The President of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation (BFV) Lyubomir Ganev described the past summer as "unforgettable" due to the historic world title of the women's U19 team – the first in Bulgaria's history in a women's team sport. "This is a grandiose success," he emphasized in an interview for the federation's website.
Ganev also pointed out the fourth place of the women's U21 team, achieved with great character and under the leadership of Dragan Nesic, as well as the commendable performance of the men's U19 and U21 teams.
"It strikes me that in volleyball, it's considered a failure if we don't play for a medal in the youth categories. In what other sport do we have such high expectations?" Ganev asked, drawing attention to the limited resources with which Bulgaria competes.
Regarding the difficulties of the women's national team
On the topic of the women's national team's poor performance at the World Championship, the president emphasized:
"Building any team is a process. There will be losses, there will be tough moments, but the most important thing is for these girls to receive support."
He assured that an analysis with coach Antonina Zetova is forthcoming, and the goal is for the team to return next year motivated and eager for revenge.
The role and responsibility of coaches
"The coach is always on the front line – more often bearing the negatives than receiving recognition," Ganev said.
He insisted that Bulgaria cannot afford a policy of constant changes:
"It is necessary to provide comfort and a working horizon for the coach. Zetova took over the team in a difficult situation, and this must be taken into account."
Parallels between men and women
Ganev drew a connection with the men's national team:
"Today's situation with the women reminds me of the men's team three years ago when they lost all three of their matches at the World Championship. But back then, the foundations for the current rise were laid."
He also recalled the bold decisions of Nikolay Zhelyazkov and Plamen Konstantinov to introduce young players despite the risks.
"That's why we must respect the courage of our coaches. The entire process relies on mutual trust."
Regarding the work of the young national team coaches
Ganev praised Miroslav Zhivkov and Ventsislav Simeonov:
"The sixth place of the U19 and the tenth place of the U21 are successes, given the difficulties and absences in the squads."
He also thanked Dragan Nesic, who "finished the summer in the best possible way by entering the world's top four."
The new generation of coaches
"Creating conditions for the development of Bulgarian coaches is just as important as working with young athletes," Ganev emphasized.
He mentioned the names of Andrey Zhekov, Evelina Tsvetanova, Svetozar Ivanov, Teodor Bogdanov, and Antonina Zetova herself as examples of young specialists with potential.
"We should seek foreign coaches only for the national teams, and only when it is truly justified."
Regarding expectations for the men's national team
"I don't want to burden the guys with expectations before the World Championship. It's enough that this summer they brought back huge interest in our sport," Ganev said.
He emphasized that with the responsibility and enthusiasm with which they are leaving, results will inevitably come.
"I am eagerly awaiting the start of the championship in Manila."
The interview outlines a clear line of patience, trust, and support for coaches and young athletes. Ganev is convinced that just as men's volleyball took a step forward after difficulties, women's volleyball will follow the same path.
