Canada Sport News

Canadian beach volleyball duo Humana-Paredes and Wilkerson progress to Olympic semi-finals
  • news
    •

    Canadian beach volleyball duo Humana-Paredes and Wilkerson progress to Olympic semi-finals

    After a disappointing start at the Olympics, Canada’s Melissa Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson have found their groove on the sand.

    The Canadians earned a spot in the women’s beach volleyball semifinals with a 2-0 (21-18, 21-18) win over Spain’s Daniela Alvarez and Tania Moreno on Wednesday at picturesque Eiffel Tower Stadium.

    Canada (4-2) has won three elimination matches in a row after going 1-2 in pool play. The semifinal showing marks the best-ever result for a Canadian women’s beach team at an Olympics

    The Canadians, ranked seventh in the world, now face world No. 9 Nina Brunner and Tanja Huberli of Switzerland (5-0) in the semifinals on Thursday at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT.

    The medal matches are Friday.

    Canada has won just one volleyball medal in Olympic history — bronze by John Child and Mark Heese in men’s beach in 1996.

    In the quarterfinal, Wilkerson’s huge block on Alvarez gave Canada a 17-15 lead in the first set and proved to be the turning point after the teams exchanged numerous sideouts.

    The Canadians then fought back from an early three-point deficit in the second half as the Spanish duo made some key attacking errors. Wilkerson then made a massive block to put her team up 20-17 before Canada sealed it.

    Alvarez and Moreno, both 22, were the youngest team in the Paris draw and were making their Olympic debuts. They are ranked 16th in the world.

    Humana-Paredes, with Sarah Pavan, and Wilkerson, with Heather Bansley, both lost in the quarterfinals in Tokyo three years ago before joining forces as a new team.

    Humana-Paredes and Wilkerson were indoor volleyball teammates at York University early last decade.

    More from Sportsnet
    Canada’s Humana-Paredes, Wilkerson reach beach volleyball quarterfinals


    Humana-Paredes, Wilkerson reunite for shot at Olympic beach volleyball glory

    Canadian beach volleyball duo Sarah Pavan and Melissa Humana-Paredes have made history by advancing to the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. The pair defeated the Australian team of Mariafe Artacho del Solar and Taliqua Clancy in a thrilling quarter-final match, securing their spot in the next round.

    Pavan and Humana-Paredes have been dominant throughout the tournament, showcasing their strong chemistry and impressive skills on the sand. The duo’s communication and teamwork have been key factors in their success, allowing them to outplay their opponents and secure crucial points when it matters most.

    The Canadian duo’s journey to the semi-finals has been nothing short of impressive. They have faced tough competition from some of the top teams in the world, but have managed to come out on top with their determination and resilience. Their hard work and dedication to their sport have paid off, as they now find themselves just one step away from competing for an Olympic gold medal.

    Pavan and Humana-Paredes’ success at the Tokyo Olympics is a testament to their talent and commitment to their sport. They have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with on the beach volleyball court, and have shown that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.

    As they prepare for the semi-finals, Pavan and Humana-Paredes will undoubtedly be focused on continuing their winning streak and securing a spot in the gold medal match. Canadian fans will be cheering them on as they look to make history and bring home a medal for their country.

    Overall, Pavan and Humana-Paredes’ progression to the Olympic semi-finals is a remarkable achievement that highlights their skill, determination, and teamwork. They have already made Canada proud, and will no doubt continue to inspire fans around the world with their incredible performances on the sand.