http://www.croatia.org/crown en-us http://www.croatia.org/crown N/A letters@croatia.org Sun, 12 Feb 2012 05:05:52 -0700 20 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10231/1/David-Diehl-Super-Bowl-winner-pride-of-Croatia-and-Croatians-around-the-world.html David Diehl on the photo with his daughter Addison Elizabeth celebrated the Super Bowl victory with visible Croatian insignia: with Croatian coat of arms on his left arm, with the Croatian inscription NEUNI©TIV (Undestroyable), and with Croatian shawl around his neck brought in 2011 from the land of his predecessors. Equally great on the defeated side is another Croatian - Bill Bellichick. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10230/1/4-Croatians-in-Super-Bowl-XLVI-2012-Bill-Belichick-Robert-Ninkovich-David-Diehl--Anthony-Lucas.html I did not check the history of Super Bowls, but the fact that three Croatian Americans are playing today in a single game on the Lucas Stadium which is named after the fourth Croatian is a day to celebrate. Belichick & Diehl Two Croatian-Americans face off at Super Bowl for the second time. First time was in 2008. Since they play for opposite teams, Croatians will cheer all the way to the end. Super Bowl XLVI: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots is 46th Super Bowl, the most watched show in America, could be the world. With a victory, Patriots coach Bill Belichick becomes the Greatest of All-Time. With the victory, Giants offensive guard David Diehl gets his second ring. R. Ninkovich is playing for the Patriots. The Lucas Stadium is named after another Croatian-American Anthony Lucas b. Antun Lucic, considered as the father of petroleum engineering in the USA. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10227/1/Ivica-Kostelics-third-straight-win-in-World-Cup-slalom-in-Wengen-Switzerland-2012-equals-Stenmark-feat-.html "I guess I have something with this mountain like no other," said Kostelic, whose third straight win in the Wengen slalom 15 January 2012 matched Swedish great Ingemar Stenmark. "To find yourself in the same sentence as Ingemar Stenmark is the greatest honour. Unlike many other racers I really am following the history of skiing. They were legends for me." But for Ivica Kostelic, this is fourth victory in career in the slalom in Wengen (2002, 2010, 2011, 2012) and he has the total of six victories and a total of ten podiums in Wengen, and that way he holds the absolute record. The impressive results. Congratulations. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10213/1/Daniela-Nincevic-and-her-Cro-Majesty-project-quotSPORT-FOR-EVERY-CHILDquot.html Cro Majesty (Hrvatsko velièanstvo) project unites over 2.000 children from 28 Orphanages, situated in 19 different cities of the Republic of Croatia. The main organizer of this project is Mrs Daniela Ninèeviæ. Its purpose is educational and recreational for children's better socialization. On its way is a new project for kids around the world to unite in different sports games, tournaments and manifestations. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10198/1/Croatia-shocks-Turkey-with-3-0-away-win-for-Euro-2012-soccer-playoffs.html In Istanbul on Friday November 11, 2011, Croatia romped to a comfortable 3-0 victory away to Turkey in the first leg of their Euro 2012 soccer playoff with goals from Ivica Olic, Mario Mandzukic and Vedran Corluka taking them to the brink of the finals. It was an especially sweet victory for Croatia who suffered a heart-breaking quarter-final defeat by Turkey at the 2008 finals when they were seconds away from clinching a semi-final berth before losing the clash in Vienna on penalties. The Turksih name for Croatia is Hırvatistan, which means The Land of the Croats. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10191/1/Flying-Balic-Croatian-victory-in-the-2010-IHF-World-Handball-Photo-of-the-Year-award-.html He was twice awarded World Handball Player of the Year, he was elected "Best handball player ever" by the users of the International Handball Federation website - and now Ivano Balic (left) is in the focus of the 2010 IHF World Handball Photo of the Year competition. The Croatian photographer Antonio Bronic found the exact right part of a second to take his picture of Ivano Balic flying through the air and unsuccessfully trying to catch a ball against Alexander Petterson. violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10203/1/David-Diehl--American-football-star-of-Croatian-roots-visited-the-city-of-Split.html New York Giants offensive tackle, David Diehl, stepped foot on Croatian soil for the first time on 1st July 2011. David is trying to retrace his roots as his maternal grandfather, Ante Bekavac, is from Lovreæ, while his grandmother is from Krk. “It is a great honor to come here. This is my first time in Croatia, searching for my roots. I was in Lovreè, here I am in Split, now I go around to meet my motherland. It was an incredible experience for me, I see where I came from, where my roots are from. I am delighted and proud that I came to Croatia.” darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10109/1/Joseph-Mikulec-Croatian-globetrotter-appearing-in-a-silent-movie-1922.html Message from Angelina E. Payne, Canada:  "Hello, I happened upon the name of Joseph Mikulec while watching old silent films by the National Film Preservation Foundation. It's from 1922 and I thought that perhaps it might interest you. ... I, too, would love to know what became of this interesting fellow as well as his book." Josip Mikulec met the American president Theodore Roosevelt three times. Mikulec made thousands of kilometers on foot in the USA, China, Japan, India, South America, ... darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 29 Apr 2011 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10092/1/Ivica-Kostelic-wins-World-Cup-slalom-title-2011.html Bravo, Ivica! Kostelic won the Big Crystal Globe. Croatian sport experienced another tremendous success. Our best skier Ivica Kostelic finally had his years long dream come true. Ivica Kosteliæ posed with a Japanese flag in tribute to the victims of the earthquake and ensuing tsunami. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sat, 19 Mar 2011 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10070/1/Ivica-Kostelic--Natko-Zrncic-Dim-sang-Croatian-Anthem-in-Chamonix-France-2011.html Ivica Kosteliæ: "Natko's result makes this victory to be double so sweet! My best friend right on the winners' podium just beside me. We sing Croatia's national anthem together - I mean - this is like the best day of my sporting career so far, maybe even ever". Natko Zrnèiæ:-Dim "...being with Ivica on the podium, singing our national anthem... Really unbelievable, and the moment you keep inside your heart for the rest of your life." darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10061/1/Owen-Marecic-of-Stanford-Named-Inaugural-Paul-Hornung-Award-Winner.html A throwback to another era, two-way starter Croatian American Owen Marecic (left) of Stanford University was selected the inaugural winner of the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player in major college football, by the Louisville Sports Commission and Paul Hornung. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10059/1/Ivica-Kostelic-winning-a-World-Cup-slalom-race-in-Adelboden-2011.html After a thrilling battle with the course conditions and a group of determined Austrians, Ivica Kostelic celebrated his first season victory in a ‘Classic’ World Cup race at Adelboden, Switzerland, after two impressive runs. In 2010 Ivica won two silver medals for Croatia at the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, Canada, one in slalom and another in combined. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10039/1/Blanka-Vlasic-of-Croatia-proclaimed-the-best-female-athlete-in-the-world-2010.html Croatian high jumper Blanka Vlasic has been named the world's best female athlete in 2010 by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). Blanka Vla¹iæ was all smiles on Sunday in Monaco, where she collected the IAAF World Athlete of the Year award, the first ever for a Croatian athlete. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10034/1/Croatians-world-champions-in-men8217s-quadruple-sculls-in-New-Zealand-2010.html The World Rowing Championship in New Zealand in November 2010 brought the highest possible achievement for young Croatia's men's quadruple scullsteam. The new world champions won their gold medals competing with such rowing superpowers like Italy, Australia, Germany, Russia and Great Britain. The names of winners are Damir Martin, brothers Martin and Valent Sinkoviæ, and David ©ain. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10023/1/Croatia-European-waterpolo-champion-for-2010.html The 29th European Water Polo Championship held in Croatia's capital Zagreb was closed on Saturday, September 11, with a magnificent final match between Croatia and Italy. LEN officials, participating teams, the press and fans all described the event in Zagreb as the best so far. Croatia has won gold medal. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 27 Sep 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10012/1/Pete-Radovich-has-18-Emmys.html "Friends" won 11, "Sienfeld" won 10, "South Park" won 3 but Croatian-American Pete Radovich (left) has 18 Emmys! This award winning producer is the Creative Director on CBS sports and has produced sports events ranging from the NBA to the Olympics. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Sun, 29 Aug 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10007/1/Ivano-Balic-voted-the-best-handball-player-in-history.html According to votes of 11,000 readers of web pages of International Handball Federation IHF, Ivano Baliæ is the best handball player in history. Ivano Baliæ is a standard member of Croatian handball representation, winner of gold medals at the World Championship in Portugal in 2003, at the Summer Olympic Games in Greece in 2004, and many other competitions. He was born in the city of Split in 1979, and is still an active player. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9998/1/Sandra-Perkovic-won-gold-for-Croatia-in-discus-throw-in-Barcelona-2010.html A new star has appeared on Croatia’s athletics horizon  - discus thrower Sandra Perkovic - only 19 years old and yet ready to climb the podium at this year’s most important event, the European Athletics Championships Barcelona 2010. She created history in becoming not only the youngest ever winner of discus throw gold medal, but also the first ever Croatian to win European Championship gold. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sat, 31 Jul 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9985/1/Emil-Milihram-Croatian-canoeist-wins-the-World-Cup-2010-in-Austria.html Croatian canoeist Emil Milihram is the overall winner of the Wildwater World Cup for 2010 after he won a classic race in Lofer, Austria. In the overall standings, Milihram is at the first place. He is followed by Yann Claudepierre of France and Norman Weber of Germany. Emil is already for three consecutive years the World Champion in canoeing! darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 06 Jul 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9972/1/Branimir-Kvartuc-of-StandUpCroatiacom-to-cross-the-Adriatic-Sea-for-charity.html Croatian American Branimir Kvartuè, an award-winning photojournalist, two times cancer survivor, StandUpCroatia.com founder and  philanthropist, will be crossing the Adriatic Sea on June 25-27 of 2010, from Venice, Italy to Pula, Croatia on a Stand Up Paddle board, setting a world record, in the process. See some of his beuatiful photos from the Ðakovo Embroidery folklore festival. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sun, 23 May 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9965/1/Davor-Suker-to-Hold-Mini-Clinic-for-Charity-in-NYC-May-15-2010.html Davor Suker (left) will be holding a “Mini Clinic for Charity” on Saturday, May 15th 2010 at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) campus in Old Westbury, Long Island from 10am-1pm. The clinic will be for children between the ages of 9-14 and all proceeds will benefit the CACF and its ongoing battle for removing mines in Croatia. jperos@croatiancharities.com (John Peros) Tue, 27 Apr 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9945/1/Ivan-Ljubicic-Croatian-tennis-player-won-Masters-1000-title-at-Indian-Wells-ATP-2010.html Croat Ivan Ljubicic celebrated his first Masters 1000 title after upsetting seventh-seeded American Andy Roddick  7-6, 7-6 in the final of the Indian Wells ATP tournament.  The big-serving Ljubicic fired down 20 aces and hit 42 winners to seal an emotional victory in just over two hours on the stadium court at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 22 Mar 2010 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9932/1/Ivica-Kostelic-wins-silver-in-Vancouver.html Ivica Kostelic's silver medal added to the Olympic legacy of one of the great Alpine ski racing families. Second behind Bode Miller in Sunday's super-combined, Kostelic got advice from his younger sister Janica on how to master a slalom course set by their father and coach, Ante. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9929/1/Vladimir-Hudolin-distinguished-Croatian-psychiatrist-and-humanist.html  Vladimir Hudolin, 1922-1996, is distinguished Croatian psychiastrist of worldwide reputation, professor at the University of Zagreb. He has  created the social-ecological approach to alcohol  related problems centred on the  family  and on the community. In Italy only more than 2500 Clubs of Alcoholics have been founded which exploit his methodology. Professor Hudolin is a honorary citizen of San Daniele del Friuli, Italy, since 1983. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9928/1/Jakov-Fak-Croatias-biathlon-skier-won-bronze-medal-at-Winter-Olympic-Games.html Jakov Fak, Croatia's biathlon skiing athlet, won a bronze medal in the 10 km sprint at the 2010 Winter Olympics Games in Vancouver, Canada. This is the first olympic medal at Winter Oympic Games after Janica Kosteliæ, the greatest skier among women in history (3 gold medals and one bronze),and Ivica Kosteliæ (1 silver medal) at the 2006 Winter Ollympic Games in Torino, Italy. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9917/1/Ivica-Kostelic-Croatian-skier-celebrates-10th-World-Cup-slalom-victory.html Croatian skier Ivica Kosteliæ has come to his 10th career FIS Ski World victory on men's FIS SKi World Cup slalom in Wengen, on January 17 2010. Here is the list of the first five skiers: 1. Ivica Kosteliæ (Croatia), 2. Andre Myhrer (Sweden), 3. Reinfried Herbst (Austria), 4. Benjamin Raich (Austria), 5. Julien Lizeroux (France). darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9897/1/Sanja-Jovanovic-Croatian-swimmer-with-a-new-world-record-in-2009.html  Sanja Jovanoviæ won her new gold medal at the European Swimming Championship held in Istanbul, Turkey, December 12th 2009. And not only this, she broke the world record on 50 m backstroke,  with 25.70 s. This is her fourth world record in swimming at international competitions. Duje Draganja won silver medal 100 m mixed style. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9875/1/Croatian-beaches-and-the-art-of-Picigin-.html As much an art form as a sport, it's something like volleyball on water, but with a much smaller ball, and, at its best, in the style of a football player taking a spectacular professional dive. Though there's much rivalry between areas, Split's Baèvice beach is considered to be the true home of the game which is ideally played with five players and a "bald" tennis ball. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 17 Oct 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9871/1/Miletich-Fighting-Systems-Home-of-Champions-Past-Present-and-Future.html Often known as "The Croatian Sensation" Pat Miletich at the age of 26 began to train for the MMA. He had already trained in a variety of martial arts including karate, kickboxing, and boxing. He was very much inspired by the boxing aspirations of his uncle, Johnny "Miler" Miletich who was present at the 1932 Olympics in Los Angeles as part of the boxing squad. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Tue, 29 Sep 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9862/1/Marin-Cilic-upsets-number-2-seed-at-US-Open.html Andy Murray of Britain has been upset at the U.S. Open, losing in straight sets to Marin Cilic of Croatia. The 16th-seeded Cilic beat the No. 2 Murray 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 Tuesday to reach his first Grand Slam quarterfinal. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Tue, 08 Sep 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9855/1/Blanka-Vlasic-jumped-208-cm-in-Zagreb---the-second-height-in-history.html Blanka Vla¹iæ is just one cm below the current world record. She reached the height of 208 cm at the Han¾ekoviæ Memorial Athelitic Competition organized in Croatia's capital Zagreb. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9854/1/Sime-Fantela-and-Igor-Marenic-Croatian-sailors-Mens-470-World-Champions.html ©ime Fantela and Igor Mareniæ are the new Men's 470 World Champions at the international sailing competition organized in Copenhagen in Denmark. They are both former junior world champions in sailing, members of the Sailing club of St. Kr¹evan from the city of Zadar, Croatia. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9851/1/Blanka-Vlasic-defends-her-world-title-in-Berlin-2009.html High-jump queen Blanka Vlasic, one of the best athlete in the world,  retained her world crown on Thursday when she saw off arch-rival and local favourite Ariane Friedrich to win gold at the World Athletics Championships. Vlasic was the only athlete to clear 2.04m in the electric atmosphere of Berlin's Olympic stadium. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 20 Aug 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9840/1/Croatia-is-the-new-Mens-Youth-Handball-World-Champion.html  After an one-sided final and a rather charming closing ceremony, the III Men's Youth World Championship in Tunisia came to an end on Friday. Croatia now is the 2009 Men's Youth World Champion, after beating Iceland in the final with 40:35. violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Sat, 01 Aug 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9822/1/X-Sports-is-coming-to-Croatia-this-summer.html Tom Novak (left) is proprietor of New York based X Sports, an agency that represents athletes. X Sports will be coming to Croatia this summer to explore possibilities of improving stadium infrastructure with professional sports teams and sports organizations.   stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Mon, 29 Jun 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9815/1/Dr-Ante-Simonic-and-Dr-Zlatko-Matesa-captains-of-two-Chinese-football-teams.html Dr. Ante Simoniæ, ambassador of the Republic of Croatia, and Dr. Zlatko Mate¹a, head of the Croatian Olympic Committee, had the honor to be captains of two teams dressed in well known Croatian sports dresses. One team was composed of members of China Radio International Program in Croatian language, and another of former Chinese students of Croatian language in Bejing, plus Dr. Simoniæ and Dr. Mate¹a as captains. Dr. Simoniæ on the photo. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 17 Jun 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9809/1/Four-Croatian-female-alpinists-conquered-Mt-Everest-in-May-2009.html Four Croatian female alpinists climbed on Mt Everest, among them two sisters Darija and Iris Bostjanèiæ on the photo. It was for the first time that two sisters climbed on the top of Himalayas. This success was a result of team work in which 11 Croatian female alpinists participated. The expedition was organized by Croatian Mountaineering Association on the occasion of 135 years of its existence, founded in 1874, one of the oldest such organizations in the world. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 11 Jun 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9797/1/Jovica-Kozlica-paper-plane-world-champion-in-Salzburg-2009.html Jovica Kozlica, a 26-years old student from Split, Croatia was the only champion from 2006 who defended his title again in Salzburg in 2009. Once again, he won the first place in the Longest Distance category with a throw of 54.43 metres, proving that Croats aren't just good at building ships, but also at aerodynamics. edivjak@gmail.com (Eugen Divjak) Tue, 26 May 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9788/1/Ivan-Kljakovic-Gaspic-overall-winner-of-the-World-Cup-Finn-Class-2009.html Ivan Kljakovic Gaspic (CRO) is the overall winner in the Finn class at the 41st Semaine Olympique Française in Hyeres Friday. This was his first Grade 1 win in the class. Another Croatian Marin Mi¹ura won the fifth place at the same competition. Croatia and GB are the only countries with two representatives among 10 most successful competitors. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 04 May 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9782/1/Sofia-Mulanovich-Peruvian-surfer-of-Croatian-descent-inducted-in-Olympic-Museum.html Sofía Mulánovich Aljovín is a Peruvian surfer of Croatian descent. She is the first Peruvian surfer ever to win an Association of Surfing Professionals World Championship Tour event. In 2007 she was inducted into the Surfers Hall of Fame, and in 2009 into the Olympic Museum in Laussane in Switzerland. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 17 Apr 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9774/1/Museum-of-Frogs-in-Lokve-Croatia.html In the village of Lokve in the region of Gorski Kotar in Croatia there is a unique museum devoted to frogs, called Muzej ¾aba - Museum of Frogs. Regular competitions are organized in frog jumping, which are very popular, among children as well as among grown-ups. Competitors with their frogs arrive from all over Croatia. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 08 Apr 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9766/1/Mario-Preskars-15th-win-in-heavy-weight-professional-boxing-on-March-28-2009.html Mario Preskar has 15 wins, 2 draws and is undefeated In his short career as a heavyweight professional boxer. His last victory was against Georgian boxer Zurab Naniashvili in the Ukrainian city of Èerkasi. vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9750/1/Croatian-World-Games---Zadar-2010-Interview-with-Franjo-Pavic.html The second Croatian World Games, also known as Crolympia will be held in Zadar in July, 2010, and organized by the Croatian World Congress, the main association of expatriate Croatians in the world. Interview with Mr. Franjo Pavic, head of the organisation committee for Germany and coordinator for Europe anton@bulic.net (Anton Bulic) Wed, 18 Mar 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9748/1/Josip-Mikulec-tireless-world-hiker-hundred-years-ago.html  Very brave Croatian adventurer Josip Mikulec set out to circumnavigate the globe on foot in the span of five years.  With the start of this journey in Croatia's capital Zagreb he became a perpetual wanderer.  Mostly hiking, he traveled the world some 28 years and achieved a degree of fame for having collected more than 30,000 autographs of world-famous people.  cuvalo@gmail.com (Dr. Ante Èuvalo) Wed, 18 Mar 2009 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9714/1/Croatia-winning-silver-on-Feb-1-2009-in-Handball-World-Championship.html  Croatia - Poland 29:23. Outstanding right wing Ivan Cupic, who scored 12 goals, as well as 19 saves by keeper Mirko Allilovic paved Croatia's way to the final of their dreams where they met France. France has defeated host Croatia in the final of this year World Handball championship in a thrilling match that saw both sides tied for most of the match. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9707/1/Croatia-32---Spain-22-at-World-Handball-Championship-Croatia-2009.html Croatia convincingly defeated handball superpower Spain 32:22. The match was also a revenge of Croatian handball team for the defeat they suffered from Spain in the match for the third place at the Olympics in Beijing. In a great atmosphere of Spaladium Arena Croatian players showed determination from the very beginning. Ivano Baliæ on the photo, one of the best players of today, playing for Croatia in his native city of Split. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9704/1/Croatia-opens-2009-World-Handball-Championship-with-a-thrilling-win.html Igor Vori (left) was named player of the game in Croatia's opening match against Korea to kick off the 2009 Men's World Handball Championship being hosted by Croatia. It will be held from January 16 - February 1 at various venues in Croatia. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9689/1/Bevan-Calvert-Goes-to-the-World-Championship-in-Croatia-January-2009.html  The Australian Handball Federation has selected the members of the Men's Team which will compete in the World Championship to be held in Croatia in January 2009. CROWN’s friend, Bevan Calvert is one of these players. We saw Bevan in the game against Croatian handball team during the 2005 World Championship. Shower them with love Osijek. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9683/1/New-Soccer-star-Argentinian-Croat-Dario-Cvitanich-nets-hat-trick-for-Ajax.html Dario Cvitanich (left) secured his hat trick in the 3-0 win over Den Haag inside the first hour of play (6', 17', 55'). He has also scored 6 goals in the last 3 games for Ajax. Cvitanich was born in Argentina but is of Croatian origin. mocnaj@gmail.com (Ratimir Mocnaj) Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9679/1/Croatian-born-Mirna-Jukic-wins-Austrian-quotAthlete-of-the-Yearquot.html  Thomas Morgenstern (ski jumping) and Mirna Jukic (swimming) are the Austrian Athletes of the Year for 2008. More than 300 members of Sports Media Austria voted this year for the nation's top athletes including the team of the year. Mirna Jukic is Austria's most successful swimmer ever. Born in Croatia, she came to Austria in 1999 and received Austrian citizenship a year later. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9678/1/Ivica-Kostelic-Croatian-skier-wins-his-9th-World-Cup-at-Alta-Badia.html Ivica Kosteliæ, Croatian skier, secured his ninth career win at the Alta Badia slalom in Italy, finishing ahead of France's Jean-Baptiste Grange and Austria's Benjamin Raich. This is a nice introduction to a world skiing event "Snow Queen Trophy" that will take place on January 4th and 6th 2009  in Zagreb, capital of Croatia. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9670/1/12th-European-Short-Course-Championships-in-Rijeka-Dec-11-14-2008.html  The city of Rijeka plays host to the 12th European Short Course Championships to be held at the Kantrida Swimming Complex from December 11-14, 2008. More than 600 top athletes, from some 50 European countries, accompanied with quite a number of distinguished persons related to this wonderful sport. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9646/1/Valentina-Golubenko-and-Ivan-Saric-young-Croatian-world-chess-champions.html Valentina Golubenko and Ivan ©ariæ are world youth chess champions for 2008, at the competition organized in Vietnam. With two gold medals and one bronze, Croatia is ranked third at the World Competition, after India and Vietnam, and before China, Russia, USA, Germany etc. Congratulations from the CROWN! darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 31 Oct 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9634/1/Helen-Crlenkovich-renowned-Croatian---American-springboard-diver.html Helen Crlenkovich (1921-1955) was one of the most successful athletes in America and the world on the three-meter springboard and the ten-meter platform. She was an American-born Croatian lovingly known as  "Klinky." She was the first female to do a full-twisting 1 1/2 somersault and several other dives that were heretofore only achieved by men. cuvalo@gmail.com (Dr. Ante Èuvalo) Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9624/1/Branimir-Budetiae-won-silver-medal-for-Croatia-in-China.html Branimir Budetiæ of Croatia celebrates after finishing second during the final of the men's javelin F11-12 classification event at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games in Beijing on September 10, 2008. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 22 Sep 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9623/1/Darko-Kralj-won-gold-medal-for-Croatia-in-China.html Darko Kralj won gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Paraolympic Games in China. Competing in Men's Shot Put he broke a new world record at the National Stadium known as Bird's Nest. He said: "My biggest wish was to listen to the Croatian anthem in Beijing." Mr. Kralj lost his left leg  in 1991 during the Serbian aggression on Croatia (1990-1995). darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 22 Sep 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9621/1/Antonia-Balek-won-two-gold-medals-for-Croatia-in-China.html Antonia Balek two gold medals for Croatia at the 2008 Paraolympic Games in China. The first gold medal has been won in women's javelin, and the second in women's Shot Put, both with new world records. The competition was held in the National Stadium known as Bird's Nest in front of 85,000 spectators. Antonia survived  a deep coma which lasted for 3 years. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sun, 21 Sep 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9617/1/Cradle-Of-Football-Is-Not-England-But-Dalmatia.html In the 1st ct BC, young Illyrian Delmata tribe warriors, bided their time by passing each other a ball made from leather or bull hair. Sinj-based amateur archaeologist Josip Bepo Britvic dedicated his entire life to proving and providing evidence for this theory. Taking a walk in 1947, in hometown Sinj, he saw a rooted relief on a facade, showing a young man holding...a "football". mocnaj@gmail.com (Ratimir Mocnaj) Fri, 12 Sep 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9612/1/For-retired-coach-Chuck-Mrazovich-keeping-fits-a-slam-dunk.html At 84, Chuck Mrazovich has been aging well. The retired EKU basketball coach keeps himself fit and by staying active with multiple hobbies, like antiques, raising grandchildren designing furniture, playing the brac, eating well and working out. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Wed, 27 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9611/1/Croatians-in-America---photo-collection-by-Vladimir-Novak-part-3.html Mr. Vladimir Novak brings us a new series of exceptionally interesting photos related to life and work of Croatians in America, collected over several decades in the USA. As in previous two presentations,  much of this material is presented for the first time, exclusively for the readers of CROWN. On the left Marin Plestina, a famous wrestler. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 27 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9609/1/Blanka-Vlasic-wins-historic-Olympic-medal-for-Croatia-at-Beijing-2008.html Then comes a small "poof" when Vlasic lands in the thick pad, the bar undisturbed. Seven times she did this Saturday night, the obediently motionless bar a little higher each time. The noise inhaled by the gasp of 91,000 fans. The high-jump contest was advertised as the showcase of a legend in this sport, Blanka Vlasic's 14-month winning streak at 38. A true pride of Croatia. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 24 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9608/1/Marin-Cilic-beats-Mardy-Fish-at-Pilot-Pen-for-first-ATP-victory.html Marin Cilic of Croatia won his first ATP Tour event Saturday, beating American Mardy Fish 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 at the Pilot Pen, a U.S. Open tuneup. Despite having the crowd against him, the 19-year-old Cilic broke the hard-serving Fish five times, three times in the final set, to secure the win in his first finals appearance. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 24 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9607/1/Filip-Ude-won-silver-medal-in-pommel-horse-at-2008-Bejing-Olympic-Games.html Filip Ude won the first Croatian medal in gymnastics at Olympic Games. He won silver medal in pommel horse at 2008 Bejing Olympic Games. This is a result of painstaking work, directed by the Russian trainer Igor Kriajimskij. Recently a top quality multipurpose gymnastic center has been opened in Nedeli¹æe on the North of Croatia. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 21 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9606/1/Veljko-Rogosic-first-to-swim-from-Europe-to-Africa-via-Sicilia-in-July-2008.html Veljko Rogo¹iæ, one of the most famous longdistance swimmers in history, swam from the island of Sicilia to Tunisia at the age of 67! He is thus the first human being to be able to connect Europe and Africa along this way. It took him 50 hours. This is one of the greatest achievements of Croatian sport in history. He is swimming under the motto "With sport against drugs!" darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 13 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9604/1/106-Croatian-sportswomen-and-sportsmen-at-the-2008-Bejing-Olympic-Games.html Croatia sent the record number of 106 representatives to the 2008 Bejing Olympic Games. Some of them are planetary sport stars, like high-jumper Blanka Vla¹iæ who up to now has an amazing series of 34 consecutive wins at international competitions. On the photo is a famous "Croatian worm" composed of CRO handball players, winners at the Olympics in Athens and Atlanta. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 08 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9598/1/Ivo-Karlovic-beat-Roger-Federer-at-Cincinnati-Masters-2008.html Ivo Karloviæ, Croatian tennis player known as The King of Aces, beat Roger Federer at Cincinnati Masters 2008, scoring 21 aces. He has the most devastating serve in ATP history. He is the tallest player ever on the ATP Tour at 208 cm (6 ft 10 in). In 2007 he finished the year with 1,318 aces, second all-time behind Goran Ivani¹eviæ, who hit 1,477 in 1996. