The Montenegrin karate team achieved its objectives at the European Championships in Yerevan, successfully continuing its streak of impressive performances and securing the hosting rights for the continental championship in 2028, as stated by Predrag Perković, the president of the Karate Federation.

Perković expressed that the Karate Federation’s mission in Yerevan was highly successful, exceeding all expectations.

He highlighted that Nemanja Mikulić earned a silver medal, while Balša Vojinović, Nenad Dulović, and Vladimir Mijač captured bronze medals.

“With four medals won across both karate disciplines, we have achieved the best results in senior competitions to date. Congratulations to our national team members for their achievements and for proudly representing the emblem they wear,” Perković remarked during a press conference.

He noted that Montenegrin athletes had the opportunity for two more medal contests, suggesting that with a bit of luck, the results could have been even better.

“I would like to extend my congratulations to the selectors, local clubs, and coaches, as their dedication is fundamental to attaining such representative results.

Perković also expressed pride in winning the organization for the European Championship, emphasizing that Podgorica would once again host the best senior competitors in Europe after 39 years.

He praised the appointment of Veljko Brnović as Secretary General of the Mediterranean Karate Federation, which includes competitors from three continents.

Additionally, three Montenegrin referees officiated at what was described as the best-organized championship ever! Milica Bura, Miodrag Radunović, and Toko Raičević proved their place among the elite referees.

Silver medalist Nemanja Mikulić expressed gratitude toward his father and coach, Slađan Mikulić, asserting that none of this would have been possible without his support.

“I also thank coach Almir Cecunjanin and coach Žarko Raković, as well as my teammates from the national team. The medal reflects our continuous hard work and my journey so far. Competing was intense, but I managed to overcome the pressure and succeed,” said Mikulić.

The youngest medalist, Balša Vojinović, shared that he returns from his fifth continental championship with his fourth medal, marking his first in the senior category.

He noted that he also earned a medal at this year’s European Championship in the junior senior category.

“I am thankful to my coaches and sparring partners. Hard work has paid off, and I am proud to have won a medal in my debut senior competition at just 19 years old,” Vojinović stated.

Mijač, who made history by winning the first European individual kata medal for Montenegrin karate, expressed his honor at achieving this long-awaited recognition in individual competition.

“This is a clear result of hard work and effective organization within both my club and the national team,” he noted.

“I feel privileged to be part of a generation that is elevating karate standards in Montenegro. I specifically want to thank selector Milena Milačič, who has guided my development for over a decade. Her influence has been crucial to my success, as well as Almira Cecunjanin, who has supported me from the start,” Mijač added, extending birthday wishes to the selector in the most heartfelt manner!

He congratulated his fellow Montenegrin karate fighters on their medals, stating they represented their country with dignity.

Kata selector Milena Milačić expressed pride in being part of a team that has consistently achieved good results over the years.

“I am particularly proud of Mijač’s medal, as it reflects immense effort and dedication. I am thrilled that this historic achievement has come to fruition. Inner strength ultimately secured the result in a highly competitive environment, where nuances determine medal winners. We have raised the bar, and now it will require hard work on our part,” Milačić said.

Coach Almir Cecunjanin highlighted that Montenegrin karate fighters competed from five weight categories and won all three medal contests they participated in.

“This outcome speaks volumes about what we’ve accomplished. I am confident no other coach has achieved such a feat. I extend my thanks to President Perković and the Karate Federation for providing the conditions necessary for my competitors to feel like true athletes while representing Montenegrin karate in the best light,” Cecunjanin concluded.

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