Hugh McCutcheon is blogging from the World Grand Prix. His first entry chronicles the team’s arrival in Rio. Still no news on who’s on the fourteen person final roster. Former Penn State All Americans Nicole Fawcett and Christa Harmotta are on the 19 person preliminary roster, announced previously. Here’s an intro to Hugh’s post:

by Hugh McCutcheon / July 30, 2009

“Greetings from Rio. We arrived late yesterday morning and our flight was uneventful which, in this day and age, is just what you want. It’s been almost exactly a year since Jamie and I were last here with the Men competing in the 2008 World League finals, so there’s some good memories and a strong sense of familiarity as we start this tournament. As per usual, the Brazilian Federation has done a wonderful job of organizing the event and the stadium, Maracanazinho, is a great place to play. The fans in Brazil are passionate and knowledgeable, it’s always good to compete here.” More from USA Volleyball.