From Europe to NCAA Champions: Kristian Titriyski's Journey

In this episode of Volleyball Journeys, Kristian Titriyski shares his remarkable path from growing up in Bulgaria to becoming a standout player for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa men's volleyball program.

Kristian discusses how he first discovered volleyball, his development through club volleyball in Bulgaria, and his experiences representing Bulgaria on the national team. He also explains why he chose Hawaiʻi instead of turning professional immediately and what it was like adjusting to college volleyball, life in Hawaii, and the unique culture surrounding UH men's volleyball.

Throughout the conversation, Kristian offers valuable insights into the differences between European and NCAA volleyball, the importance of resetting mentally during matches, pregame rituals, scouting opponents, and the mentors who have helped shape his career. He also shares advice for younger hitters and international athletes considering playing college volleyball in the United States.

Whether you're a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this interview provides an inside look at one of the sport's rising international talents.

Key Topics Covered:
Discovering volleyball in Bulgaria
Club volleyball and national team experience
Why Kristian chose Hawaii
Adjusting to college and island life
European vs NCAA volleyball
Winning the 2025 Big West Championship at home
Mental reset strategies
Pregame rituals and scouting
Advice for young hitters
Mentors including Vlado Nikolov

0:00
3:00 discovering volleyball *
4:50 Club volleyball in Bulgaria
6:00 Getting involved with the National team **
7:24 Getting back with the boys in Bulgaria **
8:18 The volleyball hook **
9:45 Coming to Hawaii - Playing with Moni *
10:44 Going to Hawaii
11:40 Without college next steps would be playing pro
12:30 Why hawaii - Rado **
13:25 first impressions of hawaii **
15:35 Freshman year adjustments **
17:50 Difference of college ball vs the international ball
18:40 The level of play from european to college **
20:00 Highlights of playing at UH **
21:39 2025 winning the big west at Home **
23:05 advice for other players thinking about coming to the states **
23:50 One thing he wished knew before starting college volleyball **
25:00 what aspect of KTs game has improved the most **
25:50 the tension cracker **
27:20 Fast food **
27:50 spamusabee **
28:35 Resetting ***
32:30 Pre game rituals **
33:20 Scouting
34:14 the fan base at UH **
35:30 Advice for younger hitters ***
37:10 away from the court **
38:50 mentors ** Vlado **
40:14 Who is next - Moni
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