Long Beach State’s Simeon ‘Moni’ Nikolov is electrifying the college volleyball scene, becoming a standout star known for his exceptional skills and, most notably, his record-breaking serve. This true freshman has not only made a name for himself but has also etched his name in NCAA history by achieving the Fastest Volleyball Serve ever recorded.
Nikolov didn’t just break the record; he obliterated his own previous best, increasing the speed by an astonishing four miles per hour. This feat underscores his rapid development and dominance in the sport. His serves are proving to be a formidable challenge for opponents, often described as a nightmare to receive due to their sheer velocity and power.
Moni Nikolov, Long Beach State volleyball player, preparing for a powerful serve, highlighting his record-breaking fastest volleyball serve in NCAA history
The volleyball community anticipates Nikolov being crowned Freshman of the Year in college volleyball. Hailing from Bulgaria, Nikolov arrived at Long Beach with considerable international acclaim, and he is undoubtedly living up to the hype. Volleyball is in his blood; his father’s professional career spanned until 2016, and his older brother represents the Bulgarian National Team and was recognized as an AVCA National Player of the Year at Long Beach State—the same institution where Moni is now making waves.
Experts predict a swift transition to professional volleyball for Nikolov. With demonstrated interest from top-tier clubs in Russia, Italy, and Poland, this season might be his only year in college athletics. His talent at such a young age is undeniable, and witnessing his prowess at 18 years old is truly remarkable.
Long Beach State is currently positioned as a top-three team nationally, largely due to Nikolov’s multifaceted contributions. Beyond his record-setting serve, Nikolov exhibits exceptional court vision as a setter, impressive hitting ability, and significant defensive presence at the net thanks to his height of 6-foot-8.
While most setters are not celebrated for their all-around athleticism, Nikolov is an anomaly, excelling in every aspect of the game: passing, setting, serving, hitting, and blocking. However, it is his serve that stands out as his ultimate weapon.
Last month against Lewis, Nikolov initially broke the NCAA in-game serve speed record, clocking in at 80 miles per hour. He then surpassed this benchmark at the Walter Pyramid against Vanguard, unleashing a serve that registered an incredible 84 miles per hour.
Even when opponents manage to receive Nikolov’s serves, often impressively, the extraordinary speed and force behind each serve are undeniable. The fastest serve ever recorded in volleyball at any level is 86 miles per hour. Moni Nikolov, at just 18, is already on the cusp of matching this all-time record, signaling a bright future and potentially redefining the limits of volleyball serving.
