Novi Sad was the hotspot of sports excitement from June 20 to 22, hosting the 15th International Beach Handball Tournament, held for the first time under the name Branislav Radišić Memorial Tournament, in honor of the founder of beach handball in Serbia and a bronze medalist at the World Championship. The Mayor of Novi Sad, Žarko Mićin, officially opened the event, highlighting the importance of sports for youth and the city’s development. The tournament was organized by the Handball Club “Adut” on the Štrand beach and attracted competitors from various countries, boosting the event’s prestige.
Mićin expressed great honor that Novi Sad could host such an event and pride that the tournament bears the name of Branislav Radišić, a great sportsman and visionary who laid the foundations of beach handball in Serbia. He emphasized that beach handball is more than just a sport – it is a way of life, socializing, and promoting healthy values.
The City of Novi Sad continuously invests in sports and youth development, as evidenced by an increase in the sports budget by 5.5 million dinars. This year, Novi Sad has applied for the title of European City of Sport, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting sports initiatives.
The tournament is officially included in the calendar of the European Handball Federation (EHF) and is part of the prestigious European Beach Tour (EBT), making it one of the most significant preparatory tournaments in the region. The stands at Štrand beach are expected to be filled with sports spirit, fair play, and positive energy, characteristic of Novi Sad.
This event is not just a sports competition but also an opportunity to promote culture, youth, and a healthy lifestyle, aligning with Novi Sad’s vision as an open and progressive city for living and sports.
So, what do you think? Is beach handball the next big thing in Serbian sports, or just a sunny distraction? Drop your thoughts below and let the debate begin!
