Interview

Duško, good afternoon and welcome. We are glad that you could make time for us! In this interview, we would like to primarily delve into your sports career, the outstanding achievements you have attained as both an athlete and a coach, as well as your views on sports values and the essence of sports itself.

1. Let´s start with the first interview question - how would you describe your perspective on your sports career?

In reflecting on my sports career, I perceive it through three distinct time dimensions. Firstly, during my youth as an active athlete, my focus was primarily on the satisfaction derived from self-realization, visibility, and other features that young individuals typically strive for. I believe these features are crucial during this developmental stage as they contribute to shaping one's identity.

Secondly, during what is commonly referred to as middle age, when I transitioned into coaching, my involvement in sports became a blend of passion, personal fulfilment, and the satisfaction of achieving the goals I had set for myself.

Finally, at present, my sports career evokes a sense of contentment, knowing that I have realized the aspirations I once envisioned. This fulfilment allows me to shift my focus to pursuits that were previously side-lined due to my involvement in sports.

2. Among your sports accomplishments, which one holds the most significance to you, and what makes it particularly meaningful?

I evaluate the outcomes of my endeavours, spanning from my time as an athlete to later roles as a coach, by considering whether I reached or at least approached my full potential. This assessment encompasses both general achievements and successes in major sports competitions that culminated in medal performances. Reflecting on my journey, I firmly believe that I have approached my maximum capabilities in both capacities. As a result, I find contentment and fulfilment in what I have accomplished, without any exceptions or specific pref erences.

3. As a coach, you have had a significant impact on multiple generations of athletes. Is there a particular period in your coaching career that holds a special place in your memories?

Each and every generation of athletes that "passed through my hands" was different, specific, possessing its own unique qualities and characteristics. This presented a continual challenge for me, as I endeavoured to unlock each individual's maximum potential in alignment with my coaching philosophy. It was always a challenge for me trying to get the maximum potential out of the athlete based on their abilities, or at least get close to them, and such a work always fulfilled me completely. In this way, each generation has been an immensely rewarding experience. I deeply hope that my coaching career contributed to personal growth and development of athletes I used to work with.

4. From your perspective, what defines the essence of inclusion in sports?

I think I have already indicated many things in the previous answers and articulated a compelling point. Indeed, sports uniquely offer opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances or disadvantages. Sport is a space that gives and creates opportunities for everyone, without exception, even in the case of various disadvantages. It allows people to meet in a common space, as equals, on the same starting line. It serves as a platform where people from diverse backgrounds can come together on equal footing, sharing a common space. This inclusivity is unparalleled, providing a space where everyone can participate and thrive, regardless of differences. In a world where such inclusive spaces are often rare, sports stand out as a beacon of unity and equality. Where else can you find such a space for inclusion?

5. What sports values resonate with you the most? In what ways had sports the greatest impact on you?

Engaging in sports demands a profound respect for it as a phenomenon governed by rules, regularities, emotions, and values. In my opinion, you cannot truly practice sports without acknowledging and honouring all these elements.

Whether consciously recognized or not, sports exert a profound influence that extends far beyond the playing field, shaping individuals throughout their lives. This transformative power of sports is often overlooked in contemporary society, yet its impact is immeasurable. Sports have the ability to transform individuals, contributing to their personal growth and development in profound ways. It is an invaluable quality of sports that many fail to realize, particularly in today's so-called "developed society." This transformative effect is profound, enriching lives in ways that surpass mere physical activity. Sport has a power to change individuals, forming them into better Persons. Yes, the Persons with a capital 'P'! Sport has a power to make individuals better in all aspects of their lives.

6. Do you have any future plans involving sports? How do you envision the role of sports in your life after you retire from competitions and active coaching?

It is likely that I will never fully part ways with sports, even as this chapter of my life gradually draws to a close. As I have previously expressed, when you have a deep love for sports, it becomes ingrained in your being for life. It permeates your thoughts, actions, and mind-set, leaving an indelible mark on your identity.

7. Aside from actively participating in sports, what other benefits or experiences have you gained from your involvement in sports?

Sports have given me more than just the physical act of participation. Beyond the active practice, it has provided me with a profound sense of fulfilment. Knowing that I have chosen sports to be an integral part of my life brings me immense contentment.