The presidential candidate for Vatepolo and the Swimming Association of Montenegro, Veljko Uskoković, has responded to an article titled “Nikola Milić at the helm of VPSCG?” which was published in “Vijesti” yesterday.

The full statement from the former captain of Montenegro’s national water polo team is as follows.

“As I am one of the nominees for the president of VPSCG, I find myself somewhat taken aback by the article posted on your website. Just days before the election of the VPSCG’s lead position, it appears that there is an inclination to favor one candidate based on unsubstantiated claims, thereby misguiding and shaping public perception.

I would like to highlight that I accepted the nomination from my home club, Primorca, in accordance with a gentleman’s agreement between the clubs from Kotor and Herceg Novi regarding the rotating management position. My aim is to initiate a shift away from the current management approach in the Association while fully respecting all smaller and younger clubs in Montenegro, as well as the two pillars of Montenegrin water polo: Jadran from Herceg Novi, which has a storied 98-year history, and Primorca from Kotor, which celebrated its 102nd anniversary.

Through conversations with numerous water polo enthusiasts, some of whom hold delegate positions in the Assembly, I have gathered their support; it seems a significant majority are eager for reform within our Association.

Our traditional sponsors remain committed, and I am also exploring opportunities with new sponsors who are interested in joining my team.

Furthermore, I propose the establishment of a new vice-presidential role focused on swimming to enhance the development of this immensely popular sport globally.

Throughout my athletic career, during which I have achieved nearly every accolade possible, I have been accustomed to fair and dignified competition. Given the various manipulations that have occurred during prior elections for our Association’s presidency, I feel compelled to address these issues publicly and alert the Montenegrin community to the ‘behind-the-scenes’ maneuvers that I wish to avoid. Instead, I aim to conduct my campaign openly and transparently, advocating for my candidacy based on my outlined plans and work agenda,” Uskoković stated.

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