The inaugural memorial tournament “Slobodan Slobo Jablan” took place on Sunday, December 22, at the Sports Center in Cetinje.

In the tournament, six teams participated: Lovćen, Libero Cetinje, and Galeb competed in the women’s division, alongside an exhibition match featuring Lovćen against last year’s veteran champions, “Krsto Radusinović” from Podgorica.

The event was inaugurated by Ivan Bošković, the general secretary of the Volleyball Association, who expressed the hope that Slobodan Jablan’s legacy, the man who revitalized volleyball in Prijestonica, would be honored through this tournament.

“We are not only here to compete but also to celebrate the life of the person who breathed life into volleyball in Cetinje, leaving a lasting impact on us all. Unfortunately, Slobo is no longer with us, and his absence is deeply felt. I had the privilege of knowing Slob and collaborating with him for many years, and I know he would take pride in seeing such a large gathering in his name.

His dedication to volleyball, his passion, and his selflessness have left an enduring mark on our sport and community. I’m certain he would be delighted by the energy, youth, and togetherness present here. This tournament serves not only as a platform to showcase our skills on the court but also as a reminder of the principles that Slobo embodied and promoted—friendship, integrity, and a love for volleyball.

This will become an annual tradition as Slobo Jablan’s name deserves to be remembered for generations. The Volleyball Federation of Montenegro fully supports this initiative and will aid in preserving Slobo’s legacy.

We are committed to ensuring that his name continues to inspire both current and future generations.

My heartfelt thanks go to everyone present today—players, coaches, organizers, and the audience. Your presence signifies how much Slobo meant to all of us.

May this tournament be a celebration of sport and friendship, fitting of its name,” stated Bošković.

Slobodan Borozan, the president of the “Lovćen” Volleyball Club, highlighted that Jablan joined the Cetinje club over four decades ago, contributing significantly to its development.

“Slobo came to the club in the mid-eighties, and through his hard work and dedication, he helped Lovćen to continually improve. He was an outstanding worker and a wonderful person who tirelessly championed the club’s progress. His efforts earned him recognition from the local administration, leading to him being named the best sports worker in Prijestonica in 2015,” Borozan remarked.

The memorial tournament was organized by the Volleyball Club “Lovćen,” with the support of the Volleyball Federation of Montenegro.

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