Several players from the Continental Volleyball Conference had the chance to represent NCAA Division III Men's Volleyball this summer while playing in Brazil. Three different schools were represented from the conference with players participating including Dylan Flor, R. J. Ocampo, Quinn Peterson, Jared Warner, Michael Young, and Steven Zarzycki. In addition, Juniata College head coach Glenn DeHaven coached the USA Division III Men's Team on the trip.
The team traveled to Brazil, spending time there from June 11-20, while playing in multiple matches and learning about the Brazilian culture. The select team was made up of NCAA Division III volleyball players from throughout the United States based off recommendations of coaches with Ron Smith, the director of the program from USA Sports Tours & Events, making the final invitations.
The men's and women's USA D-III Volleyball Teams traveled together, with each roster limited to 10 players. The men hailed from six different schools and seven different home states, while the women represented seven institutions and eight home states.
"This is an outstanding group of young men and women," said Smith. "Many of the players on this year's USA / Brazil Tour team had great individual seasons and led their teams into postseason play. This tour is designed to expose players to a great volleyball experience while providing a once in a lifetime opportunity for educational, cultural and social growth."
The tour started out in Jundiai, where the USA team played two matches against the city's club team.
"After every match, we would take a picture with the team and trade jerseys," said Eastern Mennonite's R.J. Ocampo. "The jersey trading was a fun and unique experience because we were able to connect with the other players."
The team then traveled to Rio de Janeiro where they stayed on the famous Copacabana Beach. Between practices and matches, the team was able to experience educational, cultural and social aspects of Brazilian life through city, school and sports club visits.
"I was honored and humbled to coach the team and am looking forward to the international experience," said Juniata's Glenn DeHaven. "Brazil is the number one volleyball country in the world. I am excited to expose our athletes, as well as the other kids going on the trip, to international volleyball at a high level."
2018 USA D-III Men's Volleyball Team
Tony Allen - Carthage College
Andrew Chisholm - Mount St. Joseph University
Dylan Flor - Kean University
R.J. Ocampo - Eastern Mennonite University
Quinn Peterson - Juniata College
Ross Russell - Wittenberg University
Jared Warner - Kean University
Braeden Waumans - Carthage College
Michael Young - Juniata College
Steven Zarzycki - Kean University
Coach: Glenn DeHaven - Juniata College