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 03 Aug 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9594/1/Charles-Billichs-Bing-Ma-Yong-cycle-of-paintings-in-China.html Inspired by the conviction that the Chinese Olympic Committee should adopt a traditional symbol as the official image of the 2008 Beijing Bid, Billich created the Bing Ma Yong cycle of paintings. Charles Billich is Croatian-Australian painter, born in Croatia, and official painter of the 2008 Olympiad in China. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sat, 19 Jul 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9579/1/Croatia---China-then-and-now.html On the left you can see a postage stamp issued in Zagreb with Croatian name written in Chinese, designed by Boris Ljubièiæ. Croatian Tales from Long Ago, written by Ivana Brliæ Ma¾uraniæ, have been published in China already in 1957. Dragutin ©urbek, a famous Croatian ping-pong player, was very popular in China, nicknamed there as Surbeka. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Mon, 07 Jul 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9577/1/China-Radio-International-in-Croatian-language-on-the-WWW.html The web site croatian.cri.cn was solemnly opened by China Radio International during a nice ceremony held in Zagreb in July 2nd 2008. It was launched in the presence of Chinese ambassador in Croatia His Excellency Mr. Wu Lianqi and other distinguished guests. It represents the first web site in Croatian language in China. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 04 Jul 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9575/1/Wimbledon-2008-Intelligent-Ancic-beats-Fernando-Verdasco-in-thriller.html The intelligent Croatian, who this time last year was so weak from the after effects of glandular fever that he could barely go for a walk without having to sleep for several hours afterwards, was stoic in his victory. The final set had extended 94 minutes and nerves were clearly at jangling point. However Ancic was sufficiently composed to club his 15th and final ace into quarterfinals. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9572/1/Thank-You-Croatia-Spasibo-Horvatiya.html Amazing news: Russian web site www.soccer.ru/spasibo invites all Russian fans to Say Thank You to Croatia!  or in Russian, Spasibo Horvatiya! Namely, Croatian 2007 win at Wembley in London over England opened the door for the Russian team to appear at the 2008 European Football Championship. Thousands of Russians of all ages responded to the invitation. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9570/1/Drazen-Petrovic-a-famous-Croatian-basketball-player-left-us-15-years-ago.html Dra¾en Petroviæ, a famous Croatian basketball player, died on June 1993, ie 15 years ago. With all the problems going on in Croatia back then, Dra¾en gave all of Croatia the joy of Basketball to alleviate their pains. His very nice monument can be seen in front of the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. ipuscenik@yahoo.com (Ivan Pu¹æenik) Sat, 21 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9566/1/Croatia-defeats-Germany-2-1-at-the-Euro-2008-European-Soccer-Championships.html Croatia's Darijo Srna, left, celebrates with his teammate Danijel Pranjic after scoring the opening goal during the group B match between Croatia and Germany in Klagenfurt, Austria, at the Euro 2008 European Soccer Championships in Austria and Switzerland. Ivobach2@aol.com (Ivo Bach) Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9564/1/Euro-2008-begins-Croatia-defeats-Austria-1-0.html Croatian midfielder Luka Modric (left) celebrates after scoring a penalty during their Euro 2008 Championships Group B football match Austria vs. Croatia at Ernst-Happel stadium in Vienna, Austria. Croatia won 1-0. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9554/1/Ivan-Kljakoviae-Gapiae-second-at-Finn-European-Championship.html Ivan Kljakoviæ Ga¹piæ, Croatian sailor from the city of Split, won silver medal at Finn European Championship held in La Marina di Scarlino, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy, 2-10 May 2008. This is a great success of Croatian sport. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 15 May 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9546/1/Handball-Connects-People.html Sports is a great catalyst for world peace, because it is transparent as much as it can be, plus people connect through the game regardless where they came from and what they do or make for a living. At the game we are all together on the same spiritual level. It is very close to music. violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Tue, 06 May 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9533/1/Niko-Dzapo-will-be-racing-for-Team-USA-in-China-May-29---June-1-2008.html Great success by young Niko Dzapo (left). Niko will be racing as part of the Team USA at the UCI BMX World Championship in Taiyaun China which will be held on May 29 - June 1, 2008. This has been a dream come true for Niko to represent the USA. Niko's motto is "keep trying, you have nothing to lose". ddzapo@tibco.com (Dragan Dzapo) Mon, 21 Apr 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9527/1/Charles-Billich-prepares-for-The-Olympic-Games-in-China-2008.html Charles Billich, outstanding Croatian painter living in Australia, created the Bing Mah Yong cycle of paintings for the needs of the 2008 Beijing Olympiade. So well received has this work been that his paintings are represented on a collection of 16 postage stamps currently in circulation in China. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Wed, 16 Apr 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9526/1/Sanja-Jovanoviae-wins-gold-by-breaking-her-own-world-record-in-50m-backstroke.html Sanja Jovanoviæ broke her own world record on 50m backstroke swimming at the World Swimming Championships Manchester 2008, UK. Her new world record time is 26.37. With Duje Draganja's world record the other day this is one of the greatest achievements in the history of Croatian sport. They won two gold and two bronze medals, first time ever. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 14 Apr 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9525/1/Duje-Draganja-the-fastest-swimming-man-on-the-planet-Earth.html   Croatian Superman, Duje Draganja, the fastest swimming man on the planet conquers world record on 50 meters free style in Manchester, England on April 11th 2008. The Croatian swimmer, wearing Speedo's LZR Racer suit, finished in 20.81 seconds. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 12 Apr 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9524/1/Croatia-8211-Land-of-World-Swimming-Record-Holders.html Two world swimming records are an achievement not even larger and stronger countries, than our “little” Croatia, can afford. But at this moment Croatians are celebrating and bragging with such achievements, thanks to Duje Draganja and Sanja Jovanovic, young swimmers who brought the world’s swimming to its knees. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 12 Apr 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9513/1/Swimming-success-of-Croatia-at-European-championship-in-2008.html Gordan Ko¾ulj, Vanja Rogulj, Mario Todoroviæ and Duje Draganja won silver medals in men's 100m medley relay at the European Swimming Championships in the Netherlands. Sanja Jovanoviæ won bronze medal in women's 50m backstroke, and Duje Draganje silver medal in 50m freestyle. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 25 Mar 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9509/1/After-23-years-the-Parachute-World-Cup-Series-returns-to-Croatia.html The World Parachute Cup Series returns to Croatia in 2008 after a 23 year absence. It is being organized by the "Krila Kvarnera" Parachuting Club from Rijeka and will be held in  the town of Mali Lo¹inj on June 7, 2008. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 15 Mar 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9507/1/Blanka-Vlaiae-becomes-indoor-high-jump-world-champion.html Croatia's Blanka Vla¹iæ (left) has continued her streak of victories and has become the world champion in indoor high jump in Valencia. She has added the indoor gold medal to her outdoor gold medal. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 10 Mar 2008 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9456/1/Croatia-to-play-Scotland-in-friendly-March-26-2008-in-Glasgow.html Slaven Bilic (left) will lead the Croatian National Team in a friendly match against Scotland on march 26, 2008. The Scots feel that a match against a team ranked 10th in the world will provide the kind of test Scotland needs if they are to build on their impressive, if ultimately unsuccessful, Euro 2008 qualification bid. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9495/1/Mario-Aneiae-and-Ivan-Ljubieiae-advance-to-quarterfinals-at-Zagreb-Indoors.html Top-seeded Ivan Ljubièiæ served 18 aces in beating fellow Croat Lovro Zovko 6-4, 7-6 (3) to make the quarterfinals of the Zagreb Indoors on Wednesday. The other remaining Croat, unseeded Mario Anèiæ (left), reached his first quarterfinal in Zagreb when he defeated German Denis Gremelmayr 6-3, 6-2. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9485/1/Falkua-regatta-in-1593-the-earliest-known-regatta-in-Europe.html The 1593 regatta consisted of seventy four wooden fishing boats called falku¹a, from the harbour of the town of Komi¾a on the island of Vis to the islet of Palagru¾a. It was the oldest known boat race in Europe. Falku¹a is autochthonous Croatian boat of 9m of length, with the mast of equal size, in use from 11th or 12th century. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9482/1/Super-Mario-Aneiae-Comeback-in-2008-with-the-Finals-in-Marseille-France.html   Super Mario as they call Mario Anèiæ is announcing a comeback in 2008 with a great game against Baghdatis in Marseille, France. Finals are tomorrow. After being ill for more than a year, Mario is showing his talent again for his fans worldwide. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 16 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9478/1/High-Jump-World-Champion-Blanka-Vlaiaes-20th-consecutive-victory.html Croatia's world champion Blanka Vla¹iæ earned her 20th consecutive victory on Wednesday at the Women's High Jump Meeting in her hometown of Split. The 24-year-old jumped 2.01 metres, setting a meet record at a venue just a few hundred metres from her Dalmatian coast home. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9474/1/Snow-Queen-Trophy-2008-Croatia-Sljeme.html This year's Snow Queen Trophy will be held February 15-17, 2008 and it's truly a season-highlight for slalom skiers that is being organized this year. Two gate-races are planned on the icy slopes of Sljeme situated a half an hour from Croatia's capital city. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9481/1/Ivan-Ljubieiae-wins-in-South-Africa.html Tournament top seed Ivan Ljubièiæ of Croatia (left) had to pull out all the stops against Algerian qualifier Lamine Ouahab -- ranked in singles far below him at 318 -- before battling to a three-set 6-4 4-6 6-3 win. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9476/1/Croatia-Ambassador-to-China-visits-Macau-Olympic-Committee.html The ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to China, Boris Veliæ (left), and president of the Croatian Olympic Committee, Zlatko Mate¹a, visited the Macau Olympic Committee last week at the newly inaugurated Macau Olympic Committee Headquarters. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9473/1/Alpine-skiing-legends-to-take-part-in-Croatia-charity-race.html Sixteen alpine skiing legends including Italy's Alberto Tomba and Sweden's Ingemar Stenmark will take part in a charity race in Croatia on February 17, 2008. They will race in a mixed-sex giant slalom event with Ivica Kosteliæ (left), among others. Money collected from the race will be donated to a hospital for chronic child diseases in Gornja Bistra near Zagreb. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9470/1/Sensational-play-by-Lana-Rukavina-leads-Wheeling-to-victory.html For Lana Rukavina, it was about time. It was about time she was back leading her team in a big game. It was about time her Wheeling team finally got a shot at the Mid-Suburban League girls basketball title. Mostly, it was about time she made up for lost time. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9462/1/David-Diehl-gets-the-Super-Bowl-42.html  Croatian American David Diehl in the light of glory, after wining 42nd Super Bowl for New York Giants.  In five NFL seasons, durable jack-of-all-trades David Diehl has started every game the Giants have played - 85, including playoffs. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9461/1/Sensational-victory-by-skiers-Kosteliae-and-Dim-on-February-3rd-2008.html Two Croatians on the podium at Val d' Isere. Natko Zrnèiæ Dim (left) achieved the result of his career in Val D'Isere, France. There in the super combination he gained the third place behind Bode Miller and Ivica Kosteliæ. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9455/1/Belichick--Diehl-Two-Croatian-Americans-face-off-at-Super-Bowl-XLII.html Croatian-American Bill Belichick (left) has led the England Patriots to three Super Bowl victories, the most recent in 2005. This Sunday, February 3, 2008, his Patriots face the New York Giants led by fellow Croatian-American offensive lineman David Diehl. The Giants have not won a Super Bowl since 1990 and are ready to rise to the challenge. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9449/1/Croatia-in-the-Finals-of-the-2008-European-Mens-Handball-Championship.html   When the final whistle was blown, all Croatian players were dancing on the court, the French players collapsed to the floor in disappointment: Croatia won the first semi-final against the title holders with a 24:23 victory. January 26, 2006. Lackovic decides in a thrilling endgame against France. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 26 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9444/1/Zagreb-Thunder---the-first-American-Football-team-in-Croatia.html American football team Zagreb Thunder was founded in 2006 by a group of enthusiasts who share passion for American Football. Future goals are increasing the number of players, playing more games, joining a European League of American Football, and developing American football in Croatia. vladom@xnet.hr (Vladimir Mihajloviæ) Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9445/1/Limestone-College-has-four-Croatian-sensations-on-its-swim-team.html Zeljko Karaman, Goran Majlat, Marija Grubic, Ines Speranda, all from Split, Croatia swam for Limestone College at a recent swim meet against  Savannah College of Art and Design. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9447/1/Michael-Bahoric--Amy-Ireland-off-to-Croatia-to-skate.html Amy Ireland and her partner Michael Bahoric (left), will be competing in senior pairs for Croatia at the ISU European figure skating championships in Zagreb, Croatia, January 21-28, 2008. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9446/1/Marin-Cilic-follows-Croatian-heroes-by-defeating-Fernando-Gonzalez.html First there was the man himself, Goran Ivanisevic, the towering, big-serving lefty who won Wimbledon in 2001. Then there was Mario Ancic, who was slightly taller, with a serve just as mighty, but a fragile body. Yesterday, it was the turn for the latest player to emerge from Croatia, Marin Cilic (left), to step into the limelight. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9439/1/Croatian-sensations---Niko-Micin-and-Petra-Radovic-at-the-University-of-Washington.html Each year, thousands of students from around the country come to Seattle to start their college careers at the UW. Some come from small towns, some from big cities and some even come from other countries. Niko Micin (left) and Petra Radovic are two people who fall into the latter category. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9435/1/David-Diehl---Croatian-among-Giants---In-NFC-Championship-2008.html David Diehl is an American football player with Croatian and German background. He is an offensive lineman in the National Football League. Diehl is currently a starter on the offensive line for the New York Giants. See him playing for the N.F.C. Championship on TV, January 20th, 2008. Check Grb on his arm. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9422/1/Eduardo-struck-his-sixth-goal-in-four-games-to-give-Arsenal-the-advantage.html Eduardo struck his sixth goal in four games to give Arsenal the advantage at half-time in their FA Cup third-round match at Burnley. The Croatia international seized on to a lofted pass over the top by Kolo Toure and held off Steven Caldwell before slipping the ball neatly past Gabor Kiraly. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9413/1/Filip-Grgiae-world-champion-in-Taekwondo-for-2007-in-Bejing-China.html Filip Grgiæ, Croatia, won gold medal at the prestigous 2007 Bejing WTF World Taekwondo Championships in male bantamweight (under 62kg) category, China. As we know, Taekwondo is an olympic sport. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9400/1/Compassionate-player-Vedran-Corluka-BiH-and-Croatias-pride.html 'Me and my family have had to fight for everything that we have ever had and I still have that attitude. It has played a big part in helping me deal with life and my profession.'  Raised in the small Bosnian village of Derventa, Corluka and his family fled to Croatia when he was six to escape a Serb onslaught that was to burn down the family house letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 25 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9402/1/Croatia-ranked-10th-in-the-world-by-FIFA.html With few international matches played in the past month, the top 20 remain unchanged with Argentina on 1,523 points ahead of Brazil  (1,502), world champions Italy (1,498), Spain (1,349) and Germany (1,298). The remainder of the top 10 are taken up by Czech Republic (1,290), France (1,243), Portugal (1,241), Netherlands (1,170) and Croatia (1,129). letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 23 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9398/1/Roger-Maris-Croatian-American-baseball-player-snubbed-by-Baseball-Hall-of-Fame.html Baseball's report about player use of steroids and growth hormones was issued last Thursday, the 22nd anniversary of the death of one of the greatest players not in the Hall of Fame. Maybe he'll get there now. Baseball needs him. Maris still holds the American League record for homers in a single season. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9405/1/Ivan--Klasnic-enjoys-fairytale-finish.html Werder Bremen's Ivan Klasnic (left) enjoyed a Christmas fairytale finish to the kidney transplant nightmare - which almost ended his career - with two goals in the 5-2 win over Bayer Leverkusen. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9384/1/Croatias-Sanja-Jovanovic-sets-50m-backstroke-world-record-Dec-15th-2007.html Croatia's Sanja Jovanovic has set a new world record on her way to winning a short-course swimming race at the European Championships in Hungary. Jovanovic finished the 50-meter backstroke in 26.5 seconds, 0.33 seconds faster than the previous record set by China's Hui Li. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 15 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9390/1/A-Hard-Work-Day-for-Croatias-Borna-Kovac.html   On 12th December 2007 the World Junior Table Tennis Championships (WJTTC) in Palo Alto, California, began for several athletes that did not play in the team events, in the Singles events they made their debuts. One of them was Borna Kovac (left). The sixteen year old Croat started rather weakly in the tournament but improved a great deal. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9379/1/Australian-Boxer-puts-own-money-on-the-line-to-fight-Stipe-Drews.html   Australian boxer Danny Green has put his money on the line to fight reigning light heavyweight world champion Croatia's Stipe Drews (left) in Perth, Australia on Sunday December 16th, 2007. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9374/1/Niko-Dzapo-Croatian-BMX-racer-ranked-1st-in-cruiser-class-in-California.html Niko is ranked 1st in cruiser class and 2nd in expert class in California. He will represent California in Columbus, Ohio at the Columbus Convention Center for the President's Cup. Only the top 15 riders for each class from each state can qualify for this race. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9366/1/Croatia-advances-at-the-XVIII-Womens-World-Handball-Championships.html   Having won both of their preliminary matches against Kazakhstan and Argentina, the Croatian Women's Handball team advances to the next round of the XVIII Women's World Championships being held in France. violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9360/1/Basketball-players-from-Croatia-and-Bosna-Herzegovina-in-the-US.html   Toni Kukoc (left) played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks. Have you ever stopped and wondered how many players there are from Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina at the university level in the United States? It is an impressive list. vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9353/1/In-1880-local-Croatian-young-men-began-to-play-football-in-Zupanja.html In 1880 local Croatian young men began to play football in Zupanja. Since there were only nine of the Englishmen who came to Croatia several years before as experts for exploitation of oak forest, they invited local boys to join them. There is the first written record of local young men playing English football and having genuine Englishmen as tutors and team-mates. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 23 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9352/1/How-to-build-a-decent-team-Follow-Croatias-lead.html Croatia would have deserved a victory by several more goals. This may have been the greatest display from a visiting nation to Wembley in modern times A nation of 4.7 million people had produced a side that made England, with a population of 10 times that size, look ponderous. The 3-2 result was a sort of ... letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 23 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9351/1/Croatia-3--English-Retailers--12-billion.html It's not just English soccer fans who will be gloomily slumped over their pint glass after a loss against Croatia in a qualifying match took the English team out of the Euro 2008, the quadrennial European championship. The Defeat will cost British retailers an estimated £600 million = $1.2 billion. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9350/1/Spectacular-win-3-2-by-Croatia-over-England-at-Wembley-on-Nov-21-2007.html So why is a sport victory so important? It is important because you can not easily corrupt 11 people on the field and if you try, it is obvious. At the moment when Croatia had nothing to lose, since we already qualified for the Euro 2008, our national pride and sportsmanship was, where it should be. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9321/1/Toronto-Croatia-wins-Canadian-Soccer-League-championship-series-title-2007.html Toronto Croatia didn't score a goal in the second leg of their Canadian Soccer League championship series with the Serbian White Eagles. It turns out they didn't need one, meaning Croatia's 4-1 victory in Saturday's first leg was enough to give the Mississauga, Ont.-based team the title. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 29 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9320/1/Croatia-surprise-Poland-to-move-up-rankings-in-Rugby.html Poland suffered a surprise 14-15 defeat at home to Croatia in Division 2B of the European Nations Cup (ENC) on 27 October, which also sees them drop four places to 35th place in the latest IRB World Rankings. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 29 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9315/1/TENNIS-ATP-Basel-St-Petersburg-Lyon-5-Croatians--5-Victories.html Ivan Ljubicic passed the first round with a victory over Sam Querrey in Lyon, France. Karanusic and Karlovic easily won their opponents in Basel, Switzerland. Dr. Ivo won with 6:3 and 6:2 and Ancic and Cilic won in St. Petersburg, Russia. Our boys are doing great. 5 matches and 5 victories. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 23 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9304/1/Ace-king-Karlovic-pounds-out-third-title-of-season-in-Stockholm.html Croatian Ivo Karlovic fired 27 aces to lift his third title of the season on a different surface as he won the indoor Stockholm Open. Along with impeccable Roger Federer, Karlovic is the only other play in the ATP to own titles on three contrasting surfaces during the campaign. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 15 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9302/1/Croatia-stays-on-the-top-and-beats-Israel-1-0-in-Euro-2008-qualifying.html Zagreb, Croatia: Eduardo Da Silva scored the lone goal Saturday to lead Croatia over Israel 1-0 in European Championship qualifying. It was Eduardo's 10th for Croatia in 10 qualifying matches. Croatia remains at the top of Group E with 26 points, three more than England. Coach Bilic (left) celebrates with a dance. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 13 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9290/1/Karlovic-dumps-out-Hewitt-to-advance-into-semifinals.html Seventh seed Ivo Karlovic sent former world number one Lleyton Hewitt packing from the Japan Open with a 7-6 (5) 7-6 (6) victory over the fourth seed. The Croatian number two counted on 25 aces to overcome Australia's Hewitt, and in-so-doing became only the fourth player to hit 1,000 aces in one season. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 05 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9277/1/Croatia-Advances-at-World-Cup-of-Pool.html Ivica Putnik lines up his shot at the World cup of Pool.  Croatia stunned the 16th seed Russia with an upset victory. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 26 Sep 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9258/1/EURO-2008-Soccer-Croatia-wins-Andorra-6-0-Estonia-2-0-to-stay-on-top.html     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 12 Sep 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9252/1/Ivan-Ljubicic-Ace-Leader.html    TEPESHK@aol.com (Katarina Tepesh) Sat, 08 Sep 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9249/1/A-new-star-was-born---Blanka-Vlasic---intelligent-and-sexy.html Blanka Dances with Relaxing and Positive Energy for Gold. Collection of videos.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 04 Sep 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9247/1/Croatias-Blanka-Vlasic-wins-GOLD-at-the-World-Athletics-Championships-in-Osaka.html   Blanka Vlasic, Croatian high jumper, confirmed her status as the premier athlete in the women's event with an easy victory at the IAAF World Championships in Osaka, Japan. Croatia's Blanka Vlasic has won 12 out of the 13 outdoor competitions she has entered this year 2007. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 03 Sep 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9229/1/Croatia-celebrates-in-Sarajevo---beats-BiH-5-3.html  Mladen Petric (left), celebrates Croatia's 5-3 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina  after yesterday's friendly in Sarajevo. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 23 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9227/1/FIFA-ranks-Croatia-6th-in-the-world.html    letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 22 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9225/1/Free-Admission-to-US-Open-Tennis-Qualifying-Matches.html Come see the best Croatian tennis stars, Ivan Ljubicic, Ivo Karlovic, Mario Ancic, and Jelena Kostanic Tosic, as they practice and compete for the 2007 US Open!  TEPESHK@aol.com (Katarina Tepesh) Mon, 20 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9220/1/10th-Annual-Horse-Race-in-Ravni-Kotari.html  U subotu, 18.08.2007.god. s pocetkom u 17h u Polaci odrzat ce se jubilarne 10. medunarodne konjicke utrke galopera i kasaca. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 17 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9218/1/Handball-Egypt-and-Croatia-secure-spot-in-Main-Round.html  Croatia is the second team to secure a spot in the next phase of the Men's Junior World Championships in Macedonia, after drawing 25:25 with neighbours Slovenia. violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Fri, 17 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9211/1/2-Silver-medals-for-Croatia-at-the-World-University-Games.html Josipa Kusanic (right), and Danijela Grgic won silver in Taekwondo and the 400 meter race respectively at the 24th World University Games in Bangkok, Thailand.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 13 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9210/1/Martin-Sinkovic-wins-bronze-in-Beijing.html  Martin Sinkovic (left) won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Junior Championships in Beijing, China. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Mon, 13 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9205/1/10th-International-Boat-Race-in-Metkoviae.html  10th International Boat Race in the southern Croatian town of Metkoviæ on the Neretva River on Saturday, Aug 11, 2007. More than 600 sportsmen in 35 teams compete. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 13 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9204/1/The-awakening-of-a-new-Lipik.html   This summer the small town of  is coming back to life. Prior to the Homeland war, Lipik was side to side with the most prestigious European health resorts Baden Baden and Karlovy Vary. In September 1991 everything was burned down and destroyed. ipuscenik@yahoo.com (Ivan Pu¹æenik) Mon, 13 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9197/1/Karlovic-and-Ancic-won-in-Montreal-Both-into-the-second-round.html     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 07 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9196/1/Rare-air-indeed---Vlasic-Jumps-Second-Highest-in-the-History-of-the-World.html With 2.07, Vlasic moves up to No. 3 all-time in Stockholm Tuesday 7 August 2007. Blanka attacked her own Croatian record of 2.06 with the bar raised to 2.07. All the spectators in the fully packed Olympic Arena will remember Blanka Vlasic's 2.07 leap. bachlea@gmail.com (Lea Bach) Tue, 07 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9185/1/Karlovic-plays-Roddick-today-for-the-finals-at-2-PM-EST-USA.html     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 04 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9184/1/Croatia-advances-to-the-finals-of-8220Trofeo-Diego-Gianatti8221-by-defeating-Serbia.html Croatia defeated Serbia 84-76 and will face hosts Italy in todays finals.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 04 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9183/1/Great-Success-and-almost-Gold-for-Croatian-Mens-Youth-Hanballers-in-Bahrain-2007.html  The crowd at the nearly complete Manama hall felt all ecstatic about the great performances of both youth teams. Danish Casper Ulrich Mortensen with 9 goals to his credit became the match winner. Manuel Strlek and Hrvoje Tojcic scoring 7 goals each made the Croatian side shining. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 04 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9182/1/Croatian-Karla-Fabrio-a--World-Champion-with-world-record-in-Jump-Blue-2007.html   Karla Fabrio, from Zagreb, Croatia establised a new world record in Jump Blue. Karla Fabrio, natjecateljica iz RK "Geronimo" iz Zagreba na natjecanju je postavila novi slu¾beni svjetski rekord u disciplini Jump Blue s rezultatom od 130,10 metara. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 04 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9173/1/Croatia-in-World-Handball-Semifinals.html  The semi-final line-up for the second World Youth Handball Championship was completed last night, with European powerhouses Croatia, Denmark and Sweden advancing. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 01 Aug 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9172/1/Blanka-Vlasic-tops-206-in-Thessaloniki-for-a-new-Croatian-Record.html   Clearly the best athlete of the "Olympic Meeting 2007" held in Thessaloniki, Greece, was Croatia's Blanka Vlasic. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 31 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9171/1/Fantela-and-Marenic-World-Champions.html  Croatian sailors Sime Fantela and Igor Marenic from Zadar have earned the title of world champions in the under 21 World Junior Championships. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 30 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9159/1/Blanka-Vlasic-wins-again-in-Monte-Carlo-10-victories-in-2007.html  Croatia's best athlete, Blanka Vla¹iæ won her 10th victory of the season! At the Super Grand Prix meet "Herculis 2007" in Monte Carlo, she cleared 2.03 meters for victory. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9152/1/ATP-18th-edition-of-Croatian-Institution-Studena-Croatia-Open-Umag-2007.html As we enter the 18th edition of the tournament...we proved the world that Umag's tournament is not only about tennis. A new look of the main square, an entertainment program just like those in the main world capitals. A Croatian Institution Studena Croatia Open Umag. Croatia Open Director, Slavko Rasberger (photo).   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 25 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9148/1/Danijela-Grgic-wins-Gold-at-the-European-Athletics-Junior-Championships-2007.html   Croatian 400m runner Danijela Grgic is making a habit of hitting top form when it matters most  a quality which will put her in good-stead for the future. Danijela wins gold again. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 22 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9147/1/Croatias-Blanka-Vlasic-cleared-205-metres-to-take-victory-in-Madrid-2007.html   Croatia's Blanka Vlasic beat her own leading mark of the year when she cleared 2.05 metres to take victory in the women's high jump at the IAAF Grand Prix in Madrid on Saturday July 21, 2007 letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 22 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9140/1/Zagreb-Mayor-Arena-Construction-Begins-On-July-20.html Arena Zagreb, the future symbol of the city, will be a multi-function hall for sports, but also for cultural, entertainment and business events, and it will be able to hold up to 25,000 people.    letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 13 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9126/1/Mark-Viduka-Croatian-Australian.html   Mark Viduka (left) is surprised how much the green and gold shirt has become ingrained in his soul. He has contemplated leaving behind the Australian national team many times. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 05 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9124/1/Antun-Vrdoljak-re-elected-to-the-International-Olympic-Committee.html   Antun Vrdoljak (left) was one of 27 members of the International Olympic Committee assembly that was re-elected to an eight-year term in elections on Thursday. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 05 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9122/1/Croatia-Wins-In-Thriller.html Led by Marija Vrsaljko (right), the Croatian women's U18 basketball team defeated Montenegro 66-62 in a deciding match to avoid early elimination from the European championships.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 05 Jul 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9106/1/Get-fit-the-fun-way-with-an-Activity-Holiday-in-Croatia.html If you are always promising yourself an activity holiday, why not try one with a more adventurous edge? letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 28 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9098/1/arko-Dolinar-table-tennis-world-champion-and-top-scientist.html   Croatian table tennis player Professor ®arko Dolinar (1920-2003) holds a quite interesting record. He is the only athlete to have won eight world championships while holding a doctorate of science. He taught John Lennon how to play table tennis. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 28 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9103/1/Velebit-Trekking---2007.html  A 5th edition of the Velebit Ultra Trail - a two days non-stop ultra trail race for the individuals will take competitors through the Croatian mythical mountain - Velebit. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 27 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9090/1/TENNIS-Croatias-Ivan-Ljubicic-wins-the-mens-title-at-the-Ordina-Open-2007.html       letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 23 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9089/1/TENNIS-Karlovic-wins-Nottingham-Open-2007.html Ivo Karlovic claimed his second title of the season after coming from a set behind to defeat Arnaud Clement 3-6 6-4 6-4 in the Nottingham Open final. The big-serving Croatian took advantage of an increasingly weary-looking Clement to conclude his preparations for Wimbledon in style.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 23 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9087/1/TENNIS-Ljubieiae-and-Karloviae-into-two-different-finals-June-22-2007.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 22 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9085/1/TENNIS-Ljubieiae-and-Karloviae-in-semi-finals-in-NETHERLANDS--ENGLAND.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9083/1/HNS-Slavi-95-Godina-Postojanja---95th-Birthday-of-Croatian-Soccer-Association.html   Prije 95 godina u Zagrebu je osnovan Hrvatski nogometni savez. HNS je tijekom godina rada izrastao u najbrojniji sportski savez u Hrvatskoj istaknuo je Zorislav Srebriæ na konferenciji za novinare. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 20 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9067/1/Undefeated-Croatian-Heavyweight-Super---Mario-Preskar-wins-with-TKO-in-Poland.html   Dvadesettrogodi¹nji Preskar u svojoj 14. profesionalnoj borbi pobijedio je u poljskim Katowicama 37-godi¹njeg Amerikanca Carla Gathrighta, koji mu je predao meè zbog ozljede, uoèi poèetka èetvrte runde. vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9062/1/Mario-Preskar-Golota-fight-live-on-MSG-Saturday-June-9--330-pm-.html Undefeated Croatian Heavyweight Mario Preskar (12-0-1, 7 KOs) attempting to improve his record against Carl Gathright (6-9-1, 2 KOs), from Niles, Ill. Preskar last fough January 20, 2007 in Basel, Switzerland where he defeated Italian Champion Paolo Ferrara.   vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Thu, 07 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9053/1/First-Indoor-Soccer-School-in-Croatia.html  Croatian indoor-soccer squad players Korab and Kujtim Morina established the first Indoor-soccer academy in Croatia in September last year. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 05 Jun 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9040/1/Croatias-Stipe-Drews-World-Champion---wins-WBA-title-belt.html  Stipe Drews (32-1, 13 KO's) won a unanimous decision in 12 rounds against Silvio Branco (55-9-2, 34 KO's) to claim the light heavyweight title. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 01 May 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9030/1/FC-Sydney-inks-Croatia-born-Culina-as-coach.html  Croatia-born Branko Culina (left) has signed a two-year contract to coach Sydney FC in Australia's A-League soccer competition, the team's third coach in less than a year. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 25 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9023/1/Return-of-old-familiars-to-Croatia-Open.html Over 1,000 rowers got their 2,000m racing season started in Zagreb with the Croatia Open. In its 24th year, the race has grown to Croatia's biggest rowing regatta and over the weekend athletes from Slovenia, Israel, Turkey, Italy, Austria, Slovakia and Croatia competed.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 17 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9022/1/Croatias-Marin-Cilic-wins-Casablanca-Open-April-15th-2007.html   Croatian tennis player Marin Cilic defeated Italian Simone Bolelli in the final to win the Casablanca Open tournament on Sunday April 15th 2007 letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 16 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9020/1/Karlovic-blasts-way-to-first-career-ATP-title.html Croatia's Ivo Karlovic (right) powered his way to his first career ATP title on Sunday, using his big serve to capture the U.S. Clay Court Championship with a 6-4 6-1 victory over Mariano Zabaleta.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 16 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9015/1/Croatia-wins-water-polo-gold-in-Melbourne-2007.html   Croatia made their first water polo medal in FINA world championship history a golden one, pulling off an upset overtime defeat of Hungary on a dramatic final day of the tournament in Melbourne today. Not an April Fools' Day joke. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 01 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9014/1/Croatia-Wins-Water-Polo-Gold.html   Croatia wins water polo gold against Hungary   Ivobach2@aol.com (Ivo Bach) Sun, 01 Apr 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9012/1/Croatia-dunks-Serbia-10-7-in-world-water-polo-rowdy-semi-final-in-Melbourne-2007.html   Miho Boskovic scored three goals Teo Dogas had two as Croatia dominated the Serbs, leading by as much as 8-3 heading into the final quarter. "We don't have a weak position in our team - we have strong defenders, strong shooters, strong center forwards, strong goalkeepers," said Croatia coach Radko Rudic. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 30 Mar 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9007/1/Croatia-Beats-Russia-13-3.html   The Croatian water polo team beat Russia 13-3 and achieved their primary aim, entry into the semi finals of the world championship. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 28 Mar 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9003/1/Croatia-Edges-Australia-in-Thriller.html Miho Boskovic scored four times in a power-packed performance to give Croatia the victory against Australia. Figlioli inspired a third-quarter comeback, scoring four consecutive goals, before Croatia showed its class at Melbourne Aquatic Centre. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 28 Mar 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9001/1/Euro-2008-Croatia-2---Macedonia-1.html Darijo Srna, right, scored from a superb free kick and then set up Eduardo da Silva who scored the winning goal in Croatia's match against Macedonia.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 28 Mar 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8972/1/Ivanisevic-Ljubicic-to-Play-for-Children.html Croatian tennis players Goran Ivanisevic and Ivan Ljubicic were set on Friday to play each other in an invitational match in Sarajevo dedicated to children of the city.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8970/1/Croatian-Soccer-Heads-into-Cyberspace-with-new-websites.html Competition in Croatian football has spread to a new areas, with clubs showing an increased interest in improving their presence on the internet. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8954/1/Croatia-to-Compete-in-2007-Bacardi-Cup.html   The Bacardi Cup Star Class Regatta expands its reach drawing Croatia for the first time in its 80 - year history. Registrants include Olympic Medalists from 19 countries.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8952/1/Online-Route-planner-For-Cycling-Trips-To-Croatia.html   Holidaymakers thinking of visiting Croatia can now get information online about cycling tours in Istria. Istria's tourist office in Porec has a multilingual service online, where a list of cycling routes can be found. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8949/1/Ivo-Karlovic-in-the-finals--at-the-SAP-Open-Sunday-Feb-18-2007-in-San-Jose-California.html   Ivo Karlovic, of Croatia, reacts after beating Benjamin Becker, of Germany, 7-6 (7-5), 7-5 in a semifinal tennis match at the SAP Open, Saturday, Feb. 17, 2007, in San Jose, California. Final match tomorrow 6 PM EST letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 17 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8943/1/No-quotHand-of-Godquot-Goals-in-Priests-European-Cup.html A hundred Roman Catholic priests from all over Europe swapped their cassocks for football strips in Sarajevo this week to compete in an indoor soccer championship organised by the church.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8942/1/Karlovic-upsets-Blake-in-San-Jose-February-15-2007.html   American second seed James Blake suffered a shock defeat at the San Jose Open when he lost 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 to world number 103 Ivo Karlovic (right) of Croatia in the second round on Thursday. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8923/1/Dont-mess-with-Croatians---Cro-Cop----Mirko-Filipovic---Here-Comes-The-Hammer.html Your last resort? Take it and pray for the best. But eight times out of ten, taking this left kick to the head provides a first class ticket to the canvas and unconsciousness. If you don't get knocked out, well, you're one of the few. Welcome to the world of Mirko Cro Cop.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 05 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8917/1/Terra-Incognita-Croatia-2007.html   Terra Incognita is an Expedition Adventure Race that covers over 400 km through Croatia - one of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes on the European Continent. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8915/1/Croatia-Advances-to-Quarterfinals-in-2007-Handball-World-Championships.html   Croatia continue to look to be the team to beat in the World Championships as they defeated previously unbeaten Hungary 25-18. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8894/1/John-Mayasich-Olympic-medal-winner-The-First-Miracle-on-Ice.html John Mayasich (right) has enjoyed an outstanding career as one of the top broadcast executives in Minnesota. A talented athlete, he is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame and an Olympic medal winner.   olujanovine@hotmail.com (Tomislav Kapular) Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8893/1/Croatias-Ana-Jelusic-en-Route-to-the-Podium.html   Ana Jelusic was excited about her first ever World Cup podium on home soil after twice finishing fourth earlier this season. "I wondered if I could manage such a result here despite the pressure from the crowd and the media and I'm proud to have achieved such a performance in front of so many fans," said the young skier from Rijeka, who turned 20 on Dec. 29. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8892/1/Ljubicic-beats-Murray-to-win-Qatar-Open-title.html Ivan Ljubicic of Croatia (right) beat Andy Murray of Britain 6-4 and 6-4 to take home the trophy from the one million U.S. dollars Qatar Open tennis tournament on Saturday.    letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8825/1/Glimpse-of-few-Croatian-Soccer-players-doing-very-well-this-weekend-all-over-Europe.html     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 19 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8797/1/8220SUPER-MARIO8221-PRESKAR-STAYS-UNDEFEATED-with-6--KO--in-a-row.html   Croatian heavyweight boxer, 22-year-old "Super Mario" Preskar, blitzed his way to 11th win keeping his undefeated record last Saturday, November 4, 2006 in Phoenix, Arizona. Preskar, knocked out Gene Valdez with a powerful left right combination in the first minute  vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8777/1/Australia-Croatia-win-reserves-league.html Croatia reserves came out league winners when they defeated Lions this weekend with Westlands coming third after a convincing win over Wanderers.   dalmatinac99@vip.hr (Ante Katalinic) Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8787/1/Croatian-Handball-Team-Wins-Statoil-World-Cup.html   violicalvert@optusnet.com.au (Violi Calvert) Sat, 04 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8768/1/Mario-Ancic-triumphs-in-St-Petersburg.html Croatia's Mario Ancic holds his trophy after defeating Sweden's Thomas Johansson in the final match at the St.Petersburg Open tennis tournament in St.Petersburg, October 29, 2006.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 29 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8769/1/Ivan-Ljubicic-of-Croatia-lifts-the-trophy-after-winning-his-Vienna-Open-2006.html   Ljubicic wins Vienna title. The lanky Croatian, who added to his championships in Chennai and Zagreb, is the first player since Roger Federer in 2002 and 2003 to successfully defend the title "It's great to (successfully) defend a title. It's the first time in my life," said Ljubicic. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 16 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8743/1/Croatia-Overwhelms-England-2-0.html   ZAGREB, Oct 11 (Reuters) - Croatia claimed a fully-deserved 2-0 win over a lamentable England on Wednesday to go top of Euro 2008 qualifying group E with seven points, above their opponents on goal difference with a game in hand. Ivobach2@aol.com (Ivo Bach) Wed, 11 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8738/1/Great-escape-by-Bhupathi-Ancic.html Mahesh Bhupathi , left, of India and Mario Ancic of Croatia, right, pose with the winners' check and the trophies after defeating the Indian duo of Rohan Bopanna and Mustafa Ghouse in the doubles finals match of the Kingfisher Open Tennis in Mumbai, India, Monday, Oct. 2, 2006. Bhupathi and Ancic defeated Bopanna-Ghouse 6-4, 6-7, 10-8 to win the doubles' title.   dalmatinac99@vip.hr (Ante Katalinic) Sat, 07 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8737/1/-Ljubicic-wins-second-place-at-Thailand-Open.html American James Blake dominated top-seeded Croatian Ivan Ljubicic 6-3, 6-1 Sunday, Oct. 1, 2006 to win the Thailand Open final. Third-seeded Blake controlled the match from the start with superior ground strokes, wrapping up his fourth title of the year in less than an hour.   dalmatinac99@vip.hr (Ante Katalinic) Sat, 07 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8741/1/Chicago-Euro-2008-Soccer-Qualifying-Matches-at-the-Croatian-Center.html The Croatian Cultural Center of Chicago will be televising several Euro 2008 qualifying matches. Drinks will be served and food will be served during halftime. Read more... stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 05 Oct 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8698/1/Ljubicic-Leads-Croatia-Charge-in-China.html Top seed Ivan Ljubicic (right) led a trio of Croatians into the second round of the China Open with a comfortable 6-4 6-2 victory over Japan's Go Soeda on Tuesday.  stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 14 Sep 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8697/1/Kukoc-Calls-a-Halt-to-NBA-Career.html Toni Kukoc, who played on the last three of Chicago's Michael-Jordan led title-winning teams is to quit the NBA.  stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Thu, 14 Sep 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8694/1/Mirko-quotCro-Copquot-Filipovic-wins-PRIDE-Open-Weight-Grand-Prix.html   On Sunday, September 10, 2006 Heavyweight Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic defeated two top-ranked opponents in one night to be crowned victor in PRIDE FC's Open Weight Grand Prix.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 12 Sep 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8686/1/Ivan-Ljubicic-the-Silent-Type.html   Many things are going right with Ivan Ljubicic (pictured at left), besides his ranking of No. 3. One of them is his beautiful and highly accomplished wife Aida. A fellow refuge from Bosnia, now a graduate of the Law School in Zagreb, Aida, is hoping to become a judge. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Mon, 11 Sep 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8589/1/E-Two-Croatians-in-the-division-Joe-thats-not-something-you-see-everyday.html Bill Belichick: You know, two Croatians in the division, Joe, that's not something you see everyday                              Bill Belichick with Joe Benigno and Sid Rosenberg WFAN, Sports Radio 66AM New YorkJanuary 5, 2005     Host: ...the best coach that there is in the business right now, and that is the head coach of the World Champion New England Patriots, Bill Belichick. Coach, how you doing? Happy New Year. BB: Thank you Joe, Sid. How you doing? Host: Good. Nice to talk to you, Coach. And congratulations again. Let's start right here. Everyone's talking, obviously, about the Steelers' 14-game win streak, and Peyton Manning's record-breaking season. But somehow or another, through it all, your New England Patriots went 14-2, and looks like you're well on your way to another championship †at the very least at least vying for one. So congratulations on a great regular season. BB: I think it's a real accomplishment for our team. You know, they've gone through a lot of adversity, and met a lot of challenges along the way. But right now we're just where a lot of other teams are right now, we're 0-0. The team that wins will be the team that plays the best from here on out. So everybody that's in, is in. Nothing really matters except how we can each do going forward. That's where our focus is, to try to get our game to its highest level. Host: Coach, I know you don't like to lose, and I know you haven't done much of that lately †what is it, 29 out of the last 31? But I thought one of the best things that happened to this team was going down to Miami and losing that game to the Dolphins. Because it seemed like you came right back and smacked my team next week, of course. And then you win the final game of the season to go 14-2. But it seems like maybe that kind of refocused your team again, Coach. Do you agree with that or not? BB: Losing down there was tough. You got an 11-point lead with four minutes to go in the game, and end up losing to Miami. That was pretty disappointing. Host: I guess his answer's no. [Laughter] BB: Yeah, I don't think there were a lot of positives on that one. Host: How about the Steeler game? Let's talk about them for a little bit. Because the chances are, at least if you're asking me, I think the AFC title game is going to be you guys and the Steelers in a couple weeks in Pittsburgh. What happened in that game? Was it just a case that maybe you'd won 21 in a row, and you were due to lose, and you kind of ran into a bus? I mean, what happened that day in Pittsburgh, Coach? BB: You know, they played a lot better than we did. We didn't play very well defensively. We turned the ball over on offense †they ran one back for a touchdown, and recovered another two fumbles inside our 30. We just didn't play well. We got outcoached, outplayed, and they deserved to win, they were the better team. And there was no question about it that day. That's why they're the #1 seed. They're 15-1. You've got to give them all the credit in the world, they've had a tremendous regular season. Host: They did, they won 14 straight games. And everybody's talking about that matchup, Coach, with you and Pittsburgh. But... BB: I wouldn't worry too much about that one right now. Host: Right, that's what I'm saying. There's a good chance you're going to see Peyton Manning along the way, again, and you guys have been very successful here against Peyton Manning. [Both hosts talking at once] He's watching film on Manning right now. I know he won't admit it. Probably so. He's got the projector on as we speak watching Manning, figuring how we're going to beat him again. Now you guys have been very successful against him, Coach. Including back to Week 1 in this regular season, you won that game as well. But you went on to the record-breaking season. I mean, do you think that at this point that you can be successful against Peyton doing the same things you've done in the past, or has his game really gotten to the point now where you're going to have to make some changes? BB: Oh, I think there will have to be some adjustments made. I'm sure they will make some, and I'm sure we will make some. We didn't exactly †I mean, that game came down to a field goal on the last play of the game, and that was the difference. So that could have easily gone either way. I think that at this point we're prepared to play all three teams †the Jets, San Diego, and Indianapolis †depending on how things turn out this weekend. And we have a lot of respect for all three of them. We know that no matter who we play at this time of the season, they're all good. And I think if you look at †you know I'm not a big stat guy, but when you look at the league stats after 16 regular season games, and you see all those teams bunched up there in terms of turnovers, and rushing defense, and red area production, and all those kind of things, they're all right up there at the top. It doesn't really matter who you play at this time of year †everybody's good. It's just a question of which team goes out and plays well. And can you get your best performance on the field at this point in time. And that's really what it comes down to. There's plenty of talent on every team, and I'm sure we'll have some very competitive games as we go through the playoffs. But it'll just come down to the team that can execute the best at critical points in the game. JB: Coach, you know Andy Reid, Philadelphia, had everything wrapped up a couple weeks ago. Andy Reid had his team basically mail it in that game against the Rams and certainly last week against Cincinnati they got killed 38-10. You know, no Westbrook, no McNabb. And even though you really had nothing to play for †you were locked in last week against the 49ers †you still played Brady three quarters in that game, Coach. I mean, how about that? What's your feeling on, you know, do you feel maybe if you don't play your best players in these kind of games that maybe you lose momentum going in to the playoffs? BB: Well I think, Joe, that every coach does what he thinks is best for his football team. And whatever any other coach did, I respect that 100% because I know that that coach is doing what he thinks is best for the team. And where one team is, and where another team is, can often be two different things. In our case, our players are used to being in a routine, they're used to getting ready to play, and playing. They want to play. I don't think that they would have really accepted any other approach. To them it's football season, it's a game, and they want to play in it and they want to be prepared when they walk out on the field to play in it. That's the way we approached it. But we just do what we thought was right for us. I'm not saying that another team should have done it differently, or could have done it differently. We just try to make the decisions in the best interest of our organization. I don't want to tell anybody else how to do their job. Host: We are talking to the coach of the defending World Champion New England Patriots, Bill Belichick. Coach, lots of adjustments you had to make this year, especially on the defensive side of the football with the injuries, Ty Law going down in that Steeler game. And a guy like Troy Brown is out there picking off passes at the cornerback position. And a couple youngsters had to step in for you this year †the kid Wilfork from Miami, and Randall Gay as well. Last couple of years in New England, was this the toughest job you've had to do to kind of patchwork this defense together to get you through the second half of the season? BB: We've had to make some adjustments in the secondary, but on our defensive front we've actually been pretty consistent there with our defensive line and linebackers. We've had a lot of the same guys pretty much every week. So it seems like every year you've always got something, or one position, and sometimes a little more than that. But every team goes through that, and we just have to work our way through it. But Troy's done a nice job for us. And Randall Gay is an undrafted rookie, so he stepped in and probably given more than anybody would have expected from. Although once he started playing, he's played at a good, competitive level. Asante Samuel was our nickleback last year, and has got a lot more opportunity this year, and he's been able to take advantage of that playing time. So that's what a lot of just competitive sports is, are guys preparing and then getting an opportunity. Then a lot of times when they get that opportunity they're able to raise their play to a high competitive level. And that's been the case with some of the players for us in the secondary this year. Host: Coach, how tough has it been with the situation with Charlie Weis? You know, he accepts the Notre Dame job a couple weeks ago, but he's still your offensive coordinator. I guess he's kind of been shuffling back and forth between Foxborough and South Bend. How difficult has that been for you, and more specifically, for Charlie? BB: I think it's been probably more challenging for Charlie. My job hasn't changed a lot, and neither have the players' or any of their coaches. But Charlie's had to manage another situation. But I think all in all that it's gone fairly smoothly. We all know what it is, and there's no question that he's added some responsibilities. But he hasn't really been shuffling back and forth. He's basically been here, and he's done all the things that he would normally do. And he's done a good job. So I think that we can certainly work within the situation that we have to deal with. And I think we can handle that. Host: Talking about Charlie Weis and the offense here, Coach, let's stick with the quarterback position. You know obviously this year Ben Roethlisberger is getting an incredible amount of play. In fact, they started the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award back in 1957, and this year Ben Roethlisberger was the first quarterback ever to win that award. So he has the big year, everybody's talking about him. Peyton Manning breaks the record, everybody's talking about him. And there's the guy that plays for you that's won two Super Bowl MVPs in the last three years, who at least, in my opinion, never seems to get that respect. Tom Brady's name is never mentioned at the top of the list. Now with his accomplishments the last couple of years, do you think it starts to bother Tom at some point, or is he just so business-like it doesn't really matter? BB: Well I think Tom's focused on winning. And I think his record there speaks for itself. Tom's a winner. He prepares hard, he's a great leader, he's good with his teammates, and is a well respected team captain and teammate really from all quarters †offensively, defensively, guys on special teams. He's a player that I think everybody's glad is on this team, and has contributed a lot to our victories. I think that he understands that, and in the end that's the way he wants to be measured. And I think he's done a pretty good job of it. JB: You know, Coach, one thing that I'm sure bothers you †I know it's all about winning championships, obviously, for you †but I take a look at the Pro Bowl voting every year, and I think the only guy on the defense that makes it to the Pro Bowl is Richard Seymour. And I look at guys like McGinest, I look at guys like Tedy Bruschi, and I don't know if there's a better linebacker in the NFL right now than Tedy Bruschi. Does that kind of motivate these guys even more? I mean, you've got so many top-flight players on that defense, yet Baltimore's got like five guys going, and they're not even sniffing the playoffs. And you got one guy from the defense. How about that? BB: Well, Joe, you know, the Pro Bowl voting and all comes from a number of different areas †you know, the fans, the coaches, the players †and so that's the way it's set up. It's really hard, I know just from my standpoint, I don't get to see every single player in the AFC play. I see the ones that we play. So it's a hard thing to get totally accurate, because I don't think everybody gets a good full view of the league. You know, and then you start going on stats and reputation and so forth. So I'm sure that every team in the league has a couple players that they feel like should have gotten more recognition than they did. But, you know, unfortunately that's the way it goes. JB: But I would think, Coach, that that's the way you like it †again, talking to Bill Belichick from the New England Patriots †because going back to when you won the Super Bowl a couple of years ago, and you were kind of introduced as a team, and not the individuals. And you guys, in the last couple of years, have kind of epitomized what the team is all about in an era where it seems like it's all about the selfish individual. That's not your football team. So is it fair to say that maybe at the end of the day you're kind of happy? You know you guys are all-pro players, but you're still a team, and not a bunch of individual superstars? BB: I think that our players take a lot of pride in the success of the team. And I think it's important to them to support their teammates, and do their job, and not let their teammates down. So when we all walk out at the end of the day, I think number one you want to feel good about yourself and what you've accomplished. And you know you can't always react to externally what the judgments are †good or bad. I think our players are pretty mature about that, they have a good perspective on it. As long as they feel like they're doing all they can, then that's what counts the most for them. Host: Coach, Nick Saban, who was a protégé of yours †you had him in Cleveland as your defensive coordinator †had a tremendous success obviously at LSU, and now he's going to be in the division at Miami. How about that? What kind of a head coach do you think Nick's going to be in the NFL? BB: I think Nick's an outstanding coach, I don't think there's any question about that. I think he's one of the very best I've ever had the opportunity to work with. Nick is strong in every area of the game †personnel, strategy, motivation. He has a lot of experience, and he's very good at, as I say, at everything he does, and he can truly get all the bases covered. I think it just makes this division, which is already very tough, even that much tougher. You know, two Croatians in the division, Joe, that's not something you see everyday. [Laughter] Host: That's got to be a first, right Coach? BB: Probably is. Host: Alright Coach, let you go here. But as you're about to embark here on the playoffs †you're not doing a road game at the very least to get to the Super Bowl, but I think your team is certainly capable of doing that. And you've got all these great players, and Corey Dillon is here this year. You know the one thing that I guess we have to talk about is †no disrespect to Mike Vanderjagt in Indianapolis, or Jeff Reed in Pittsburgh †but the one guy we've got to talk about this time of year, maybe the most clutch kicker in the history of the game, and that's Adam Vinatieri. This is a guy that's made more big kicks for you than anybody can ever remember. BB: Well, you get in a very competitive situation like the playoffs where a lot of times teams are so close, and it comes down to a play or a kick, there's nobody we'd rather have than Adam. He's been familiar with kicking in the weather that we have in the northeast at this time of year †you never know what you're going to get. So, you know, he's a football player. He's not really a kicker, he's a football player. He has a lot of poise, has good talent, and has obviously come through for us in a lot of big situations. But again, his work ethic and his demeanor and what he puts into the game is really just as impressive as his performance. And we'll need everything we've got at this time of year. As I've said, every team we play we know is good, and we'll need every ounce and every resource that we have available. Host: Coach, before I let you go, I've got to ask you about the quarterback of my Jets, Mr. Pennington. Who every time you play him now recently finds the open Tedy Bruschi on a regular basis. What's your feel on him right now, where he is? Give me a little feel on what you think about Pennington right now. BB: I think that offensively the Jets are a good football team. They have a lot of weapons. It