In the heart of Zagreb, Jarun Lake is once again a centre for beach handball fans with the Jarun Cup highlighting its reputation as one of the most important and famous competitions in the sport, bringing together players and spectators of all ages across four days of action.
For children, parents and coaches, this tournament represents more than just a game: an opportunity for new friendship, development and learning, with just under 40 boys’ and girls’ teams registering for competitions featuring generations born in 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014 or younger.
In nature, in the fresh air
Nevenka Marjanovic, mother of two players from RK Dobava in Slovenia, says that her family is very happy to be here for their fifth year in a row.
“For us, being here is great,” says Marjanovic, talking under the shade of trees next to the court her children were playing on.
“We always take the opportunity for the children to socialise outside in the fresh air and I have to say that the people here in Zagreb are amazing, which adds to the whole atmosphere – we are in nature, the weather is good and there is no better combination.”
Expanding competition
And how does everything looks from the coach perspective? After winning their latest match, coach Filip Mlinaric of Zagreb-based side BHC Dubrava, was happy to share his thoughts.
“Absolutely yes,” replied Mlinaric was asked about if the Jarun Cup is improving every year. “We can’t complain about anything. I’m very happy to see more and more teams on the list.
“I’m glad that my team is playing outside,” he added. “Between games they are meeting others, we make some food, joke around and, of course, play football.”
A starting step towards a national team journey
BHC Dubrava have won a medal every year they have competed at the Jarun Cup and, now in 2025, are hoping for the same.
That is not surprising since there is a Croatia national youth team player in their side, Karlo Grkovic, one who started on his pathway to representing his country on the shores of Lake Jarun.
“I started playing beach handball when I was 10 years old and the Jarun Cup was my first tournament. I liked it and continued to train and compete,” he explained.
“Coach Stjepan Babic then invited me to join the junior national team and I have already played at the European Championship, with the same event coming this year. I plan to continue playing this sport for a long time.”
Karlo is an example of how small steps can make a huge result. Besides being an excellent athlete, he is also a volunteer for the first time this year, helping with match statistics and everything else in between.
The passion and hard work shown by Karlo and many others like him at the Jarun Cup help ensure the event continues to provide unforgettable moments and a reminder of how important sport can be. It is not just a competition but a festival of sport, friendship and passion.
Words: Tea Šeparović
Picture: Paweł Jakubowski/PAWI.PL