“Let’s go and win!” is the resounding message from Petar Koković, the coach of the Montenegrin women’s pioneer volleyball team, as they make history by qualifying for the European Championship.

This marks a significant milestone, as his team becomes the first in the women’s category to clinch a spot in the finals of the continental championship. Their accomplishment was nothing short of remarkable, with the team triumphing in all three qualifying matches without dropping a single set.

The European Championship is set to take place from July 2 to 13 in Tirana and Pristina. Montenegro will compete against not only the host nation Kosovo but also formidable teams including Turkey, Croatia, Hungary, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, and Greece.

Koković expressed satisfaction with the draw.

“In a competition format featuring two groups of eight teams, avoiding the strongest contenders is challenging. We have previously defeated Turkey, while Italy and Poland are in the same group, so we can be pleased with the draw. I believe we can compete well against the other teams,” Koković shared with Odbojka.me.

Recently, Montenegro faced Slovenia, the tournament hosts, in Maribor during the qualifying rounds, setting the stage for their upcoming match in the finals.

The team’s 3:0 victory exemplifies the ambition and confidence propelling Koković’s players into the Euro Volleyball competition.

“Our win over Slovenia in Maribor, amidst a packed crowd, was the standout performance of this generation, highlighting the girls’ talent. I had highlighted this match as a key benchmark for us, and it’s significant that we will meet Slovenia again in the European Championship,” Koković stated.

Reflecting on their achievement in early January after reaching the second round of qualifying in Sofia, Koković remarked: “We have gems in our team, and we intend to keep thriving!”

He reiterates this belief, noting that the team has advanced significantly, culminating in their dominant performance in the second round of qualifying and heading into the championship.

“What we anticipated has been validated: this truly is an exceptional generation. Every accomplishment by the girls was well-deserved—including the two who unfortunately had to withdraw after the preparations. What brings me the most joy is that during challenging moments, which every team faces, their collective strength and character shone through. Collaboratively, they overcame obstacles, which speaks to the team’s greatest asset,” he added.

Montenegro secured their place in the European Championship by defeating Slovakia and Romania in Maribor, both with a convincing 3:0 scoreline, ahead of their decisive match against Slovenia, which they also won.

“When we learned the names of our opponents, we recognized that our first match against Slovakia could be pivotal—essentially a final. However, we knew victory was within reach if we prepared thoroughly. That win opened all avenues for us, leading us to confidently confront Romania. We accomplished all necessary preparations before facing Slovenia, who are a serious contender on their home turf, and I am particularly pleased that in this match we validated everything we accomplished since this talent group first bonded,” Koković mentioned.

Koković attributes the team’s success to his dedicated staff as well.

“My entire coaching team—including first assistant Nikola Radomirović, psychologist Andrea Laković, fitness coach Jovan Ristić, and scout Ognjen Marković—have my gratitude. Special thanks to the national team’s head coach Jovo Caković, who attended every training in Stara Pazova, traveled with us to Maribor, and provided invaluable support. I also appreciate the Volleyball Federation for facilitating exceptional preparations; what we had in Stara Pazova is characteristic of elite teams and athletes,” Koković remarked.

His players are determined to meet expectations and deliver on the ambitions they have set for themselves with their impressive results.

Returning to his initial message, Koković asserts:

“We are heading to Pristina with the aim to continue winning.”

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