Mieles named as new Puerto Rican coach

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, August 27, 2013 – The Puerto Rican National Volleyball Federation announced the hiring of Jose Mieles as new coach of the women’s national team following the resignation of Rafael “Epique” Olazagasti.

“We regret the decision of Epique and we are thankful of his contribution to our national program during the past few years,” Vice President Elliot Matias said.

Mieles was the assistant coach with Olazgasti during the summer events that included the China International Tournament, the XII Pan American Cup in Peru and the FIVB World Grand Prix. He also worked in the past as statistician of the national team.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity and to Epique who brought me to the team and the Federation for trusting me,” Mieles said. “I know it is a big challenge and I accept it with enthusiasm. We will work the most to reach the goals.”

The new assistant coach of the team will be Juan Carlos Rodriguez, who coached the Girls’ U18 national team that competed in Thailand earlier this month.

Mieles will make his debut with the women’s national team at the NORCECA Continental Championship in Omaha, Nebraska, USA next month.