starts with Curtis, naturally. I think it always has. And then everything works off of that †the play action game, the vertical routes to McCareins and Moss, the utilization of the tightends, Becht and Baker, especially on those bootlegs and things like that. And they have a good offensive line, so the complementary plays and the complementary part of the offense flows very well together most of the time. Now sometimes when one aspect of it isn't really being productive, then that can effect another aspect. But I think overall the Jets are a good offensive football team. I think they have a lot of balance †one of the better balanced teams in the league †going even to their second tightends, and their fullbacks like Sowell, two good running backs. And a good set of receivers, Wayne as a third receiver, and even the whole receiving crew, Carter, I mean the whole works. So I think they're a good, balanced offensive football team, and I have a lot of respect for them. I have a lot of respect for what they do. And I think Chad's very accurate, and as long as, like any team, as long as you can keep those passing situations to manageable yardage †I mean there's not any quarterback that's really very good on 3rd-and-15 †but you know when it's 3rd-and-four, five, six, and you have a couple different guys that you can throw to, and you got the threat of the running game and all that, then those situations are advantageous for any quarterback in any offense. JB: Coach, you know you chopped him up pretty good two weeks ago. I mean he's got problems with the shoulder. Do you think he's playing hurt right now, in your mind, Pennington? BB: You know, it's hard to say, Joe. I don't know. I think that at this point in the season, every player who's playing a lot is less than 100%. I mean 16 regular season games against this competition, everybody's got bumps and bruises, everybody's sore, everybody would love to feel a lot fresher than they feel right now. But you know what, it's football time of year. It's crunch time, it's playoff time, so everybody just puts that behind them, they reach down, they suck it up. And you know, you're going to see the teams that play their best football now are teams that are going to be mentally tough, they're going to be physically tough, and they're going to be resilient. And I wouldn't worry too much about what happened last week or what happened two weeks ago. You know, it's about right now what every team can muster up and generate going forward. And they're all good, so whichever one of these 12 teams comes out on top, that team will deserve it because they will have mustered up the most energy and the best performance in the coming weeks. And that's what championship football's all about. Host: Coach, you breaking out a new sweatshirt for the playoffs? BB: No, probably not. Host: Did you get rid of that red one that you had on down in Miami when you lost? Did you burn that one? You must have. BB: Yeah, we'll move on from that one. SR: Will there be a 60 Minutes II with Lesley Stahl if you win the Super Bowl again this year? That was fascinating that piece. I love that piece you did last year. BB: No, that's not my call. You know, that's not really my thing, Sid. SR: I know, but you were great. I've got to tell you, Coach, I thought that was fascinating how you go about your work everyday. Even watching Tedy Bruschi a couple of weeks ago during the Monday night game †before the game, Coach, against the Dolphins †how he breaks down video every week. I mean, I don't think the average fan really realizes, Coach, how many hours you put in every single day. How many hours your players put in every day. We all know about practice, but I don't think the average person realizes, Coach, you know, 16, 17, 18-hour days that you guys put in. Do you ever sleep, Coach? BB: It's a very competitive league, and you're going up against the best every week. And every other team that you play, their coaching staff, their players, they're working just as hard as you are. And you just can't leave a stone unturned. You want to make sure that you've got your execution up to its highest level, because that's where it needs to be. It's such a competitive league, especially now. We go to this time of year where one play can mean everything. It determines the whole course of your season. So it's important, and you just want to put everything you have into it and get it right. Hosts: Coach, a great job as always. Appreciate you coming on. Thank you very much, Coach. Good luck in the playoffs. BB: It's a pleasure. And Joe, it's great to talk to you when the sun's up. I don't think we've ever done this before. Host: How about that? Well, you know, this is actually like late in the day for you. Do you ever sleep, Coach? I mean you never do, right? BB: Oh, yeah. Yeah. Host: What, an hour a day? An hour a week? What? BB: Oh, no. When I run low at the end of the day, that's it for me. I just sometimes I get an early start. Not as early as you start it though. Great to catch up with you, too. Host: You too, Coach. Good luck. We'll talk to you down the road, alright? BB: OK. Thank you. Hosts: Alright, there he is, Coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots. And he gave us quite a bit of time there, Joe. He did. Big fan of Joe Benigno, Bill Belichick. I tell you what, there's no question about it †THE best in the business right now. Yeah, it's not close. I think Parcells really took a beating with Dallas this year. Shanahan †Denver's falling off. Andy Reid †no, he's never even won a Super Bowl. Only guys who have won Super Bowls. You're right, you can't get that level till you win a Super Bowl. Mike Holmgren †you know, forget about it. This guy [BB] is the best right now. He's the best without a doubt. You and I've been saying this for a couple of weeks now, don't be surprised †three times in four years. Absolutely. We'll see, Belichick. Transcribed by the webmaster.Full audio available at WFAN.com  | home | stats | stories | archive | photos | games | super bowls || off the field | about | contact | photo by Andy Lyons, Getty Images c.mateo@verizon.net (Martin Cvjetkoviæ) Tue, 11 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8587/1/E-Croatian-NBA-by-Risha.html Croatian NBA by Risha   Toni Kukoc                       Zoran Planinic             Gordan Giricek       Andrew Bogut                     Mario Kasun                 contact Risha: batthound@yahoo.com letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 10 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8585/1/E-The-speed-and-power-of-Mario-Preskar.html The speed and power of Mario Preskar     The speed and power of Mario Preskarby Robert MladinichWhen undefeated heavyweight prospect Mario Preskar began boxing at the age of nine in his native Croatia, he dreamed of becoming the second world champion ever to hail from that country. The only other titlist to come from there is Mate Parlov, who won the WBC light heavyweight title from Miguel Angel Cuello in January 1978. Parlov made two successful defenses before losing the crown to Marvin Johnson nearly two years later. Parlov fought to a draw with Marvin Camel in a bout for the vacant WBC cruiserweight title in December 1979, and then lost a 15 round decision to Camel for the same title almost four months later. The last big name boxer to hail from Croatia was Zeljko Mavrovic, who gave a surprisingly good account of himself in going the distance with Lennox Lewis in a September 1998 WBC heavyweight title fight. He and Preskar are good friends, and they recently did a media blitz together. “Mate Parlov is the biggest boxer in the history of Croatia,” said the 22-year-old Preskar who is 9-0-1 (6 KOS) as a pro. But that was then, and this is now. Preskar, who speaks fluid English, gets one step closer to establishing his own boxing legacy when he takes on Matthew Greer, 7-2 (6 KOS), of Parkville, Missouri, on the undercard of IBF junior middleweight champion Roman Karmazin’s title defense against Cory Spinks at the Savvis Center in Spinks’ hometown of St. Louis on Saturday, July 8.“I have dreamed of being a champion for a long time,” said Preskar, who has sparred with Oleg Maskaev, Hasim Rahman, Wayne Braithwaite, Larry Donald, Owen Beck, and Gerald Nobles, among others.“I feel great, ready and eager to step in the ring again. After a long and arduous training period my strength and power have increased and I’m ready for anybody. Hopefully, Mr. Don King can help me achieve my dream.” The wild-haired promoter has been promoting Preskar, whose last fight was a sixth round knockout of Ervin Slonka in December 2005 in Berlin, for his entire professional career, which began with a first round TKO of Roman Armstrong in Las Vegas in July 2003. Since then, Preskar has laced them up three more times in Las Vegas, as well as three times in Germany, once in South Carolina, and once at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The one blemish on his record is a four round draw with Marcelino Novaes, who was 5-2, in Preskar’s fourth fight in Las Vegas. According to Vedran Nazor, Preskar’s New York-based advisor and publicist, trainer Yoel Judah told King about Preskar after watching him spar at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn. While Judah was unavailable for comment for this article, Bruce Silverglade, the owner of Gleason’s who is not easily impressed, remembers observing Preskar in the ring during that time period. “He’s a very smart guy, and you have to be smart to be a good boxer,” said Silverglade. “He’s young, has decent size and strength, is in good condition, works hard, and has a solid plan. With all of those components, he has as good a chance as anyone to go a long way.”Preskar began boxing at the urging of his father Zeljko, a cab driver whom he says is his biggest fan. A quick study, he soon began racking up one amateur accolade after another. He is a seven-time Croatian national champion, as well as a gold medalist in numerous European tournaments. His final amateur ring ledger of 45-5 probably would have been better if more boxers were willing to fight him. According to Nazor, a special license had to be obtained to allow Preskar to compete against fighters two to four years older than he was. “It was hoped that would provide Mario with the challenges he desired,” said Nazor. “It did not. The young men fell as easily as the boys. He was a prodigy. His combinations are an unbelievable mixture of speed and power punching. He flows inside the ring, delivering crisp straight punches and powerful hooks. He’s disciplined, intelligent and strong.” There is no question that Preskar is very smart. It takes all of a few seconds of conversation to realize that. Still, he forsook a college education to dedicate himself full-time to boxing. With the support of his parents, Zeljko and Visnjica, sister Zeljka, as well as his longtime trainer Leonardo Pijetraj, and a whole country behind him, he is certain that a championship reign is within punching distance. “I put all my guts and power into my boxing career,” said the always exuberant and extremely positive Preskar. “Step by step, in a few years I see myself with many championship belts.”Preskar is much too polite to speak ill of other boxers, but he believes that Wladimir Klitschko is the best of the current heavyweight champions. Whether or not Klitschko is still at the top when Preskar’s time comes to fight for a title is yet to be seen. But one thing is certain. “I will be ready,” said Preskar. “When my time comes, I will be ready to beat the best. Everything is coming together, just as planned.”The next step for Preskar is Greer, who might just be a bit more challenging than expected. If he is victorious, Preskar would love to fight at home this summer and become as big an attraction in his native country, which many people consider one of the most naturally beautiful places on Earth, as the Ukrainian-born Klitschko is in his adopted homeland of Germany. Eastern Europeans are dominating the heavyweight landscape these days, and Preskar is eager to get on the bandwagon. “Mr. King is working on promoting me in Croatia,” said Preskar, who is 6’1” and about 220 pounds, which at his age gives him plenty of time and room to fill out. “Maybe that will happen this summer. I hope so, Fighting in Croatia would be great, but fighting in Zagreb, which is the capitol, as well as my hometown, would be really special.“Mate Parlov was the biggest athlete there in the last century,” he continued. “I want to be the biggest in this century.”Contact Robert Mladinich @ TheSweetScience.com http://www.thesweetscience.com/boxing-article/4055/speed-power-mario-preskar/ vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Sat, 08 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8584/1/E-Undefeted-Mario-Preskar-Wins-Again-in-St-Louis-on-July-8th-2006.html Mario Preskar, of Croatia winner by unanimous decision Mario Preskar, of Croatia, delivers a punch to the body of Matt Greer, left, during their six-round heavyweight fight in St. Louis Saturday, July 8, 2006. Preskar was the winner by unanimous decision. (AP Photo/James A. Finley)Mario Preskar, of Croatia, delivers a punch to the body of Matt Greer, left, during their six-round heavyweight fight in St. Louis Saturday, July 8, 2006. Preskar was the winner by unanimous decision. (AP Photo/James A. Finley)   A boxing fan holds a Croatian flag during the introduction of Mario Preskar of Croatia before his boxing match against Matt Greer in St. Louis Saturday, July 8, 2006. Preskar was the winner by unamous decision. (AP Photo/James A. Finley) vnazor@yahoo.com (Vedran Joseph Nazor) Sat, 08 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8583/1/E-Ancic-and-protesters-fail-to-foil-Federer.html Ancic and protesters fail to foil Federer  By Dominic BlissPublished: July 6 2006 03:00 | Last updated: July 6 2006 03:00Those who believe Roger Federer to be the greatest grass-court player ever received more evidence for their argument on Wednesday when the three-times Wimbledon champion eased through his quarter-final.His opponent Mario Ancic of Croatia played superbly, varying his style between powerful serve-and-volleying and solid baseline play. But it simply was not enough to hold the Swiss at bay. Despite rain breaks and a court invasion by fathers' rights protesters - one of them dressed as a young John McEnroe - Federer was able to maintain concentration and squash Ancic three sets to love, 6-4 6-4 6-4.When play started on Centre Court, thunder clouds were looming above south-west London. Only four games were completed, all going with serve, before the services of the court coverers were called upon.Once back on court, Federer then required only three points to break his opponent. He quickly proceeded to steamroller his way through the rest of the match, thwarting every increasingly desperate attempt Ancic made to resist him.The 22-year-old from Split, who learnt much of his court craft from compatriot Goran Ivanisevic, was the last man to beat Federer at Wimbledon. That was in 2002, however, before the champion had fully asserted his All England Club dominance. Nowadays Federer has elevated his grass-court matches to an entirely different level. There comes a stage halfway through every one of them when his opponent's shoulders start to droop and his facial expression gradually switches from hope to exasperation.The latter emotion began to manifest itself at the beginning of the second set, when Federer had whipped yet another of his angled forehands past the flailing Ancic. Every time Ancic produced a fine shot, the 24-year-old Federer would trump it with something even more brilliant. Deep volleys were met with unreturnable passing shots; dying drop-shots were inevitably retrieved. Players less mentally strong than Ancic would have thrown up their arms in despair.Three-love down in the third set, the Croat needed both luck and immense skill to do it, but finally broke his opponent's serve - only the second time this has happened during the tournament. It was a teasing glimmer of hope that served only to delay Federer's inevitable win by a few minutes.Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2006http://www.ft.com/cms/s/68465a82-0c8b-11db-8235-0000779e2340.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 06 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8582/1/E-Anthony-Artukovich-Up-For-US-Junior-National-Team-Competition.html Anthony Artukovich Up For U.S. Junior National Team CompetitionSix Trojans Set Up For U.S. Junior National Team CompetitionUSC players join Junior National Team for tournaments in Italy and Slovakia.Men's Water Polo Trojans Sweep Peter J. Cutino AwardsJune 29, 2006The USC men's water polo team has six players capping up for the U.S. Junior National Team this summer, as the squad is set for competition in Italy and Slovakia beginning this week. Sophomore Arjan Ligtenberg is joined by five incoming freshmen -- Anthony Artukovich, J.W. Krumpholz, Justin Rappel, Matt Sagehorn and Nico Sardo -- as the Trojans playing for Team USA. The U.S. Junior National Team opens international competition June 29-July 2 at the Memorial Tournament in Italy, where teams from Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Italy and Greece will also get in on the action. Those teams may also meet up at the USA's next tournament stop in Slovakia for the High Tatras Cup from July 7-9. The U.S. squad will take the international experience garnered from this European trip to the Junior Pan American Games in August. As a freshman on the USC team, two-meter man Arjan Ligtenberg (Los Altos Hills, Calif./Gunn HS) helped the Trojans to win the 2005 NCAA Championship and post an all-time best 26-1 overall record. He was a member of the U.S. Youth National Team last year, traveling to Slovakia for the Low Tatras Cup last summer. The five USC freshmen on the roster are part of a stellar incoming class for the Trojans. Anthony Artukovich and Matt Sagehorn both hail from Long Beach, Calif., as graduates of Wilson High School. Both are regarded as two of the top young players entering the collegiate ranks this year. Artukovich has trained with the U.S. National Team and also has already competed as a member of the U.S. Youth and Junior teams. Sagehorn has a similar national team resume to Artukovich, and was named the CIF Southern Section Division I Player of the Year as a senior at Wilson HS. He scored nine goals for Team USA at the 2005 Junior World Championships. Also no stranger to the U.S. National Team system is J.W. Krumpholz (Santa Ana, Calif./Foothill HS), who played with the men's national team at the 2005 World Championships in Montreal, and scored 13 goals at the Junior World Championships while playing alongside future Trojan teammates Artukovich, Sagehorn and Nico Sardo (La Jolla, Calif./Bishop's School), who is making a repeat appearance on the Junior National Team roster. Left-hander Justin Rappel (Sherman Oaks, Calif./Harvard-Westlake) rounds out the Trojan talent pool on this summer's U.S. Junior National Team. http://usctrojans.cstv.com/sports/m-wpolo/spec-rel/062906aaa.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 06 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8586/1/E-Baric-to-coach-Albania-for-Euro-2008-qualifiers.html Baric to coach Albania for Euro 2008 qualifiers  Mon Jul 3, 2006 2:01 PM BSTEmail This Article | Print This Article | RSS [-] Text [+] TIRANA, July 3 (Reuters) - Otto Baric will replace German international Hans-Peter Briegel as Albania coach for the Euro 2008 qualifiers, the Croatian said on Monday."Briegel has done a good job with this team, he has taken Albania two or three steps forward," said the 74-year-old, who coached Croatia to third place at the 1998 World Cup."I shall do my best to qualify, but my main aim is to help this team take more steps forward."Albania have been drawn in Group G with the Netherlands, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Belarus and Luxembourg. The qualifiers start on Sept 2 and end in November 2007. The finals run from June 7-29, 2008 in Switzerland and Austria.Under Briegel, the national team became a symbol of reborn Albanian national pride after beating European champions Greece in Tirana.They have risen to 86 in the FIFA world rankings but failed to qualify for the World Cup, finishing fifth in their qualifying group. http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=worldFootballNews&storyID=2006-07-03T130128Z_01_L03597287_RTRIDST_0_SPORT-SOCCER-ALBANIA-BARIC.XML   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 03 Jul 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8590/1/E-MARIO-PRESKAR-BACK-IN-THE-USA.html MARIO PRESKAR BACK IN THE USACroatian heavyweight, 22-year-old Mario Preskar, will box again in the USA. After a string of 3 knockouts at the end of 2005, Preskar will fight after a 7-month pause on Saturday, July 8, 2006 in St. Louis, Missouri at the 22,000-seat capacity Savvis Center. “I feel great, ready and eager to step in the ring again. After a long and arduous training period my strength and power have increased and I’m ready for anybody,” said Preskar, whose opponent has not been announced. Preskar, who is under promotional agreement with legendary promoter Don King has a record of 9 wins (6 by knockout) 1 draw and 0 losses. Don King and his promotional company DKP return to the Gateway City (St. Louis-Gateway to The West) to host the evening with 2 Championship fights including Cory Spinks, against IBF 154-pound champion Roman Karmazin, a former cruiserweight champion Jean-Marc Mormeck plus others for an evening of 10 bouts. Tickets are $500 (ringside), $300, $200, $100, $60, $45 and $25. For tickets call: (314) 622-5400 or (314) 622-5435. Croatian TV (HTV) will televise Preskar’s match.King visited Croatia last month in advance of World Boxing Council (WBC) 45th Annual Convention which will be held from October 29 to November 4 of this year in Dubrovnik. Leonard Pijetraj, trainer/manager to Preskar was King’s guide and translator in Dubrovnik. This was King’s second visit to Croatia in the last 12 months. There are plans to have DKP events in Croatia later this year headlining Mario Preskar. June 27, 2006VJNhttp://15rounds.com/ Preskar to fight July 8 in St. LouisBy Marc AbramsUndefeated Heavyweight prospect, Mario Preskar will return to the U.S on Saturday July 8 in St.Louis to fight on the big Don King Promotions card against a yet to be determined opponent that will be headlined by Roman Karmazin taking Cory Spinks for the IBF Jr. Middleweight championship and Steve "USS" Cunningham battling Gulliermo Jones for the Vaxant IBF Cruiserweight title.Preskar, 9-0-1 with six knockouts will be making his first appearance in a U.S ring since October, 2004. Since then the 22 year old Croatian has scored three knockouts in Germany.http://15rounds.com/boxing/News/2006/06/preskar-062906.php letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 29 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8588/1/E-The-most-pulsating-dramatic-heart-stopping-contest-of-a-thrilling-World-Cup.html Croatia 2 - 2 Australia GIANNI RUSSO in Stuttgart June 23 2006 Scorers: Croatia – Srna (3), Kovac (56); Australia – Moore (38 pen), Kewell (79)The most pulsating, dramatic, heart-stopping contest of a thrilling World Cup ended with Australia booking a last 16 meeting with Italy.Harry Kewell's 79th-minute angled drive sent Guus Hiddink's Australia charging into the knockout phase for the first time in their history.Yet the mere scoreline does not even start to get close to explaining the story behind a truly extraordinary game which Australia ended with 10 men and Croatia nine.Twice Australia were forced to come from behind to grab the point they required after conceding initially in the second minute, then at the start of the second period following a mistake to rank up with any the competition had ever seen from recalled goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac.Yet, showing the pugnacious spirit which has enabled them to become world champions at so many sports, Australia simply refused to lie down.Craig Moore pulled them level just before half-time when he kept his nerve to fire home from the spot, then, after Australia had another clear spot-kick appeal turned down by the English referee Graham Poll, Kewell drove home the goal which blasted open the door to the second round.Nobody celebrated the draw more enthusiastically than the Australia coach Guus Hiddink, who had almost seen the biggest gamble of his entire coaching career go disastrously wrong.Hiddink stunned his supporters by bringing back Kalac, who spends his winters sat on the AC Milan bench, ahead of established No.1 Mark Schwarzer.Kalac had barely touched the ball when he was picking it out of his own net, a legacy of Mark Viduka's third-minute foul on the Croatia captain Niko Kovac. Up stepped Darijo Srna to stroke a 25-yard free-kick beyond Kalac and into the top corner.For half an hour thereafter, Australia battered the Croatia defence for no reward. Tim Cahill, Mark Viduka and Kewell all wasted chances to equalise and Australia were starting to run out of ideas when Stjepan Tomas stuck up a fist to deflect away a Brett Emerton cross.Poll spotted the infringement and, though the gap between the Premiership official blowing his whistle and Moore stepping up to take the kick seemed to last forever, the former Rangers defender kept his cool to fire home.Then came Kalac's extraordinary aberration. Getting right behind an apparently innocuous Kovac strike, the keeper somehow managed to let the ball slip through his grasp and into the net. With Schwarzer sat not five yards away, Hiddink must have wanted the ground to open up and swallow him.It was another shattering blow. Yet Australia refused to buckle. Time and again they bashed away.Another Tomas handball was missed by Poll, Kewell's shot was brilliantly pushed over by Stipe Pletikosa, Cahill went agonisingly close.Eventually Marco Bresciano floated over a cross from the right and John Aloisi flicked it into Kewell's path. Kewell's talent did not fail him. Control with the chest, finish on the volley. Easy as that.Australia lived on their nerves for those final 10 minutes, though. Dario Simic and Brett Emerton were both red-carded as the action intensified, while Moore booted on effort off the Australian line.Amid the frenzy, Poll booked Josip Siminic, a Melbourne-born Croat, for a second and then a third time, before eventually brandishing red in his face after the final whistle.The Australian fans celebrated as they would any Ashes triumph or rugby victory.Scorers: Croatia – Srna (3), Kovac (56); Australia – Moore (38 pen), Kewell (79)http://www.theherald.co.uk/sport/64673.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 23 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8581/1/E-Match-Schedules-for-Soccer-World-Cup-2006.html Match Schedules for Soccer World Cup 2006   Match Schedules for Soccer World Cup 2006: Click Here Group Standings: Click Here letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 14 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8579/1/E-Thank-God-for-Croatia.html Thank God for Croatia Jayaditya Gupta Thursday, June 15, 2006 Kaka saves Brazil’s dull day out We never thought we’d say this in a Brazil match but thank God for Croatia. The team from the Balkans was inventive, purposeful, energetic, and completely unawed by the world champions, and should have gone away with a point. Instead, Brazil began their campaign on a winning note, Kaka’s sweetly struck volley just before half time doing the damage. After the match coach Carlos Alberto Parreira pointed out that teams aiming to win the World Cup must pace themselves but at this pace Brazil should be looking at lifting the trophy in 2010, not a month from now. Much of their problem stemmed from their strike force of Ronaldo and Adriano (though for Brazil everyone is a goalscorer), and it is a moot point that the only goal came from a midfielder. Ronaldo, in what was his 100th Brazil match, was palpably unfit; not injured, just overweight. Brazil’s reputation has grown since they last won the World Cup, but in Ronaldo’s case only his shadow has got bigger. Too slow to respond to the quicksilver wiles of Ronaldinho and Kaka, he was mercifully taken off just after the hour. And the sparkle shown by his replacement, his Real Madrid teammate Robinho, means Parreira will have a problem keeping the younger player out of the starting line-up. Brazil’s troubles lie elsewhere too. The fact that Croatia enjoyed 50 per cent of the possession is proof of their ability to win the ball in central midfield, where Emerson and Ze Roberto were too often outwitted, especially by Kovac and Babic, the latter also selling Cafu a brilliant dummy towards the end. Though Cafu and Roberto Carlos, with 69 years between them, were not embarrassed today, the pressure will be immense over the next few matches. Harry Kewell, in particular, should enjoy his duel with Brazil’s captain on Sunday. Their next two opponents will be tricky. Australia are on a high after their incredibly last-gasp win, further boosting their typical Oz superconfidence. Japan will be desperate to open their account, and should benefit from some inside knowledge provided by their coach. The ultimate truth, however, is that one writes off Brazil at their peril. Parreira says a slow build-up is part of their plans and in any case we are not dealing with a team of mere mortals. It takes a moment for Kaka, or Ronaldinho, to change the match. It may take substantially longer for Ronaldo to find his form but they didn’t need him yesterday. Conclusion: Brazil have the making of a winning team but must step up at least a couple of gears if they aren’t to be overtaken, possibly much before the home straight. jayaditya.gupta@expressindia.com http://www.indianexpress.com/story/6490.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 14 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8578/1/E-Tennis-Players-Showing-Tough-Croatian-Grit.html Tennis Players Showing Tough Croatian Grit   Following an unexpected Davis Cup victory in 2005 and a successful start to the 2006 campaign, Croatian tennis fans had much to be happy about. Still, we had little to look forward to, at least for the spring clay court season. Croat tennis players have long been known for their powerful serves and huge ground strokes, a style that greatly contrasts with the loopy shots and baseline speed needed for success on clay. For this reason, not much was to be expected out of the Croats. However, at the 2006 French Open, the foremost clay court tournament in the world, the Croatians went well represented. Entering Roland Garros 2006, Ivan Ljubicic was not only Croatia’s #1 ranked tennis player, as he has been since the retirement of legend Goran Ivanisevic, but he was also the 4th-ranked player in the world. Despite his #4 seed at the tournament, “Ljubo” was not predicted by many to reach the semifinals- he had historically not done well on clay, as his game is predicated upon his huge serve and power. However, Ivan was granted a friendly draw. Ljubicic defeated his first round opponent, Carlos Berlocq of Argentina, in dominant straight-set fashion. Through to the second round, Ivan had already advanced further than the previous year, and was then set to face Spaniard Oscar Hernandez. After getting through, 6-3 6-7(7) 6-1 6-2, Ivan was pitted against Argentina’s Juan Monaco in the third round. Although Monaco is a well-known claycourt specialist, Ivan was still considered the favorite to win the match. However, Ljubicic lost the first two sets and appeared ready to bow out of the tournament. But Ivan fought back, and showing tough Croatian grit, he defeated the Argentinean, delighting his fans. Ivan had rallied from two sets down to win in five, grueling sets, and in doing so, had reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for only the second time in his career and for the first time at Roland Garros. Facing another clay court specialist in the fourth round, Ivan next played Ruben Ramirez Hidalgo of Spain, who took out 15th seed David Ferrer in the third round. Ivan’s stellar clay court play continued, as he took out the Spaniard in four sets. Ivan had now reached the quarterfinals of the French Open, where he was set to play another unseeded player, hometown favorite Julien Benneteau. In the quarters, Ivan quickly dispatched of the unheralded Frenchman, 6-2 6-2 6-3. Despite losing to eventual champion Rafael Nadal in the semifinals, Ivan Ljubicic put together an unbelievable two weeks of tennis. He made his nation proud in reaching the semifinals for the first time in his career. What made this past French Open so amazing was not just the success of the #4 player in the world. It was the simultaneous success of the #12-ranked player in the world and Croatia’s #2, Mario Ancic. In this French Open, Mario put his name alongside the top names in tennis on a surface on which he had not found much success in the past. Ancic struggled through the first round, but prevailed, defeating Australian Nathan Healey in four sets. Next up was Paul Capdeville of Chile, a solid clay court player, whom Ancic defeated in straight sets. He was later hit with a $3000 fine for getting into a tiny post-match scuffle with the Chilean, which the chair umpire had to break up. Just like last year, Mario was through to the third round of the French Open. In the third round, Ancic absolutely demolished Albert Montanes of Spain in straight sets, and set up a fourth round encounter with Montanes’ countryman and the #7 player in the world, Tommy Robredo. Robredo had been on an absolute tear during the clay court season, winning the Tennis Masters Series Hamburg and entering the French Open as a threat to take home the trophy. Mario, typically known as a hard court or grass court player, shocked many by taking the first set off of the Spaniard. However, Robredo fired back and took the next two sets in a rather convincing fashion. After the fourth set went in favor of the man from Split, both players fought off cramping and exhaustion in the fifth. After taking a 5-2 lead and squandering it, Mario Ancic finally captured the match, 6-4 4-6 6-2 6-4 7-5, over Tommy Robredo. In doing so, Ancic proved to the world not only that he is a formidable opponent on all surfaces, but that Croatian tennis is here to stay, as our top two players reached the quarterfinals of the French Open. Although Mario would lose to the #1 player in the world, Roger Federer, in the quarterfinals, his French Open run was one to be remembered. With his amazing achievement at the 2006 French Open, Mario Ancic vaulted himself to #9 in the world rankings. For the first time in memory, not one, but two Croats are in the top ten of tennis! And it is not that two Croats made the quarterfinals that is so amazing- though it is truly an accomplishment to behold- but it is that two Croats made the quarterfinals of the French Open. On the surface on which we were not supposed to have success, we had the best success we have had since 2001, when Goran Ivanisevic won Wimbledon. And even then there were zero Croatians in the top ten, let alone two. With last year’s Davis Cup victory and the still-more-recent World Team Championship triumph, Croatian tennis was at its new zenith. However with the recent results at the French Open, a new pinnacle has been reached. Only better things can be expected at the upcoming Wimbledon Championships, on the surface on which we are supposed to succeed. Thanks to Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic, who made the semifinals and quarterfinals of the French Open respectively, it has never been a better time to be a fan of Croatian tennis. