Angela Willis named flag bearer of Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, February 25, 2013 – Veteran volleyball player Angela Willis has been named the flag bearer of Costa Rica during the opening parade of the Central American Games to be held in San José from March 3-17.

The announcement was made by H. E. Laura Chinchilla, President of Costa Rica, during a ceremony at the gardens of the Costa Rican Olympic Committee premises in San Jose on Sunday.

“What an emotion,” Chinchilla said before reading the document of the Olympic Committee and presenting Willis with a national flag to lead the delegation of the host country.

Willis, 36, said she was caught by surprise and was pleased by the unexpected news.

“It is a great honour to represent all the athletes of Costa Rica by carrying the flag,” Willis said. “I want to thank the Olympic Committee, our president Laura Chinchilla, my coaches, teammates and friends who have been there for me during my career.”

“I think that’s the dream every athlete would love realize, to enter the national stadium full of people,” Willis added. “I thank the Lord for giving me this unique opportunity.”

Costa Rica are the current champions of women’s volleyball in Central America and the pre-tournament favourites to win the gold medal.

Henry Nuñez, president of the National Olympic Committee, said Willis was selected for her long sport career representing the country.

“Angela is an iconic figure of our women’s volleyball,” Núñez said. “She has been a leader of our team and is considered an integral athlete who also has developed professionally which is very important for us.”

The ceremony was also attended by William Corrales, Minister of Sport and President of the Organizing Committee, and Johnny Araya, Mayor of San Jose.