One of the promising young Bulgarian volleyball players, Vyara Parapunova, will continue her career in the USA after becoming part of Coastal Carolina's university team. The 19-year-old outside hitter, who last played for vice-champion Levski Sofia, will join the team for the 2026/27 season.
Parapunova showed serious promise from an early age, being part of one of the most successful generations in Bulgarian women's volleyball. She triumphed with the national team as European champion U18 in 2024, and a year later added the U19 world title in 2025, solidifying her status as a high-level international player.
A product of Levski Sofia's academy, Parapunova progressed through all age groups of the club. She played for Levski U18 during the 2022/23 season, after which she established herself in the U20 squad, as well as the women's team. With her performance, she contributed to the strong season of "the Blues," who reached the silver medals in the championship.
Standing at 180 cm and playing as an outside hitter, she stands out with versatile play and stability in all elements. Parapunova is also part of a volleyball family – her brother, Radoslav Parapunov, has been a Bulgarian national team player.
Her new team, Coastal Carolina, competes in NCAA Division I – the highest level of university sports in the USA. The program focuses on the development of young athletes and attracting international talent, which makes the Bulgarian's choice a logical step in her career.
Parapunova is expected to begin her participation in the collegiate championship in the fall of 2026, where she will combine her education with participation in one of the most competitive sports systems in the world.