The
Peruvian Volleyball Federation (FPV) granted the Lucha Fuentes Award for the first time to the best player (MVP) of the 2024/2025 Peruvian Volleyball League, in tribute to the eternal Great Captain.
Her husband, Luis Schiappa-Pietra, received the announcement of the award's creation at the Lima-based Villa El Salvador Sports Center, the venue for the League matches, on May 18.
The Mambo Park Award for the best volleyball coach was also established.
Through her social media that same day, the sports legend thanked the Peruvian Volleyball Federation "for the tribute you have given me."
"Although I couldn't attend the match, I was pleasantly surprised by the naming of the award for the best player in my honor. Thank you very much, and may the Lucha Fuentes Award from now on serve as recognition of the effort and dedication of all those who, like me, love and want the best for volleyball and national sport!" she wrote.
Alianza Lima's player Ysabella "Chabelita" Sanchez was chosen as the best player of the 2024/2025 Peruvian Volleyball League and lifted the trophy with great emotion on May 25.
"Eternal Glory to You"
Shortly before, in March 2025, Lucha Fuentes received a tribute from the Peruvian Sports Institute (IPD), on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
"From the highest heavens, eternal glory to you, Luchita! She leaves an unforgettable legacy that will live on in every court, every serve, every celebrated point, and in the hearts of all Peruvians," the IPD tweeted upon learning of her passing.
"You will always live in the heart of Peru, Luchita. We fondly remember the tribute we paid to Luisa Fuentes Quijandria in life, our national volleyball legend, on March 6, 2025, just before (International) Women's Day," reads another IPD tweet.
(END) JOT/JMP/MVB
Published: 5/29/2025