The world of international volleyball often celebrates its established powerhouses, nations with storied histories and seemingly endless talent pools. Yet, every so often, a new contender emerges, not with a sudden flash, but through a meticulous, calculated ascent. Such is the story of the Slovenian Men`s National Volleyball team, a squad that has steadily climbed the ranks, transforming from a spirited underdog into a formidable force with a clear objective: a medal at the upcoming FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the Philippines.
The Foundation of Ambition: A Strategic Investment
Slovenia`s remarkable trajectory isn`t merely a tale of raw talent. It`s a testament to strategic vision and sustained investment. Their journey into the upper echelons of the sport can be significantly traced back to 2019, the year they joined the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since then, the team has received an impressive CHF 1.278 million in support – a figure that, in the competitive landscape of professional sports, underscores a serious commitment. This wasn`t merely a handout; it was a targeted infusion, funding long-term coaching projects, comprehensive athlete development initiatives, and crucial improvements to their performance environment. It’s an approach that suggests one doesn`t simply hope for success; one meticulously builds towards it.
The fruits of this investment are undeniable. After a debut World Championship appearance in 2018 where they finished a respectable 12th, Slovenia made a dramatic leap in 2022, reaching the semifinals. While they ultimately finished fourth, narrowly missing bronze, it served as a powerful declaration: Slovenia had arrived. This sustained support also propelled them to their first-ever Olympic Games in Paris 2024, where they secured a commendable fifth place. Their consistent presence in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) further solidifies their elite status, with semifinal appearances in 2021, 2024, and 2025, alongside a top-eight finish in 2023. This is not a team that merely flirts with success; it consistently contends.
The Maestros on the Sidelines: Continuity and New Impetus
Behind every great team is a guiding hand, and Slovenia has benefited from a blend of continuity and fresh perspective. Gheorghe Crețu, the coach who orchestrated their impressive 2022 World Championship run, laid a robust foundation. Building upon this, Italian tactician Fabio Soli stepped in for the VNL 2025 campaign, bringing with him a wealth of international experience, including a CEV Champions League gold medal and an Italian Serie A1 title from his time with Itas Trentino.
Soli`s debut in the VNL was nothing short of compelling. His squad stunned the reigning Olympic champions, France, with a commanding 3-1 victory in the quarterfinals. Though they later fell to a formidable Italian side by the same score in the semifinals, and subsequently lost the bronze medal match, Soli`s initial outing as national coach delivered a strong message. He`s tasked with transforming deep tournament runs into tangible podium finishes, a subtle but significant shift in ambition.
The Assembled Force: Veterans and Rising Stars
As the World Championship in the Philippines looms from September 12-28, Soli has meticulously assembled a squad designed for maximum impact. Acknowledging the irreplaceable value of experience, he has wisely recalled long-serving captain Tine Urnaut and fellow outside hitter Klemen Cebulj, both stalwarts who were strategically rested during the VNL 2025. Adding to this seasoned core is the return of the 36-year-old setter Gregor Ropret, whose veteran presence is expected to complement the impressive Uros Planinsic.
The team boasts talent across all positions. Jan Kozamernik, the imposing 204cm middle blocker, earned a coveted spot in the VNL 2025 Dream Team – a clear indicator of his formidable presence at the net. The attacking prowess will be spearheaded by opposite hitters Tonecek Stern and the promising young talent Nik Mujanovic, with Ziga Stern and libero Jani Kovacic anchoring the crucial reception and defensive efforts. This blend of experienced leadership, proven performers, and emerging talent suggests a team not just participating, but genuinely competing for the highest honors.
The Road Ahead: Navigating Pool E in Manila
Slovenia, ranked seventh in the FIVB World Rankings and qualifying as bronze medallists from the 2023 CEV European Championship, enters the World Championship drawn in Pool E. Their opponents: Germany, Bulgaria, and Chile. The SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila will be the battleground for their pool phase matches: September 13 against Chile, September 15 facing Bulgaria, and concluding with Germany on September 17.
While Slovenia is undoubtedly the favorite in their group on paper, the path to the knockout stages is rarely without its twists. Coach Soli remains acutely aware of the challenges. Bulgaria delivered a 3-1 defeat to Slovenia in VNL 2025, a result that serves as a timely reminder of their capabilities. Germany, ranked just one place below Slovenia, possesses an unpredictable quality that demands respect. Success in the pool will require not just skill, but unwavering focus and tactical precision.
The Quest for a Historic Medal
For years, Slovenia has been lauded as a “rising power,” a team with immense potential. They`ve consistently impressed, reaching the cusp of greatness in major tournaments. Now, with a robust foundation laid by strategic investment, experienced leadership on the bench, and a potent mix of veteran wisdom and youthful dynamism on the court, the narrative shifts. The question is no longer if Slovenia can compete with the best, but when they will finally secure that coveted medal. The Philippines awaits, and with it, the chance for Slovenia to crown their meticulous empowerment effort with a historic World Championship podium finish.
Rupert Caldwell