Slovenia’s Snow Volleyball Champions Crowned at Krvavec

KRVAVEC – The Slovenian national Snow Volleyball championship took place this past Sunday at Krvavec Ski Resort.

The defending champions Tadej Bozenk, Danijel Pokersnik, and Denis Robida, joined this time by Matej Rapnik, clinched another gold. Meanwhile, Spela Marusic, Polona Marusic, and Anja Mazej celebrated their first championship title. The event, marking the fourth national Snow Volleyball championship, saw a record 27 teams competing, organized by the Volleyball Federation of Slovenia and RTC Krvavec.

In a thrilling final, the reigning champions, with Matej Rapnik stepping in for Alan Kosenina from the 2024 team, faced off against the promising team of Klemen Mohar, Urban-Urh Jakse, and Benjamin Gaspar. The veteran players secured a 2-1 victory after a fiercely contested match featuring three exhilarating sets.

“Snow volleyball is quite challenging, but our experience gave us an edge. We’re pleased with our performance and the outcome,” commented Robida, who was also named the Most Valuable Player of the championship.

Urban-Urh Jakse, from the runner-up team, reflected on their journey: “It was a strong competition. We gave our all, treating every ball as crucial. Despite our best efforts, minor errors cost us in the final.”

The bronze medal went to the tournament’s youngest contenders, Miha Kosanec, Lan Juvan, and Benjamin Mugerli. They showcased remarkable skill, overcoming the seasoned team of Gregor Felkar, Jernej Borlinic, and Nejc Bercic in the match for third place with scores of 15-13 and 15-9.

In the women’s division, newcomers Spela Marusic, Polona Marusic, and Anja Mazej emerged victorious, earning the gold medal. “Winning feels great. We work well together, and despite the challenging competition, we’re thrilled with our victory. The quality of the teams improves each year, and we’re excited for next year’s championship,” said Spela Marusic, the women’s MVP.

Last year’s champions, Sara Valencic, Anastazija Znidar, and Teja Kolbl, secured second place after a tough final, expressing respect for the advancing competition level. “It’s encouraging to see the sport growing. We’re already looking forward to next year, aiming for the top again,” stated Valencic.

The third-place honors went to Masa Margon, Masa Knific, and Ana Marija Grabec, who bested Eva Pavlic, Kaja Gimpelj, and Anja Mitrovic with scores of 15-8 and 15-9.