Kelteks volleyball players have begun preparations for the new Superliga season. Nika Jularić and Antea Perić have joined the club, while four players have left. The season kicks off on October 3 with an away match against Marina Kaštela.
The Karlovac-based Kelteks women's volleyball team gathered on Monday at the Sports Hall, officially marking the start of preparations for the new Superliga season. Head coach Goran Zec announced an intensive first phase focused on physical conditioning and tactics, followed by a series of preseason friendlies.
The roster has seen several changes. Bruna Vranković, Tjaša Malnar, Magdalena Šilić, and Ema Vlašić have left the club. On the other hand, two new signings have arrived. Nika Jularić has returned from Maribor, while Antea Perić joins from Zagreb's Olimpik. However, the biggest news for fans is the retention of Milica Milunović, who is considered a crucial piece by the club.
Kelteks finished last season in seventh place, which fell short of expectations, as the goal was to secure a spot among the top six teams that advance to the playoffs. The final standings were also influenced by a move from Zagreb's Mladost, which, according to Kaportal, fielded a reserve lineup against Split's Brda, directly impacting Karlovac's placement.
The preseason will be packed with matches. The first is scheduled for September 2 against Olimpik, followed by encounters with Dinamo and Nebo. The highlight of the preseason will be the 'Ivo Vidaković' Memorial Tournament on September 12 in Karlovac, featuring hosts Kelteks, Ribola Kaštela, Marina Kaštela, and Slovenia's Koper. After that, Kelteks will head to a tournament in Koper, with the final dress rehearsal set for September 26 against Nebo.
The new Superliga season begins on October 3. Kelteks will open with an away game against Marina Kaštela, while the second round brings a home clash against Zagreb's Mladost.
"I want us to be 'hungry' for every point, to be the 'hungriest' team in the league, and if that's the case, we'll truly be good," said coach Goran Zec, avoiding pressure on the team regarding a specific placement, instead emphasizing a fighting spirit.
