The head coach of the Montenegrin women’s pioneer volleyball team, Petar Koković, did not want to single out the players after their phenomenal success at the tournament in Sofia and their placement in the second round of the European Championship qualifiers, but a cursory look at the statistics – the number of points won, whether through spikes or directly from the serve… speaks volumes about the contribution of 14-year-old Buducnost Voljey setter Klara Đukić.

Volleyball has been Klara’s love – since she was a child, and in an interview for the Volleyball Federation website, she talks about growing up in sports, goals and dreams, balancing it with school obligations, and the support of her family, and especially her grandfather.

“I was glad to have the opportunity to play for the national team and represent my country at such a big competition. It is an honor that cannot be described in words. We knew that we had a difficult task ahead of us because we were in a strong group, but we managed to fight through it, give our best and achieve a result that we are proud of. I think we surprised both the audience and the national teams that were perhaps stronger than us on paper. That sense of unity and fighting spirit, as well as the support we had, further motivate us to continue,” said Klara, the second server and third hitter of the qualifying tournament in which Montenegro defeated Serbia for the first time in history, and also celebrated against Romania and Greece.

Klara Đukić started training volleyball because many of her friends were part of that sport.

“I decided to join them. Through training and socializing, I realized that I enjoy every moment spent on the court. Over time, I felt that volleyball was the sport that suited me best, because it brought me a sense of fulfillment.”

She was only six years old then…

“I started at the Academy club, where I spent seven years, gained basic knowledge, developed technique and learned what teamwork means. After that period, I received an invitation from Buducnost, a club that was a step forward in my development. It was a great challenge for me, but also an opportunity to further prove myself and improve. Today I actively play for Buducnost, giving my best in every training session and match.”

Although volleyball was a natural sporting choice because of her height and, as she says, her love for the sport and all the challenges it brings, something else attracted her.

“What attracted me most was the dynamics of the game, teamwork and the opportunity to constantly improve. I also tried my hand at karate, but as I went through different sports, I realized that volleyball was the one that suited me best. This sport fulfills me and motivates me to give my best, and it gives me a sense of accomplishment that I haven’t experienced in other activities. As I developed my passion for volleyball over the years, I realized that it was a sport in which I wanted to leave my mark, and that became my commitment,” the talented proofreader points out.

Klara is a ninth-grade student at the “Dragiša Ivanović” Elementary School.

“Balancing school and volleyball commitments is sometimes not easy, and sometimes I have to skip classes because of training. However, I try to complete all my obligations on time and dedicate myself to both school and sports. I would like to thank the professors who are accommodating and help me balance school obligations and training. Their support means a lot to me and allows me to give my best in both fields.”

What does Klara’s typical day look like…

“It’s quite busy, dominated by school and volleyball commitments. I start the day early, get up to get ready for school, and after school I usually have training. Training is very important to me, so I dedicate myself to it to the fullest. Although the day is sometimes tiring, I try to have enough time to rest and relax. I manage to balance everything and feel satisfied, because I can balance school, sports, and social life.”

Of utmost importance to her, however, is the support of her family.

“My grandfather always gives me the greatest support, who is by my side in all challenges and moments when I need motivation. He often looks more at mistakes, which helps me to constantly improve. He is proud of everything I have learned so far and of my progress.”

So young, yet so dedicated – Klara Đukić knows all the “ingredients” for a successful sports journey.

“My wish is to continue to progress and one day have the opportunity to play abroad, for big volleyball clubs in Europe. That is my big goal and motivation for my daily work. I hope that my health will accompany me throughout the whole journey, because I know that in sports, both dedication and physical fitness are key to achieving top results.”

He also emphasizes how important it is to play sports, even from a young age…

“Sports help with physical development, but also with gaining self-confidence, for all girls and boys my age. In addition, it provides an opportunity for socialization, learning teamwork and developing mental strength. Sports teach us how to deal with challenges and failures, which is useful not only in the game, but also in life.”

Klara and her friends are now waiting for the final round of qualifications for the European Championship in April, with a great desire – to qualify for the European Championship.

“I believe that we are a good generation that still needs to be worked with and that we have the potential for great results. Although great challenges await us, I believe that we have the necessary dedication and team strength to achieve a place in the European Championship. Given our work and motivation, anything is possible, and this tournament in April can be a great opportunity for us to show our potential and reach our goal step by step.”

Finally, there are role models…

“It’s Melisa Vargas, because of her attitude towards the game and her attitude on the court. Her passion for the sport, positive energy and the way she handles challenges motivate me. Also, she plays in the same position as me, which gives me even more reason to watch her and learn from her. Her work and successes are an inspiration to constantly improve and give my best,” concluded Klara.

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