Coppa Italia A1 – Superlega has always been a stage for the biggest stars of European volleyball. The tournament, which brings prestige, tension, and high-level battles, has over the decades become one of the emblems of Italian volleyball culture.
The history of the competition is filled with legendary names, big clubs, and finals that have left a lasting mark on European sports. And although the Coppa Italia is primarily a showcase for the local school, the Bulgarian footprint in this tournament is more than noticeable – both through volleyball players and coaches who have won the trophy, and through figures who are still part of Italian elite volleyball today.
Even in the past tournament, which ended yesterday, the Bulgarian presence continues to be felt – Hristo Zlatanov, son of the legendary Dimitar Zlatanov, is the sports director of Piacenza, and a Bulgarian connection also exists in the management of the new trophy winner - Verona.
All this is further proof that Bulgaria has its place in the history of the Coppa Italia – a tournament in which our names have reached the top more than once.
Bulgarian champions among players
| Name | Number of titles | Seasons |
|---|---|---|
| Matey Kaziyski | 3 | (2012/13, 2011/12, 2009/10) |
| Tsvetan Sokolov | 3 | (2016/17, 2011/12, 2009/10) |
| Vladimir Nikolov | 1 | (2010/11) |
| Aleksandar Nikolov | 1 | (2024/25) |
| Nikolay Uchikov | 1 | (2012/13) |
Matey Kaziyski and Tsvetan Sokolov make the strongest impression, each having3 trophiesand are among the most successful foreigners in the modern era of the tournament. Kaziyski was the face of Trento's dominance, while Sokolov established himself as one of the most prolific opposite spikers to leave a mark in Italy.
The presence of Vladimir Nikolov and Nikolay Uchikov complements the Bulgarian tradition, and Aleksander Nikolov's title in 2024/25 is a sign that the new generation is already following the same path.
Coaches and the big names on the bench
Beyond the court, there is also a significant presence on the coaching scene in the tournament.
| Coach | Number of titles | Seasons |
|---|---|---|
| Silvano Prandi | 4 | (2005/06, 2000/01, 1998/99, 1995/96) |
| Radostin Stoychev | 3 | (2012/13, 2011/12, 2009/10) |
| Gianlorenzo Blengini | 1 | (2016/17) |
Silvano Prandi is one of the iconic figures in the history of the tournament, with a total of4 Coppa Italia titles, which places him among the most decorated coaches ever.
Radostin Stoychev is undoubtedly the most successful Bulgarian coach in Coppa Italia – his3 trophiesare part of Trento's 'golden era', when the club dominated not only in Italy but also in Europe.
Blengini also has his place with the triumph in 2016/17, proving that the Italian school continues to produce champions.
Bulgaria - a constant factor in the strongest league.
The history of the Italian Cup clearly shows that Bulgarian volleyball players and specialists, some of whom are directly connected with Bulgaria, were not just participants, but real champions in one of the most difficult competitions in the world.
From Kaziyski and Sokolov to Stoychev and Prandi - the legacy of people connected with our country in Superlega remains bright, and the new successes of young names like Aleksandar Nikolov suggest that the tradition will continue.
