San Juan, February 18, 2008 - After receiving news of Puerto Rico's inclusion in the Women’s World Olympic Qualification Tournament in May, the Puerto Rican Federation of Volleyball has begun to prepare the national team for the important competition in Japan.

Federation President Carlos J. Beltrán has appointed Professor Carlos D. Cardona of Argentina as the new team advisor. Cardona is head coach of the Puerto Rico Men’s team that also will play in the World Olympic Qualification Tournament.

"Everybody knows the work of Cardona and the successful things that have been done with our Men’s team," said Beltrán. "We understand that his knowledge about worldwide volleyball will help the women squad a lot."

Cardona will work with Women's coach Juan Carlos Núñez and Data Volley staff Manuel Acevedo and Jose Mieles.

Núnez has been coach of the team since 2004, assuming control in the III Pan-American Games.

Meanwhile, Beltrán was happy to receive FIVB's invitation to Japan. "We are content and ready to accept the challenge," he said.

Cardona and staff will meet in the next few weeks to evaluate which players will be earmarked for the tournament.