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 14 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8576/1/E-Impressive-Croatia-far-from-humbled-by-Brazil-loss.html Impressive Croatia far from humbled by Brazil loss (Reuters)Updated: 2006-06-14 15:47   Croatia's fans lit flares and celebrated at the end of their 1-0 defeat to Brazil in their opening World Cup match at the Olympiastadion on Tuesday to show just how proud they were of their team. Croatia fans hold flares as they cheer during Group F World Cup 2006 soccer match between Brazil and Croatia in Berlin.[Reuters]Croatia coach Zlatko Kranjcar said afterwards that they always knew that this would be a game they would probably lose -- but that wins over Japan and Australia in their remaining two Group F fixtures should be enough to see them through. "We always thought we might well find ourselves in this position after the first game so it's no surprise and no real disappointment," he said. "We were perhaps unlucky not to get a point but we know what we have to do to qualify now." Victory in the next two matches cannot be taken for granted of course, but if Croatia play as well against Japan and Australia as they did against Brazil, the odds are probably on them taking all six points. Croatia had far the better of play for about 20 minutes at the start of the second half and only some outstanding saves by Brazilian goalkeeper Dida stopped them reaping reward for inventive midfield play and direct attacking. They probably could have even afforded to be rather more adventurous against Brazil and if Dado Prso had played in a more central role in the Croatia attack rather than trying to cut in from the wings, he might have ended the game with a goal or two. Croatia are desperate to do well in these finals after flopping out at the first-round stage in 2002 following their semi-final appearance on their debut in 1998. WELL ORGANISED Kranjcar's team is well organised and proved against the world champions they could not be intimidated. One brilliant tackle in the second half by Robert Kovac summed up their speed of thought and their commitment. Kranjcar's son Niko had a fine game in his usual attacking midfield role and went close with a header late in the game when Croatia looked as though they were easily capable of securing a draw. Captain Niko Kovac, who failed to finish the game after picking up a rib injury following a heavy challenge from Brazil's Ze Roberto towards the end of the first half, agreed with his coach on what their priorities were now. "We have to win both of the other games. We knew that before but now it's reality," he said. "Now we all need to concentrate on that." He said he would know after training later on Wednesday whether he would be fit in time for the next game against Japan on Sunday in Nuremberg. http://chinadaily.com.cn/sports/2006-06/14/content_616950.htm letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 14 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8574/1/E-Emil-Milihram-wins-C1-World-White-Water-Championship.html Emil Milihram wins C1 World White Water Championship Emil Milihram of Croatia on his way to win the C1 race of the World White Water Championships on the Tepla River in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, Wednesday, June 14, 2006. (AP Photo/CTK, Ivan Babej) letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 14 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8580/1/E-Support-two-youth-from-Croatia-to-further-their-development-at-Tabor-Academy.html www.basketballforchampions.com     Join us as we support two youth from Croatia to further their development as student-athletes at Tabor AcademyIstria Sports Club28-09 Astoria Blvd, Queens, NY 11102 7pm June 21 ST $25 at the door includes appetizers Contact Chris Matesic 646-831-1522  My name is Chris Matesic I am a Croatian-American New Yorker! My father is from Zadar and grew up in Rijeka and my mother was born in Rijeka and came to the US via Genoa, Italy. I have been a basketball coach/trainer in NYC for over five years. I have worked with many elite student-athletes preparing to play college basketball and beyond. It is always been a dream of mine to work with my friends and family in Croatia to bring Croatian players over to the states to train as student-athlete basketball players. I am bringing over two boys Ivan Biondic and Alen Blesic from Rijeka to attend Tabor Academy, a prestigious prep school in Massachusetts. During these two years I will be supporting them to get a basketball scholarship to a University to further their studies in theUS. Ivan and Alen will be pioneers in our new non-profit “Basketball for Champions.” It is the vision of the organization to inspire young to people to be champions in school, on the court and in life! It is our intention that the young people that participate in our programs ultimately be of service to the community. The inspiration for Basketball for Champions came from the late great Drazen Petrovic, a Croatian champion who was of great service to the Croatian community around the world. We are promoting a fundraiser for the boy’s expenses at the Istria Sports Club in Astoria, Queens, New York. The information is on the flyer on the website:www.basketballforchampions.com We invite you all to come and be a part of special evening to celebrate the arrival of two Croatian boys on their journey to the US.With great respect,Chris Matesic 646-831-1522cmatesic@basketballforchampions.com letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 13 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8577/1/E-Local-Croatians-World-Cup-crazy.html Local Croatians World Cup crazyTue, June 13, 2006Despite loss to powerhouse Brazil, fans happy with gameBy NADIA MOHARIB, CALGARY SUNLosing by just one goal to the best soccer team in the world is a victory in itself, say some Calgary Croats after their home team took on Brazil in today's World Cup match.Ivan Vukelic, president of the Croatian Canadian Cultural Centre at 3010 12 St. N.E. where the game was televised, was one of several hundred supporters to nervously take in the match, which ultimately saw Brazil go home with a 1-0 win."Honesty, I'm very happy with the score," Vukelic said."I wouldn't expect more than that.""If we would tie I would be happy - we were playing against the best team in the world."Watching the game with fellow Croatians, including his father visiting from his homeland, was not an option for Ivo Ceko."I'm actually working this afternoon," Ceko said midway through the match."I'll be late but my boss is English - he's going to understand that."Using an analogy to Canada's national sport Ceko explained his passion for soccer."Over there soccer is like hockey is here," he said."It's soccer first and everything after that."Six-year-old Maria Slisko has yet to be convinced."It's pretty boring and my father's yelling scares me a bit," she said while taking a breather from her overzealous parents to find a quiet corner at the cultural centre."I'm just trying to do my homework in my head."Her mother, Ivanka, said the family has a bigger TV at home but chose to join fellow team Croatia fans so they could tap in to the team spirit.The win sees Brazil open its attempt for a record sixth title.Croatia, which is in just its second World Cup, reached the semifinals in 1998 and must now get points from Japan and Australia to revive its chances for this year.http://calsun.canoe.ca/News/Alberta/2006/06/13/1630550.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 13 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8575/1/E-3-Croatian-Coaches-at-the-World-Cup.html Three Croatian Coaches at the World Cup   From the Los Angeles TimesCoaching Characters Color the LandscapeGet ready for a heavy dose of the offbeat when it comes to the men whoare guiding the soccer dreams of nations all over the world.By Grahame L. JonesTimes Staff Writer June 2, 2006 HAMBURG, Germany — England Coach Sven Goran Eriksson's much-publicizedaffair with a secretary at the English Football Assn. and his earlierwell-documented fling with a Swedish television producer were ancienthistory by the time he made his third, much more costly, faux pas. That was in January, when he was foolish enough to journey to Dubai tomeet an oil-rich sheik said to be interested in hiring him. Sad to say for Eriksson, the "sheik" turned out to be an impostor in theemploy of an English tabloid newspaper. Eriksson's admission that hewould abandon England for the right opportunity and his incautiousgossip about the foibles of David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinandand the rest of England's high-priced and high-living players made luridtabloid headlines for weeks. The federation, which had turned a more-or-less blind eye to the earlierindiscretions, was not amused and suggested, rather firmly, thatEriksson might want to step down from the $8-million-a-year job it hadgiven him in 2001. After the World Cup, that is, federation officials were quick to add. So England has a lame duck Swede with a colorful resume coaching it intothe 32-nation, 64-game tournament that begins one week from today. Strange to say, there is nothing odd about that. In fact, Eriksson fitsright in with the cast of offbeat characters who will be directingmatters from the wings when their players take the stage, starting June9, in the 18th edition of soccer's quadrennial world championship. Indeed, the 32 World Cup coaches represent 19 nationalities, topped byfive Brazilians (if Costa Rica's Brazilian-born Alexandre Guimaraes isincluded), four Dutchmen, three Frenchmen and three Croatians. And the Cup runneth over with oddball coaches. Take Luiz Felipe Scolari, for instance. "Big Phil," as he is known, isthe gruff, no-nonsense character who coached his native Brazil to thetitle at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. He parlayed that into a job with Portugal, which he led to the final ofEuro 2004, only to lose to upstart Greece. This spring, when Englandcame calling in search of a replacement for Eriksson, Scolari rejectedthe advances. He also turned his famous wrath on the Portuguese media, which hadcriticized him for even talking to the English. "Your coaches negotiate, am I any different?" he fumed at reporters inLisbon. The idea "that someone who is born here is a saint and someoneborn on the other side of the Atlantic is a devil, that doesn't exist. "It's time to stop that clown show. I'm just like anybody else. I've gottwo legs, two arms and a head." Colorful language is one thing many of the World Cup coaches have incommon. That and some blunt opinions. Otto Pfister is Togo's coach. He is also German, but that has notstopped him from dismissing Germany's dream of winning the Cup aswishful thinking. "Germany have no chance," Pfister said last month. "I don't think theycan even get to the final, or even the semifinal…. It's quite simple:you need skill, and Germany doesn't have that." Pfister also ventured far out on a politically incorrect limb when heforbade his Togo players from talking to Korean reporters, because SouthKorea is one of Togo's first-round opponents. Just to make sure, Pfister also ordered them not to talk to Japanese orChinese journalists either. The racist overtones are clear but pale in comparison to the blatantremark recently attributed to Ukraine Coach Oleg Blokhin when he talkedabout player development in his country's professional league. "The more Ukrainians there are playing in the national league, the moreexamples there are for the young generation," Blokhin said. "Let themlearn from [Ukrainian players] and not some zumba-bumba whom they tookoff a tree, gave two bananas and now he plays in the Ukrainian league." Blokhin, incidentally, was Europe's player of the year in 1975 and, inperhaps the most bizarre job-coupling among all the World Cup coaches,is also a Communist Party member of Ukraine's parliament. Human frailties are everywhere to be seen among the 32 coaches. Three of them, for instance, have put relatives on their World Cuprosters. In the case of Mexico's Ricardo Lavolpe, it is his son-in-law,Rafael Garcia, an indifferent player but naturally left-footed. At leastthat was the reason given for his inclusion. In the case of Serbia and Montenegro Coach Ilija Petkovic, it was hisson, Dusan, a truly mediocre player. The reaction was swift, withjournalists and former players calling it "scandalous." Croatia Coach Zlatko Kranjcar also named his son to the team, but NikoKranjcar is a decent midfielder and might have made it no matter whoheld the coaching reins. In any case, the elder Kranjcar has other things about which to worry,such as a rumored drinking problem. "It's true, I like to drink a glass, even a bottle, of good wine, butonly in good company when I'm not working," he said. "I don't let itinterfere with work." The current batch of World Cup coaches vary widely in age. They rangefrom Marco Van Basten of the Netherlands and Juergen Klinsmann ofGermany, each 41, to Togo's Pfister, who is 68. Seven are in their 40s, 16 are in their 50s and nine are in their 60s.Their average age is 55. U.S. Coach Bruce Arena is the longest-serving of the group with eightyears under his belt. Among the coaches are quite a few with a top-level soccer pedigree. Fourof them already have won the World Cup. Germany's Klinsmann won as a player in 1990 and France Coach RaymondDomenech won as an assistant coach in 1998. Scolari did so as coach ofBrazil in 2002, and his compatriot, Carlos Alberto Parreira, won the Cupwith Brazil in 1994. It takes more than coaching talent to win, of course. Luck always playsa part. That might explain the behavior of Spain Coach Luis Aragones, whorefuses to allow the color yellow anywhere around his team because hesays he believes it brings bad luck. Recently, he ordered star strikerRaul to remove a yellow T-shirt when he showed up wearing it totraining. And then there is the good fortune enjoyed by the likes of Poland CoachPawel Janas. Asked about the pressure World Cup coaches are under as thetournament approaches, Janas, smiled. "It is not the end of the world," he told World Soccer magazine. "Sevenyears ago I overcame lymph gland cancer. Can you imagine a biggerpressure? I have already won the most important battle in my life."   Relying on imports Only 15 of the 32 teams in the World Cup are coached by natives of thatcountry: Country Coach Age NationalityAngola Luis Olivera Goncalves 45 AngolanArgentina Jose Pekerman 56 ArgentineAustralia Guus Hiddink 59 DutchBrazil Carlos Alberto Parreira 63 BrazilianCosta Rica Alexandre Guimaraes 46 BrazilianCroatia Zlatko Kranjcar 49 CroatianCzech Republic Karel Bruckner 66 CzechEcuador Luis Fernando Suarez 46 ColombianEngland Sven Goran Eriksson 58 SwedishFrance Raymond Domenech 54 FrenchGermany Juergen Klinsmann 41 GermanGhana Ratomir Dujkovic 54 SerbianIran Branco Ivankovic 52 CroatianItaly Marcello Lippi 58 ItalianIvory Coast Henri Michel 58 FrenchJapan Zico 53 BrazilianMexico Ricardo Lavolpe 54 ArgentineNetherlands Marco Van Basten 41 DutchParaguay Anibal Ruiz 63 UruguayanPoland Pawel Janas 53 PolishPortugal Luiz Felipe Scolari 57 BrazilianSaudi Arabia Marcos Paqueta 47 BrazilianSerbia and Montenegro Ilija Petkovic 60 CroatianSouth Korea Dick Advocaat 58 DutchSpain Luis Aragones 67 SpanishSweden Lars Lagerback 57 SwedishSwitzerland Jakob Kuhn 62 SwissTogo Otto Pfister 68 GermanTrinidad and Tobago Leo Beenhakker 64 DutchTunisia Roger Lemerre 64 FrenchUkraine Oleg Blokhin 53 UkrainianUnited States Bruce Arena 54 American   http://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/la-sp-soccer2jun02,1,5668457.story?coll=la-headlines-sports letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 13 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8573/1/E-Croatias-Cup-opens-a-world-of-memories.html Croatia's Cup opens a world of memories  Seattle-area immigrants gather to reminisce, cheer homelandBy CASEY MCNERTHNEYTuesday, June 13, 2006Rooting for the home team: This is the fourth in a series of stories created to tap into the passion of soccer through the life experiences of Seattle residents.The friends gathered on Frank Brozovich's back patio looked like an extended family.Upon arrival, each guest was swarmed with a hug and "hello," and given a Dos Equis to celebrate the day. Conversations flowed as though there was no gap between meetings. Men in their 60s were attentive to the 30-somethings as though they were their sons.Jim Bryant / P-I Luka Radic, 2, tries to untie the shoes of his 5-year-old brother Neven. Their father, Zoran Radic, left Croatia in the early 1990s and found a Croatian community in Seattle. The group of 14 Croatian immigrants and children of Croatian immigrants usually meet once every month or so at dances, picnics, weddings or funerals. But it was excitement for Croatia's third World Cup that made Brozovich, Washington state's Croatian consul, gather the group at his South Seattle home.Not all of them were star soccer players, but everyone present has passion for the game.Milan Stipetic, a 67-year-old Ogulin native, recalled the soccer balls neighborhood kids would make from old socks, and feet so injured from playing that he couldn't wear shoes.Branko Kukolja, whose father survived the Bleiburg massacres of 1945, despises cable TV but subscribed to watch the Croatians play Brazil today at noon."When you see people talking about Croatian soccer, it brings back memories and you feel good about it," said immigrant Zoran Radic. "To be a small nation and to be part of such a world event means a lot."And each person at Brozovich's home Saturday went through a lot to be there.Radic was a 20-year-old on the front lines when the Yugoslav People's Army attacked the city of Dubrovnik in 1991, following Croatia's independence. The conflict killed 114 civilians, according to the Croatian Red Cross, and Radic recalls seeing fellow soldiers shot and killed.He jumped ship as a merchant marine and came to Seattle in 1992 to find an uncle. He met Mike Mikacenic, another immigrant and friend of Brozovich.Radic said life was harder then, knowing almost no one from the home he wished he could go back to. His outlet was a motorcycle he drove too fast, and parties that never ended too early.But that changed with time after Brozovich introduced him to others in the Seattle Croatian community. Radic married another Croatian native and has two children: Neven, 5, and Luka, 2.The self-described rebel is now a dad concerned that his sons would drink too much Pepsi without his attention."I was lucky enough to survive," he said, wearing a Croatia soccer jersey.Mikacenic was, too.Yugoslavia -- from which Croatia declared its independence in 1991 -- became a federal independent Communist state under the rule of Marshal Tito after World War II. Mikacenic was 24 when he fled in 1963, dodging police dogs and camping in bushes. He was jailed after arriving in Austria, and was sentenced to 35 days in prison.When released, he went to Montreal, and came to Seattle in 1969 for a job with Lockheed.He grew up playing soccer in Zagreb, Croatia's capital, and started a men's amateur team in Seattle.The team won regional titles in Denver for the U.S. Open Cup and U.S. Amateur Cup. It won the National Amateur Cup in 1982.Thirty years after arriving in Seattle, his daughter, Nancy Mikacenic, graduated from Lakeside High School, where she was a two-time Parade All-American soccer midfielder and Gatorade Circle of Champions state player of the year.Bozidar Yerkovich, who sat across a table from Mikacenic on Saturday, said he was nowhere as talented as Mikacenic, but equally as spirited.Yerkovich was born near Zagreb. Two weeks after completing his undergraduate degree in Croatia, he went to Connecticut for graduate study."I cried my eyes out the first night," he said.He lived in graduate housing, only knowing a few words of English. He woke up the day after his arrival and couldn't cook the canned food he found because he couldn't read the labels."You go to bed with a headache for weeks because of the pressure," said Igor Vuletic, an Opatija native.Friends like those Yerkovich spent time with Saturday have helped him adapt. And watching his team on a global stage brings the fond memories of home."We'll watch the games at somebody's house," Yerkovich said. "It doesn't matter what else is happening that day, the game is the most important event that day for us. Because Croatia is smaller than the state of Washington, it's like we are watching our own family. It feels like an extended family."CROATIAOfficial name: Republika Hrvatska Continent: EuropePopulation: 4.42 millionCapital: Zagreb World Cups: 3rd in 2006Cup titles: NoneLast Cup: 2002 (lost 1st)Cup matches: 10 (6-4)Goals for / against: 13 / 8Coach: Zlatko Kranjèar How qualified: Won Group 8 qualifying with a 7-3 record.Famous players: Aljosa Asanovic, Slaven Bilic, Zvonimir Boban, Alen Boksic, Robert Jarni, Drazen Ladic, Robert Prosinecki, Zvonimir Soldo, Stanic Staniæ, Davor Suker, Milan Rapaic.Did you know? Croatia has qualified for every World Cup it has entered as an independent nation (since 1990). ... Croatia has won several international environmental awards for having the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean. ... Slavoljub Eduard Penkala of Croatia became a legend for inventing the mechanical pencil (1906) and solid-ink fountain pen (1907). He also built the first Croatian two-seat airplane in 1909.From Croatia: Cravat (neck tie), electric speedometer, hot water bottle, hydroelectric power plant, parachute, rail-car brake, torpedo.-- Steve Rudmanhttp://seattlepi.nwsource.com/othersports/273703_wccroatia13.html letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 13 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8571/1/E-Brazil-squeaks-by-Croatia.html Brazil squeaks by Croatia Tuesday, June 13, 2006, at 849 p.m.A goal by Kaka held up for a 1-0 win for World Cup favorite Brazil against Croatia in Group F play today. Brazil will play again Sunday against Australia, which beat Japan 3-1 on Monday. Croatia plays Japan on Sunday. In Group G matches Tuesday, South Korea edged Togo 2-1 and France and Switzerland tied 0-0.See tomorrow’s Times Free Press for more coverage.http://www.tfponline.com/absolutenm/templates/breaking.aspx?articleid=1924&zoneid=41 letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 13 Jun 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8572/1/E-Croatia-beat-US.html Croatia beat U.S., Czechs upset Argentina Eurosport - 22/05/2006Croatia claimed a 2-1 win over the USA while Czech Republic surprised Argentina with an identical scoreline at the World Team Cup on Monday. Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic overcame American James Blake 5-7 6-3 7-6 in a magnificent contest that hung in the balance until the final point. Robby Ginepri then levelled the tie for the U.S. by beating Ivo Karlovic 6-4 7-6 before Ljubicic and Karlovic defeated the world's top-ranked doubles pair Bob and Mike Bryan 6-3 7-6. Blake, who is finding his feet on clay after once struggling on the surface, made Ljubicic fight hard for his victory. The Croat broke to lead the final set 5-4 but failed to serve out the match. After breaking again at 5-5 with a superb backhand winner, he was still unable to convert two match points as Blake took the contest to a tiebreak. "I think it was a really, really high quality match," said Ljubicic. "I played tough and he played very good. There were winners all over the place, not many unforced errors. Just really good tennis." "I think I deserved the win... I had most of the chances. I just couldn't close it out earlier. I thought I played probably my best match on clay this season." Even Blake could take something from the pulsating battle. "I'll think about the positive things," the American told reporters. "I broke him twice when he was serving for the match, and he's not an easy guy to break at any time. So it's something I take from the match. "I really feel good about my game on clay. It seems just so much better than it was last year at this time and in years past. Hopefully, my clay court game will continue improving." The Czech Republic beat Argentina without Radek Stepanek, who withdrew with exhaustion after being beaten by Tommy Robredo in the Hamburg Masters final on Sunday. Robin Vik defeated Gaston Gaudio 7-6 6-3. The Argentine had broken to lead 6-5 but was unable to serve out the set. Vik sped to a 5-0 lead in the second set before Gaudio offered late resistance. Tomas Berdych then beat David Nalbandian 6-4 6-4, with Nalbandian later complaining of a sore shoulder. The World Team Cup, which features six of the world's top 10 players, is played between eight teams split into two groups, with the winners of each group contesting Saturday's final. http://www.eurosport.com/tennis/world-team-cup/2006/sport_sto890422.shtml letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 22 May 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7729/1/E-ANDREW-BOGUT-INTERVIEW.html ANDREW BOGUT INTERVIEWBy Katarina TepeshNew York â€" When Milwaukee Bucks played in Madison Square Garden on April 14 in front of the sellout crowd of 19,763, every Bucks player, including Andrew Bogut, was gently booed when the player introductions took place against the New York Knicks. That is basketball, New York style, where the Knicks are the center of the basketball universe and carry thousands of loyal New York followers. However, that the Knicks have been losing almost the entire season, and expectedly lost to the Bucks by the score of 97-80. The game was thrilling and Andrew Bogut played one of his best games of the year, scoring 18 points. The next night, Bogut scored career-high 24 points and 12 rebounds against the Atlanta Hawks.Bogut was born on 11/28/1984 in Melbourne, Australia to Croatian parents. Last year, the forward/center was the first overall pick in the NBA draft by Milwaukee Bucks. “This is a dream come true for me,â€? said Bogut. “I’ve worked extremely hard to get to this point and I’m honored to be a member of the Bucks. I look forward to a successful NBA career.â€?His talent and imposing stature of 7-0 / 213 centimeters and 245 lbs, promises to help him achieve his goal. As a rookie, Bogut averages 9.4 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists.A starter for the 2004 Australian Olympic Team in Greece, Bogut was a star in Athens Olympics, where he averaged 14.8 points and 8.8 rebounds in five games. He was named Most Valuable Player of the 2003 FIBA Junior World Championships in Greece. At age 20, Bogut was named the consensus National Player of the Year in 2004-05 out of the University of Utah. As a sophomore, he ranked 19th in the NCAA in scoring 20.4 ppg and 2nd in rebounding 12.2 RPG in 35 starts for the Utes. That year, he was named First Team All-American by the Associated Press. K â€"What is your assessment of your game so far?“My rookie season has been up and down, inconsistent. I’m looking forward to improving. During off season I want to work on everything, improve jump shot. We have had one of the toughest schedules in the NBA. Constant traveling and being on the plane so much, even if it is first class, it’s hard to get used to.â€? K â€" Do you feel a lot of pressure, especially now with the playoffs?“Kind of. There is no excuse. We got some key wins against some good teams, but we also struggled against some lower-ranked teams. We need to beat up on them when they come into our house.â€? Andrew is excited about his future, while Australians and Croatians are happy, celebrating Bogut’s talent, personality and work ethic. “My Croatian parents have raised me strictly and disciplined me a lot. I love Croatian food, especially noklice which is semolina dumplings in soup. I hired a Croatian woman to cook for me when I’m in Milwaukee. I also like to listen to Croatian music. I will be in Croatia for a couple of weeks again this summer. I’ll spend some time probably in Zagreb, visiting my family and on the island of Brac.â€?In Bogut’s family, team work prevailed and it paid off. Andrew’s success is even more impressive considering that his father, Miso, who is from Osijek, is not a coach or trainer. He ran an auto shop in Melbourne when Andrew was growing up, and the younger Bogut remembered some lean times for the family. His mother Ankica is from Karlovac, now working as a volunteer in the community helping kids from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina with the English language. “My mom always helped my dad with business and my sister Michelle works as a secretary and studies real estate.â€? Bogut has worked as a waiter in a Salt Lake City sports-themed restaurant to help pay his rent in college. He said he chose that line of work so he could better relate to the average American.The first wave of Croatian migration to Australia was precipitated by the news of the discovery of gold in 1851. Andrew’s parents left Croatia for Australia in the early 70’s.Photos of his parents pride and joy and of grandmother’s Helen Jurisic beaming smile was widely circulated during Bogut’s selection as No. 1 on July 1, 2005.While his family connection to Croatia is close, Bogut prefers to stay clear of turbulent Croatian politics. “The war is over; it’s been over ten years. It’s tough obviously. It’s a war-torn country.â€?Bogut said he wasn’t even a fan of any Australian players when he was growing up playing basketball, rugby, soccer and tennis. One of his idols is late Drazen Petrovic. “What impressed me most about Drazen was his work ethic. He was always motivated to improve his game. I hope that I can be true to Drazen’s example of work.â€? Bogut visited Petrovic’s grave on first visit to Croatia in 2003. Andrew was quoted on Miami center Shaquille O’Neal, “He’s going to be looked at like George Mikan; he is going to have a legacy that will carry on forever.â€? The quote came about during the 2005, when Shaq ended up paying for Mikan’s funeral. Mikan was born in the United States to Croatian parents.George Mikan was first superstar and the ABA’s first commissioner. At six-foot-ten and 240 pounds, Mikan was a dominating force that altered the history of the game. “Mikan was a fundamentalist,â€? adds Bogut. Bogut admires other players of Croatian descent currently in the NBA, saying that Kasun from Orlando Magic, Planinic from New Jersey Nets and Giricek from Utah Jazz, “are all solid players.â€? As for other Milwaukee Bucks players, Bogut said, “We have some great guys on the team, great characters that make traveling much more fun. I’ve been hanging out with guys like Toni Kukoc and Jiri Welsch on the road. That’s been my group of guys that I get together with and have lunch and dinner with before games. They’re a lot of fun.â€? In the beginning of the NBA season, Bogut said, “Scoring isn’t going to be my role too much this year, so I’m just trying to get the rebounds, steals, blocks and assists.â€? Since then Bogut has been dealing with critique. As a rookie he has been closely scrutinized, as the League’s first pick usually is. “Bogut has made a nice contribution to the Bucks’ success, perhaps not of the level production that would be expected of a No. 1 overall draft pick,â€? said one critic. Another stated, “No one questions that Bogut is a good player with the potential to be great. But whether he is worth the No. 1 pick is a matter of debate.â€?On the court, the Milwaukee Bucks’ mission is to play hard and pursue victory. Off the court, the Bucks mission is to contribute to a better quality of life in Milwaukee and Wisconsin and to positively affect the lives of all people in this community. During 2005, Bogut decided, “I’m going to make a lot of money in my life and I don’t need it all. If I can give back to people who have nothing, especially young people who might be stuck in crime or drugs, maybe putting a basketball in their hands will get them out of that.â€? According to Bogut’s agent, David Bauman from SFX Basketball, Bogut would probably earn $26 million over five years and $100 million during his career.When asked about his charity Andrew Bogut 4 Foundation to benefit underprivileged youth in Australia, Milwaukee, Utah, and Croatia, Bogut said, “I’m working on it trying to set it up. It’s kind of hard, I’m so busy. We will do camp sometimes next year in Croatia and Australia. I have other plans for the future. This summer, I’m so busy getting ready to play World Championship in Australia.â€? Bogut has already donated $125,000 to University of Utah to buy new lockers. He also distributed gifts to kids in Milwaukee during Christmas 2005. “Financially, I’m taking care of my family and friends who were there when I needed them,â€? explains Bogut.Andrew has played all 82 NBA games despite a broken nose suffered on November 23 against Philadelphia. He underwent surgery and had to wear a face mask which he hated and was planning on lighting it on fire. Later, once he took it off, he changed his mind. “I think the plan is to auction off the two masks and raise some money through my foundation for basketball camps.