Photo credit: https://brankodukic.hr/

Zadar is the host of SEHA – Gazprom League Final 4 tournament for the second time in two years. What importance does organizing an event like this have for the city of Zadar and 'SC Visnjik'?

Organizing a big international tournament in Zadar, as well as in 'SC Visnjik', is the best promotion of sporting values which familiarize citizens with the beauties of each and every sport we arrange here. In that way we can improve the whole system and promote our city. We want to show that investing in sports infrastructure can better the society, while helping us reach our full potential as a touristic destination. Economic effects can and will follow, if we devote to that plan.

Zadar has a lot of experience with organizing major sporting manifestations. This year, you have been listed as one of the European cities of sports, which obviously means a lot to everyone from Zadar. How will it affect your tourism and sports?

Zadar has met the criteria for winning this title by improving our infrastructure, starting recreational activities for people of all ages, organizing prestigious events and simply telling people to take up sports. This title is, as I already mentioned, really important for Zadar to be recognized in entire Europe. We want to be seen as promoters of noble values, while exchanging experiences with other title holders who know what importance sport holds.

Citizens of Zadar have a lot of sports acitivities to choose from. Is there anything which you take the most pride in, regarding what you offer to your people?  

Every program we start is commendable and we take a lot of pride in them. Therefore, I won't mention one of them as the 'most commendable'. All we can do is thank everyone who participates in making that activities available to each and every child and person. They do everything in their power to inform people about the benefits which sports bring.

You also know your way around sports, since you were a gymnast and played basketball. Have you ever tried playing handball?

I've never played handball personally, but I am a passionate observer. It is a physically demanding, dynamic sport which is fun to watch. Due to its attractiveness and judging by the fact Croatian national team has won a bunch of silverware, it is safe to say Croats always show love for the game of handball.

Many successful athletes were born here (eg. Valcic brothers, Ivan Nincevic, etc.). Do citizens show great interest in playing handball, and how much do you invest in making handball available to them? 

We have three clubs in Zadar which are co-financed - after taking their clubs' ranking into consideration. Also, using facilities free of charge helps the teams maintain their training schedules. Investments are no exception as they play a great role in school sports development, while also giving us the best conditions for holding events like national championships, sports summer schools, etc.

What are your plans for the future regarding sports events? Is there a chance for another Zadar Final 4?

Not only do we see a chance for that, we know it is possible. We also hope that other sports organizations see what an opportunity it is to hold an important tournament here. Our sports and infrastructure investments will resume, as well as our plans to become a world-known sports destination.