The head coach of the Bulgarian women's national volleyball team, Antonina Zetova, expressed her strong belief in the new generation of volleyball players. In an interview with BNT, given at "Vasil Levski" Airport, she stated her intention to integrate some of the U19 players, who brought a world title to Bulgaria, into the main squad.
Zetova was adamant that age should not be a barrier when it comes to talent and dedication. According to her, girls like Kalina Veneva and Dimana Ivanova have already shown the necessary qualities to be part of the women's team, especially in the context of the upcoming world championship. They will get a chance due to Lora Slavcheva's absence, with the coach confidently emphasizing that "these kids should be given a chance and I believe they can cope."
She recalled that other young volleyball players had already been given opportunities to perform – Darina Naneva participated in the tournament in Canada, and Victoria Ninova took part in two other tournaments with the women's team.
With her words, Zetova defended the young hopes from criticism that it was "too early" for them in big-time volleyball. For her, the important question is not age, but ability: "Can you or can't you?" She gave examples of players like the Chinese setter and the Bulgarian Elitsa Vasileva, who debuted at just 16 years old.
The coach paid special attention to the character of the new generation. According to her, the U19 players impress not only with talent but also with exceptional focus, discipline, and modesty – qualities that Zetova believes have long been missing in previous generations.
"These kids are very good, very focused, very motivated. They have such will and desire for self-realization, which are rarely encountered," Zetova emphasized. She recalled the dramatic European Championship semi-final, won by our team after trailing 10:14 – a moment that, according to her, gave the team enormous confidence and self-esteem.
Summarizing the performance of the women's national team in the Nations League, Antonina Zetova stated that the minimum program was fulfilled – 13th place in the final standings. Although she sees potential for at least two more victories, she acknowledged the difficulty of the tournament and stressed that "there are no weak teams." Among the difficulties, she highlighted the lack of experience and problems at the libero position.
"Rejuvenation is a process," she said, adding that the efforts and ambition of the new players give hope for the future.
With these words, Zetova not only announced her plans but also sent a strong message – Bulgarian volleyball has a future when youth is invested in and given a chance.
