Boys’ U19 World Champ 2023

"We are very proud to return Costa Rica to the global stage," says young Julian Araya Alas

The Costa Rican outside hitter is representing his country after being part of the Beach Volleyball U19 World Championship

Published 05:43, 04 Aug 2023

USA (USA) vs. Costa Rica (CRC) - Pool A #6234848

Julian Araya representing Costa Rica for the second time in a World Championship

It's been 30 years since the last time Costa Rica made an appearance in a youth world competition. That was back in 2003 in Türkiye, coincidentally the same place where Julian Araya Alas would make his world championship debut in 2022.

Watch the Boys' U19 World Championship live on the Volleyball World YouTube channel

However, at that time, the court that welcomed him was made of sand, as he was part of the 2022 FIVB Beach Volleyball U19 World Championship alongside Jhostin Varela. Just a year later, Julian is one of the representatives of Costa Rica at the 2023 FIVB Boys' U19 World Championship in San Juan.

"For us, it's a beautiful achievement that we feel in our hearts. We are very proud to bring Costa Rica back to the world stage" expressed the outside hitter.

USA (USA) vs. Costa Rica (CRC) - Pool A #6234875

Costa Rica is back at a Youth World Championship after 30 years

Son of volleyball-playing parents, Julian represented his country in the two disciplines he is passionate about. "For me, it's special because very few people in Costa Rica have managed to be in two World Championships. I feel very fortunate" said the 16-year-old.

Costa Rica began their performance against the host team and then faced the United States, two tough challenges for the Central American squad. About his team's performance, he said: "I believe we have adapted to this environment and the gym. We're improving, little by little, but we're on the right track."

Argentina (ARG) vs. Costa Rica (CRC) - Pool A #6213526

Araya Alas in action against Argentina

As part of Pool A, there are still two matches left against Serbia and Egypt for Araya Alas and his teammates. "I hope we achieve our goal, which is to win a set first, then another, and finally be able to win a match."

Regarding the group's goal, he expressed enthusiastically: "We want to climb the rankings and go as far as we can".

Beyond the results, the journey traveled is what holds the most value for Julian, who expressed his feelings about being in the World Championship: "Representing Costa Rica is a very beautiful experience and a great honor for me."

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