USA, champions of Men’s Pan American Cup

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, July 14, 2012 – United States defeated Argentina in straight sets (29-27, 25-20, 25-21) to claim the gold medal and give their country its fifth victory in the Men’s Pan American, that concluded here on Saturday.

Both teams arrived into the finals with undefeated records where the South Americans had to settle for their second silver medal in the event.

USA’s Carson Clark was the highest scorer of the match with 19 points and his teammate Taylor Sander added 10. For Argentina, Gonzalo Quiroga and Mariano Giustiniano were the best scorer and only collected six points apiece.

Shawn Patchell, coach of United States, praised the quality of Argentina’ Team. “We play each other and we have learned the focus and velocity. The best for my players is how they could improve as the tournament developed.”

Meanwhile, Fabián Muraco, coach of Argentina, expressed: “United States is always a tough rival that present a difficult match because of their high level and we hope we will be able to copy many things they do good. Regarding us, the expectations were more real than our chances.”

Kawika Shoji, the winners’ captain, congratulated NORCECA and the hosts for organizing a great event. “I am very glad about the result, especially with the performance of each one of my players, who did a great effort to get the gold.”

Mariano Giustiniano, captain of Argentina, expressed his disappointment “because I would have liked to close better, but we are glad, we are a junior team who came looking for experience and just being in the finals was one great moment.”