Florida Region of USA Volleyball
Florida Region of USA Volleyball Announces Class of 2026 Regional Award Winners
The Florida Region of USA Volleyball announces the award recipients for their milestone 25th Annual Awards program in Orlando, FL.
Eustis, FL – March 18, 2026 – The Florida Region of USA Volleyball is proud to recognize the outstanding individuals who dedicate their time, passion, and leadership to advancing the sport of volleyball. From coaching teams and managing clubs to organizing events, pursuing certifications, attending clinics, and growing the game across our great Region. This year’s ceremony marks a milestone celebration as we gather for the 25th Annual Florida Region Awards Ceremony. The Florida Region will be presenting fifteen (15) awards honoring those who have made a lasting impact on our volleyball community The ceremony will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL on April 23, 2026, at 6:30 PM ET, alongside the 2026 ASICS Florida Volleyball Challenge tournament.
Below is a list of the 2025 Award Recipients:
- Bruce Perry Volleyball Ambassador Award – Team Kiwi
- Ernest Langford Pioneer Award – Imanol Davila Morales
- Meritorious Service Award – Felix Torres
- Most Improved Juniors Club – Wildfire Volleyball Academy
- Outstanding Adult Referee (Ben Jordan Golden Whistle Award) – Gabriel Mercado
- Outstanding Club Director – Andrew Harris, St. Augustine Volleyball Association
- Outstanding Junior Coach – Nicole Stout, Gainesville Juniors Volleyball Club
- Outstanding Junior Coach – Alain Suarez, Miami Hype
- Outstanding Service Award – Abygail (Abby) Smith, Gear for Glory
- Florida Region Hall of Fame Inductee – Jennifer Joseph
- Florida Region Hall of Fame Inductee – Terri Kaiser
In addition to the 2026 award winners, the Florida Region officials that advanced to National or Jr. National during the 2025 season will also be recognized and presented with their official custom-embroidered jacket:
- Elizabeth Smith, National Official
- Lionel Garcia, National Official
- Ashley Hargiss, Junior National Official
- Eva Hormazabal, Junior National Official
The Executive Director and President of the Florida Region, Kurt Esser, commented, “I am so excited to recognize these award winners and celebrate them at our 25th Annual Awards Ceremony. These individuals have given some much of their time and talents to the sport of volleyball and to the Florida Region. Volleyball is the fastest growing sport in the United States and that is because of people like our award winners. Congratulations to them and see everyone at the banquet!”
Additionally, this annual event is where the Florida Region awards scholarships to deserving high school seniors who have been selected as recipients. At last year’s 24th Annual Awards Ceremony, more than $148,000 in scholarships were awarded to high school seniors throughout the Region. The scholarship program began in 2007 with just four recipients. Thanks to the continued support of our generous sponsors and partners, the Florida Region has expanded the program significantly, awarding more than $1,000,000 in scholarships to 334 students to date.
About the Florida Region of USA Volleyball:
The Florida Region of USA Volleyball is a 501c3 non-profit that began operations in 1977 and was officially incorporated in 1982 to promote the sport of volleyball and to create competitive playing opportunities for volleyball enthusiasts of all ages throughout the State of Florida. The Florida Region is one of the 40 regional volleyball associations under the umbrella of USA Volleyball and currently serves over 22,000 members. Indoor, outdoor, and para programming is available for adults, juniors, coaches and officials. The Florida Region of USA Volleyball is headquartered in Eustis, FL. Since 2007, the Florida Region has been able to award a total of over $1 million to 334 student-athletes through the Florida Region Scholarship Program. Additional information on the Florida Region can be found at: www.FloridaVolleyball.org
For additional information contact:
Kris Cifelli, Marketing & Social Media Coordinator
Florida Region of USA Volleyball, Inc.
- (352) 742-0080
- [email protected]