Peru's women's volleyball team makes their debut at the FIVB World Grand Prix at the Coliseo Eduardo Dibos in the nation's capital Lima against Canada on Friday night.
Peru's team has intensified their training schedule at the "El Olivar" Training Centre, located in Lima. Tasked to lead the Peruvians back to their glory days is Natalia Malaga, who was part of that golden era.
The four-time Olympian will pin her hopes on teenage sensation Angela Leyva and Karla Ortiz, who at 23 is among the oldest members of the squad.
In their third appearance in the World Grand Prix after stints in 1994 and 2011, the youth-laden squad led by Leyva, are hope to improve on their performances in 1994’s and 2011’s editions.
"The Grand Prix is a big challenge for us; our team is very young, with many girls who still belong in our junior team,” said Karla Ortiz one of the most experienced athletes of this young Peruvian team.
The 23-year-old player added, “We are training very hard everyday because we want to surprise our rivals and make Peruvians proud".
Out to spoil the party in Lima is Canada, which is making its first appearance in the World Grand Prix since 2003, bettingpro.com reported.
German head coach Arnd Ludwig will lead the North Americans, who boast of Marisa Field, Kyla Richey and Marie-Pier Murray-Methot. Also out to impress are Lucille Charuk and team captain Brittney Page.
It is the first time Peru hosts the World Grand Prix. The Peruvian capital has been selected to host the first weekend of the Preliminary Round from July 25 to 27.
(END) LOG/LOG
Published: 7/25/2014