Allanis Navas has a new partner, Kelly Sánchez, on the Puerto Rico National Beach Volleyball Team, after María González’s knee injury, confirmed by national team director Ángel 'Cholo' Peña. The new duo will have to develop their chemistry quickly before the Norceca Pre-Olympic tournament, from November 4 to 9 in Vega Baja, which will award a spot for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Navas and González had played together for a decade and had international experience. Sánchez comes from indoor volleyball and has experience in beach volleyball, having competed in the Interuniversity Athletic League (LAI) and winning four championships with the Universidad Ana G. Méndez. Peña chose Sánchez from seven candidates for her performance and chemistry with Navas.
The Pre-Olympic tournament will be a significant challenge for Puerto Rico, with the United States and Canada as strong competitors. Navas and Sánchez will have to consolidate their partnership quickly before facing one of the most demanding international competitions.