The coach of the men’s national team, Gianlorenzo Blengini, got to know closely the work at the Stoychev-Kaziyski Volleyball Academy (VASK). The Italian specialist visited one of the team’s weekly activities in the multi-purpose hall at the Vasil Levski National Sports Academy. Three teams from the men’s division of the capital club – under 16, under 18 and under 20 years, held a training session under the watchful eye of the selector.
VASK had prepared a very warm welcome for the coach of our representative team, and he managed to have a conversation with each of the coaches. Blengini had the opportunity to see the competitors while the coaches were able to chat with him and seek advice on their jobs. The interest on the part of the Bulgarian coaches was very high and for an hour they had a long talk with the Italian.
“It is an honor and a pleasure for us to be able to learn from Blengini’s experience and share what we are doing. Every one of the coaches talked a lot with him. He saw what we were doing. He praised us for some things, for others he showed us what to change with practical advice,” said one of the coaches from the Svetozar Ivanov school.
The training was attended by the president of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, Lubomir Ganev, as well as the member of the Management Board, Dimo Tonev.
The meeting with players and coaches from the VASK school is one of the many planned events of the national selector during his stay in Bulgaria. As it was announced by the BFF when Blendini was appointed, he will work actively with local specialists and will be in constant contact with clubs from all over the country. On Friday, the Italian coach will visit the school of “Heber” (Pazardzhik), and on Saturday, “Beroe” in Stara Zagora.
How does Gianlorenzo Blengini envision the collaboration between youth academies and the men’s national volleyball team?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Gianlorenzo Blengini, Coach of the Men’s National Volleyball Team
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Coach Blengini! Thank you for joining us today. It’s great to have you here, especially after your recent visit to the Stoychev-Kaziyski Volleyball Academy. How was the experience for you?
Gianlorenzo Blengini: Thank you for having me! It was truly an enlightening experience. Visiting VASK and observing the talented young athletes during their training sessions was invigorating. The dedication and passion displayed by the under-16, under-18, and under-20 teams were impressive.
Editor: It must have been quite a sight to witness all three teams training in the multi-purpose hall at the Vasil Levski National Sports Academy. Can you share your thoughts on the coaching methods and training techniques you’ve observed at VASK?
Blengini: Absolutely! The coaching staff at VASK employs a holistic approach to training. They focus not only on the technical aspects of volleyball but also on the mental and physical development of the players. Their ability to create a nurturing environment that fosters growth is commendable. Each age group was engaged in activities that were tailored to their specific needs and skill levels.
Editor: That’s fantastic! Given your extensive experience, how do you think the development framework at VASK aligns with your vision for nurturing young talent in national teams?
Blengini: It aligns perfectly. Talent development is crucial for the future of any national team. I believe that establishing a strong foundation at a young age helps create agile and resilient players. My goal is to incorporate successful practices from academies like VASK into our national training programs. This collaboration could bridge the gap between youth academies and the national team.
Editor: Collaboration sounds key! Were there any standout players during your visit who caught your attention?
Blengini: Yes, there were a few athletes who exhibited exceptional skills and potential. Their technique and understanding of the game were particularly impressive considering their age. It’s encouraging to see such talent coming up through the ranks, and I believe with the right guidance, they could make significant contributions to our national team in the future.
Editor: That’s wonderful to hear. What are your thoughts on the importance of cultivating a strong volleyball culture at the grassroots level in Bulgaria?
Blengini: It’s essential! A strong grassroots culture not only enhances the quality of play but also encourages more young people to participate in the sport. It creates a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for the sport’s growth. Supporting initiatives like VASK can lead to a more sustainable volleyball ecosystem where players, coaches, and fans all thrive together.
Editor: Great insights, Coach. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to young athletes aspiring to excel in volleyball?
Blengini: I want them to remember that dedication, hard work, and resilience are key. Embrace every opportunity to learn, whether it’s from coaches, teammates, or even competitors. Stay committed to your goals, and never be afraid to dream big. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are incredible!
Editor: Thank you so much for your time, Coach Blengini. Your passion for the sport and commitment to developing future talent is truly inspirational!
Blengini: Thank you! It’s an honor to share my thoughts, and I look forward to the bright future of Bulgarian volleyball.