â€? Besides basketball, Andrew’s passion is to watch Seinfeld, a long-running TV sitcom, and the Sopranos, a drama series about a New Jersey mafia family. “I have a DVD player now watching movies to keep me amused and keep me sane when I’m on the airplane for so long.â€? Fans can read Andrew Bogut blog at www.bucks.com  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 21 Apr 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7732/1/E-Kostelic-breaks-season-points-record.html  Kostelic breaks season points record Mar. 19, 2006 12:00 AM Janica Kostelic won the women's World Cup giant slalom finale Saturday at Are, Sweden, and broke the record of Pernilla Wiberg for the number of points in a single season. Kostelic, who clinched the World Cup overall title on Thursday, ended the season with 1,970 points after the last of 36 races. Sweden's Wiberg had 1,960 points in the 1996-97 season. The Croat needed to win Saturday's giant slalom to break the record. "That's cool, right?" Kostelic said. "Maybe next year someone will say '10 more points and we'll beat Janica's record.' It's good to be one of those people whose record has to be beaten. I'm on top now, so it's great." Anja Paerson clinched the World Cup giant slalom title by finishing ahead of Maria Jose Rienda Contreras. Rienda Contreras, who had hoped to give Spain its first World Cup title, had entered the race trailing Paerson by 45 points.http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/sports/articles/0319sptbriefs0319.htmlKostelic breaks recordMost points for a single season By ERICA BULMANKostelic's brother criticizes Swedish organizers Janica Kostelic of Croatia speeds down the course on her way to win an Alpine Ski World Cup Women's giant slalom, at the World Cup finals, in Are, Sweden, Saturday, March,18, 2006. (AP Photo/Enrico Lodi) ARE, Sweden (AP) - Janica Kostelic won the women's World Cup giant slalom finale Saturday to break the record for points in a single season. Kostelic ended the season with 1,970 points after 36 races, surpassing former Swedish ski star Pernilla Wiberg's mark of 1,960 points in the 1996-97 season. Kostelic had needed to win the giant slalom to break the record. Sweden's Anja Paerson finished seventh to clinch the World Cup giant slalom title. Her only remaining challenger, Maria Jose Rienda Contreras finished eighth. Contreras, who had hoped to give Spain its first World Cup title, entered the race trailing Paerson by 45 points. It marked Paerson's sixth career World Cup title. She won the overall in the two previous seasons, and has one slalom and three giant slalom globes. "When I stood up there before the second run I was tired," Paerson said. "But I thought this could be the last race in a long time so I just wanted to enjoy it and have fun and I did. "I ended the season the way I wanted. I won the downhill here and won the giant slalom World Cup." Croatia's Kostelic, who led after the opening run, finished with an aggregate two-run time of 2 minutes, 6.41 seconds. Canada's Genevieve Simard moved from third into second in 2:07.02 with a strong second run. Austria's Nicole Hosp, who was second after the opening run, tied for third with Tanja Poutiainen in 2:07.95. Paerson, who last year edged Kostelic by three points for the overall title, was runner-up with 1,662. Michaela Dorfmeister of Austria, who is retiring, finished third with 1,364 points. Paerson topped the season-ending giant slalom standings with 586 points. Contreras was second with 537, while Kostelic finished third with 464. Kostelic clinched the World Cup overall title on Thursday with a fourth-placed finish in the final super-G, and won the slalom title in Levi, Finland, last week. AP Sports Writer Stephan Nasstrom in Are, Sweden, contributed to this report.http://www.canoe.ca/Slam/Skiing/2006/03/18/1494198-ap.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7731/1/H-Janica-osvojila-Veliki-kristalni-globus-slalomski-globus-i-.html  Janica osvojila Veliki kristalni globus, slalomski globus i postavila rekord u Svjetskom kupu Skijanje, zavrsnica Svjetskoga kupa Aare, Svedska 15. do 18. ozujka 2006. Janica osvojila Veliki kristalni globus, slalomski globus i postavila rekord u Svjetskom kupu 17. ozujka. - Janica Kostelić treći je put u karijeri osvojila Veliki kristalni globus namijenjen ukupnoj pobjednici Svjetskoga kupa! Naslove je osvojila i 2001. i 2003. godine. Usto, Janica je ukupna pobjednica u slalomu, u kojem se od 2002. godine u svim utrkama u kojima je zavrsila obje voznje penjala na pobjedniÄ?ko postolje. No to nije sve. Snjezna kraljica je postala i apsolutna rekorderka po broju osvojenih bodova u sezoni. S 1.970 bodova prestigla je dosadasnju rekorderku SveÄ'anku Pernillu Wiberg, koja je 1997. godine skupila 1.960 bodova. To je sjajno. Lijepo je kad si ti taj koga svi zele 'skinuti'. Ovo je najbolji mogući zavrsetak sezone, zakljuÄ?ila je Janica. Janica na zavrsnicu stigla s 254 boda prednosti Janica je na zavrsnicu sezone u svedskom Aareu stigla s 254 boda prednosti ispred najveće konkurentice, domaće skijasice Anje Paerson. JaniÄ?in tim odluÄ?io je propustiti utrku spusta, kako bi se dobro odmorila za veliki finis. To je Anja iskoristila i u posljednjoj ovosezonskoj utrci spusta izborila 34. pobjedu u Svjetskom kupu. S novih stotinu bodova tri utrke prije kraja svedska je skijasica smanjila zaostatak za nasom Janicom na 154 boda. Sreća prati hrabre Anja ipak nije izdrzala pritisak lova na bodove. Sljedeći je dan u utrci superveleslaloma promasila jedna vrata u gornjem dijelu staze i ostala bez plasmana. Janica je sigurnom voznjom doskijala do izvrsnog Ä?etvrtog mjesta, s 87 stotinki zaostatka za pobjednicom, Austrijankom Nicole Hosp. Druga je bila jos jedna Austrijanka, Michaela Dormeister, koja je jos prije osigurala naslov pobjednice u superveleslalomu (i spustu), a treća Njemica Martina Ertl-Renz. 204 boda viska za novo slavlje S novih 50 bodova Janica je otisla na nedostiznih 1770 bodova, 204 boda vise od Paerson. Nakon sto je prosle sezone izgubila tijesnu borbu sa SveÄ'ankom za samo tri boda, iako je zbog bolesti propustila velik broj utrka, ove sezone Janica je dokazala svoju superiornost i pitanje ukupne pobjednice rijesila dvije utrke prije kraja sezone. Veselje, ali i ozbiljnost do samoga kraja sezone Sretna sam, naravno da sam sretna, jer sad mogu uzivati u skijanju preostala dva dana. Nisam oÄ?ekivala da će se sve zavrsiti nakon danasnjeg super G-ija, Ä?ak ni kad sam Ä?ula da je Anja izasla sa staze, rekla je Janica i dodala da ne namjerava jos slaviti jer pred njom su jos dvije utrke. Veliki globus mozda nije tako Ä?aroban kao olimpijska pobjeda, ali je to konstantni play-off, koji se sastoji od 36 utrka u kojima moras biti dobar i zato je to sportski najvrjednija nagrada, rekao je JaniÄ?in otac i trener Ante. Demonstracija moći u slalomu S ukupnom pobjedom i slalomskim kristalnim globusom u dzepu, Janica je trećeg dana zavrsnice lezerno odvezla svoju najjaÄ?u disciplinu - slalom. Opustena i moćna Janica bila je sigurna u obje voznje i popela se na najvisu stepenicu pobjedniÄ?kog postolja. Drugo mjesto osvojila je Austrijanka Marlies Schild, a treća je bila SveÄ'anka Anja Paerson. Nove bodove osvojile su i Ana Jelusić plasmanom na 11. i Nika Fleis na 15. mjesto. Pobjedom u veleslalomu Janica zakljuÄ?ila sezonu Rekord Pernille Wiberg nasa je skijasica srusila na impresivan naÄ?in - drugom ovosezonskom pobjedom u veleslalomu, posljednjoj utrci sezone. Ponovno je ostvarila najbolje rezultate u prvoj i drugoj voznji. Drugoplasiranu KanaÄ'anku Genevieve Simard ostavila je za 61 stotinku, a treće su mjesto podijelile Finkinja Tanja Poutiainen i Austrijanka Nicole Hosp. U sjeni JaniÄ?ina senzacionalnog uspjeha, veleslalomski kristalni globus osvojila je Paerson, koja je osmim mjestom pred svojim navijaÄ?ima pretekla izravnu konkurenticu Spanjolku Riendu Contreras. Cilj mi je bilo pobjedniÄ?ko postolje, a znala sam da ću imati prigodu i za pobjedu. Dva ovosezonska slavlja u veleslalomu ulijevaju mi jos veće povjerenje u sebe za sljedeću sezonu u toj disciplini, rekla je Janica, dodavsi: Bila sam opustena, a kad ne razmisljas previse i jednostavno odskijas najbolje sto znas, dobre stvari se dogaÄ'aju. Snjezna kraljica slavila u svih pet disciplina Svoju svestranost Janica je pokazala pobijedivsi ove sezone u svih pet disciplina (slalom, veleslalom, superveleslalom, spust, kombinacija) i ostvarivsi ukupno devet pobjeda, uz pet drugih i tri treća mjesta. U karijeri je ostvarila 30 pobjeda u Svjetskome kupu. TakoÄ'er, sezonu će zavrsiti meÄ'u pet prvoplasiranih u svim disciplinama, s velikim i malim kristalnim globusom, te olimpijskim zlatom u kombinaciji i srebrom u superveleslalomu! KonaÄ?ni poredak u Svjetskom kupu 1. Janica Kostelić (HRV) 1970 2. Anja Paerson (Sve) 1662 3. M. Dorfmeister (Aut) 1364 4.  Nicole Hosp (Aut) 1112 5. Lindsey Kildow (SAD) 1067 6. Marlies Schild (Aut) 961 7. Kathrin Zettel (Aut) 872 8. Julia Mancuso (SAD) 755 9. A. Meissnitzer (Aut) 753 10. Elisabeth Goergl (Aut) 602     KonaÄ?ni poredak u slalomu 1. Janica Kostelić (HRV) 740 2. Marlies Schild (Aut) 550 3. Anja Paerson (Sve) 485 4. Kathrin Zettel (Aut) 399 5. Tanja Poutiainen (Fin) 320 6.  Nicole Hosp (Aut) 307 7. Therese Borssen (Sve) 248 8. Laure Pequegnot (Fra) 227 9. Lindsey Kildow (SAD) 214 10. Sarka Zahrobska (Čes) 206 Izvor: http://sport.hrt.hr/htvsport/izdvojeno/06/janica_velikigl.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7730/1/H-Lynne-Yelich-pocasni-gost-na-ZADRU-2006.html  Lynne YelichZASTUPNICA U KANADSKOM PARLAMENTU – POCASNI GOST NA HRVTASKIM SVJETSKIM IGRAMA U ZADRU  www.lynneyelich.com www.zadar2006.com Lynne Yelich, treca generacija kanadskih Hrvata i zastupnica u kanadskom Parlamentu s odusevljenjem se odazvala na poziv da bude pocasni gost Hrvatskih svjetskih igara u Zadru ove godine. I ako je gdja Yelich treca generacija Hrvata, vrlo je ponosna svojim hrvatskim porijeklom sto i istice na poslovnoj internet stranici na kojoj uz kanadski barjak, stoji i hrvatski!Lynne Yelich zivi sa suprugom Matt-om i kcerima Aleana-om i Ivanom u malom prerijskom mjestu Kenaston, u Provinciji Saskatchewan. Kenasto je nekad bio jaka hrvatska zajednica. Hrvati su ovamo doselili pocetkom dvadesetog stoljeca iz Lovinca u Lici i uglavnom se bavili poljoprivredom. Lynne Yelich je Hrvatsku posjetila samo jedan put, 1989. godine, i to je putovanje bilo katalist osjecaja koje je vec odavno gajila prema Hrvatskoj. «Po dolasku u Liku osjecala sam neku duboku povezanost, osjecaj prpadnosti. Kao da sam vec tamo bila, a Lovinac sam poznavala samo iz prica prenesenih od mojih pradjedova na moje djedove i roditelje.» kaze Lynne Yelich. «Taj je posjet ucvrstio moju bliskost s Hrvatima, ne samo u Kanadi, vec svugdje po svijetu.Osjetila sam da je to moj narod.' O Hrvatskim svijetskim igrama rekla je slijedece: «Kad sam cula sam za 'Hrvatske svjetske igre' koje ce se ovog ljeta odrzati u Zadru, bila sam istinski radosna da ce se omoguciti mladima rodjenim izvan Domovine da se upoznaju, druze i da razvijaju zajednicke interese za sport. Uvjerena sam da je to najbolji nacin povezivanja Hrvata s Domovinom i medjusobno. Nasa kci Ivan se je prijavila za kosarku i nasa ce cijela obitelj putovati u Zadar na Igre. Nadam se da ce se Igre nastaviti svake godine ili barem svake druge godine. To bi mogao biti jedan prekrasan pocetak zajednicke suradnje i stvaranje hrvtaskih veza po cijelom svijetu.'Katrina Pejakovic, Ottawa Ottawa Parliamentary Office 715 Confederation Building House of Commons Ottawa Ontario K1A 0A6 Yelich.L@parl.gc.ca  613-995-5653   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7733/1/EH-Ivo-Karlovic-beat-No-3-seed.html   Ivo Karlovic beat No. 3 seed Tommy Robredo  Scroll Down for English  Ivo Karlovic nezadrzivo je projurio medu cetiri najbolja tenisaca na 380.000 dolara vrijednome ATP turniru u Las vegasu. Div sa Salate veceras je sa 7:6 (4) i 6:4 pobijedio trecega nositelja i 18. igraca svijeta, Spanjolca Tommyja Robreda. To je bio drugi sudar ove dvojice tenisaca i druga pobjeda Zagrepcanina, koji je prvi put slavio na zemlji u Rimu 2004. godine.Tijekom citavog dvoboja Karlovic je sigurno drzao svoj pocetni udarac, Robredo nije uspio doci niti do jedne jedine prilike za break. S druge strane, Spanjolac je uspio prvi set dovesti do odlucujuce igre, ali jedan mini-break bio je dovoljan Karlovicu za osvajanje te dionice.Odmah u prvome gemu drugoga seta Karlovic je izborio prvu priliku za oduzimanje servisa, ali ju nije iskoristio. Propusteno je ispravio kod rezultata 3:3, kada je ostvario jedini break u mecu, a zatim je bez problema jos dva puta drzao svoj pocetni udarac.U polufinalu Karlovic ce igrati protiv pobjednika dvoboja izmedu petog nositelja Amerikanca Jamesa Blakea i Danca Kennetha Carlsena.To je drugo Karlovo polufinale u karijeri. Najveci uspjeh ove godine bilo mu je cetvrtfinale Zagreb Indoorsa, gdje je izgubio od Austrijanca Stefana Koubeka. Dosad mu je najveci uspjeh u pojedinacnoj konkurenciji finale u londonskome Queen's Clubu prosle godine.Ove je sezone vrlo dobar bio u paru, pa je prosli tjedan u Memphisu osvojio svoj prvi naslov uopce u kombinaciji s Juznoafrikancem Chrisom Haggardom.HRTweb sport (am)Ivo Karlovic beat No. 3 seed Tommy Robredo LAS VEGAS -- Ivo Karlovic beat No. 3 seed Tommy Robredo, and top-seeded Lleyton Hewitt cruised to an easy victory Friday in the quarterfinals of the Tennis Channel Open. Playing in winds gusting from 30-40 mph, Karlovic downed Robredo 7-6 (4), 6-4. Hewitt made the semifinals with a 6-2, 6-0 win over Philipp Kohlschreiber.Karlovic, a 6-foot-10 Croatian, dominated his match with hard serves, some surpassing 140 mph."I was not trying to think about the wind," Karlovic said. "I was trying to concentrate on my game. I was happy that I won. I'm playing well, but with the wind it's difficult for me to play to my potential."   Formatted for CROWN by Ivo Bach  Distributed by CroatianWorld.net. This message is intended for Croatian Associations/Institutions and their Friends in Croatia and in the World. The opinions/articles expressed on this list do not reflect personal opinions of the moderator. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, please delete or destroy all copies of this communication and please, let us know! Ivobach2@aol.com (Ivo Bach) Fri, 03 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7744/1/E-Dado-Prso-presents-the-FIFA-World-Cup-2006-kits.html  Croatia's Dado Prso International soccer players (L-R) Australia's Marco Bresciano, Damarcus Beasley of the U.S., South Korea's JS Park, Netherland's Ruud van Nistelrooy, Brazil's Adriano, Portugal's Luis Figo, Croatia's Dado Prso and Mexico's Jared Borgetti present the FIFA World Cup 2006 kits at the Olympic stadium in Berlin February 13, 2006. On Monday the kits of eight national soccer teams in the FIFA World Cup 2006 were presented to the media. REUTERS/Tobias Schwarz   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 13 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7737/1/E-Zadar-2006-Razgovor-Jure-Strika.html  Snimak razgovora sa Jurom Strikom - Zadar 2006 http://www.lijepanasadomovinahrvatska.com/audio06/22.01.06_Jure_Strika.wma- audio - snimak razgovora sa Jurom Strikom 22.01.2006 - posjetite http://www.zadar2006.com/ Razgovor vodila Veronika Topic slusajte "Hrvatski informativni program" svake nedjelje u 9pm (EST) , 03:00 sati (ujutro) po hrvatskom vremenu na AM530 http://www.am530.ca diljem svijeta  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 13 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7736/1/H-Hajducki-zakoni.html  Hajdučki zakoniAutor: Jura Ozmecjura.ozmec@hrt.hr Priznajem, ja sam tradicionalist. Vise me zanima skijasko trčanje u kojem se ljudi natječu od pamtivijeka, nego novokomponirano prebacivanje preko glave (čitaj: egzibicionizam) na jednoj dasci, po ledu, u disciplini imena pola-cijevi, tj. 'snjezni kanal'. No, i to je olimpijski sport, a ja kao tradicionalist cijenim olimpijsku tradiciju i samim time postujem nečiji odabir sporta na rasporedu olimpijskih igara. No, istodobno sam svjestan da su olimpijski glavesine svojedobno morali popustiti pritiscima sponzora i uvrstiti i 'kanal' i skakanje po hupserima kao olimpijski sport. Inače bi se te igre ugasile (mislili su oni tada...). Smijesno, da nije bolno. Za koljena poglavito.Ali u toj svojoj tradicionalističkoj odrednici neću ovdje dalje pisati o olimpijskim sportovima i procjenama koji je skijaski vid popularniji - alpsko ili nordijsko skijanje. To si, naime, dozvoljavaju neki novinari, pa i skijaski djelatnici ovih dana, nakon sto je 'učinjena sramota' Albertu Tombu i nije on upalio olimpijski plamen, nego 'nekakva' Stefania Belmondo.... Smjesno, drugi put.A smijesno treći put je vezano uz Hajduka. Zapravo, idem redom. Prvo, tradicionalist u meni kaze da mi je iznimno drago da u Splitu toliko jako drze do tradicije, da su ne samo proslavili svojih 95 godina, nego su dizajnirali posebne dresove, doveli na priredbu i Premijera, da su ga uspjeli nagovoriti da predlozi da Split dobije ulicu HNK Hajduka. To sve potpisujem, to je prava stvar, jer bez tradicije, bez podsjećanja na nju, bez dokaza da godinama postoji konstanta u sportu nema napretka, nema uspona sporta. Bilo kojega. Kad za 50 godina prezivi 'snjezni kanal' kao olimpijski sport, onda ću i ja s postovanjem govoriti o pobjednicima koji su osvajali medalje. Ako prezivi.Vraćam se Hajduku. Premijer je navijač Hajduka. Zasto ne bi bio? I ministar čija je domena i sport je navijač Hajduka. Zasto ne bi bio? A Hajduk je pred stečajem. Zasto ne bi bio, reći ćete vi, jer vi ponekad dobijete dojam da se nalazimo u pravnoj drzavi u kojoj se svi pridrzavaju Zakona. Ali neće to isto reći i spomenuta dvojica visokih duznosnika Vlade RH. Njih dvojica već nekoliko dana forsiraju prihvaćanje i usvajanje novoga Zakona o sportu, koji će - napokon, kazu oni - rijesiti probleme (i) Hajduka. Premijeru je netko nedovoljno informiran (ili predobro informiran?) ubacio i misao o tome kako bi svi klubovi Prve HNL morali u 4. ligu, zbog financijskih problema, pa ju i Premijer ponavlja, uporno. A nije tako. Ne bi bas svi klubovi 1. HNL u 4. ligu. Samo neki, uključujući i Hajduk. A tamo, na tom stadionu, u tom gradu, u toj regiji, čini mi se da i Premijer računa na neke glasove na skorim ili bilo kojim izborima? Slično je, jasno, i u drugim regijama iz kojih bi nogometni klubovi mogli u stečaj, pa samim time i u 4. ligu, a navijači (zbog toga) u neku drugu stranku.....Ali za Hajduk i za sve oko njega, ispada, zakoni ove Drzave uopće ne vrijede. Jer i po postojećem Zakonu Hajduk (i svi slični klubovi) bi morao u stečaj i samim time u 4. ligu. Pa postupak je pokrenut, uostalom. Novi Zakon o sportu samo nudi potencijalnim ulagačima s viskom novaca (bas me zanima koliko će takvih biti) ili na koncu i Drzavi samoj da Hajduka (i slične klubove) izvuče iz kome.... Po postojećim zakonima ne samo na drzavnoj razini (po Zakonu o sportu, a vjerojatno i po zakonu o javnom okupljanju), nego i u nasoj nogometnoj organizaciji, utakmica koju gomila divljaka prekine na 10 ili čak i vise minuta paleći bezbrojne baklje (a nije im prvi put!) mora biti prekinuta i registrirana 3:0 za protivnika, uz privodjenje i kaznjavanje prestupnika. Uključujući i one koji su dopustili unosenje stotina baklji na gradski stadion. A klub domaćin mora biti kaznjen, kako zbog baklji, jos vise zbog rasističkog vrijedjanja gostujućih igrača. To i Europa kaznjava, jako, pa i retroaktivno, pa i kaznjavajući cijeli Savez, reprezentaciju, druge predstavnike u euronatjecanjima. A Hrvatska bi organizaciju EP?Ali, sto to nas briga, kad kod nas to nije uopće vazno. Kad i Premijer svojom pojavom i glasnim spominjanjem rjesavanja problema 'čim usvojimo novi Zakon' zapravo radi prekrsaj? Pa, ponavljam - zar ova Hrvatska nema već neke zakone? Zar sve već odavno nije rijeseno, napisano, objasnjeno? Očito, sudeći prema izjavama Premijera, nije. Nego čekamo novi Zakon, kojeg se opet neće nitko pridrzavati? Blago pravnicima....A, kad Premijer svjesno zaobilazi zakone (jer, ruku na srce, neki zakon mu to sigurno omogućava), pa zasto bi ih se pridrzavali divljaci koji unose i pale baklje, gadjaju kamenjem kamermane HTV-a i napadaju novinare, divljaci koji tuku predstavnike gostujućeg kluba na svečanoj tribini, divljaci koji zaustavljaju aute i pale ih dok su putnici jos u njima. Nitko od njih nije, a kako se čini niti neće, biti osudjen.Zivjeli zakoni! Da nije tragično, bilo bi smijesno.13. veljače 2006.http://sport.hrt.hr/htvsport/aktualno/hajducki_zakoni.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 13 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7738/1/E-Zadar-2006---Daniel-Kraljevics-Story.html  ZADAR 2006: CROATIAN WORLD GAMESBASKETBALLER DANIEL KRALJEVIC OUT TO IMPRESS AS WELL AS HAVE FUNBy: Tonci Prusac / Croatian Herald / 03.02.2006MELBOURNE - Melbourne's Daniel Kraljevic will be keen to prove that Andrew Bogut isn't the only Australian Croat who can play basketball, when he takes to the court to represent the Australian Croatian community at the inaugural Croatian World Games 'Zadar 2006' (15-21 July) later this year. The friendly giant, who lives in the outer south-western suburb of Altona, has signed up with several friends to play basketball in the inaugural games, aimed at uniting Croats from all over the world through the ambitious week-long festival.We caught up with Daniel earlier in the week to discover exactly what he plans to achieve in this exciting sporting/cultural event.- CROATIAN HERALD (CH): How did you first get into basketball?- DANIEL KRALJEVIC (DK): I used to play soccer up until 2003 when I was 19. Then I finally decided that I was too tall to play soccer so I changed over to basketball. A teacher from my old high school is involved with the Altona Gators, who compete in the BigV Division 1. He told me to start training with them.At first I thought training at an elite level was going to be beyond me but hard work and determination has helped me get better and I am looking forward to the future.- CH: How did you find out about Zadar 2006?- DK: Last year I kept hearing from a lot of people that there was going to be an Olympics style competition held in Zadar. I found the website www.zadar2006.com while searching the internet and decided to apply from there.- CH: Do you know anyone else from Melbourne that will be going?- DK: I have managed to convince my friend Joe Pajic to come along and participate. We are both going to Croatia in July so I thought he might as well play in the games as well. I have heard on the Melbourne Croatia (youth) forum there might be some other people from Melbourne that will be going. The more people the better the experience will be.- CH: What are you hoping to achieve at the games in the sporting sense?- DK: I am hoping to have fun and play well. It is a chance to see how I compare to other players from around the world. It is a dream of mine to be good enough to play overseas and I see this as a great opportunity to show others what I can do.- CH: What are you most looking forward to at Zadar 2006?-         DK: Being able to meet other Croatians from around the world and to spend a week with them is going to be an experience I will never forget. I haven't been back to Croatia since 1998 so I am looking forward to this holiday. I can't imagine a better experience that playing basketball for a week and spending the rest of my holiday visiting the islands on our beloved coast.www.zadar2006.com letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 12 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7735/1/H-Kostelici---cijela-istina---nova-knjiga-Tomislava-Birtica.html  Kostelici Cijela Istina www.tomislavbirtic.com  Knjigu mozete kupiti direktno od autora. JANICA D.D. - PRVI DIOObitelj Kostelić - tvornica novcaOd najvećeg sponzorskog ugovora - tri milijuna eura za dvije i pol godine - Ante Kostelić trazio je samo 5.000 dolara mjesečnoPise: Tomislav BirtićTomislav Birtić, novinar koji je objavio 'aferu stitnjača', dvije je godine radio na knjizi o obitelji Kostelić koja će pod naslovom 'Kostelići - cijela istina' svjetlo dana ugledati u veljači. Neautorizirana biografija obitelji nastala je na temelju svjedočanstava vise od sto zivotnih suputnika bez premca najpopularnijih Hrvata, a poslovni tjednik Lider u nastavcima ekskluzivno donosi ekonomske aspekte njihove zivotne priče.T-Mobile nije ni potvrdio ni zanijekao da je vrijednost sponzorskog ugovora s Hrvatskim skijaskim savezom 3,000.000 eura. Sektor za odnose s javnosću i interne komunikacije kaze: 'Ugovorom potpisanim u studenome 2003. godine HTmobile se obvezao da će do kraja trećeg mjeseca 2006. godine biti generalni pokrovitelj Hrvatskog skijaskog saveza, i to hrvatskih alpskih skijaskih reprezentacija te hrvatske snowboard reprezentacije. Tata Williams odbio milijun i priskrbio 60 milijuna dolara godisnjeKad se već vidjelo da će sestre Venus i Serena Williams napraviti velike teniske karijere, jedan je proizvodjač sportske opreme Williamsovima ponudio ugovor na milijun dolara. 'A sto kazete na 107 milijuna?' hladno je odgovorio otac Richard Williams. Nedugo zatim, potpisavsi ugovor za ne bas 107 milijuna, ali ni za mnogo manje, svojih je pet minuta, koje traju i danas, dočekao na Amerikancima najvidljivijem teniskom tlu, polufinalu US Opena u koje su se plasirale obje kćeri. U lozi namijenjenoj obiteljima i prijateljima sportasa, usred tog, kako su ga mediji nazvali Williams Showa, tata Williams je, okrenut prema sky-boxu kompanije kojoj je dao kosaricu, stajao s transparentom napravljenim od stijenke kartonske kutije: 'Jesam li vam rekao!' Samo od Pume obje sestre Williams zaradjuju 12,000.000 dolara na godinu, a reklamirajući proizvodjača reketa Wilson, McDonald s, mliječne proizvode... oko 60,000.000 na godinu.HTmobile ujedno je osobni sponzor Janice Kostelić, a vezano uz navedenu suradnju u ime HTmobilea pregovarao je HTmobile tim. Vrijednost ugovora poslovni je podatak kompanije'.Interes Hrvatskog telekoma bio je vrlo jasan. Postavsi 'suvlasnikom' jedne od najvećih hrvatskih dragocjenosti, dobivsi ujedno visegodisnji monopol nad telekomunikacijama, automatizmom je postao jedna od omrazenijih kompanija. Kad udje na neko trziste, jedan od kraćih putova prema popularnosti za novoga je igrača sponzoriranje sporta. Janica Kostelić ne samo da je svojim licem Hrvatski telekom učinila prihvatljivim hrvatskoj javnosti nego čak i simpatičnim, a bilo bi vise nego zanimljivo saznati podatke kompanijskih i neovisnih istrazivanja i analiza o svim konkretnim koristima Hrvatskog telekoma, danas T-Mobilea, od suradnje s Janicom i Hrvatskim skijaskim savezom. Posebnu pohvalu, u ovom slučaju, zasluzuje onaj tko je čelnim ljudima kompanije sugerirao da poslovno suradjuju bas s Janicom Kostelić. Vjerojatno ne postoji Hrvat koji nije njezin navijač, pa posredno i 'navijač' njezinih sponzora.'Katkad cilj nije nastaviti rast, nego se zadrzati na dostignutoj razini poslovanja', kaze Alen Basić iz tvrtke za sportski marketing Hecron, savjetnik nekoliko kompanija u pregovorima sa sportskim drustvima koja te kompanije namjeravaju sponzorirati. 'Recimo, koliko je meni poznato, Hrvatski skijaski savez na koristenje je dobio 32 Renaultova automobila, a Renault je na trziste izbacio i model s Janičinim potpisom. Partnerstvo mozda nije rezultiralo rastom prodaje, ali suradnja s Kostelićima, jer Hrvatski skijaski savez zapravo su Kostelići, najbolji je mogući potez za svaku tvrtku.'Svojedobno mi se direktor marketinga Radenske zalio: 'Dok god Jamnicu reklamiraju Janica i Ivica, nijedan proizvodjač vode na hrvatskom trzistu nema nikakvih izgleda da im se suprotstavi. Toliko je jak njihov utjecaj na prodaju.Konkretno, jedini način da se Jamnica pobijedi u Hrvatskoj sklapanje je sponzorskih ugovora s Janicom i Ivicom.' sto ne bi bilo nimalo lako jer je Jamnica jedan od prvih sponzora obitelji Kostelić pa iako je posao uglavnom samo posao, tesko je zaboraviti da ti je netko pruzio ruku u vrijeme kad je stotinjak tisuća kuna značilo vise nego danas milijun eura...Hypo, OMV Istrabenz, Mizuno, Salomon - sve su to investitori koji, prije nego sto novac uloze u sport, sto puta promisle je li njihov 'maneken' od onih koji jedno lice imaju danju, a drugo noću. Ćudljivost nekih sportskih zvijezda, lose ponasanje, kakav ispad u sekundi nepromisljenosti moze donijeti vise stete nego četiri godine koristi. Ali odabravsi Janicu Kostelić, svi su njezini partneri počeli suradnju s posebnom djevojkom koja jednostavno ne moze ljudski pogrijesiti, pa tako ni naklonost publike ne moze doći u pitanje...Posebna je cijela obitelj Kostelić predvodjena glavom Antom Kostelićem, koje se sve to gotovo uopće ne tiče. Dobro, tiče ih se u mjeri ostvarivanja slobode nesmetanog sportskog napredovanja, no isti izvor koji je donio vijest o ugovoru vrijednom 3,000.000 eura kaze da je Ante Kostelić, kad su ga pregovarači Hrvatskog skijaskog saveza pitali sto on zahtijeva od cijeloga kolača, lakonski odgovorio: 'Sve moje potrebe zadovoljava kuća, koju već imam, i 5.000 dolara na mjesec.' Za sedam Tour de Francea i pobjedu protiv raka - 15 milijuna dolara na godinuLance Armstrong, sedmerostruki uzastopni pobjednik najslavnije biciklističke utrke Tour de France pobijedio je rak testisa. Godine 1993. Armstrong je postao najmladji pobjednik etapne utrke na Touru, tri godine zatim potpisao je s francuskom momčadi Cofidis ugovor vrijedan vise od 2,000.000 dolara na godinu da bi mu se svijet ukrasen predivnom kućom u Austinu i Porcheom u garazi srusio kad je osjetio bol u testisima. Nekoliko dana prije 25. rodjendana povraćao je krv. Operacijom mu je bolesni testis uklonjen, ali rak se već prosirio na pluća, abdomen i mozak. Craig Nochols, doktor koji ga je liječio, kaze da u zivotu nije vidio osobu snaznije volje: Armstrong je pobijedio rak.Prvi pokusaj povratka biciklizmu zavrsio je lose, iscrpljenosću i depresijom. Ali radost ponovnog rodjenja zasladjena je mahnitim treniranjem, a karizma nepobjedivog sportasa neslomljiva duha, plus pobjede na najnapornijem natjecanju koje sport poznaje, danas vrijede 15,000.000 dolara na godinu. Usput rečeno, kad bi mu do toga bilo stalo, financijski savjetnik mogao mu je spasiti dio plaće sugerirajući mu da je dolar nestabilna valuta, pa ako već ne zeli ugovorenu ratu vezati za japanski jen ili svicarski franak, neka je bar umjesto za dolar veze za euro. Ali Kosteliću je to nevazno, kao sto nije imao nista ni s Janičinim prijavljivanjem boravista u Monte Carlu...Doista, neobična priča, sva sila nula  i otkvačena obitelj koja ih je, bit će, i zaradila jer nikad nije bila opterećena novcem.Ante Kostelić, u mladosti rukometas Poleta (kasnije preimenovanog u Dinamo), Mladosti i Zagreba, o odnosu prema novcu odredio se jos kad se, osvojivsi sa Zagrebom prvenstvo Jugoslavije, domogao sanse da putuje u inozemstvo i, svercajući u socijalizmu trazenu robu, znatno popravi svoj standard. Treba biti posten i reći: Ante Kostelić bio je dovoljno dobar za jugoslavensku reprezentaciju, ali pratio ga je glas osvijestenog hrvatskog domoljuba, a ta je karakteristika bila pogubnija od poznatoga 'ključa', sastavljanja reprezentacija tako da u njima budu zastupljeni svi narodi i narodnosti. I kad se osvojenom titulom prvaka drzave izborio bar za pravo da kao vrhunski sportas moze putovati po svijetu, donositi u Zagreb britvice, najlonke i ostalo sto su sportasi preprodavali jer im je to vlast presutno odobravala, Kostelić se iz Zagreba vratio u sasvim prosječnu Mladost.Jednostavno, nije bio zadovoljan minutazom. 'Čuj, stari, bolje je biti prvi u selu nego drugi u gradu', rekao je začudjenim prijateljima i vratio se u klub koji se nedugo zatim rasformirao.Dok je bio rukometas, Ante Kostelić doslovce je isijavao volju da suigrače, sve oko sebe, istrgne porazu iz ruku, no njegova gorljivost bila je podjednako neshvaćena i kad je postao, jer od nečega se moralo zivjeti, trenerom. Velimir Kljaić, kovač hrvatske zlatne olimpijske medalje osvojene u rukometu u Atlanti 1996. godine, i Zoran Gobac, mozda kontroverzni administrativac, ali u svakom slučaju glavni logističar svih hrvatskih rukometnih uspjeha, ne dvoje:'Da je Ante Kostelić kojim slučajem bio Rus ili Ukrajinac, danas nitko ne bi ni znao za Igora Turčina. Jugoslavija nije sustavno rjesavala pitanje uvjeta za treniranje niti se disciplina igrača podrazumijevala, sto je u Sovjetskom Savezu bio slučaj. Kostelić je, kao rukometni trener, bio znatno ispred svoga vremena, u ondasnjem je vremenu zahtijevao istinski profesionalizam ili, drukčije rečeno, nije shvaćao kako se netko moze baviti sportom, a da mu se potpuno ne preda.Zato je mnogo puta 'izgorio', uprave bi ga potjerale jer bi se igrači pobunili. Njima je to bila puka zabava, a njemu smisao zivota.'U doba kad je Ante Kostelić bio rukometni trener igračicama bi vise nego dovoljan razlog za prelazak iz kluba u klub bilo zaposlenje u nekoj tvrtki (fiktivno ili stvarno) ili upis na fakultet preko veze, no zakleti nepusač Kostelić nikako nije mogao prihvatiti da sportasica ili sportas puse. Jednom postavsi trener Tresnjevke, već je na upoznavanju s Marinom Njirić, jednom od igračica na kojima je klub gradio nadolazeću sezonu (igrom slučaja danasnjom suprugom direktora rukometnih reprezentacija Silvija Njirića), igračicu najurio jer je pila kavu i pusila.Ali mozda to i nije najbolji primjer... Jednom zgodom Kljaić mu je pronasao angazman u Njemačkoj, u nizeligasu Nürnbergu. Igračice navikle vjezbati dva ili najvise tri puta na tjedan jos su nekako i prihvatile svakodnevne treninge, ali Kostelić je u Nürnbergu 'trajao' samo sedam dana jer je, ni manje ni vise, iz ekipe izbacio zenu predsjednika kluba koji je ujedno bio i jedini financijer!Naravno da je unaprijed bio svjestan posljedica svoje odluke, ali doista nije bilo, nema, niti će biti izgleda da taj čovjek prihvati kompromis na stetu njemu jedinoga svetog ideala  djevičanski čistog sporta. Svjesno se iz vise nego snosljive, svojom odlukom, vratio u vrlo neizvjesnu egzistenciju... Jedna od knjiga o Michaelu Jordanu najboljeg kosarkasa svih vremena savrseno portretira već samim naslovom - When Nothing Else Matter - kad nista drugo, osim kosarke, nije vazno. Kostelića bi jednako dobro opisao naslov, ne knjige, nego cijelog zivota: Kad je samo olimpijsko zlato vazno! Medjutim, kad mu je oduzeta prilika da smisao zivota ostvari kao sportas, a zatim i kao trener u nekom kolektivnom sportu (izrazena nacionalna crta bila je funkcija-eliminator i kad je riječ o izbornicima), sansu je dočekao kao trener svoje djece, Ivice i Janice.'Bas me zanima kako će Austrijanci lomiti jezik izgovarajući I-vica Ko-stelić kad se bude penjao na pobjedničko postolje', zabavljao je svoje prijatelje izgovarajući sretni zavrsetak vizije kao da prepričava nesto sto se već dogodilo, a ne kao da je riječ o mastariji čija je vjerojatnost ispunjenja jednaka nuli.Nakon silnih putesestvija po rukometnim klubovima, vrativsi se zauvijek u Zagreb, Ante Kostelić zaposlio se kao trener u skijaskom klubu Zagreb koji je krajem osamdesetih bio najbolji neslovenski klub u Jugoslaviji. U Medvesčaku ga nisu htjeli jer ga je pratio glas da, zaludjen sportom, vise trenira sebe nego druge, a bio je i previse impulzivan. No predsjednik Zagreba Ivo Drinković zaključio je da boljega kondicijskog trenera od Kostelića nikako ne bi mogli pronaći.Zagreb je imao pet trenera, a dobro poslujući, organizirajući turistička putovanja u inozemna zimovalista te ubirući članarinu od svojih tisuću članova, uprava je uspjela kupiti i dva autobusa i tri kombija, sto je znatno smanjilo cijenu vlastitih putovanja. Novo radno mjesto Kostelić je preuzeo s odvaznom rečenicom: 'Čuj, Ivo, ja sam ovamo dosao napraviti svjetske sampione!' U Zagrebovoj upravi, naravno, nisu vjerovali u svjetske sampione, nadali su se konačnom priključivanju Slovencima i da bi s Kostelićem u ekipi mogli stvoriti bar jednog natjecatelja koji će se natjecati u Svjetskom kupu.Kostelić je u trenu podigao kvalitetu suhih treninga, a upravu je začudio poznatom koncepcijom winning without technology - pobjedjivanje bez tehnologije: ne treba mu voki-toki, ni kolci, ni busilice... nista, on sve to ima u glavi.Medjutim, ubrzo je enormno povećao broj snjeznih treninga, sa sto na sto i pedeset ili sto i sezdeset dana, pri čemu je morao svladati otpor dijela roditelja. Zapravo, na kraju svake natjecateljske godine roditelji su ga pokusavali smijeniti, ali uprava nije dala trenera čiji je rad nagovjestavao ostvarenje dugogodisnjih snova, priključenje Slovencima.Kostelić je, osim juniora, trenirao i svoga sina Ivicu, a Janica je sa strane gledala treninge i trčkarala uokolo.