The Antigua & Barbuda Volleyball Association (ABAVA) has officially named its men's and women's national teams for the 2026 Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-20 Beach Volleyball Championship. According to Antigua News Room, the tournament is scheduled to be held in Saint Kitts & Nevis from July 10–12, 2026.
The selected athletes represent what ABAVA describes as the next generation of Antiguan and Barbudan beach volleyball talent, chosen on the basis of commitment, consistent training, demonstrated performance and technical ability.
Leading the men's national team is George Freeland, who brings senior international experience to the squad, having previously represented Antigua & Barbuda at the 2026 ECVA Senior Beach Volleyball Championship. He is joined by Miguel Peña-Lugo, a veteran of three consecutive editions of the ECVA Under-21 Beach Volleyball Championship. Together, the pair form what ABAVA considers the country's most experienced and competition-ready men's beach volleyball partnership, bringing established chemistry, tactical awareness and regional exposure to the upcoming championship.
On the women's side, Philisha Burnette previously competed for Antigua & Barbuda at the 2025 U18 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Tour, gaining valuable exposure against some of the region's strongest junior athletes. Her partner, Faith Gibson, is relatively new to beach volleyball but has distinguished herself through athleticism, technical competence and coachability during the national preparation programme.
Preparation for the championship has included a structured national training programme focused on technical execution, tactical awareness, communication, physical conditioning and team cohesion.
ABAVA acknowledged the support of the Association of National Olympic Committees of the Eastern Caribbean (ANOCES), crediting the organisation with making Antigua & Barbuda's participation in the championship possible. ANOCES has been recognised for its broader investment in youth sport and regional athlete development across the Eastern Caribbean.
As Team Antigua & Barbuda prepares to travel to Saint Kitts & Nevis, ABAVA expressed pride in the four athletes and their coaches, stating that their selection reflects their commitment, potential and readiness to represent the nation on the regional stage.
