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The Cuban volleyball team may be new to the VNL scene, but they are already showing great promise. Coach Nicolas Vives has announced the names of the Cuban Men’s Volleyball Team, which will be making some history this year!
Opposites: Michael Sanchez Bozhuleva, Miguel David Gutierrez Suarez, Jesus Herrera Jaime, Carlos Yoandrys Charles Santana, Alejandro MIguel Gonzalez Rodriguez
Middle Blockers: Jose Israel Masso Alvarez, Javier Octavio Concepcion Rojas, Roamy Raul Alonso Arce, Endriel Alberto Pedroso Garriga, Thiago Suarez Mendoza, Yusniel Gonzalez Marti, Angel Suarez Perez
Setters: Christian Manuel Thondike Mejias, Lyvan Taboada Diaz, Adrian Eduardo Goide Arredondo Position, Jonathan Mc Kentochi Gordon, Adrian Chirino Callam, Yonni Jesus Iglesias Hechevarria
Liberos: Yonder Roman Garcia Alvarez, Bryan Camino Martinez, Alain Gorguet Salas
Outside hitters: Osniel Lazaro Mergarejo Hernandez, Julio Cesar Cardenas Morales, Yohan Armando Leon Napoles, Miguel Angel Lopez Castro, Jose Miguel Gutierrez Suarez, Marlon Yant Herrera
A look back on the past:
The Cuban men’s national volleyball team, known for their tenacity and skill, has had an exciting journey over the past three decades. The team’s high-profile victories and challenges tell a story of true resilience.
Being a force to be reckoned with in the beginning of the century, the team has been riddled with controversies, incidents and players defecting in search of better life conditions.
Being constantly in top 5 in the World League (the predecessor of VNL) in the 90s was no small feat. Getting one gold (1998), 5 silver (1991,1992,1994,1997,1999) and a bronze (1995), the 90s were definitely Cuba’s golden age for volleyball.
After 2001, many players defected from Cuba. Some of them excelled during their pro career, being more often considered the best of their positions. Some of the names you have definitely heard in the world stage, including: Wilfredo Leon (currently playing for Poland), Yoandry Leal (Brazil) and Osmany Juantorena (Italy)
But let’s focus on what is ahead. As of 2022, the team made a triumphant return to the global volleyball elite by clinching victory in the FIVB Challenger Cup. In a high-stakes final against Turkey, Cuba showed their mettle, securing the match 3-1. This victory has allowed them to qualify for the prestigious Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in 2023, a competition that gathers the best teams worldwide.
Players to look out for:
Robertlandy Simón, the unstoppable Cuban volleyball force, has been a pivotal player worldwide over the past decade. After stints in South Korea where he bagged two championships, he’s now shaking up the Italian scene with Gas Sales Piacenza . Returning to the Cuban national team in 2019, he’s been a linchpin in their recent successes. Always in the middle of the action, Simón continues to push boundaries and inspire future generations.
Marlon Yant Herrera, a young and dynamic talent from Cuba, has been turning heads in the volleyball world. Born in Villa Clara on May 23, 2001, this 202 cm tall powerhouse has become a prominent player at a young age. Known for his incredible skills and electrifying performances, Herrera is a valued player for Club Villa Clara. Now that he is playing for Cucine Lube Civitanova, Yant’s qualities are becoming even more apparent.
Jesus Herrera Jaime, the Cuban volleyball sensation, has been turning heads with his power-packed performances. Born on 4th April 1995, he has established himself as a formidable opposite for Sir Safety Perugia Volley, Italy. Herrera’s performance in the World Club Championship in 2022 where he scored a whopping 20 points helped secure a 3-1 victory for his team against Sada Cruzeiro. But it’s not just his scoring prowess; Herrera’s dynamic gameplay and leadership qualities have set him apart in the world of volleyball. Watch out, as this Cuban star is set to soar even higher!
