Following the completion of the first phase of the 2024 Volleyball Nations League in Hong Kong, Lorenzo Micelli, the esteemed head coach of the Bulgarian national team, shared his goals and efforts in an exclusive post-match interview with a local website specializing in women's volleyball. With his contract expiring at the end of this season, the Italian's sincere desire for the development of the team's young talents sheds light on the hope for the future of Bulgarian women's volleyball. The conclusion of the VNL 2024 with a prestigious victory for Bulgaria was a valid reason to focus attention on the common future of the 'lionesses' and Micelli. He confirmed that discussions about his contract would take place and expressed a strong desire to continue the project. The Italian emphasized his current work with our U18 and U20 girls' teams, thereby demonstrating his serious commitment to these projects.
More than a coach:
Micelli has become more than a coach for his players –
he is a mentor and a guiding force. The Italian specialist describes his work with our volleyball players as extremely satisfying. Micelli sees it as a mission to refine their skills both on and off the court. The Italian's training vision also extends to focusing as much on mental development as on physical preparation. Facing the challenges with young talents, Micelli seems aware of the difficulties that arise when introducing younger and less experienced players into high-stakes matches. At the risk of facing potential criticism, he feels responsible for promoting these freshly hatched talents. "I stand before all critics because I want to help these young people," he said, emphasizing that the risks are worth it, as the potential to develop a strong and sustainable team for the future is present.
Looking Ahead:
While Micelli's future with the Bulgarian national team is yet to be decided, the volleyball community remains calm. His proven ability to lead teams to finals in various countries, combined with his commitment to motivating young talents, sets the stage for a promising future for the national team. The Italian emphasized his pursuit of coaching excellence, regardless of where he is. In Bulgaria, his focus extends beyond immediate victories – he is determined to build a strong and long-term program for young players. This serious investment in youth development is aimed at improving the team's playing style and ensuring their competitiveness in future volleyball battles. Upcoming decisions regarding his contract will be of paramount importance, but Micelli's priorities are crystal clear: he is focused on fostering Bulgaria's volleyball talents and elevating the national team on the international stage. The country's volleyball community is closely watching how his efforts to develop young players will materialize in the upcoming seasons, with fans and officials anticipating both exciting matches and a genuine rise of the new generation of players under his guidance. Micelli's strategy of taking calculated risks and his fervent dedication to progress are set to build a reliable future for Bulgarian volleyball – with an emphasis on the potential of his young athletes. As Bulgaria awaits upcoming competitions, the focus on nurturing talented volleyball players remains central, with hopes for this investment to translate into lasting international success.
(Reported by Boris Chung Bok Man)
