The prestigious ranking of the RussianBO Sportplaced Simeon (Moni) Nikolov at the top asthe most valuable player of the roundin the Russian Super League. The Bulgarian setter for Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, who turns 19 today, played the match against champion Zenit Kazan, which distinguished him as a true prodigy. On the day of the match, he was only 18 years old, demonstrating maturity, courage, and influence rarely seen even in much more experienced players, let alone at such a tender age.
Why Moni is #1 according to BO Sport
The selection highlights several of his key qualities:
Four direct points from serve, all aimed against the opponent's main receiver – an important tactical component.
Two blocks, achieved thanks to his excellent height and feel.
Four successful attacks, which confused the block and kept the opponent under constant pressure.
Several persistent defensive actions, where Moni did not give up on any difficult ball.
Consistently setting teammates against a single or broken block, which is an indicator of an extremely mature game at the setter position.
His contribution is simultaneously tactical, psychological, and directly impactful — a combination that elevates him above the other players of the round.
Moni Nikolov's Statistics
| Element | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Aces | 4 (all against the main receiver) |
| Blocks | 2 |
| Successful attacks | 4 |
| Defensive digs | several key situations |
| Height | 209 cm |
The listed statistics show a volleyball player who influences every component of the game – from serve and block, through organization and attack, to defense. This is the profile of a competitor who can change the course of the match by himself.
What else does the authoritative Russian website highlight about Nikolov
Describes Moni as:
a player withunusual qualitiesfor his position;
a setter whoholds the attention of the opponent's block;
a volleyball player who should havefreedom to attack, because it thus influences the opponent's tactics;
a young talent who has „turned around“ the match and was the strongest individual performer in it.
Head coach Plamen Konstantinov is quoted as saying that Moni is a player whomshould not be restricted, because his skills bring tactical advantage and create pressure on the opposing defense. He further emphasizes that Nikolov is growing and developing quickly.
BO Sportdeservedly named Moni Nikolov MVP of the round. Russian journalists see a setter who decides matches: he serves, attacks, blocks, organizes, pressures the opponent, and shows composure like an established leader. This is one of the most impressive individual performances by a young Bulgarian volleyball player abroad in recent years.
