Montenegrin volleyball enthusiasts recently witnessed a moment of pure sporting catharsis as Luka BAR, in a display of calculated power and unwavering resolve, clinched their inaugural Women`s Montenegrin Super Cup title. This wasn`t merely a victory; it was a declaration, a decisive break from a three-season losing streak against their fiercest domestic rivals, OK HERCEG NOVI. The 3-1 win (25-22, 25-16, 20-25, 25-17) didn`t just add a trophy to their cabinet; it irrevocably shifted the narrative ahead of the hotly anticipated EPCG Super League season.
A Match of Minds and Muscle
From the first serve, the final was a contest not just of athleticism but of strategy. Luka BAR, fueled by the memory of past encounters, played with a precision that belied the pressure of the occasion. They took the first two sets, 25-22 and 25-16, establishing a dominant rhythm. However, OK HERCEG NOVI, known for their tenacity, mounted a spirited comeback in the third set, securing it 20-25. It was a brief flicker of hope for their rivals, perhaps a moment of doubt for Luka BAR, but ultimately, a temporary reprieve. In the decisive fourth set, Luka BAR regrouped, reasserted their control, and sealed the match with a convincing 25-17, ending the contest and securing their historic title.
Individual Brilliance Paves the Way
While volleyball is inherently a team sport, certain individuals rise to the occasion, their performances weaving the tapestry of victory. For Luka BAR, Captain Dijana Vuković was the undeniable architect of their success. Her remarkable comeback performance saw her tally an impressive 23 points, a testament to her leadership and skill. It was no surprise then that she was deservedly named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the match, an award presented by Ksenija Božović, Director of Women’s National Teams at OSCG.
Vuković wasn`t alone in her stellar contribution. National team player Teodora Čavić brought her formidable talent to bear, contributing 19 crucial points. The middle blocker, Aleksandra Šćekić, also showcased her prowess, reaching double digits with 12 points. The collective effort was further bolstered by Maša Dragojević (eight points), Andjela Kukobat (seven), and Tijana Tvrdišić (two), each playing their part in this monumental triumph.
Beyond the Court: A Celebration of Montenegrin Volleyball
The Super Cup final was more than just a clash between two clubs; it was a celebration of the entire Montenegrin volleyball community. The awards ceremony underscored this sentiment, with prominent figures from the sport and local institutions presenting the accolades.
Nikola Kažić, President of the Volleyball Federation of Montenegro (OSCG), presented the coveted trophy to the Luka BAR champions. Gold medals were awarded by Ana Martinović, Director of Communications, Marketing and Institutional Cooperation at Eagle Hills Montenegro, and Dušan Masoničić, President of the Board of Directors of the Port of Bar, symbolizing broad support for the sport.
Even in defeat, OK HERCEG NOVI received due recognition. Silver medals were presented to their players and coaching staff by Nevena Terzić and Petar Vukčević, members of the OSCG Board of Administration, with team captain Melisa Cenović receiving the finalist’s plaque from Ivan Bošković, OSCG Secretary General.
Crucially, the unsung heroes of the game – the match officials – were also honored. Supervisor Ana Ivanović and referees Jelena Mitrović and Slobodan Kovačević received their awards from Nikola Pješčić, OSCG Competitions Director. Special recognitions were also extended to Ana Ivanović and international referee Sonja Simonovska for their representation of Montenegrin Volleyball on the international stage, at the Women’s World Championship in Thailand and the 2025 CEV Women’s Champions League Final Four, respectively. Such acknowledgments highlight the depth and commitment within Montenegro`s volleyball infrastructure.
What`s Next for Luka BAR?
This Super Cup victory is not an endpoint but a powerful springboard. For Luka BAR, it represents a significant psychological boost and a strong statement of intent for the upcoming EPCG Super League. Having finally overcome their long-standing rivals, they enter the league season with newfound confidence and the momentum of a historic win. The volleyball world will undoubtedly be watching to see if this triumph signals a new era of dominance for Luka BAR, or if OK HERCEG NOVI will swiftly seek retribution on the league stage.
One thing is certain: Montenegrin women`s volleyball has just become significantly more interesting. The Super Cup has set a high bar, promising an exhilarating season filled with intense rivalry and exceptional talent.
