The junior team of Budućnost Volley showcased their dominance by clinching the Montenegrin championship title, but this isn’t their only commendable achievement this season. Milena Ćetković and her teammates have made quite the impact.

The young volleyball talents have inspired the senior team, helping them achieve a remarkable feat in Montenegrin women’s volleyball: the elimination of Luka Bar in the semi-finals of the playoffs and securing the championship at the finals after a 13-year wait.

Captain Milena Ćetković, an 18-year-old middle blocker, was honored as the best player of the junior final tournament, playing a vital role in the senior team’s impressive comeback against Luka Bar.

This season will surely be one to remember for her.

“We approached the final tournament with no pressure but a strong sense of responsibility toward the jersey we wear and each other. We knew we had the talent to go far, and this title confirms our unity. I am especially thrilled to be named the best player of the tournament; it’s an honor seldom given to a middle blocker. As captain, I couldn’t be prouder of my team. This marked a great conclusion to the season, and I sincerely thank everyone who believed in us,” said Milena Ćetković in an interview with odbojka.me.

Milena put forth an astounding performance in the second match of the senior women’s playoff semifinals against Luka Bar, even while battling a fever. The opposing team led 1:0 in the series, 2:0 in sets during the second game, and held a match point at 13:9 in the third set…

What followed became a pivotal moment in the history of Montenegrin volleyball. Budućnost celebrated as they turned the series around, with Milena Ćetković potentially making the deciding contribution.

“It wasn’t just about my high fever; I even spent a night in the emergency room receiving IV fluids, which indicates my poor health at that moment. It undoubtedly limited my usual performance on the court, but that’s why the team’s support meant so much to me. The girls displayed incredible energy, aiming to elevate me as I usually do for them. That experience was special and further solidified our team spirit,” Milena reflected.

One match shaped a season, but a single game doesn’t define a season. Similarly, one block or one shot doesn’t determine a game…

“I wouldn’t attribute our success solely to that reaction and emotion, but mainly to our dedication, discipline, thorough preparation, and tactical gameplay. The crucial ‘match points’ we saved only underscore the team’s character.”

In summary, it was an exceptional season for Milena, who is a potential senior national team player for Montenegro.

“This season holds significant meaning for me. It was tremendously demanding and exhausting, but the payoff at the end makes all the hard work worthwhile. I have progressed a lot, both as a player and as an individual, and I believe that’s evident on the court.”

At the close of 2023, she renewed her contract with Budućnost Volley.

“Budućnost occupies a unique space in my heart. I extended my contract a year and a half ago, believing in the project and the people involved – and I was proven right. Budućnost operates at the highest professional level. From the coach to my teammates, and the entire management, we share the same goals, dedication, and energy. You can sense that every day. To me, Budućnost isn’t merely a club; it’s a family. This connection means a lot to me, both emotionally and athletically.”

Milena credits her volleyball beginnings to her older sister.

“As a child, I was encouraged to engage in sports and received unwavering support. I started playing volleyball because my sister did, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps. Over time, I fell deeply in love with the sport. Although I dabbled in different sports, volleyball sparked a unique passion within me – everything just fell into place.”

She holds onto her volleyball aspirations fiercely, perhaps revealing them one day after realization.

“I prefer to keep my goals personal, but I always aim for continuous improvement – both as a volleyball player and as a woman. I believe that development is a lifelong journey. Naturally, one of my ambitions is to play for a major international club in the future, as I see that experience as pivotal in shaping both a player and a person.”

Milena’s ultimate wish is to don the jersey of the senior Montenegrin national team.

“Representing my home country is a tremendous honor and pride for every athlete. Therefore, I trust the coach will recognize my potential to wear the red jersey, just as I envision myself doing.”

When she looks around, she perceives a significant surge in volleyball.

“I consider myself a perpetual optimist and I genuinely believe that increasing investments are being made into Montenegrin volleyball. If this trend continues and is executed strategically, I foresee a real awakening and advancement to a higher level in the future. The potential is certainly there.”

Milena admires…

“My favorite player is Adenizia Ferreira. Though it’s wise to have few idols in life, I look up to her with profound admiration. She represents what a player should embody. The energy she brings to the court and her overall presence translate into outstanding performance. For me, that sets the standard I aspire to reach,” concludes Milena Ćetković.

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