The president of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, Lyubo Ganev, did not hide his emotions after the historic success of the national U19 girls' team, who won the world title. During the official welcoming of the champions in Sofia, Ganev frankly admitted that this team had made him cry for the second time.
"The first time was when they became European champions, but then I was a delegate and couldn't show my joy. Now, after what they did yesterday, these kids truly deserve everything – I know what they went through, how difficult the preparation was, and how much stress it cost," Ganev shared emotionally.
Nine medals in four years and ambitions for the Olympics
The president of the federation also acknowledged the consistent work in Bulgarian volleyball, which is already bearing fruit. "I am calm because everything we, as a federation, had to do, we have done. I want to congratulate everyone – clubs, coaches, people from the federation's offices, the management – for decisions that time proves were correct. In the last four years, we already have nine medals in the youth categories," Ganev pointed out.
He emphasized that although volleyball in Bulgaria does not have the financial resources of football and basketball, in terms of interest and success, the sport is unrivaled. "I can boldly say that volleyball is currently the number one sport in Bulgaria. We see more and more children and people who want to train, and that is the greatest recognition."
The goal remains – participation in the Olympic Games
Ganev did not fail to wish success to the national teams who are preparing for the last tournament of the Nations League. "I hope they are healthy and have no more injuries, because 2-3 wins can get us into the final eight. But even if we don't qualify, this year's goal has already been met," he said.
In conclusion, the president of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation stated that the strategic vision remains unchanged: "Our goals remain the same – to qualify both teams, men's and women's, for the Olympics. We have shown that the path we have taken is the right one."
