Marte Hoffiz receives Alfonso Gordillo Award

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 28, 2014 – The Guatemalan Volleyball Federation presented the annual Alfonso Gordillo Award to NORCECA Confederation President Cristobal Marte Hoffiz on Sunday.

The award named after the late venerable physical education teacher, considered as the father of volleyball in the Central American country, was presented by Enrique Santis, president of the Guatemalan Federation.

“This award is now in its third year and is an honor to dedicate it this year to Cristobal Marte Hoffiz in recognition of his dedication to impulse the development of volleyball in Guatemala and in the Central American countries,” Santis said.

Gordillo was a courageous and inspirational coach who died of cancer in 2011 but continued to work in favor of the sport until the last days despite his long illness.

 “As you know Alfonso Gordillo was a passionate promoter of the practice of volleyball and this award is presented to a person who exemplifies those virtues and qualities of him,” Santis added.

An emotional Marte Hoffiz accepted the trophy and the plaque just before the conclusion of the three-day meetings of NORCECA Executive Committee and Board of Administration on Sunday.

“I accept this award on behalf of NORCECA Confederation since it has been a collective effort from many people who are here and some other who are not present,” Marte Hoffiz expressed. “I admired Alfonso Gordillo so much for his sacrifice and dedication to our sport.”

“This award means a lot to me and to NORCECA,” he added. “This will be an unforgettable moment and I really appreciate the generosity from our colleagues of the Guatemalan Federation and the sport of Guatemala.”