Encamp Hosts European U19 Beach Volleyball Qualifiers Next Two Weeks

Encamp will host two qualifiers for the European under-19 beach volleyball championship over the next two weeks, drawing young talents from across Europe to the parish's courts.

The Men's Beach Volley Qualifier takes place from July 10 to 12, followed by the SC under-19 Women's Beach Volley Qualifier from July 17 to 19. Both events will unfold at the beach volleyball court next to La Mola swimming pool in Encamp, spotlighting the parish as a hub for the sport.

The Andorran Volleyball Federation (FAVB) approaches the competitions with optimism, buoyed by the preparation of its local pairs. Federation president Xavier Folguera noted the challenge of gauging opponents' strength in youth categories, where performance can shift rapidly year to year due to age-group changes. Still, he expressed satisfaction with Andorra's teams in both men's and women's events.

Folguera pointed to last year's strong showing, where one Andorran pair secured third place. That result earned them a spot at the under-18 European championship in Turkey. "We had few expectations but achieved third place, allowing them to compete at the under-18 Euros. That's significant," he said.

Andorran athletes arrive in peak condition, Folguera added, having gained match experience through recent Catalan championships. This steady competition has left them "well-prepared" for the continental challenge.

Encamp Sports Councillor Nino Marot described the fortnight as "intense," praising the events for energising the Prada de Moles area. The volleyball zone has already become a social gathering spot for amateurs of all ages, who drop in for casual games without needing formal teams. Marot thanked the FAVB for boosting youth and community participation in the sport.

AndBank serves as a main sponsor. Banca País president Maria Suárez welcomed the new edition, underscoring the bank's commitment to sports and its fruitful partnership with the FAVB since earlier this year. "We've accomplished a lot in just a few months," she said. Suárez urged the public to attend, calling the setting "privileged," and wished competitors good luck over the two weekends.