Salem International Assistant Coach Nikola Malenazov Named to World University Games Coaching Staff

SALEM, W.V. -- Salem International University assistant water polo coach Nikola Malenazov has been named to the United States coaching staff for the 2009 World University Games.

The World University Games, also known as Universiade, are organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU) with over 10,000 athletes taking part in 15 different sports. The event is limited to collegiate student athletes and is the second largest international athletic event in scope behind only the Summer Olympics.

The largest sporting event organized in the world this year, the 2009 games will be held in Belgrade, Serbia from July 1-12.

“It is my pleasure and honor to take a part in the World University Games as a member of United States national team. The games will be a great challenge for the athletes that will play an important role for the future US National Team. The athletes will gain experience that will be priceless," he noted.

A native of Serbia and a member of the North East Water Polo Zone Developmental Coaching Staff for the past two seasons, he is currently completing a Masters of Education degree in Coaching and Exercise Science at Salem International.

A professional player in the Serbia Top 8 League for three years, he started his coaching career in 2000.  A successful coach in national age group competitions for players in the 12, 14, 16 and 18 year age groups, Malenazov has assisted at several Serbian National Training Camps and clinics for young players.

A member of the North East Water Polo Zone Developmental Coaching Staff for the past two seasons where his age group teams have fared well in national competition.