Ljubljana, Slovenia – In a world constantly seeking innovation and unique experiences, the annual “Volleyball on Water” event in Ljubljana stands out as a beacon of creative sports entertainment. Transforming the tranquil Ljubljanica River into a vibrant arena, this event defies conventional boundaries, offering a spectacle that captivates both seasoned athletes and curious onlookers. It’s a testament to how imagination, combined with athletic prowess, can elevate a sport to a truly magical level, literally on water.
An Unparalleled Setting: The Floating Court
The core of this extraordinary event is its venue: a specially constructed, partially submerged, floating platform on the Ljubljanica. By day, it’s an ingenious court; by night, it transforms into a dazzling, LED-lit battleground. This isn`t just a gimmick; it`s a fundamental element that redefines the game, demanding a different kind of movement and strategy from players accustomed to sand or solid ground. As Kristina Taja Grünfeld, project manager from the Extrem agency, aptly puts it, the aim is to allow visitors to experience the magic of the Ljubljanica with “as many senses as possible.” Indeed, the sensory experience extends far beyond the visual, encompassing the unique sounds of the game echoing across the water and the palpable excitement of the crowd.
The Tournament: Global Talent on a Liquid Stage
At its heart, “Volleyball on Water” is a serious competition. The recent edition saw 32 players from 14 countries across three continents converging on Ljubljana, all eager to test their skills in this distinctive environment. The matches, as always, were nothing short of electrifying. The women`s final was a thrilling rematch from the previous year, with Polish duo Monika Jagla and Malgorzata Vlk triumphing over the previously undefeated Slovenian cousins Nina Lovšin and Tajda Lovšin. Monika Jagla`s exceptional performance earned her the MVP title.
In the men`s bracket, the defending Czech champion Martin Melmuka, paired with local favorite Alan Košenina, faced a formidable challenge. They ultimately conceded the crown to the New Zealand duo Jack McManaway and Ben O’Dea, with Ben O’Dea being named MVP for his stellar play. These results underscore the high level of competition and the unpredictable nature of playing volleyball where the court surface isn`t entirely static.
Winners Circle:
-
Women:
- 1st: Monika Jagla/Malgorzata Vlk (POL)
- 2nd: Nina Lovšin/Tajda Lovšin (SLO)
- 3rd: Maja Marolt/Zoja Kalar (SLO)
- MVP: Monika Jagla
-
Men:
- 1st: Jack McManaway/Ben O’Dea (NZL)
- 2nd: Alan Košenina/Martin Melmuka (SLO/CZE)
- 3rd: Malo Foncarnier/Iskander El Ghouti (FRA)
- MVP: Ben O’Dea
More Than Just a Game: A Cultural Festival
What truly sets “Volleyball on Water” apart is its ambition to be more than just a sports tournament. It`s a holistic experience, weaving together elite competition with a rich tapestry of cultural and culinary delights. Spectators filling the riverbanks and bridges were treated to an array of performances, including the captivating dances of Miha Krušič’s Pro Dance studio, the astounding acrobatic feats of Acro Connection (of Slovenia’s Got Talent fame), and the mind-bending illusions of the internationally renowned Magic Alexander. The Classy Band added a harmonious soundtrack, performing Ljubljana evergreens from the “Voice of Ljubljanica” program.
Complementing the visual and auditory feast was a gourmet culinary offering from Michelin-starred chef Luka Košir`s Grič restaurant, ensuring that the “experience with as many senses as possible” was indeed fulfilled. It’s an interesting fusion: elite sports demanding peak physical performance, immediately juxtaposed with sophisticated dining and artistic expression. One might even suggest it’s an attempt to elevate the humble act of watching a ball game into an almost highbrow cultural event. And judging by the enthusiastic applause, it works.
Voices from the Event: Athletes, Ambassadors, and Avid Fans
The event also drew the attention of high-profile figures, including members of the Slovenian men’s national volleyball team, who were present during their Nations League preparations. Rok Možič, the event`s ambassador and a celebrated national team player, remarked on its promotional value for volleyball. “This event is a good promotion for Volleyball in general. It always attracts a lot of people, and it is something you do not experience every day,” he stated. He also highlighted the unique physical demands: “The movement is slower, but because of the water it’s more demanding.” While his national team commitments have prevented him from trying the court himself, his endorsement speaks volumes about the event`s reputation.
Perhaps the most compelling testament to the event`s magnetic appeal came from an unexpected quarter: three Americans who, after discovering “Volleyball on Water” on social media, rerouted their entire European trip from Amsterdam to Ljubljana just to witness – and participate in – this phenomenon. Ariana from Los Angeles expressed her awe: “Crazy! When I showed my friends the videos, they were thrilled. I never imagined that I would even be able to play on this court. This is a truly extraordinary project, and if it were brought to California, it would definitely be a big hit.” Her vision of replicating such a spectacle on the American coast or lakes underscores the global potential of this innovative concept.
A Blueprint for the Future of Sports Entertainment?
“Volleyball on Water” is more than just a summer tournament; it`s a bold reimagining of how sports can integrate with urban landscapes and cultural programming. Ljubljana has successfully carved out a niche, transforming its picturesque river into a stage for athletic excellence and artistic flair. The event not only promotes volleyball but also enhances Ljubljana`s image as a dynamic, innovative city capable of hosting world-class spectacles. As the success stories of international visitors and the enthusiastic endorsements from athletes continue to grow, it`s clear that this floating volleyball court might just be a harbinger of a new wave of interactive, multi-sensory sports events globally.
