Each time we talk about Cuba, we get depressed. They used to be the #1 team in the world and now they’re ranked #13.

Yikes!

Let’s face the fact that we will NEVER get to see any other Cuban players like the great Mireya Luis, Yumilka Ruiz, Taismary Aguero, Regla Bell, Magalys Carvajal, Regla Torres and Ana Fernandez. On the other hand, we hope this new breed of Cuban athletes will have what it takes to bring back Cuba’s glorious days in women’s volleyball.

It’d take some time to happen again but it’s possible.

Coach Gala has revealed his roster for the 2013 season. Cuba will be competing in major major tournaments like the NORCECA Continental Championship and FIVB Women’s World Grand Prix.

Cuba will be represented by the following players:

Outside Hitters: Yohana Palacios, Dayami Sanchez and Sulian Matienzo.
Middle Blockers: Rosanna Giel, Daymara Lescay, Heidy Rodriguez, Dairilis Cruz, Alena Rojas
Opposite: Yaremis Mendaro
Setter: Ana Yilian Cleger
Libero: Emily Borrell

As expected no more Carcases, Rachel Sanchez, Yanelis Santos and Gyselle Silva.

It looks like Coach Gala will try the 5-1 offense instead of 6-2 which Cuba is known for.

We hope these girls will represent Cuba at the 2016 Games in Brazil. Failing to compete at the 2012 Olympics was a huge blow and one of the depressing volleyball news ever!

Good luck mijas!

Men’s Team

April 30th, 2013
As expected, Leon and Diaz are no longer part of the Cuban Team.

Check out Coach Samuels’ roster for the 2013 World League:

Setters: Leandro Macias, Lian Sem Estrada
Opposite Hitters: Rolando Cepeda, Yordan Bisset
Outside Hitters: Lazaro Fundora, Abraham Alfonso, Osmani Uriarte
Middle Blockers: Danger Quintana, Isbel Mesa, David Fiel

Since 2008, 2 setters (Hierrezuelo and Diaz), 2 middle blockers (Robertlandy Simon & Camejo), 3 outside hitters (Leon, Leal and Henry Bell) and 2 opposite hitters (Hernandez & Michael Sanchez) have left the Cuban squad.

Cuba lost 9 WORLD CLASS PLAYERS in 5 years excluding the other great athletes who left the team between 2000 and 2007.

Time for a change Cuban Volleyball Officials!