SPRINGFIELD, Mass., September 27, 2006 – Springfield College men’s volleyball coach Charlie Sullivan was named an assistant coach to the US National team that will travel to Japan for the 2006 World Championships in an announcement made the week of September 21st. Sullivan was appointed by the team’s head coach Hugh McCutcheon.

Charlie Sullivan charges include traveling to various cities in Japan to scout the opponents that the USA team will be competing against. Sullivan will also aid in team training and preparation for matches.

The US National team underwent a two year qualification process to be able to compete in the 2006 World Championships. Twenty-three other teams qualified for the tournament. The US was one of four teams that quailed from the Noreca Region. Other Noreca competitors include Cuba, Puetro Rico, and Canada.

The World Championships takes place every four years, opposite to the four year cycle of the Summer Olympics. This tournament is second largest international tournament for men’s volleyball, in favor of the Olympics. Ten cities in Japan, including the capital Tokyo, will play host to the tournament. First round action begins on November 16th. The tournament will conclude with the medal rounds on December 3rd.

published: 09/28/2006