- Kaj bus s malom? pitao je Kostelića jednom zgodom Drinković.- Ona bu ili balerina ili tenisačica.- Ma, jesi ti lud?! Ne vidis kakve motoričke sposobnosti ima?- Ali, nemam novca za dvoje djece...Ipak, uoči putovanja na Kaprun, gdje su zagrebasi trenirali, Drinković je 1988. godine Janici darovao skije svoga sina, rodjenog iste godine kao i Janica, 1982. Svi koji su vidjeli te doslovce prve Janičine skijaske korake bili su zaprepasteni njezinim talentom. Poput Mise Talja, koji je kao sestogodisnji dječak, gledajući sahovske partije svog oca i njegova prijatelja, bez ičijih uputa naučio pravila i čim je i sam počeo igrati, pokazao zavidno razumijevanje igre, tako je i Janica prvi put stavsi na skije odmah i skijala.Beskrajno talentirana djevojčica iz neskijaske zemlje vrlo je brzo, i to u serijama, počela sokirati svijet, ma kako 'svijet' zvučao samo hrvatski i slovenski. Skijajući na natjecanjima slovenskih vrsnjakinja, Janica je pobjedjivala s tolikom prednosću da su i suci i okupljena publika sumnjali da se elektronska stoperica pokvarila. Jednom su malu Hrvaticu  sto je grubo krsenje pravila  jos umornu od voznje vratili na start i natjerali je da vozi ponovno, ali pomoći nije bilo. Iako zakinuta, i u tim je neravnopravnim uvjetima pobijedila.Godine 1997. Janica je startala u dvadeset i dvije utrke i u svima pobijedila. U tom se pobjedničkom nizu nasla i najcjenjenija dječja utrka Troffeo Topolino koji, a to posebno vrijedi kad je riječ o skijasicama, gotovo nepogresivo predvidja seniorske prvakinje.Svijet mozda i nije shvaćao da će Janica dominirati skijanjem najmanje idućih deset godina, ali sjeverni susjedi vise nisu sumnjali u njezine krajnje dosege.Već su dovoljno dugo gledali kako se moćna hrvatska gomilica, odlučna da udje u povijest, muči iznad granica ljudske izdrzljivosti, i Slovenci su odaslali ponudu: 500.000 njemačkih maraka za 'transfer', to jest da Janica uzme njihovo drzavljanstvo, plus idealni uvjeti za trening i premije. Otac modernog slovenskog skijanja Tone Vogrinec negira da je Slovenija to ponudila Kostelićima. Preciznije, kaze: 'Da je takve ponude bilo, ja bih za to morao znati. A ne znam.' No Vogrinec nije demantirao izjavu danu novinaru Danu Figenwaldu. Takodjer, kad je autor ovog teksta kolegu Figenwalda suočio s Vogrinčevom tvrdnjom, novinar nije uzmaknuo ni za milimetar, a i sam Kostelić je, kad je tema naturaliziranih sportasa reaktualizirana stajanjem plivača Duje Draganje pod katarsku zastavu, rekao da se njegova obitelj imala priliku izbaviti iz nevolja uzimanjem drugog drzavljanstva...Ante Kostelić je inzistirao da njegova djeca olimpijske i druge medalje osvajaju pod hrvatskom zastavom, a to se uskoro počelo i dogadjati. Janica je počela pobjedjivati i u seniorskoj konkurenciji.Nakon niza dobrih rezultata u FIS utrkama, koje bi se mogle nazvati predvorjem elite, Janica je na Olimpijskim igrama u Naganu osvojila osmo mjestu u kombinaciji.Sljedeću je sezonu, kako se to kaze sportskim zargonom, eksplodirala. Dana 5. prosinca 1999. godine u francuskom Serre Chevalieru prvi je put pobijedila u slalomu, i to ostavivsi drugoplasiranu Trinu Bakke čak 1,78 sekundi iza sebe. Nekoliko dana poslije u talijanskom je Sestrieresu opet pobijedila s prednosću većom od jedne sekunde. Sa samo 17 godina bila je vodeća u Svjetskom kupu, a medju najboljih deset u svim disciplinama. Nazalost, serija veličanstvenih pobjeda prekinuta je jezivim padom na treningu spusta u St. Moritzu.Liječnici su bili skeptični, čula su se i misljenja da će biti sretna bude li uopće mogla hodati. Ali vratila se u najvećem stilu.U Svjetskom kupu 2000./2001. pobijedila je osam puta i usla u neizvjesnu zavrsnicu s Renate Goetschl, koja nije izdrzala psiholoski pritisak. U almanasima će ostati zapisano da je Janica u zavrsnici u Aareu bila u tako losem zdravstvenom stanju da se na startu utrka nije svom snagom sjurivala na stazu, nego se samo odgurivala stapovima. Kako bilo, osvojila je Veliki kristalni globus, za pobjedu u ukupnom redoslijedu Svjetskoga kupa, i Mali, za slalom.U proljeće i ljeto tri je puta operirana, sto je znatno skratilo vrijeme priprema za natjecanje koje je lajtmotiv cijelog zivota Kostelićevih.Olimpijske igre u Salt Lake Cityju.Sretna je okolnost bila sto je te sezone briljirao Ivica pa su oči domaće i svjetske javnosti, koje stalno moraju imati na oku bar nekoga iz obitelji Kostelić, bile uprte u njega.Ante Kostelić je odlučio: sto se Janice tiče, Svjetski kup ide u drugi plan, sve će biti podredjeno pripremama za Olimpijske igre. Epilog: zlatne medalje u kombinaciji, slalomu i veleslalomu, srebrna olimpijska medalja u superveleslalomu!I tako dalje i tako dalje...Medju onime sto se Kosteliće savrseno ne tiče nije na odmet spomenuti ni čudjenje Ivice Vidovića, prvog čovjeka McCann-Ericksona Hrvatska, sto se čelni ljudi hrvatskog turizma jos nisu dosjetili Janicu i Ivicu Kostelića iskoristiti kao glavna lica medjunarodne kampanje Jadranske obale. Vidović smatra da bolji 'manekeni' za to ne postoje.Kosteliće, junake priče o 'speku, luku i olimpijskom zlatu', nije previse briga postoji li uopće iznos koji, nekoć HTmobile, a danas T-Mobile ne bi trebao platiti u zamjenu za popularnost koju im je vjerojatno samo Janica mogla donijeti. I tu treba biti posten pa se retorički zapitati: Postoji li ijedan sportas u Hrvatskoj koji bi ne bas omiljenu kompaniju mogao dovesti makar do 'pozitivne nule popularnosti', a kamoli je učiniti simpatičnom osim Janice Kostelić?! I poznajući sposobnosti Vedrana Pavleka, stvarno bi bilo zanimljivo domoći se nekakvog stenograma pregovora vodjenih u studenome 2003. godine i prije jer u zraku je morala visjeti prijetnja prelaska najljućem konkurentu VIPnetu...Često čujemo: 'Eh, da je, recimo, Talijanka ili Amerikanka, zaradjivala bi sav novac ovog svijeta.' Ali dovoljno je biti i Hrvatica pa da los menadzer Rosignola dobije po prstima ili da mu se 'odrubi glava' jer je bio u prilici sklopiti ugovor s Janicom Kostelić, sto je učinio netko pametan u Salomonu...Podcijenjena Tamara BorosSportskim znalcima kristalno je jasno koliko su vrijedni njezini rezultati, ali ona druga priča, proizvodnja ekonomske vrijednosti, zahtijeva nekog Vedrana Pavleka u Hrvatskom stolnoteniskom savezu, a takvog čovjeka ondje, nazalost, nema. Skromna djevojka rodjena je 1977. u vojvodjanskoj Senti, a 1993. s obitelji se preselila u Hrvatsku. Trnja, dakle, ne nedostaje, a ako su se okolnosti pobrinule za dramaturgiju, Tamara se napornim radom domogla zvijezda. Samo, Tamara Boros je najveći hrvatski marketinsko-sportski grijeh: u njezinu se sportu nije nasao nijedan čovjek dovoljno uporan da naciji objasni koliko je ta djevojka zapravo veličanstvena sportasica. Ni u kojem slučaju ne umanjujući grandiozan uspjeh obitelji Kostelić, ne treba zaboraviti da Tamari Boros na putu stoji stotinjak milijuna suparnica vise - Kineskinja.Tamara Boros je prva Europljanka koja je na nekom svjetskom prvenstvu uspjela osvojiti medalju, a u posljednjih trideset godina taj su pothvat izvele jos samo tri neazijke! Drugoplasirana na svjetskoj rang-listi u najmanju je ruku ravna Goranu Ivaniseviću, a to nije pravedno valorizirano. Ne samo da se ne smije zaboraviti da su dva milijuna Kineskinja unutar 'dva boda razlike' nego ni da je jedan od temelja sportske metodike stolnoteniske velesile 'kloniranje' suparnica i suparnika. To znači da najbolje Kineskinje, prije nego sto se za stolom susretnu s Tamarom Boros, imaju sate i sate treninga sa sunarodnjakinjama čija je igra do u detalje identična Tamarinoj. U tom svjetlu ne smije se zaboraviti ni nepravda Tamarine 'podeksponiranosti' u hrvatskoj javnosti, a ni grijeh indolentnosti ljudi iz Hrvatskog stolnoteniskog saveza koji nisu uspjeli kapitalizirati sportsku heroinu veliku koliko i Janica Kostelić.© Lider press, 2005www.liderpress.hr  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 11 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7742/1/E-Janica-Kostelic-plans-to-compete-in-all-five-skiing-disciplines.html  Janica Kostelic plans to compete in all five skiing disciplines at the Winter Olympics TURIN, Italy Feb 7, 2006 (AP)The Croatian, who won three gold medals at the Salt Lake City Games four years ago, has battled bad knees throughout her career. But on Tuesday, her official Web site said "if Janica will be in optimal form … her competing in all those disciplines shouldn't be doubtful." The site said Kostelic made the decision after consulting with her father and coach, Ante Kostelic, and national team director Vedran Pavlek. Kostelic won the slalom, giant slalom and combined in Salt Lake City to become only the third Alpine skier to win three golds at a single games Toni Sailer in 1956 and Jean-Claude Killy in 1968 are the others. This season on the World Cup tour, Kostelic became only the second woman to win five different disciplines in a season. She won the slalom Sunday in Ofterschwang, Germany, while fighting the flu. Besides defending her golds in the slalom, giant slalom and combined, Kostelic will also compete in the super-G and downhill. On the Net: Janica Kostelic: http://www.janica.hr http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=1589406  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 07 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7747/1/E-Croatia-defeat-Austria---Davis-Cup-2006.html  Croatia in quarterfinals Croatia became the first titleholder in two years to survive the opening round Mario and Ivan - Amazing duo. Little Croatia with two Tennis Giants LONDON: Defending champion Croatia, Argentina, France, Russia, Belarus and Chile advanced to the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup on Saturday by winning doubles rubbers to seal unbeatable 3-0 leads. Survives Croatia became the first titleholder in two years to survive the opening round when Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic rallied from 2-0 down to defeat Jurgen Melzer and Julian Knowle 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 8-6. Croatia will host Argentina in April's quarterfinals. Last year they met in the semifinals. The results: At Minsk: Belarus 3, Spain 0: Vladimir Voltchkov & Max Mirnyi bt Feliciano Lopez & Fernando Verdasco 7-6(2),6-4,7-5. At Geneva: Switzerland 1, Australia 2: Yves Allegro & Stanislas Wawrinka lost to Wayne Arthurs & Paul Hanley 7-6(6),6-4,4-6,7-6(5). At Amsterdam: The Netherlands 0, Russia 3: Raemon Sluiter & John van Lottum lost to Igor Andreev & Mikhail Youzhni 6-2,3-6,6-4,6-4. At Halle: Germany 0, France 3: Tommy Haas & Alexander Waske lost to Arnaud Clement & Michael Llodra 6-7(6),6-3,6-4,6-1. At Buenos Aires: Argentina 3, Sweden 0: David Nalbandian & Agustin Calleri bt Jonas Bjorkman & Simon Aspelin 6-2, 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-4. At Graz: Austria 0, Croatia 3: Jurgen Melzer & Julian Knowle lost to Mario Ancic & Ivan Ljubicic 3-6,3-6,6-4,6-4,8-6. At La Jolla: U.S. 2, Romania 1: Bob and Mike Bryan bt Victor Hanescu and Horia-Vlad Tecau 6-2, retired. At Rancagua: Chile 3, Slovakia 0: Nicolas Massu and Fernando Gonzalez bt Michal Mertinak and Lukas Lacko 6-2, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4. â€" Agencieshttp://www.hindu.com/2006/02/13/stories/2006021310471700.htm Croatia at AustriaPosted on February 06, 2006Site: Schwarzl Freizeit Zentrum, Graz, AustriaSurface: Red clay indoorsBall: Wilson Tour Davis CupThe Austrians will need their homecourt advantage, the slow red clay, and then some against the Davis Cup defending champion Croatian team comprised of Ivan Ljubicic and Mario "Baby Goran" Ancic. On Sunday, Croatian fans in Zagreb got a Davis Cup preview when Ljubicic easily handled the hot-handed Austrian Stefan Koubek in the final. Jurgen Melzer will join Koubek in shoring up the Austrian singles, with Julian Knowle and Alexander Peya likely taking up the doubles duty.Melzer beat Ljubicic last year in their only career meeting but that was on the slick lawns at Wimbledon, and the Austrian has never faced Ancic. Koubek is now 3-3 versus Ljubicic, but those wins came before the Croat's confidence surged with his standing in the Top 10, and after injury has caused Koubek's ranking to plummet. As with Melzer, Ancic has likewise never faced Koubek.The slower the dirt, the better chance the Austrians will have, so look for a mud bog in Graz and for the scrappy Melzer and Koubek to potentially make it interesting.-- Tennis-X.comhttp://www.tennis-x.com/story/2006-02-06/h.php   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 06 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7739/1/E-TENNIS-SENSATION-MARIN-CILIC.html  Up Close and Personal with Newest Croatian Tennis Sensation Marin Cilic  by Jeffrey Lesser Men's tennis returned to Zagreb this week for the first time in nine years. Along with the PBZ Zagreb Indoors came a chance for Croatia to showcase its players. Croatia's three marquee players, Ivan Ljubicic, Mario Ancic, and Ivo Karlovic, were all featured, and Ljubicic actually put together terrific tennis to win the event. However, the biggest story of the tournament was of the player who received a special wild-card invitation to the tournament- 17-year-old Marin Cilic, the 585th-ranked Zagreb resident. Fans may remember Cilic, the 2nd best Junior in the world, as the boy who won the 2005 French Open Junior Championships. To put it in fewer words, he is the future of Croatian tennis.Cilic had played only one ATP match in his entire career, which was at the Croatian Open in Umag, where he was also a wild-card invite. In that match, Marin lost to 73rd-ranked Kristof Vliegen of Belgium, 7-5 6-2. In the first round at the Zagreb Indoors this past week, Marin was given an even tougher task- to play the 7th seed and 25th-ranked player in all the world, Igor Andreev of Russia. The extreme underdog, Marin Cilic showed his potential to be a great player, as he shocked the tennis world by defeating Andreev. In the second round, Cilic even had a one-set advantage over 55th-ranked Andreas Seppi of Italy before losing, 4-6 6-4 6-4. In his performance, Marin showed that the future for Croatian tennis is shining brighter than ever.I had the opportunity to meet with and interview Cilic at the 2005 US Open. In our sit-down conversation, I learned much about Marin's inherent desire to succeed and found out that he truly has what it takes to be a great pro. First, we talked about the French Open. He conceded that he was not confident that he could win the French Open until he reached the semifinals. While I was extremely impressed by his results at the Juniors level, Marin downplayed his past. He said that it was far easier to win on clay in the Juniors, because there are no real clay court specialists, whereas in the pros, it is a different story. Cilic, who practices on clay courts in the hot Croatian weather and on hard, indoor courts for the remaining six months of the year, had past experience on clay that proved vital during the tournament. He continued to put his success into perspective rarely seen in a kid his age. "Juniors in Grand Slams are good to improve your game," he remarked. Not dwelling on Juniors success, Marin seems to look towards life as a pro.This professional mindset was never more evident than when I asked him about his favorite match he ever played. I expected to hear that winning the French Open Juniors was his greatest moment to date. However, he had another response in store. Marin said that his favorite match was his only pro match, the "big experience" against Vliegen. His greatest moment was his only professional moment. This sophisticated answer showed unbelievable poise and determination to become a great pro. Cilic said he is also willing to put in the hours necessary to succeed at the professional level. He currently practices about five hours every day and "will do a lot in my training" to become stronger physically in the next few years. Marin wants to improve his serve, adding power and placement. Even though he plans to be a hard-serving baseliner (much like the man off whom he models his game, Marat Safin of Russia), Cilic wants to improve his volleying. He considers his current groundstrokes strong enough to enable him to compete at a high level in the pros. Marin said that the main difference between himself and professionals is his lack of mental strength. "Professional players are very calm," he said, whereas he occasionally throws his racket. However, mental toughness comes with experience. Marin believes that he could have defeated Vliegen at Umag, except that due to his lack of match experience, Cilic was "a little nervous" playing in front of his country. I brought to his attention that Andrew Murray, the Brit who Marin defeated at the semifinals of the French Open Juniors, has been achieving success at the professional level. He said that this success happened as a result of Murray playing lots of challengers and futures events. Cilic resolved that in 2006 he "will try to play more Futures and Challengers" in order to gain match play experience and mental toughness, as well as valuable ranking points. He plans to officially turn pro and ditch the Juniors after succeeding in the Futures and Challengers events.By dismissing most of his Juniors success as mere practice for the pros, Marin Cilic has showed he is ready for the pros and ready to commit his life to becoming a better tennis player. Still, while he is playing on the tour, he is separated from his parents and brothers. Being on the road means that there is "not a lot of time for friends and family," but Marin is prepared to sacrifice this to become a successful pro.This past week, Marin Cilic confirmed my belief that he has what it takes to become a fantastic pro. Forget about Futures and Challengers. After beating Igor Andreev and giving Andreas Seppi all he could handle in the second round, Marin Cilic proved that he is not only the future of Croatian tennis, but also the present.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 06 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7745/1/E-Croatia-Sending-24-Athletes-to-Compete-in-Turin-Olympiad.html  Croatia Sending 24 Athletes to Compete in Turin OlympiadText of report in English by Croatian news agency HINA Zagreb, 4 February: Seven days remain before the start of the 20th Winter Olympic Games in the Italian city of Turin. Croatia will be represented by 24 athletes in six sports. The most numerous Croatian team will be in Alpine skiing with 12 skiers: five representatives in women's competitions and seven in men's races. Croatia's team has also qualified for four man bobsleigh competitions. Other Croatians will compete in figure skating, Nordic combined, skeleton and biathlon. The triple Olympic gold winner, skier Janica Kostelic, will carry the Croatian flag during the ceremony of the opening of the games on 10 February. It will be Italian Giorgio Rocca to take the solemn oath of the athlete at the ceremony. Over 2,500 athletes coming from 85 nations will compete in the Games.http://www.redorbit.com/news/technology/379838/croatia_sending_24_athletes_to_compete_in_turin_olympiad/index.html?source=r_technology  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 05 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7743/1/E-Croatian-World-Games-are-awaiting-you-from-July-15---22-2006-in-Zadar.html  July 2006 in Zadar: Croatian World Games Are you a Croatian aficionado? Have you ever wanted to meet Croatians from all over the world in one place? Are you found of sports? Spread the word - the first Croatian World Games are awaiting you from July 15 - July 22, 2006 in Zadar, Croatia!Participants from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Argentina, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland and other countries have started to apply and will be competing in 15 disciplines, such as Athletics, Swimming, Tennis, Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Soccer, etc. Imagine the Olympics with only Croatian players competing!The goal of this event is to bring Croatians from Croatia and Croatians from all over the Globe closer together!  Don't worry if you are not a pro in any of these disciplines; join the crowd and compete for your own fun and pleasure. If you feel that you are a pro, go and prove it to the world! You might be discovered as a talent and accepted into one of the Croatian national sport teams!For the price of EUR 285, you get a seven day accommodation with two meals a day in a bungalow at the popular tourist district of Zaton, a chance to participate in the athletic part of the Games, to enjoy free entrance to all Games sites and an entertainment program, to use the recreation facilities in the sports village and transportation within the sports village, as well asthe unlimited access to the IT center.Visit www.zadar2006.com and find out more about this first global  Croatian sports event.Sign up today and be part of this unique Croatian event! However, if you already have other plans for the Summer 2006, send this article to all of your friends, relatives and acquaintances. Give everybody you know a chance to participate in this truly unique opportunity! letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 05 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7741/1/E-Stjepan-Beg-Rab-Croatia--Roman-Stoisavljevic-Zagreb-Croatia.html  Men’s Tennis Blanks Utah State Courtesy: New Mexico State UniversityRelease: 02/05/2006Courtesy: Julie BaishThe men's tennis team downed WAC foe Utah State 7-0, Saturday afternoon. Las Cruces, N.M. – The New Mexico State men’s tennis team dominated the Utah State Aggies 7-0, Saturday afternoon at the NMSU Tennis Center. The Aggies are now 2-0 in WAC matches in 2006 and 3-1 overall.NMSU started strong in doubles action as they won two of three matches where the team of Stjepan Beg (Rab, Croatia) and Brice Magnanou (Montauban, France) defeated Zelle and Pinho 8-6 in the number one position andRoman Stoisavljevic (Zagreb, Croatia) and Tim America (Roermond, Netherlands) beat Tyden and Young 8-4 at the number two spot.In singles action, the Aggies won all six matches, five of them in straight sets as Beg defeated Zelle (6-2, 6-4), Magnanou defeated Pinho (7-5, 6-3) and Stoisavljevic beat Netto (6-0, 6-2) in the one, two and three spots. In the four, five and six positions, Ricardo Gorostiaga defeated Young (6-1, 6-2), America dropped Marchant (6-2, 7-5) and Halligan beat Tyden (6-0, 1-6, 6-2).“We played a little shaky in doubles play, but managed to hang on for the win, so that was good,” Aggie head coach Don Ball said. “Then we won five of six singles matches and the number six match was pretty close, but the others were never really in question. Both of our tennis teams are now 4-0 for the weekend and you can’t complain about that. The men now have two conference wins under their belt and overall it was a pretty good day.”The Aggie men will be back in action tomorrow as they take on Northern Colorado at 9:00 a.m. at the Youth Tennis Center in El Paso.Aggie ResultsDoubles: 1. Beg/ Magnanou (NMSU) d. Zelle/ Pinho (USU) – 8-6 2. Stoisavljevic/ America (NMSU) d. Tyden/ Young (USU) – 8-4 3. Banks/ Marchant (USU) d. Gorostiaga/ Pfeifer (NMSU) – 8-6 Singles: 1. Beg (NMSU) d. Zelle (USU) – 6-2, 6-4 2. Magnanou (NMSU) d. Pinho (USU) – 7-5, 6-3 3. Stoisavljevic (NMSU) d. Netto (USU) – 6-0, 6-2 4. Gorostiaga (NMSU) d. Young (USU) – 6-1, 6-2 5. America (NMSU) d. Marchant (USU) – 6-2, 7-5 6. Halligan (NMSU) d. Tyden (USU) – 6-0, 1-6, 6-2http://www.nmstatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=1900&ATCLID=234711  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 05 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7740/1/E-Tamara-Boros-of-Croatia-won-Liu-Jia-at-the-European-Top-12-finals.html  Tamara Boros won European Top 12     Tamara Boros of Croatia returns a shot to Liu Jia of Austria during the women's final at the European Top 12 table tennis tournament at the KB Stadium Hall in Copenhagen February 5, 2006. Boros won 11-9, 4-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-8. NORWAY OUT DENMARK OUT SWEDEN OUT NO THIRD PARTY SALES REUTERS/Jakob Boserup/Scanpix   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 05 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7746/1/E-Croatia-is-first-among-140-countries-in-the-world.html  Croatia is first among 140 countries in the world  Current Davis Cup Rankings Rank Nation Points Played Previous 1 Croatia 25,002.5 10 [4] 2 Spain 23,200.0 12 [1] 3 Slovak Republic 13,942.5 10 [6] 4 Russia 13,643.8 11 [2] 5 Argentina 13,575.0 11 [7] 6 Australia 13,500.0 10 [3] 7 USA 12,397.5 11 [8] 8 France 11,500.0 11 [5] 9 Belarus 7,110.0 10 [9] 10 Switzerland 7,046.9 9 [10] 11 Netherlands 4,906.3 8 [11] 12 Sweden 4,843.8 8 [12] 13 Romania 3,928.1 8 [13] 14 Austria 2,957.5 9 [14] 15 Chile 2,930.0 9 [15] 16 Germany 2,762.5 8 [16] 17 India 2,187.5 11 [17] 18 Czech Republic 2,081.3 8 [18] 19 Thailand 1,932.5 12 [19] 20 Ecuador 1,920.0 10 [20] 21 Canada 1,835.0 9 [21] 22 Belgium 1,662.5 8 [22] 23 Italy 1,570.0 10 [23] 24 Pakistan 1,570.0 12 [24] 25 Great Britain 1,562.5 8 [25] 26 Japan 1,507.5 9 [26] 27 Paraguay 1,270.0 11 [27] 28 Uzbekistan 1,155.0 8 [28] 29 Morocco 1,145.0 9 [29] 30 Venezuela 1,122.8 10 [30] 31 Peru 1,035.0 11 [31] 32 Luxembourg 1,011.9 9 [32] 33 Israel 956.3 8 [33] 34 Serbia & Montenegro 951.3 10 [34] 35 Chinese Taipei 949.4 9 [35] 36 China, P.R. 768.8 10 [36] 37 Korea, Rep. 735.0 12 [37] 38 Mexico 733.8 10 [38] 39 Zimbabwe 720.0 10 [39] 40 Brazil 657.5 10 [40] 41 Ukraine 568.8 9 [41] 42 Portugal 535.0 10 [42] 43 South Africa 534.4 9 [43] 44 Finland 503.1 8 [44] 45 New Zealand 500.0 10 [45] 46 Indonesia 492.5 9 [46] 47 Dominican Republic 426.9 13 [47] 48 Bulgaria 406.6 9 [48] 49 Uruguay 402.5 10 [49] 50 Slovenia 330.0 10 [50] 51 Hungary 297.2 12 [51] 52 Poland 254.7 12 [52] 53 Greece 250.0 9 [53] 54 Norway 221.6 10 [54] 55 Kuwait 210.9 11 [55] 56 Algeria 198.8 14 [56] 57 Hong Kong, China 162.8 12 [57] 58 Bahamas 155.0 9 [58] 59 Denmark 152.5 12 [59] 60 Lebanon 150.0 9 [60] 61 Latvia 145.0 11 [61] 62 Netherlands Antilles 140.3 11 [62] 63 Pacific Oceania 130.0 17 [63] 64 Colombia 103.8 11 [64] 65 Kazakhstan 95.0 11 [65] 66 Georgia 94.5 14 [66] 67 Jamaica 93.8 14 [67] 68 Cuba 92.5 8 [68] 69 Philippines 91.3 8 [69] 70 Ireland 85.0 11 [70] 71 Cote D'Ivoire 70.0 11 [71] 72 Iran 61.3 11 [72] 73 Haiti 55.6 14 [73] 74 Egypt 55.0 11 [74] 75 Macedonia, F.Y.R. 43.8 19 [75] 76 Cyprus 42.5 18 [76] 77 Guatemala 37.5 17 [77] 78 = Honduras 35.0 20 [78=] 78 = Bolivia 35.0 20 [78=] 80 Tunisia 33.8 14 [80] 81 Lithuania 31.3 19 [81] 82 El Salvador 31.3 20 [82] 83 Vietnam 30.3 14 [83] 84 Malaysia 30.0 14 [84] 85 Puerto Rico 28.8 17 [85] 86 Turkey 28.8 19 [86] 87 Bahrain 28.3 20 [87] 88 Ghana 27.5 10 [88] 89 Nigeria 25.5 18 [89] 90 Monaco 21.3 14 [90] 91 Namibia 21.3 19 [91] 92 Qatar 21.3 20 [92] 93 Armenia 21.0 17 [93] 94 Bosnia/Herzegovina 20.0 20 [94] 95 Sri Lanka 19.0 17 [95] 96 Iceland 19.0 18 [96] 97 Saudi Arabia 18.0 19 [97] 98 Estonia 17.5 15 [98] 99 Tajikistan 17.5 17 [99] 100 United Arab Emirates 16.8 19 [100] 101 Panama 16.5 20 [101] 102 Singapore 16.3 17 [102] 103 Oman 15.3 18 [103] 104 Moldova 15.0 16 [104] 105 Andorra 13.8 16 [105] 106 Bangladesh 13.5 16 [106] 107 Costa Rica 13.3 19 [107] 108 Azerbaijan 13.0 15 [108] 109 Rwanda 13.0 19 [109] 110 Barbados 12.0 19 [110] 111 Syria 11.5 19 [111] 112 Madagascar 11.3 17 [112] 113 Trinidad & Tobago 11.0 16 [113] 114 Botswana 11.0 18 [114] 115 Senegal 10.0 13 [115] 116 San Marino 9.0 19 [116] 117 Benin 8.0 8 [117] 118 Kyrgyzstan 8.0 18 [118] 119 St. Lucia 8.0 20 [119] 120 Kenya 7.8 16 [120] 121 US Virgin Islands 7.8 19 [121] 122 Myanmar 7.5 12 [122] 123 Angola 7.0 10 [123] 124 Jordan 7.0 14 [124] 125 Bermuda 7.0 19 [125] 126 Malta 5.0 17 [126] 127 Togo 4.0 4 [127] 128 Uganda 3.5 19 [128] 129 Burkina Faso 3.0 4 letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 30 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7757/1/E-Hungary-and-Croatia-hold-meeting-in-Budapest.html  Hungary and Croatia hold meeting in Budapest13:35 2006-01-26Croatia's efforts to join the European Union, cooperation on energy matters, and a joint bid to host soccer's 2012 European Championships are expected to dominate Thursday's joint Cabinet session between Hungary and Croatia. Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany and his Croatian counterpart, Ivo Sanader, will lead the session, to be held at Budapest's Museum of Fine Arts. The EU opened accession talks with Croatia, a prelude to eventual membership, on Oct. 4, after delaying them for months because of Croatia's failure to capture a top war crimes suspect, Ante Gotovina. Gotovina was eventually arrested in Spain on Dec. 7. Hungary, which joined the EU in 2004, has been a solid supporter of the accession of Croatia, home to an ethnic Hungarian minority of around 17,000 people. Croatia hopes to join the EU in 2009. Linking the two countries' natural gas pipelines and cooperation on the management of oil reserves are among the energy issues the governments are expected to discuss Thursday. The two Cabinets are also expected to reiterate their support for a joint bid to host soccer's 2012 European championships. The winning bid is planned to be chosen Dec. 8 and the other two finalists are Italy and a joint bid by Poland and Ukraine. The meeting will not be held in parliament "so the shadows of history are not projected onto cooperation in the modern era between Hungary and Croatia," Gyurcsany told Hungarian state news wire MTI. Croatia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until World War I and under some form of Hungarian or Austrian authority as far back as the 12th century. Sanader and his Cabinet are also scheduled to meet with Hungarian President Laszlo Solyom later Thursday, reports the AP. N.U.http://newsfromrussia.com/world/2006/01/26/71824.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7752/1/E-Tomislav-Japec-a-victory-in-his-opening-match.html Tomislav Japec, victory in his opening match  Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor Overcoming Nerves Photo By: Sanjin Strukic LIEBHERR Croatian Open, Zagreb Tomislav JAPEC, a nervous start but victory in his opening match  1/24/2006The disappointment for table tennis fans intending to watch the Liebherr Croatian Open in Zagreb is the withdrawal from the Men’s Singles of top seed Germany’s Timo BOLL. Nevertheless, the tournament still has a host of world class players on duty and on the morning of Tuesday 24th January 2006 the home supporters had smiles on their faces, thanks to the efforts of twenty-one year old Tomislav JAPEC.He recovered from a two games to nil deficit to beat Janez PETROVCIC of Slovenia 7-11, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-8, 11-7.'I was nervous before the start of the match and I was tentative in the first game', said a somewhat relieved Tomislav JAPEC. 'It’s a long time since I’ve played in Croatia and that had an effect on me, in fact my last tournament in Croatia was the Liebherr Croatian Open a year ago.'PressurePlaying in front of your home crowd adds a degree of pressure to the situation; it’s a fact that was endorsed last week by Lleyton HEWITT at the Grand Slam tennis tournament in Australia after he had lost to Juan Ignacio CHELA of Argentina in the second round of the Men’s Singles event and it’s a scenario that seemingly haunts Great Britain’s Tim HENMAN with regards to Wimbledon. They are both tremendous sportsman, superb tennis players but on home soil so much is expected, the pressure is that much greater and both cannot win the title they so crave, the Grand Slam event in their own country.Nevertheless after a below par first two games JAPEC recovered and duly won the last four games to secure victory. DeterminedTomislav JAPEC is one of Croatia’s most promising new generation of players and he is a determined young man. One of the national leagues that has grown in strength in the past decade is undoubtedly the French League and for the 2005-2006 season JAPEC moved joined Hennebont in the south of France, having previously played for STK Vecenrnji List in Zagreb. The competition for places in the men’s team in Hennebont is severe but the practice available is of a very high level. BAI Feng Tian, WANG Xin, Artur GRIGORYEV, Dániel GORAK and the man currently ranked number eleven in the world, Kalinikos KREANGA all play for the club. 'I want to make progress, I want to improve, I want to play professionally', said Tomislav JAPEC in a determined tone of voice. 