Félix López new head coach of Gambia U19 women’s beach volleyball team

Since April 3rd, 2025, the Gambia Volleyball Federation has appointed Félix Alexander López Hernandez as the new head coach of the national U19 women’s team. Over the next two years, he’ll guide the team toward their big goal: qualifying for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal. The first milestone: the World Championship qualifiers this June in Morocco.

From volunteer work to the national team

In February 2025, Félix was in Gambia for a volunteer project. He provided coaching clinics and, together with his volunteer team, built a beach volleyball court. During that time, he met players and staff from the national Gambia team—and the connection was instant.
“The energy, the passion for sport, the way people work together—it really spoke to me,” he says. “When the association asked me to become head coach, it didn’t take me long to say yes.”

Gambia’s raw talent with real potential

The U19 team is made up of young, ambitious players. “There’s a lot of talent—one of the girls already has international experience. They’re driven, eager to learn, and they work incredibly hard.” Félix sees it as his mission to help them grow, both technically and mentally.
“Awareness, self-reflection, discipline—that’s what makes the difference. If you put in the work, the results will follow.”

Qualifying for the World Championships and Youth Olympics

The team’s focus for the coming months is qualification for the U19 World Championships in Morocco. “It’s ambitious, but definitely possible,” says Félix. “We’re training with clear goals and taking it step by step.” If they succeed, the bigger dream comes closer: securing a spot at next year’s Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

Strong sports culture, limited resources

Félix praises the sports culture in Gambia. “Beach volleyball is alive here. There’s so much passion, and a strong belief that sport contributes to personal development.”
At the same time, he sees the challenges. “Resources are limited. We’re actively looking for sponsors and partners who want to help.”
In May, both the U19 women’s and men’s teams will travel to the Netherlands with their assistant coach for an intensive training period. “This is how we prepare ourselves in the best possible way.”

International experience and cultural connection

Félix was born in El Salvador and has lived in the Netherlands for over ten years. He brings a wealth of experience as a youth and club coach, including with the Dutch national pre-youth teams for volleyball and beach volleyball. “I know what it’s like to work with different cultures. That mix of backgrounds makes me flexible. I’m always looking to connect—because that’s essential if you want to achieve something together.”

“Don’t give up—follow your dream”

For Félix, this appointment feels like a natural step in his career. “The trust I’ve received from the federation and the players means a lot to me. I want to be a role model for young athletes and contribute to the growth of beach volleyball in Gambia.” His message to young athletes and fans is crystal clear:
“Work hard, keep learning, and never give up. Turn your goal into a dream—and go for it.”