President Rumen Radev honored the men's national volleyball team for the silver medals won at the World Championship in the Philippines. At a ceremony in the Coat of Arms Hall, the head of state awarded the athletes, the coaching staff, and the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, emphasizing that their success transcends sporting triumph.

“I will not address you as 'boys'. Today, here are dignified Bulgarian men who took on the responsibility to defend the honor of the Homeland,” Radev stated. He described the team's path to the final as “a great unifying emotion,” recalling the football fairy tale from USA 1994.

The President recalled that after the bronze from the Youth World Championship in Bahrain, he saw in this lineup “a ray of hope” for Bulgarian sports. “Today I can say – you are that ray for all of Bulgaria. Every saved ball in defense and every victory shaped the image of a new Bulgaria – not one of schemes and obedience, but of hard work, will, discipline, and responsibility,” he emphasized.

Radev pointed out that the silver medal had inspired faith and hope for the future in disillusioned people. “You showed a generation that will not tolerate the shadow of doubts, but will lead Bulgaria forward,” the president added, and warned that from now on the team carries an immense responsibility – not only because of expectations for titles, but because of the thousands of children who look to them with hope.

At the end of the ceremony, the head of state thanked the federation, coaches, and parents for their support. “Thank you for the inspiration and for proving that we are a people capable of uniting and flying high. Good luck!” he concluded.

On behalf of the team, captain Alex Grozdanov thanked for the support, while head coach Gianlorenzo Blengini described the meeting as “extremely emotional.” The President of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, Lyubomir Ganev, expressed hope that this team will continue to provide reasons for national pride.