Photo of coach Knipe courtesy FIVB

The U.S. Men’s National Team ended its 2009 World League campaign on Thursday with a 0-3 (22-25, 22-25, 23-25) loss to Russia at Beogradska Arena in Belgrade, Serbia.

The U.S. Men, who won the 2008 World League title, finish their 2009 run with a record of 5-9.

“We leave knowing a lot more about our team and the others as well,” said U.S. Head Coach Alan Knipe, currently on leave from Long Beach State. “A lot of work has to be done. There’s a lot of room for growth on this team and we also will be able to add some more experienced players toward the end of the summer. I hope that with the experience gained here by getting to the final six in addition to some more experienced players, we can develop into a better volleyball team than we are right now.”

“I respect a lot the USA team,” Russian Head Coach Daniele Bagnoli said through an interpreter. “When I saw how many players from last year’s USA team were missing currently; I think they deserve a lot of merit for qualifying for this tournament and I think they will be a great team once again.”

Of the 49ers on the squad, Scott Touzinsky led with eight points on seven kills and one block.