The inaugural volleyball aspiration has been fulfilled by Nađa Peković and her teammates, the trailblazers of the Montenegrin national team. They are members of the country’s first women’s squad to qualify for the finals of the European Championship through the qualifying rounds.

They continue to dream, eyes wide open.

At just 14 or 15 years old, these girls have already grasped the essence of dedication and quality—primarily, faith in their potential, and equally importantly, teamwork and camaraderie.

Sports yield outcomes in the long run; you reap what you sow. Petar Koković’s team invested everything they had, especially during the second qualifying tournament in Maribor, where they approached the European Championship with confidence.

The reward? The best possible outcome.

“The fact that the Montenegrin women’s national team has qualified for the European Championship for the first time, and did so without losing a single set in the qualifiers, brings an overwhelming sense of ‘lift-off’ and a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. Honestly, we never expected to play without dropping a set, but we arrived in Maribor in excellent physical condition, fueled by a strong will and the desire to achieve our best,” shares Nađa Peković on the website. of the Volleyball Association of Montenegro.

The critical factors for their success were multiple, as is often the case when defeating all opponents, including the group’s top favorite, the home team Slovenia.

“The essential ingredients for a successful performance include team spirit, harmony, understanding among teammates, and a fighting attitude. We’ve always had those qualities in abundance.”

A 3-0 victory over Slovenia felt euphoric, a realization that they possess more value than they may have initially believed…

“To beat the hosts 3-0 is an incredible sensation. We played with intensity and determination, even though we had already secured our place in the European Championship beforehand. We demonstrated that we can stand toe-to-toe with teams that were previously perceived as much stronger. With the European Championship ahead, my expectations are soaring.”

Montenegro will face the home team Kosovo, alongside Turkey, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, and again Slovenia in Group II of the European Championship, slated to take place in Pristina.

Nadja’s concise response regarding her thoughts on the draw indicates confidence—the draw isn’t what matters; it’s Montenegro’s belief in their abilities.

“Regarding the draw, I’m quite satisfied.”

At just 15, Nađa Peković is already a first-team player for Budućnost Volley, who are finalists in the EPCG Super League for women’s volleyball.

“I take immense pride in being part of the senior team at Budućnost, the club where I first embarked on my volleyball journey. From my first training session, I approached volleyball with seriousness, attentively soaking in the coaches’ advice and feedback. I am grateful for their dedication and patience,” she states.

Her journey began at seven and a half years old…

“Even back then, I exhibited strong physical attributes and evident talent. I fell in love with volleyball shortly after joining, which means the world to me. My aspiration is to play as extensively as possible, with the goal of being among the best. I have no specific idol, but I admire Maja Ognjenović’s style and gameplay.”

Like Maja, Nađa takes on the role of technician—the team’s strategist, responsible for orchestrating the game and inspiring her teammates.

“Initially, I tried out various positions, but the coaches soon identified me as a technician—a game organizer,” Nađa Peković concludes.

The interview wraps up, but this marks just the beginning.

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