Cándida Estefany Arias Pérez spent more than a decade anchoring the Dominican Republic’s net defence as one of the country’s leading middle blockers, helping Las Reinas del Caribe win major international titles and establish themselves among the world’s leading teams. Today, she is applying that same passion for volleyball in a new role as an assistant coach with the Dominican Republic women’s national team.
A two-time Olympian and one of the most decorated middle blockers in the region, Arias represented the Dominican Republic at the London 2012 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games, winning gold medals at the 2019 Pan American Games, the 2009 NORCECA Championship, the 2010 Pan-American Cup and multiple Central American and Caribbean Games.
Coaching represents an opportunity for her to continue growing in volleyball while sharing the knowledge and experience gained throughout an accomplished international career.
“This is a very good opportunity that my national team has given me to improve as a coach. I am a Level II coach, and I am almost at the end of my volleyball career. This is a great opportunity for me to continue learning and developing as a coach,” Arias said.
She also believes the inclusion of women on national team coaching staffs is an important step in creating more opportunities for future generations of coaches.
“Yes, it has had an influence because, as a woman, I have the opportunity to be part of the coaching staff of my national team. I believe it is a very good initiative by the FIVB to include a woman on the coaching staff because it will create new opportunities for women,” Arias said.
Drawing on her years as an elite international player, Arias believes women bring valuable perspectives to coaching, particularly in understanding and supporting athletes.
“Yes, it does make a difference because, as women, we understand each other. We know a little more about how to relate to one another, how to encourage each other, and how to help things flow. I believe it is a very good initiative, and it has a significant impact,” Arias said.
As she begins this new chapter, Arias hopes more women will consider pursuing coaching careers and helping shape the future of the sport.
“I would say that it is a great decision. If you are passionate about this career, pursue it. Everything we set our minds to is achievable if we are willing to work for it,” Arias said.
That same passion that drove her throughout an accomplished playing career now continues from the sidelines, inspiring the next generation of volleyball players and coaches.
