The Montenegrin women’s volleyball team has convened in Podgorica to kick off “Operation Golden League”.

This gathering at the “Voko” complex marks the first under new coach Jovo Caković, and it’s not just a preparation for the upcoming tournament; it symbolizes the team’s renewed focus and determination.

Montenegro is gearing up for the final round of European Championship qualifiers in August. With a historic opportunity to reach the finals, a single victory is crucial in their matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina away and Latvia at home.

The leadership transition, coupled with the recent achievements of the pioneering national team—Montenegro’s first women’s team to qualify for the European Championship—has fostered a fresh vibe, atmosphere, and positive momentum in women’s volleyball.

“I’m excited for this new beginning and the upcoming challenges for all of us—coaching staff and players alike. Our hope is to remain healthy, work hard, and achieve positive results,” stated coach Jovo Caković.

The national team has 20 days to prepare, which should be sufficient for the players to acclimate to the new coaching staff.

They will face Spain on May 30th in Podgorica, followed by a match against Ukraine two days later on June 1st.

“We aim to present our best selves since this is our inaugural appearance in the Golden League. We previously competed in the Silver League and earned our promotion. This will allow us to encounter new national teams and assess our level, identifying areas for improvement. The forthcoming 20 days will be crucial for us to connect with our new coach and coaching staff,” commented Saška Đurović, middle blocker for Sporting Lisbon.

During the second weekend of the Golden League, Montenegro will travel to Slovakia for a tournament, facing the Azerbaijani national team on June 7th and the host nation on June 8th.

The third tournament is scheduled in Hungary from June 13 to 15, where Montenegro will kick off with a match against Hungary on June 13, followed by another against Portugal the next day.

“Playing from weekend to weekend gives us ample time for rest; we eagerly anticipate a fresh start. The fact that our first match is at home in front of our fans is a great opportunity for us to enter the tournament in a relaxed manner. Our primary goal remains qualifying for the European Championship—this year, we have a real chance, needing just one win. However, we must stay focused, cautious, and take our approach seriously, just as we have done thus far. We’re excited to collaborate with our new coach, who is familiar to us, as we hope to achieve great success and learn something new,” Saška Đurović added.

Jovo Caković found the working conditions to be exceptionally conducive.

“I expect dedication and serious effort in this excellent venue. The conditions are superb, and we must avoid any comfort zones. In the coming days, we will conduct an ‘X-ray’ of the team to assess our health status and identify available players for the start. Danijela Džaković has unfortunately announced her absence from this expedition but expects to be ready for the European Championship qualifiers. The return of Nikoleta Perović is crucial, and we look forward to some young players getting their chance,” Caković noted.

“I want to express my gratitude to the Volleyball Federation of Montenegro, which has made tremendous efforts to ensure excellent working conditions for us. We have received support in every possible way. We strive for victories, which are paramount, but I also view defeats as learning experiences,” Caković concluded.

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