Canada’s men’s volleyball team beats Cuba to win NORCECA tournament

CORDOBA, Mexico – Canada’s men’s volleyball team is one step closer to the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Canadians won gold at the NORCECA men’s continental championships with a victory over Cuba on Saturday night, a big boost to the team ahead of Olympic qualifying.

Gord Perrin had 18 points for the Canadians, who beat Cuba 3-1 (25-23, 19-25, 25-18, 25-17).

“I’m really happy with the win. This was our 37th match of the season, so it’s the longest summer I’ve had as a coach (of the national team). . . and we are missing a couple of key players, but the team really rallied and worked hard for every point. It was fun to see this,” said Canada’s coach Glenn Hoag.

Nicholas Hoag, named tournament MVP, had 15 points for Canada, while Justin Duff scored 12.

The top four teams earned a berth in the Olympic qualifying tournament, scheduled for early 2016, where Canada will meet Cuba, among other teams, once again for a spot in the Rio Olympics.