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Nikola Grbić with a plaque in the Alley of Volleyball Stars in Katowice

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VolleyWeek

May 29, 2025 at 06:54

Nikola Grbić with a plaque in the Alley of Volleyball Stars in Katowice

Symbolically and emotionally, in the very heart of Polish volleyball – the Avenue of Stars in Katowice, Nikola Grbić – the coach of the Polish national team and one of the most influential coaches in world volleyball, left his mark alongside legends of the game. This event marked not just a recognition of his personality, but also of the path that leads "Druzyna Polska" to new heights.

Stamp of success

At a solemn ceremony, accompanied by the applause of fans, institutional representatives, and former volleyball greats, Nikola Grbić received his plaque in the Avenue of Stars – one of the most significant honors that Polish sport bestows upon its heroes. The plaque symbolizes recognition for his role in Poland's ascent to the Olympic Games podium – a dream that generations of athletes and fans eagerly awaited.

"This is not just my honor – it is an honor for the entire team, for the players, for the fans. Polish volleyball deserves the best and it is a source of pride to be part of this history," Grbić stated in a brief but touching speech.

The ceremony – a bridge between generations

This year's edition of the Silesia Cup, held in Katowice and Gliwice, was not only a sporting forum, but also a stage for tribute. In addition to Nikola Grbić, former coach of PolandRaúl Lozano, who led the team to silver at the World Championship in Japan in 2006, also received his plaque.


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Among those honored were alsothe European champions from 2003 and 2005, as well as legendsŁukasz Żygadło,Łukasz Kaczmarek(represented by his family).

Symbolism near "Spodek"

In the Avenue of Stars, located on Korfantego Avenue in Katowice, not far from the iconic hall"Spodek", there are now more than 50 names – people and institutions that have shaped Polish volleyball identity. Among them shines alsoreplica of the 2014 World Cupwon right here – in the hall that many call the temple of Polish volleyball.

With each new plaque, the Alley becomes a living chronicle, in which Nikola Grbic's name will remain as a symbol of a new era – that of Olympic dreams, realized with determination and style.


A look ahead

Although the Silesia Cup started with a surprising 2:3 loss for Poland against Ukraine, the fans' focus remains on the longer road – the one to the Nations League and the World Championship. For a coach like Nikola Grbic, defeats are simply part of the equation to greatness. And the plaque in the Walk of Fame is already undeniable proof that he is among those who change the course of history.