The Puerto Ricans obtained a berth in the world tournament in Thailand after finishing unbeaten in the NORCECA qualification tournament last summer in Santo Domingo where they beat teams from Mexico, USA and Dominican Republic.

Carlos Arroyo was named head coach of the squad after serving as an assistant coach for the past eight years.

Arroyo has had an extensive volleyball career while participating in the sport for over 25 years both as a player and a coach. As an assistant he obtained first, second and third places in the last three NORCECA championships and was also in the same role during the 1995 World Championship.

Carlos Rodriguez will be the assistant coach and both have plenty of experience in these types of events.

The Puerto Ricans go to Thailand looking to qualify in the last eight-team bracket and from there try to move into the final four.

This is the fourth time that Puerto Rico takes part in the U-19 World Championships.

The main players:

Guillermo Diaz is a strong opposite attacker with experience in the Puerto Rican Superior League. He was the MVP in the NORCECA U-19 2002 Championship.

Julio "Gaby" Acevedo is the captain. Setter. Player with solid fundamental Volleyball with a very creative game. Two years ago, Acevedo was the rookie of the year in the Puerto Rican League. He was elected the best setter in the last NORCECA U-19.

Iván Perez is another attacker with spectacular vertical jump and majestic offense. He is considered the best prospect on the island.