Get to know your Vulcans: Katya Kopanarova

Interviewed by Joshua Laska - Sports/Managing Editor

I had mixed feeling about coming to America to play volleyball.  I was very scared to make such a big change by moving to America and also so far away from my family. I’m glad that I came to America because it gave me the opportunity to learn a new language and get done with my education while playing volleyball.

 Did you know English when you first moved to America or did you have to learn as you went?

To be honest I didn’t know a word in English when I came. I was walking around with a giant dictionary to help me translate stuff into Bulgarian.

How much different is it playing at the Cal than in Bulgaria?

Well, there aren’t a lot of differences between playing at Cal and playing in Bulgaria. The rules are slightly different there then from back in Bulgaria.

How hard was it to adjust to college play?

I would say that it was a little strange and first, but I adjusted pretty fast. I wouldn’t say that was hard, it was more fun that it was hard.

What was the hardest thing to learn at the college level?

I would say the hardest thing way to learn how to be a student-athlete. As a student-athlete we have limited time that we have to manage between school, social life and practices.

How do you stay “in the game” during the offseason?

When our short season ends in November, I spent my time in the gym doing cardio and also lifting.

 What originally got you into volleyball?

My father got me into volleyball because he used to be a volleyball player, and he wanted me to be one too.

How many years have you played volleyball?

I’ve played volleyball for 12 years now.

What is one interesting fact that not everyone would know about you?

I can squirt milk out of my left eye.

Where are you from and where did you go to High School?

I’m from Razlog, Bulgaria, but I went to high school in Sofia, Bulgaria.

 What do you plan on doing after college?

My plan is to get a job in Sports, and to be more specific as an athletic director.

What is your favorite tv show?

Hmm, my favorite TV show is South Park.

 Who are your favorite sports teams?

I know that nobody will know this team but Trentino Italy is one of my favorite volleyball teams.

What is your favorite food?

American or Bulgarian? My favorite American food is cheesecake, haha.

 What is your favorite movie?

I would say that “Sweeney Todd” is #1 on my list for now!

Do you have a favorite quote?

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss