Phillips and Mortensen to Represent USA in Dakar

Caden Phillips and Gavin Mortensen will compete at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games beginning October 31.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Volleyball

Phillips and Mortensen to Represent USA in Dakar

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Caden Phillips and Gavin Mortensen are set to represent the United States in men's beach volleyball at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal. Phillips will also serve as a flag bearer for the U.S. delegation during the event's Opening Ceremony on October 31, 2026.

Why it matters

The duo earned their spot after a successful 2026 season that included a gold medal win at the NORCECA Beach U18 Volleyball World Championship Qualifier in Juan Dolio. Their selection highlights the ongoing development of American youth talent on the international stage under head coach Billy Allen.

The U.S. pair enters the tournament following a ninth-place finish at the 2026 FIVB Beach U18 World Championship. Two athletes were selected to serve as U.S. flag bearers during the Opening Ceremony.

The players

Caden Phillips

Caden Phillips is a beach volleyball athlete representing the United States who was elected by his peers to serve as a flag bearer.

Gavin Mortensen

Gavin Mortensen is a beach volleyball partner of Phillips who qualified for the Youth Olympic Games following a successful 2026 season.

Billy Allen

Billy Allen is the designated head coach for the U.S. beach volleyball team competing at the Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

USA Volleyball

USA Volleyball is the national governing body responsible for the organization and development of volleyball athletes in the United States.

The details

Caden Phillips was nominated by USA Volleyball and subsequently elected by his fellow Team USA athletes to carry the flag. The U.S. team is led by head coach Billy Allen and will begin their tournament campaign against Brazil in pool play.

October 31, 2026: Opening Ceremony and opening pool play match against Brazil
November 1, 2026: Pool play matches against Venezuela and Guatemala
November 2, 2026: Round of 16 matches begin
November 3, 2026: Quarterfinals and semifinals matches
November 4, 2026: Men's medal matches

Season Trajectory

The U.S. team's qualification marks a significant advancement within USA Volleyball's talent development pipeline. Their performance in Dakar will serve as a critical benchmark for the future of the U.S. beach volleyball program as these athletes transition toward higher-level competition.

The U.S. pair opens pool play on October 31 against Brazil, followed by matches against Venezuela and Guatemala on November 1. Advancement to the round of 16 depends on their placement within the pool standings following these initial contests.

The takeaway

Participation in global youth games provides essential experience for rising stars in competitive beach volleyball. These athletes will gain valuable exposure to high-pressure tournament formats that prepare them for future professional opportunities.