Daytona, FL. DME Academy’s volleyball program took another step forward this past weekend, traveling to Puerto Rico for a competitive tournament that delivered both strong opponents and valuable development opportunities.

“Our courts always had a crowd in front of them,” said Head Coach Alvaro Sanchez. “We were able to introduce DME to new faces and make an immediate impression.”

DME opened the weekend with a statement win over the top-ranked team in Puerto Rico. Every match went to a tie-breaker set, highlighting the tournament’s overall competitiveness and the team’s ability to stay composed under pressure. DME closed out the weekend by securing first place in the Silver Division.

“We’re still early in our process,” Sanchez said. “There’s a lot of work to do from a development standpoint, but this weekend accelerated that work. We got better.”

Connecting Through Competition

The trip was also an opportunity to strengthen our presence in a new region. The team faced off against top-level talent and competed with discipline and purpose. From warmups to walk-throughs, DME’s identity as a development-first program was on display.

“Every match was a battle,” Sanchez said. “But even more important was the way we carried ourselves throughout the weekend, on the court, in the gym, and around the community.”

Structure, Culture, and Discipline

The group found the right balance between competition and team time, with opportunities to enjoy local food, explore Old San Juan, and stay on track academically through structured study hall sessions. The trip reinforced DME’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and growth in every area.

Juanita stood out for her leadership and consistency, setting the tone for how the group trained, studied, and stayed locked in throughout the weekend.

Looking Ahead

Despite facing adversity, the group stayed composed. They adjusted in real time, supported one another, and showed signs of what’s possible when the foundation is built the right way.

“We have a special group,” said Sanchez. “They’re still learning how I want them to play. But they’re bought in — and we’re building something strong.”

Learn More About DME Volleyball

DME Academy’s volleyball program is built for serious athletes who want to train at a high level, compete nationally and internationally, and grow on and off the court. With experienced coaches, a proven development model, and access to elite facilities, this is where potential turns into performance.

Explore the DME Volleyball Program or Schedule a Campus Tour