GRAND FINALE OF THE 29th SEASON
With a festive ceremony held on Split’s Riva, the 29th season of the Plazma Sportske igre mladih was officially closed. The importance of the Games is reflected not only in their collaboration with host cities but also in the strong support of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, in promoting sport and sporting values among children and youth. This was emphasized in the speech of the President of the Games, Zdravko Marić, who said:
“I thank everyone for their support, especially our sponsors. A big thank you to Minister of Tourism and Sport Tonči Glavina and President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović for being here with us tonight. However, the greatest thanks always go to the children – because they are the ones who, year after year, recognize the Games and give them meaning. Without them, the Games would not exist; they are the reason why we are here, and for us, every child is a winner.”
The guests were also greeted by Tomislav Šuta, Mayor of Split and envoy of the President of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandroković:
“Split is the most sporting city in the world, and that is why sport and sporting events will always have our support. The Games are an important part of that story, and I especially congratulate the organizer, Zdravko Marić. I believe we will continue our cooperation and together promote Split and everything that sport represents.”
Sport is the best way to connect generations, break down barriers, and promote the values the Games stand for – a message strongly supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Sport. Tonči Glavina, Minister of Tourism and Sport, addressed the participants:
“Dear children, all of you here tonight who have spent wonderful days in Split – congratulations on your great sporting success! We are here because of you, for your achievements today, but also for all those you will accomplish in the future. I am certain that sport will be a strong foundation and great support on your journey. Sport teaches you to be better in everything you do. That is why my heartfelt recommendation is – keep practicing sport. It will help you become stronger, better, and ready for any challenge life brings, and bring much joy to your lives. At the same time, through your efforts and success, you will give back much good to our society.”
The Games show how sport educates, builds friendships, and teaches true life values. A confirmation of their importance was also the presence of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, at the closing ceremony:
“When I was a boy, my life revolved around school, the gym, and the playground. And in fact, all my most beautiful memories – and there are many – are tied to sports. All those competitions that were never professional, never harsh or bitter… They were beautiful, just like this event of yours. After many years and many conversations with Zdravko Marić, my host here today, I finally came, and I am very glad. Keep going – compete, make friends. Winning isn’t the most important thing, but competing for a result is. Once again, greetings to Split and to all of you here tonight. I don’t know if we’ll see each other next year, but it’s wonderful that we are here together this year. Živjeli! Dalmacija, like a shining flower.”
The closing ceremony brought together, alongside the 820 participants of the International Finals, distinguished guests including Zoran Gajić, Minister of Sport of Serbia, Mitja Blaganje, representative of the Slovenian Ministry of Tourism, Economy and Sport, Stipe Čogelja, Deputy Prefect of Split-Dalmatia County, Mladen Drnasin, President of the Croatian Water Polo Federation, Haris Pavletić, President of the Croatian Academic Sports Federation, Dimitris Rompis, General Manager Adria BU (Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia) Coca-Cola HBC, Adrian Ježina, CEO of Telemach, Hrvoje Prkačin, CEO of Europlakat Croatia, Vinko Kovačić, representative of The Coca-Cola Company, Josip Komar, owner of AC Hotel Split by Marriott, Ivica Tucak, Head Coach of the Croatian Water Polo National Team, as well as athletes Slaven Bilić, Barbara Matić, Mario Stanić, Drago Vuković, Anđelo Šetka, Petar Metličić, Mirko Hrgović, and many others.
“What makes the Youth Sports Games truly unique is joy, friendship, and equal opportunities for everyone. Believe in yourselves, be the best you can be, but never forget to also be true friends – on the field and off it. These are the values that connect us all.” – said Jovana Vazić, representative of the general sponsor, company Bambi.
The evening concluded with spectacular fireworks, music and dance performances, followed by a two-hour high-energy concert by Luka Nižetić. The Closing Ceremony was broadcast on Sport Klub, Arena Sport, and N1 Television across nine European countries, hosted by Maja Kolak and Frano Ridjan.
The Plazma Youth Sports Games are the largest amateur sports event in Europe. All activities and competitions are completely free of charge, and since their founding, they have brought together more than 3,440,000 children and young people.
