The ultimate goal is to qualify for the European Championship, and Montenegro’s senior men’s national volleyball team aims to build a solid foundation for the future, as expressed by 22-year-old Vukašin Cimbaljević, a new addition to the Budva roster.

Due to an “uncommon” but sports-related injury, the former Galeb, Vojvodina, and Mladost Ribola player was unable to participate in the CEV Golden League matches—competitions that featured formidable opponents.

Although Montenegro did not secure victories in those matches, they gained invaluable experience.

“While training in the gym, a weight accidentally fell on my finger. Currently, I’m playing and training with bandages, but I can confidently say that the injury has nearly healed. I did miss a lot of time, but that’s part of the sport,” Cimbaljević remarks.

Preparations are intensifying in Kolašin, where Ivica Jevtić’s squad is gearing up for the final qualifier rounds.

The upcoming matches against the Czech Republic (away on August 13th) and Norway (home on August 17th) may not have major implications for competition, as our team holds only a theoretical chance of qualifying for Eurovolley. However, they can serve as an opportunity to showcase our potential.

We are getting ready for the final qualifier round with focused effort and positive energy. The atmosphere is fantastic; the team is united and motivated to give their best. Our expectations are realistic, and we will play without the burden of result pressure. Our aim is to witness progress and evolve as a team with each game. We aspire to demonstrate character, enhance our gameplay, and establish a solid foundation for the future,” Cimbaljević states.

Montenegro is undergoing a generational transition, with a recent successful series of three consecutive European Championship qualifiers, paving the way for younger players to take center stage.

Next year’s Eurovolleyball may likely be held without Montenegro, but new talents are emerging, prepared to continue from where the previous generation left off in the coming cycle.

The primary objectives in the matches against the Czech Republic and Norway are to give all players a chance to shine while continuing the process of team-building for future cycles. We have a youthful and talented team eager to progress. Coach Ivica Jevtić instills fresh energy and a clear strategy, which boosts our confidence. I believe that through hard work and unity, we have a promising future ahead,” expresses Vukašin Cimbaljević.

Amidst a generational shift, and plagued by injuries, Montenegro couldn’t quite mark their debut in the Golden League. Or could it…

We might win a few more sets or perhaps even another match, but we need to stay realistic—injuries and the ongoing generational transition have made things quite challenging, especially regarding our Golden League debut. Our focus now is on building a new team and providing opportunities for younger players.

Cimbaljević is making a comeback after his injury.

I am content with my role in the team because, even though I haven’t been able to contribute on the court, I strive to support from the sidelines. In the upcoming qualifiers, I expect us to continue evolving as a team and further refine our game.

At just 22 years old, he has already made significant strides at the club level.

Playing for Vojvodina has been an enriching experience, allowing me to be part of a club with an esteemed history and high aspirations. I learned a great deal about the professional realm of volleyball, which proved invaluable for the rest of my career. At Mladost Kaštela, I found increased opportunities on the court and the chance to take on greater responsibilities. Competing in the Croatian league helped build my confidence and was crucial for my development both as a player and an individual.

Starting next season, Vukašin Cimbaljević will don the jersey of Budva, the most successful domestic club and current champions.

I chose to return to Budva because I wish to be part of the club with the most championships in Montenegro, working together to achieve success in both the domestic league and the MEVZA League and Challenge Cup. I am eager for the challenges ahead.

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