Bulgarian youth national team player Nikola Konstantinov, one of the most promising outside hitters from the 2007 generation, has made a significant step in his career. The talent from Levski Sofia officially signed with the university team Loyola Ramblers from Loyola University Chicago, one of the most established programs in NCAA men's volleyball.
The transfer was announced through a 'SIGNED' graphic post, characteristic of American universities, confirming his official joining of the squad.
Family Lineage: The continuation of a powerful family
Konstantinov is the nephew of legend Plamen Konstantinov
Greek — a long-time captain of the national team and current head coach of Lokomotiv Novosibirsk.
The family name, of course, raises expectations, but Nikola is already proving with his play that the future belongs to him.
He is part of the Bulgarian youth national team, a participant in the U19 World Championship, where they finished sixth.
From Levski to Chicago – a natural step up
The Levski academy continues to produce talents, and Nikola is one of the brightest examples. In Sofia, he progressed through all age groups and established himself as a key figure of his generation. Konstantinov Jr. will finish the season in Bulgaria and will join his new team in 2026.
Loyola Ramblers – what his new team is like
✔ League and Level
Loyola Chicago competes in MIVA (Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association), part of the NCAA National Collegiate Championship, which combines teams from Division I and II.
✔ Achievements
The team is a two-time NCAA National Champion – 2014 and 2015.
The program is known for its exceptionally strong academy for outside hitters and its modern approach to developing young attackers.
✔ Home Arena
Matches are played in the Joseph J. Gentile Arena – a facility that is regularly full for Ramblers volleyball matches.
Statistical Profile of Loyola Ramblers (Last Season)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Record | 25–3 |
| Balance in MIVA | 13–3 |
| Average points per set | ≈ 21.8 |
| Hitting efficiency | .328 |
| Aces per match | 1.62 |
| Digs | 8.9 average |
The team plays fast and dynamic volleyball, characteristic of the NCAA. Good hitting efficiency and stable digs show that Loyola's system is suitable for developing outside hitters who need to be both stable on the first touch and aggressive in attack.
What this transfer means for Nikola Konstantinov
He will join a system that develops athletes physically, tactically, and psychologically.
He will play in one of the strongest collegiate leagues in the world.
He will get a chance to combine education and a high-performance sports environment.
He will be part of an international environment where many future professionals begin their journey to professional volleyball.
Prospects
Konstantinov already has a strong foundation – training, national experience, international matches. In the NCAA, he will face athletic and tall opponents, whose playing style will enrich his volleyball profile.
And this is a huge plus for his future in the Bulgarian men's national team.
Nikola Konstantinov's move to Loyola Chicago is a strategic step that can skyrocket his career. Bulgarian volleyball gains another young talent who will develop in one of the best collegiate programs in the world.
