California State University Northridge Men’s Volleyball player Owen Douphner and coach Ryan Mason played key roles in the U.S. Men’s U23 National Team’s gold medal victory at the 2026 NORCECA Men’s U23 Pan American Cup. The United States defeated Costa Rica 3-1 (25-16, 23-25, 25-13, 25-17) in the final on September 27, 2026, in San Salvador, El Salvador.
The USA team went undefeated in all four matches, registering a 12-1 set record in the tournament. They opened with a sweep over the Dominican Republic and followed with a straight-sets victory over Trinidad & Tobago. Douphner was instrumental in the Trinidad & Tobago match, setting the offense to a .603 hitting percentage while adding six points via kills, blocks and aces. The U.S. team outmatched their opponents in kills, blocks, and aces during that contest.
Douphner said representing his country was a great privilege and that winning gold made the experience especially meaningful. Mason, coaching for the first time with the USA U23 team, expressed pride in the team’s performance, sportsmanship and unity throughout the tournament. He also acknowledged the contributions of the coaching staff, including head coach Nickie Sanlin and assistant coach Ali’i Keohohou.
CSB Take
The accomplishments of CSUN Men’s Volleyball’s Owen Douphner and Ryan Mason on the international stage underscore the high level of talent and leadership within the program. Their success at the NORCECA Men’s U23 Pan American Cup reflects positively on California State University Northridge and provides a strong foundation for the future. This gold medal serves as a benchmark for the program’s continued growth and recognition in collegiate and international volleyball.
Source: Original report
