Shoji named MVP of world qualifier

Punahou graduate Erik Shoji, a libero for the U.S. men’s national volleyball team, was named the most valuable player Sunday as the Americans won the NORCECA World Championship Qualification Tournament in Colorado Springs, Colo., with a 3-0 sweep of Guatemala.

The victory qualifies the U.S. (4-0) for the FIVB World Championship, Aug. 30-Sept. 21 in Poland. The U.S. won Sunday’s Pool O match 25-18, 25-22, 25-15.

Shoji, who starred at Stanford, is the son of Hawaii women’s volleyball coach Dave Shoji. He was also named best libero, best digger and best receiver.

Punahou graduate Riley McKibbin, a former USC star, was used as a serving substitute in Sunday’s match.

Vulcans golfers tied for eighth at nationals

The Hawaii Hilo men’s golf team is tied for eighth place after Monday’s first round of the NCAA Division II golf championships in Allendale, Mich.

Vulcans seniors Corey Kozuma and Chris Shimomura are tied for 24th place after both carded 3-over-par 75s at The Meadows at Grand Valley State.

UHH’s Dalen Yamauchi is a stroke back at 76, followed by Christian Agosto (77) and Kyeton Littel (82). Nova Southeastern (Fla.) University’s Mitch Farrer leads the medalist race with a 2-under-par 70 heading into the second of three stroke-play rounds on Tuesday.

The Vulcans shot a team score of 303, and they’re tied for eighth place with Lynn. Nova Southeastern leads the 20-team field at 287.