Santo Domingo, August 1, 2003.- Dominican Milagros Cabral, the star of the women's volleyball team, was elected to pronounce the Pan American Games Oath in today's Opening Ceremony.
"I still can't believe it," said a thrilled Cabral during a press conference to introduce the Dominican Republic squad. "There is no doubt that it will be the the biggest moment of my career."
"It occurs only once in a lifetime and I am really very proud being selected for that kind of honor," she said. "I will be very nervous, but I am going to rehearse the phrase as much as I can."
"It is also a recognition to the Dominican Volleyball Federation and to our sports in the Pan American zone," She added.
An athlete from the host nation pronounce the Pan American Oath during the opening ceremony with the following words:
"In the name of all competitors, I promise that we shall take part in these Pan American Games, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, in the true spirit of sportmanship, for the glory of the sport and the honor of our teams."
Cabral, the MVP in the Pan American Cup last month in Saltillo, Mexico, has been twice elected as Volleyball Player of the Year by the Dominican Republic Sports Writers Association.