---

Hawaii-led U.S. team defeats Puerto Rico

The USA Volleyball Youth National Team, with three players from Hawaii, rallied past Puerto Rico yesterday in the opener of the NORCECA Championship in Mexico City.

The Americans won their pool-play match at the Mexican Olympic Training Center, 14-25, 25-18, 22-25, 25-18, 15-10. The U.S. team features starting setter Kawika Shoji (Iolani), libero Adam Tuifagu (Kamehameha) and middle Spencer McLachlin (Punahou).

University of Hawaii associate head coach Tino Reyes is the U.S. assistant coach.

The U.S. continues pool play today against Canada. The event, which finishes Sunday, is a qualifier for the upcoming World Youth Tournament.

Waianae boxers advance at Ringside

Three boxers from Waianae PAL advanced yesterday in the Ringside World Championships in Kansas City.

Tony Pereira beat Chicago's Darryl Hicks by TKO in the second round after the referee stopped the fight after two eight counts. Pereira fights in the 112-pound quarterfinals today.

Waianae PAL's Jonathan Dinong beat hometown Kansas City boxer Terry Stevens to advance to the 85-pound semifinals.

Dido Rodrigues drew a walk-by yesterday to reach the quarterfinals.

Other Waianae PAL boxers in today's quarterfinals are Johnavan Visantes and Jeffrey Pelen Jr.

Pearl City to play for United States title

Pearl City has earned the right to play Tampa, Fla., for the U.S. championship in the Junior League World Series at Taylor, Mich., thanks to its 3-0 record in pool play.

The two teams play today in the round robin pool and meet again tomorrow for a chance to advance to the championship game Saturday, which will be taped for broadcast on ESPN2.

---