Unesc/Mampituba School wins the women's volleyball title at the Youth Games

Representing Santa Catarina, Unesc/Mampituba School won the women's volleyball title at the Caixa Youth Games 2026 on Wednesday afternoon (10/28) in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná. The team defeated Rio de Janeiro in the final by 3 sets to 0, with scores of 25 to 14, 26 to 24, and 25 to 13.

The two states had already faced each other in the first round of the competition on Saturday (10/24). On that occasion, the team from Santa Catarina won by 2 sets to 0, with scores of 25 to 22 and 25 to 21.

In the semifinals, Unesc/Mampituba School defeated Minas Gerais by 3 sets to 1, with scores of 25 to 18, 21 to 25, 25 to 15, and 25 to 15.

Six years of project

The title represents the result of six years of investment and preparation. Assistant coach Moacir Vefago highlighted institutional support and the sports policy of Santa Catarina as important factors for forming a competitive team.

“Before any title, trophy, or medal, I must emphasize the sports policy of my state. Santa Catarina has a very strong sports policy, and the Government provides conditions for us to reach the Youth Games with the possibility of being champions,” he stated.

Vefago also thanked Unesc School and the University for their investment in the project, particularly for the scholarships offered to the athletes. According to the assistant coach, this initiative contributes to the development of the players and their participation in high-level competitions.

“The feeling is one of duty fulfilled. It has been six years of the project and investment in scholarships by the school, which believes in these girls. The reward came this year,” he emphasized.

Part of the team also participated in the Sub-18 School World Championship held in China and organized by the Brazilian Confederation of School Sports (CBDE).

Strategy and maturity in the final

The knowledge gained from the first phase match also contributed to the victory in the final. Although they had previously defeated Rio de Janeiro, the team from Santa Catarina used the first game to identify the opponent's strengths and adjust their strategy.

“Our team showed great consistency in serving, blocking, and defense. The key was the maturity to win the second set. We were behind on the scoreboard for a good part of the set, Rio had set point, but we kept our composure to turn it around,” he explained.

With the victory in the second set by 26 to 24, Unesc/Mampituba School gained confidence to close the third set at 25 to 13 and confirm the title. After two consecutive editions with bronze medals, the team from Santa Catarina reached the top of the podium in 2026.