Friday, 17 May 2024

U.S. Women’s National Team Announces Roster for Tokyo Qualifier

The U.S. Women’s National Team, currently ranked No. 3 in the world, has revealed its 13-player roster for the upcoming 2020 Olympic Games Qualification Tournament in Tokyo. The tournament will be held in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana from August 2nd to August 4th.

A Chance to Secure an Olympic Berth

Head Coach Karch Kiraly and his staff have carefully selected a diverse roster consisting of four outside hitters, four middles, two opposites, two setters, and two liberos. This well-rounded team will compete in Pool C, facing off against Kazakhstan, Bulgaria, and Argentina.

The Schedule

The U.S. team will kick off their campaign on August 2nd with a match against Kazakhstan at 6 p.m. CT. The following day, they will go head-to-head with Bulgaria at 5 p.m. CT. The tournament will then conclude on August 4th with a match against Argentina at 1 p.m. CT.

Olympic Qualification Tournament Format

The Tokyo Women’s Volleyball Qualification Tournament features six pools of four teams, all competing in a round-robin format. The top 24 ranked teams (excluding Japan, the host of the 2020 Olympics) have been divided into these pools. The pool winners, along with host Japan, will secure spots in the Olympic Games. The remaining five spots will be determined in early January through the five confederation zonal championships.

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Focused and Prepared

Head Coach Karch Kiraly expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to compete for an Olympic berth on home soil. He emphasized that the team is not taking anything for granted and is fully focused on each individual match. They approach every opponent with respect and acknowledge the potential challenges they may bring.

Team USA’s Winning History

The U.S. team boasts an impressive record against their Pool C opponents. They have a perfect 6-0 record against Kazakhstan, a 14-1 record against Bulgaria, and a flawless 21-0 record against Argentina. While they haven’t faced Kazakhstan in several years, they have encountered Bulgaria and Argentina in recent competitions.

A Strong Track Record

After securing the gold medal in the 2019 FIVB Volleyball Nations League and the Pan American Cup, the U.S. team aims to continue their winning streak. They finished the Volleyball Nations League with a remarkable 16-3 record, claiming victory over Brazil in a thrilling comeback in the gold-medal match. Along with the title, they were awarded the $1 million top prize.

The Team Composition

The U.S. team will bring 12 of the 14 players who competed in the Volleyball Nations League Finals to the Tokyo Qualification Tournament. Notably, Annie Drews, who was named the most valuable player of the Volleyball Nations League, will be part of the roster. Jordan Poulter, Tori Dixon, Lauren Carlini, Jordan Larson, Jordan Thompson, Michelle Bartsch-Hackley, Kim Hill, Megan Courtney, Dana Rettke, Haleigh Washington, Kelsey Robinson, and Mary Lake complete the talented lineup.

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The Road to the Olympics

The U.S. Women’s National Team has an impressive record in women’s indoor volleyball, medaling in each of the last three Olympic Games. They secured silver medals in 1984, 2008, and 2012, along with bronze medals in 1992 and 2016. With their sights set on their 12th Olympic appearance, Team USA aims to continue their winning legacy.

FAQs

1. How are the teams selected for the Olympic Qualification Tournament?

The top 24 ranked teams, excluding the host country, are placed into six pools using the serpentine system.

2. How many teams will qualify for the Olympics?

The pool winners, along with the host country, will secure spots in the 2020 Olympics.

3. How will the remaining spots be determined?

The final five spots will be allocated through the five confederation zonal championships in early January.

4. What is the team’s goal for the tournament?

The U.S. team aims to secure their 12th Olympic appearance and continue their winning legacy.

Conclusion

With the announcement of the U.S. Women’s National Team roster for the Tokyo Qualification Tournament, excitement and anticipation are building. Head Coach Karch Kiraly and his staff have carefully selected a talented and well-rounded team to compete for an Olympic berth. The team is fully focused and prepared to face their Pool C opponents, aiming to secure their place in the 2020 Olympics. With their impressive track record and winning history, Team USA is ready to continue their legacy in women’s indoor volleyball. For more information about the U.S. Women’s National Team, visit Alpinetgheep.

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