back-court defenders.

Set - the act of getting the ball into the position for the Foot fault - stepping on the court or out of bounds be- hitters to attack the ball. Usually done overhead with 33

Volleyball Glossary two hands.

Setter - the team quarterback. Attempts to “set” every second contact for his/her hitters to attack.

Serve - the act of putting the ball into play.

Shank - to pass the ball badly.

Tool - when a ball is intentionally spiked off a blocker’s hands to make it go out of bounds.

Touch - when the ball lands out of bounds, but not before contacting one of the players.

Up-referee - the main referee. He/she stands upon a special chair. Also known as the first referee.

Six Pack - another term for getting a spiked ball in the Yellow card - a first sanction given by the up-referee, face on defense. A “Twelve Pack” actually knocks cost the sanctioned team a point. down the defender. In the past the defender was then obligated to buy the spiker a six pack of his/her desired beverage (roots are found in doubles sand play).

Sizzle the Pits - a spike that goes under, and past, the armpits of a big block.

Slide - a movement from an attacker’s serve receive position past another into a third; usually the ball is hit while “sliding out” towards the sideline.

Spiked Ball - a ball hit forcibly from a height not less than the top of the net. Also known as a bury, crush, hammer, kill, put-away or slam.

Stuff - a block in which the ball goes straight down to the floor with no hope of being picked up by an opposing player.

34