'In Hennebont we have a good coach and of course the players to train with is outstanding.' The coach in question is Milan STENCIL who for several years guided the fortunes of Croatia’s current leading player, Zoran PRIMORAC and has worked for several clubs and national associations in Europe. He is a man with a wealth of knowledge and JAPEC will most certainly benefit from his tutelage.Improvements'In the last year I think my head is better, mentally I’ve improved', continued JAPEC. 'I ‘m more professional and I think I appreciate more what I have to do in order to play at a high level.'The mental aspect of sport is crucial to success. Ask any of the superb Chinese players why they won and time and time again they will tell you that it was because they were mentally strong and had a clear mind. Also, they are the best in the world when it comes to returning the ball short over the net, the deft returns, the flicks, just as important in table tennis as the booming forehand winners. In this area of play Tomislav JAPEC believes he has improved. 'I’m better at short, short', he said. 'My control and feeling have improved, also my forehand has got better in the last twelve months, my backhand has always been my strength but now my forehand is catching up.'ConqueredHe is improving and today he conquered both his adversary and himself. 'The first two games were not good, I was nervous, people watching expected a lot of me', he added. 'After the second game I had to really fight but as I got more into the match I moved better, I served better and of course it motivated me when I heard people cheering for me.'It was a tough opening match, another match on the learning curve to a higher status. He was nervous but he was strong enough to recognise that fact and he conquered his nerves. More and more Tomislav JAPEC knows what it takes to be a high level table tennis table and furthermore he would seem to have the appetite to succeed.http://www.ittf.com/stories/Stories_detail.asp?Year=2006&General_Catigory=General&ID=8548  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7751/1/E-Were-magicians---Small-Is-Big-in-Mens-Tennis.html  Small Is Big in Men's Tennis, Where Swiss, Croatians Top U.S. Listen Jan. 20 (Bloomberg) -- Switzerland's Roger Federer, the No. 1 player in men's tennis, comes from a country with fewer people than New York City. The sport's top team title, the Davis Cup, belongs to Croatia, a nation four years younger than second- ranked Rafael Nadal of Spain. Small countries rule and traditional men's tennis powers such as the U.S. are struggling as the sport plays its first Grand Slam tournament of the year at the Australian Open. Federer began the Open in Melbourne having won five of the eight majors over the past two years. Ivan Ljubicic may be playing the best tennis in the world after leading 15-year-old Croatia to the Davis Cup in December. Andy Roddick is the top American at No. 3 and hasn't won a Grand Slam tournament in three years. ``These smaller countries are concentrating on what they have, rather than having so much to select from,'' said Nick Bollettieri, who helped develop former top-ranked U.S. players such as Andre Agassi and Jim Courier. ``They can see what they have and give it enough financial support.'' Promising players can train at one place and are treated as an elite group with a strong support system, said Bollettieri, 74, who also worked with Grand Slam title record-holder Pete Sampras and 2004 Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova.The U.S. Tennis Association spent $64 million on developing players in 2004, according to the group's most recent figures. Switzerland's governing body for tennis spent about 3 million Swiss francs ($2.34 million) on development last year, while Croatia's federation spent about $500,000. "We're magicians,'' Marina Mihelic, executive director of the Croatian Tennis Association, said in a telephone interview. New Champions Federer, 24, became the first man from Switzerland, population 7.3 million, to win a Grand Slam title when he beat Mark Philippoussis of Australia at Wimbledon three years ago. Ljubicic's 11-match winning streak in the Davis Cup helped Croatia defeat 13-year-old Slovakia for the title. Ljubicic ended last year ranked ninth after reaching finals in four of his last six events, winning two. He won the Chennai Open in India last month as the 2006 season began. Nadal, Carlos Moya and Juan Carlos Ferrero of Spain have won the French Open over the last eight years after another Spaniard, Sergi Bruguera, ended an 18-year winless Grand Slam spell among men for their country at the same tournament in 1993. Argentina has three players in the top 10. ``The writing's been on the wall,'' said Courier, 35, formerly No. 1 in the world with four Grand Slam titles. ``Tennis takes us all over the world. People aspire to be the players they see on TV, and that's where dreams come from.''Croatian Boom Croatia's interest in tennis boomed when Goran Ivanisevic beat Australia's Patrick Rafter in a five-set final at Wimbledon five years ago, said Micho Dushanovic, a former Croatian junior player who works as a tennis broadcaster for state-run HRTV. Interest in the Davis Cup victory among Croatia's 4.4 million citizens might have surpassed that for the national soccer team's third-place finish at the 1998 World Cup, he added. The country's success in tennis may continue with players such as 17-year-old Marin Cilic, the world's top-ranked junior. ``After soccer, tennis is for sure No. 2 in popularity,'' Dushanovic, 54, said in a telephone interview. ``It wasn't like that in the past.'' Tennis officials say the shift from big to small hasn't affected marketing. The Association of Tennis Professionals spends $5 million on marketing every year, said Richard Davies, chief executive of the commercial wing of the men's tour.``As a global sport, we can afford to have pockets of strength and relative evenness, without really affecting the total pie,'' Davies said in a telephone interview. ``Growth is never a bad thing.'' Sponsors In November, the ATP signed a three-year contract extension with Daimler-Chrysler's Mercedes Benz, the German-based No. 2 luxury automaker and a chief partner. ``Most of the revenue for the tour has always come out of Europe,'' Davies said. ``America has never really dominated.'' The U.S. still needs to produce successful men's players to maintain American interest in the game, said Michael Stirling, founder of London-based Global Sponsors, which provides advice to companies on sponsorship strategies. ``It's important because it attracts youth and the investment required to maintain standards,'' Stirling said in a telephone interview. ``If you have a long period where you don't have a star, it'll be even harder to find one.'' Roddick, 23, ended 2003 ranked first and has failed to reach the semifinals at five of eight Grand Slams since. The 35- year-old Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam champion, is the only other American in the top 15. He skipped the Australian Open with an ankle injury after losing to Federer in the U.S. Open final last September. The bright spots for the U.S. include James Blake, who rebounded from a broken neck to make the top 25, and Robby Ginepri, who reached the U.S. Open semifinals in New York. He lost in the second-round of the Australian Open to 177th-ranked Denis Gremelmayr. Donald Young, 16, is second to Cilic in the junior rankings.To contact the reporter on this story:Ravi Ubha in London at rubha@bloomberg.net .http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=10000085&sid=acmojJHJI6cY&refer=europe   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 25 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7755/1/E-LJUBICICS-TRIUMPH-DESPITE-LOSS.html  Ivan Ljubicic represented Croatian tennis in superlative fashion and should be exceptionally proud of his achievementIVAN LJUBICIC'S TRIUMPH DESPITE LOSSBy Jeff Lesser For the second straight year, Ivan Ljubicic, Croatia’s #1 player and the 7th ranked player in the world, fell in the Australian Open to unseeded Marcos Baghdatis of Cyprus. While this would normally sound like a severe upset and a certain Grand Slam choke-job by the 6’4’’ Croat, this was anything but the case. Instead of losing in the second round, as he did last year, Ljubicic was defeated this time three rounds laterâ€" in the quarterfinals. It was an extremely impressive showing for the Croatian that will only bolster his confidence and success in the coming year. Ljubicic broke through in the rankings during the latter portion of last year to become one of the top ten players in the world. This recent rise in rank left Ivan the highest-ranked player to have advanced past the third round in a Grand Slam in his entire career. In this year’s Australian Open, Ljubicic posted an extremely valiant effort, as he finally performed well in a major to reach the quarterfinals. In doing so, Ljubicic dispatched a formidable first round foe, hard-serving Australian Chris Guccione, in straight sets. In his first ever match in Rod Laver Arena, the main court at the Australian Open, he easily sent home Germany’s Philipp Kohlschreiber. The third round pitted Ivan against 31st-ranked Feliciano Lopez, and Ivan played another great match, again winning impressively in straight sets. At this point, he had already had the best Grand Slam showing of his career, reaching the fourth round.In the fourth round, Ljubicic played one of the greatest matches of his life, with a surprisingly-easy dismissal of the 10th-seeded 2002 champion, Sweden’s Thomas Johansson. Ivan had entered the quarterfinals of a major for the first time in his life and, in doing so, had not dropped a set. In the quarters, Ivan was set to face Marcos Baghdatis, who shockingly defeated second-seeded Andy Roddick in the fourth round. Baghdatis carried with him a versatile game, a large and vocal fan base, and enormous confidence.The quarterfinal match began well for Baghdatis, as he took the first two sets with little resistance from Ljubicic. However, Ivan fought tremendously, and took the next two sets on the strength of solid play and more aggressive groundstrokes. The dedicated Croatian fans had much to cheer about, as the atmosphere was more like a Davis Cup rubber than a Grand Slam match. It appeared that Ljubicic had the momentum, the experience, and the crowd support to pull out the fifth-set victory and reach the semifinals. However, Baghdatis’ relentless play wore on Ljubicic and youth prevailed over age, as the 20-year-old Cypriot defeated a man six years his senior and 47 ranking spots his superior. Baghdatis ultimately won the match, 6-4 6-2 4-6 3-6 6-3. Ivan Ljubicic battled and put forth a more-than-respectable effort in not only pushing Baghdatis to the fifth set, but in reaching the quarterfinals in the first place.Fans who see only the score will get an incorrect picture. They will see that the seventh seed lost to an unseeded player in the quarterfinals, getting outclassed in the fifth set. They will think that a player who has played fantastic tennis in the past half year simply choked in the quarterfinals of a major tournament. However, those familiar to Ivan Ljubicic and his past trials and tribulations know what a success story this is. Ivan Ljubicic finally broke through in a major. He put up such a valiant struggle in the quarterfinals that he almost pulled off a comeback from being down two-sets-to-none. Ivan Ljubicic built off of his Davis Cup recent ATP tournament success to put together the greatest Grand Slam showing of his career. This performance will only add to his confidence and game. Fans should expect only bigger and better things from Ivan, as he will use this quarterfinal appearance to achieve greater feats. With a successful Grand Slam under his belt, Ivan Ljubicic has solidified his position at the top of the tennis game. In reaching the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, Ivan Ljubicic represented Croatian tennis in superlative fashion and should be exceptionally proud of his achievement.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 24 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7749/1/E-US-Mens-Figure-Skating-Champ-Johnny-Weir-Skates-to-Croatian-Music.html  US Men's Figure Skating Champ Johnny Weir Skates to Croatian MusicJohnny Weir won the 2006 US Men's Figure Skating Championship in St. Louis, MO., this past Saturday, January 14, 2006. For his long-form, free skating program, Weir skated to the music of Croatian painist Maksim Mrvica (the songs used are "Amazonic", Hana's Eyes" and "Wonderland").Weir was the US 2004 and 2005 champion and is a top contender to win a medal at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 24 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7748/1/E-Blanka-Vlasic-of-Croatia-celebrates-her-victory-in-Moscow.html  Blanka Vlasic of Croatia celebrates her victory Blanka Vlasic of Croatia celebrates her victory in the High Jump event at the Russian Winter Indoor Athletics meeting in Moscow January 25, 2006. Vlasic won with 2.00 metres. REUTERS/Grigory Dukor Blanka Vlasic of Croatia competes in the High Jump event at the Russian Winter Indoor Athletics meeting in Moscow January 25, 2006. Vlasic won with 2.00 metres. REUTERS/Grigory Dukor  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 24 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7758/1/E-Gordan-Giricek-Playing-Ball-with-the-Jazz.html  Playing Ball with the JazzGordan Giricek talks about life in the NBAGordan Giricek, right, with Jazz assistant coach Scott Layden.By Frank Vinko MustacGordan Giricek, who plays shooting guard for the Utah Jazz of the National Basket­ball Association (NBA), was in Wash­ington, D.C., on January 9 to play the Washington Wizards.For the game, which Utah Jazz won 97-89. Giricek had 8 points, 1 rebound, 2 assists and 1 blocked shot. For the season, Giricek averages 10.6 points per contest.Before the game, the 6-foot 5-inch 210-pound 28-year-old Zagreb native spoke with the Croatian Chronicle about life as an NBA player, the phone call he received a while ago from NBA rookie Andrew Bogut and living so far from his daughter, family and friends back in Croatia.Giricek also had some choice words to say about the media as well as the many people back in his homeland who do not often speak kindly towards successful Croat­ians.Croatian Chronicle: What is life for you like in the NBA?Gordan Gircek: Pretty good. Everything is organized and the only thing you have to worry about is playing the games, everything else they do for you.CC: You probably did not have time to go back to Croatia for the Christmas holidays. How did you spend the holidays?GG: No, we didn't have time. The only time off we have is the All Star break in Feb­ruary and after the season. So I didn't have time to go home, but I spent Christmas at my friend's house in Salt Lake City. It was nice.CC: Did you have what could be considered a traditional Croatian Christmas meal?GG: Yeah, we had pork and francuska salata (French salad) and prsut (procuitto), eggs, and all the things you eat for Christ­mas.CC: Talk about the story that appeared in a Salt Lake City newspaper that Milwaukee Bucks rookie Andrew Bogut, who is Aus­tralian of Croatian descent, left you a message on your answering machine and that you didn't return his phone call. What happened?GG: They made a big deal of it. Even in the Croatian newspapers. Bogut probably got angry or something. I don't know. I really don't want to go into it, because it's ridiculous for me. I told my side of the story. I'm the only guy that knows what happened. He tried to leave a message in Croatian, and let's be honest, he didn't speak Croatian well at that time. I didn't understand any word, so I thought someone was messing with me. I listened to the message twice or three times and I erased it because I really couldn't understand any words he was saying. I erased the phone number also with the message. So basically I didn't call back the number. CC: The same newspaper article reported that you met Bogut at a restaurant in Salt Lake City after that.GG: No I didn't meet him after that. You know newspapers. They always add something to make a story. No, we didn't meet after that, only when we played against each other.CC: Talk about how you came from Zagreb to play in the NBA.GG: I started professionally when I was 16. I considered that professional because I started to practice twice a day for a professional club. Then I came to play for Cibona, the main club in Zagreb.Then at 24, I signed with CSKA in Mos­cow, Russia. Then the year after that, I went to the NBA, to the Memphis Grizzlies. And then they traded me to Orlando, then Orlando traded me to Utah.This is my second year, going on my third, playing for Utah. I like it. I would like to stay here. NBA Utah Jazz player Gordan Giricek, from Zagreb, after a team shoot around at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C., January 9. CC: How would you compare playing in Europe to playing in the NBA?GG: It's way harder. The guys you play against in the NBA are very tough, very competitive. Every night you have a hard job, especially playing defense against shoot­ing guards. You have to guard all these guys that score above 20 points a game. So it's very hard. We're also traveling a lot. Every other day we're in an airplane. But that's why the NBA teams make it very easy for us. They do everything for us, because they know it's a hard rhythm, so we need to rest and we need to concentrate on the games.I mean I like it. It's better than the Euro­pean leagues. The NBA is tougher, but it's better organized. At the end, it's safer money. It's guaranteed, so whatever you sign for, at the end of the season you end up getting. It's okay. It's good.CC: Were there any particular cultural challenges you faced or things that surprised you about the United States?GG: No. I'm a pretty easy-going guy. I can adapt. I can adjust to any culture. I don't have problems with that.But I know I won't be able to live here after my career that's for sure. The main reason is because it's so far away from Europe, and I still have my family and all my friends back in Croatia. After the season, all the Utah Jazz players go away from Salt Lake City. If I stay there, I have no one to hang out with. And I'm too old to make new friends right now outside of basketball. I have my old friends from my high school and my childhood, and all of them are in Croatia. Also, my parents and my daughter are back in Croatia. My heart is back in Croatia. I go back every summer.CC: What do you miss about Croatia?GG: I miss the country. I miss my friends and my family. I don't miss other people, to be honest with you. Definitely I'm going to have one other option in Europe to live somewhere.In our country, Croatia, they don't treat you too well. I don't say they have to admire me, but at least have respect, because they always try to find some bad things to say about you. CC: You mean the media?GG: Everybody. Generally people are very jealous. I know it's a very hard situation in Croatia economically, but when you have money, people usually assume you stole something from somebody, that you don't deserve that money. And it's just not a good atmosphere for me.I'm in the kind of position of someone who goes back for two months, and I start feeling that pressure. People are always asking for something, and if you don't want to do something then you're acting like a star. I would like to please everybody, but sometimes it's not possible. I have to have my own rhythm, my own life. People start talking, and then the rumors spread very fast. Then you end up being a bad guy, but you're not that kind of guy. So I have to have some other options. I'll probably move to Spain. That's my dream right now. So we're going to see. For me, life is not playing chess, making all the right moves.I'm going to try and fulfill a dream to live in two places, Croatia and Spain.CC: Do you hear the same kind of thing from other Croatian professional athletes?GG: I didn't hear, we didn't talk about it, but I think they have the same situation, the way I see it. I think all successful people are pushed away from living in Croatia, because people start talking badly to the newspapers. Every newspaper is a gossip newspaper. Successful people try to run away from it. They don't want to invest there. It's not good for us. That's what I think.The country is the greatest. I never saw a country with more qualities than Croatia, but something is always missing.What I can tell from socializing with people, Croatians don't appreciate ... I mean here, if you're a legend, you're always a legend. In Croatia, I'm not talking about myself, I'm talking about guys that did some good things in their careers. They make a few mis­takes, then they're considered the worst people. But what about the things they did before? I mean you have to respect something.Many Croatian people don't respect anything. They just try to pull you down. That's the only thing I don't like.CC: Growing up, who did you admire as a player?GG: Drazen Petrovic, definitely. He was the only guy who was put on the table for me at that time. When I was living in Zag­reb, he was playing for Cibona, so I had a chance to see him play. He was one of the best players for sure.He opened it up for all the European guys to come play in the NBA. He had, I think, the hardest time coming here, but he overcame all that. CC: How about some of the American players?GG: At that time, I think I admired Scottie Pippen and Grant Hill. CC: And now, who are some of the toughest NBA players to defend against for you?GG: All these guys can average 20 shots a game, because you know they're going to take their shots and it's very hard to guard them. You know there are two or three screens in a row are coming for you. You have to get ready every game for that job.Sometimes Allen Iverson plays the two-guard. Ray Allen, Tracy McGrady, Kobe Bryant, Richard Hamilton. I mean all these guys. So it's a pretty hard job for us to do, for me to do.CC: Is there a Croatian community in Salt Lake City?GG: There are lots of Bosnian people. Some Croatians and a little bit Serbs. I hang out with them all. They all helped me out. They helped me a lot when I came the first time there. I even found a Croatian restaurant, a Croatian guy from Bosnia from around the border between Croatia and Bosnia. His wife is Serbian. Everyday I'm there. It's close to my house. I like it.CC: Do you ever get calls from people in the Croatian community while you're on the road like in Chicago or New York?GG: Not really. You know what, I don't have time. Sometimes I don't have the will or I'm tired. I want to rest. Like I said, I want to please everybody, but sometimes you just can't. I hope no one will take that as a bad thing. Sometimes I just want to stay in my room and watch TV and rest, because I had a tough night, a tough game.CC: Do you have a family?GG: I'm divorced, but I have a daughter, Lara. She will be 2 years old in March. She's in Croatia. I can hardly wait to see her.Right now I'm seeing her over an Internet Web camera. Last night was the first time I saw her on the Web camera, so it was nice.CC: Anything else you would like to add?GG: In general everything is good. I like Salt Lake City. It's a great city, very clean. The only bad thing about Salt Lake City is it's far away. When I'm going back home to Croatia, it's pretty far. That's the only bad thing. Everything else for me is perfect. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 23 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7753/1/E-Tennis-rackets-flying-out-of-the-sports-stores-in-Croatia.html Croatia's Davis Cup triumph has tennis rackets "flying" out of the sports storesLjubicic willing to captain Croatia's Davis Cup team Jan. 18, 2006CBS SportsLine.com wire reports MELBOURNE, Australia -- Croatia's Davis Cup triumph has tennis rackets "flying" out of the sports stores, and increased the focus on who should get the job of leading the country's title defense. Ivan Ljubicic, who has agreed to be player-captain for the Feb. 10-12 match in Graz, Austria, says that 2001 Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic will meet Saturday with the Croatian Tennis Federation about the issue. "We wait for Goran's decision, what he wants to do," Ljubicic said Wednesday after advancing to the third round of the Australian Open with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 win over Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany. "So, we'll see what his ideas are about it. But, yeah, I am at the moment the playing captain." Radimir Cacic, the head of the federation, announced on Monday that Ljubicic, who helped Croatia win the Davis Cup for the first time last month, was stepping up after last year's leader Nikki Pilic and Ivanisevic refused the job. Ivanisevic said in December he would take over as captain, but when the Croatian federation asked Pilic to stay on as an adviser, Ivanisevic reportedly said he did not want to take over the team until Pilic was no longer part of it. "If Goran decided not to take the team over for the first round, I am ready to do it," Ljubicic said Wednesday, adding he had already taken some preparatory steps. "I called some people who I am interested in as being like assistants to me," he said. Mario Ancic, who teamed with Ljubicic to lead Croatia's victory over Slovakia in December's final, said he was unfazed by the issue. "I think the most important thing is to keep this team spirit - and I think we all have that - and a willingness to win," said Ancic, who also moved into the third round in Melbourne on Wednesday by beating Jan Hernych of the Czech Republic 6-1, 6-4, 6-4. Despite the uncertainty, both Ljubicic and Ancic are in no doubt about the effect the win has had in their homeland. "A lot of people are buying rackets and starting to play, like when Goran won Wimbledon and was top" said Ancic. Ljubicic agreed. "I have some friends who are owning shops and they say the rackets are flying (out), they are selling really good," said Ljubicic. "I hope it's going to have a good impact and I hope a lot of kids are going to start playing tennis." AP NEWShttp://www.sportsline.com/tennis/story/9172020 letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 23 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7756/1/E-Janica-Kostelic-of-Croatia-celebrates-another-victory-in-St-Moritz.html  Janica Kostelic of Croatia celebrates on the St Moritz's podium Janica Kostelic of Croatia celebrates on the podium following her victory in the women's Alpine Ski World Cup super-combined race that consists of one downhill and one slalom run in the Swiss resort of St Moritz January 22, 2006. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay Janica Kostelic of Croatia throws flowers into the crowd following her victory in the women's Alpine Ski World Cup super-combined race that consists of one downhill and one slalom run in the Swiss resort of St Moritz January 22, 2006. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay  Janica Kostelic of Croatia attaches her country's flag to the skis following her victory in the women's Alpine Ski World Cup super-combined race that consists of one downhill and one slalom run in the Swiss resort of St Moritz January 22, 2006. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 22 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7750/1/H-HRVATSKI-BOB-OSIGURAO-NASTUP-U-TORINU.html  ZOI 2006.: HRVATSKI BOB OSIGURAO NASTUP U TORINU!   22.01.2006 Hrvatski bob četvorosjed u sastavu Ivan Å ola, Dejan Vojnović, Slaven Krajačić i Jurica GrabuÅ¡ić izborio je plasman na Zimske olimpijske igre u Torinu.Na poznatoj bob stazi u Koening Feu naÅ¡ je bob osvojio četvrto mjesto u konkurenciji deset posada i time iskoristio posljednju prigodu za plasman na XX. OI, koje će se od 10. do 26. veljače održati u Torinu.To će, nakon Salt Lake Cityja, biti naÅ¡ drugi nastup na olimpijskim igrama i to viÅ¡e nije slučajno posebno kada se zna da je smanjen broj posada za čak sedam pa će u Torinu nastupiti 26 četverosjeda, a mi smo trenutačno po rezultatima 24 među njima, rekao Å ola napominjući da je među naÅ¡im guračima u jednoj vožnji četvorosjeda bio i Slovenac Matej Juhart, jer je Jurica GrabuÅ¡ić s vozačem Nikijem Drpićem pokuÅ¡ao izboriti plasman u Torinu i u dvosjedu, ali u tome, unatoč najboljim vremenima na treningu, nisu uspjeli zbog pogreÅ¡ke na bobu.Plasman u Torino ostao je san i za naÅ¡u žensku posadu u bobu dvosjedu Martinu MakoÅ¡, Anabelu Stragu i Ivanu Lažetu. No, realne izglede da se nađu među putnicima imaju naÅ¡i predstavnici u skeletonu, a za to mjesto danas poslije podne borit će se Nikola Nimac i Ivan Pokos, ali će samo jedan od njih otputovati u Torino.Sada viÅ¡e veslač Igor Boraska nije jedini hrvatski sportaÅ¡ koji je nastupio na zimskim i ljetnim olimpijskim igrama. Naime, i atletičari Dejan Vojnović i Slaven Krajačić, koji su nastupili na OI-ju u Sydneyu 2000., te Jurica GrabuÅ¡ić u Ateni 2004., imaju priliku nastupiti i na ZOI-ju u Torinu.Hina/HRTweb sport (il)  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 22 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7759/1/E-Seventh-seed-Ljubicic-beats-Lopez-in-Melbourne.html  Seventh seed Ljubicic beats Lopez in Melbourne  Ljubicic has been well-supported by Melbourne's expatriate Croatian community.  Fri Jan 20, 2006 12:40 PM GMT MELBOURNE, Jan 20 (Reuters) - Seventh seed Ivan Ljubicic extended his good start to the new year with a 7-5 7-6 6-0 victory over Spain's Feliciano Lopez in the Australian Open third round on Friday.Ljubicic, who beat Carlos Moya in the Chennai Open final before arriving in Australia, is unbeaten in seven competitive matches in 2006 and this victory moved him into the fourth round at Melbourne Park for the first time in seven appearances. The 26-year-old, in Croatia's Davis Cup-winning team in December, dominated against the left-handed 31st seed despite the close score in the first two sets.The match would have been closer to a rout had Ljubicic converted more than just five of the 17 break points he accumulated. Three of his five breaks came in the final set. Ljubicic will now meet 2002 Australian Open champion Thomas Johansson in what should be a raucous occasion. Johannson has been cheered by a large group of Swedish fans wearing traditional blue and yellow t-shirts and Viking helmets while Ljubicic has been well-supported by Melbourne's expatriate Croatian community. http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=tennisNews&storyID=URI:urn:newsml:reuters.com:20060120:MTFH07165_2006-0 1-20_12-40-41_SP10094:1    letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 20 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7754/1/E-15-Croatian-tennis-player-on-Australian-Open-2006.html  Mario Ancic Men's Singles Luka Belic Jr. Boy's Singles Ivo Karlovic Men's Singles Men's Doubles Ivan Ljubicic Men's Singles Nikola Mektic Jr. Boy's Singles Antonio Sancic Jr. Boy's Singles Sasa Tuksar Men's Qual Singles Antonio Veic Jr. Boy's Singles Ivana Abramovic Women's Qual Singles Jelena Kostanic Women's Singles Women's Doubles Ivana Lisjak Women's Qual Singles Tereza Mrdeza Jr. Girl's Singles Nika Ozegovic Women's Qual Singles Karolina Sprem Women's Singles Women's Doubles Silvija Talaja Women's Doubles Women's Qual Singles   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 20 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7764/1/E-If-interested-in-becoming-a-Fan-Reporter-sign-up-here.html  We Want YouIf you are interested in becoming a Fan Reporter forwww.allsports.com , you can sign up here.http://www.allsports.com/cgi-bin/storydb.cgi?action=signup Paerson wins downhill, Kostelic retains overall lead in World CupJanuary 13, 2006BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIM, Austria (Ticker) - Anja Paerson of Sweden won the second World Cup downhill race of her career, edging out Austrian Michaela Dorfmeister on Friday. The 24-year-old Paerson, who trails Croatia's Janica Kostelic in the overall World Cup standings, won with a time of 1 minute, 37.70 seconds, just 0.04 seconds quicker than Dorfmeister. After being quickest on the top section, Switzerland's Fraenzi Aufdenblatten finished third at 1 minute, 37.78 seconds and Kostelic was .01 seconds behind her for fourth. It was the fourth victory of the season and first downhill triumph for the Swede. Paerson won slalom events in Aspen, Colorado on December 11 and Splindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic 11 days later. She took home a giant slalom championship in Lienz, Austria on December 28. Kostelic, who has one win, four runner-ups and two third-place finishes, leads the overall standings with 782 points, 97 points ahead of Paerson, the reigning World Cup champion. Dorfmeister is in third place with 590 points. Marlies Schild of Austria, who won each of the last three events all slaloms - finished a disappointing 22nd and dropped to fourth in the overall standings with 519 points. Lindsey Kildow of the United States finished ninth at 1 hour, 38.59 seconds and moved into fifth overall with 507 points. Kildow excels in downhill, having won events in Lake Louise, Alberta and Val d'Isere, France in December. WHAT DO YOU THINK? Be the first to Post A Comment on this story.Recommend this story to a friendWe Want YouIf you are interested in becoming a Fan Reporter forwww.allsports.com , you can sign uphere.http://www.allsports.com/cgi-bin/storydb.cgi?action=signup http://www.allsports.com/cgi-bin/showstory.cgi?story_id=57453   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 15 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7763/1/E-Janica-Kostelic-of-Croatia-won-Downhill-race-in-Bad-Kleinkirchheim.html  Janica on the top again Janica Kostelic of Croatia celebrates after winning an Alpine Ski World Cup Women's Downhill, in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria, Saturday, Jan. 14, 2006.(AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta) Nike Bent of Sweden (L), Janica Kostelic of Croatia (C) and Michaela Dorfmeister of Austria celebrate on the podium after the women's Alpine Ski World Cup Downhill race in Bad Kleinkirchheim January 14, 2006. Kostelic won the race in a time of one minute 37.96 seconds ahead of Bent and Dorfmeister. REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 15 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7762/1/E-Croatian-Al-Miller-on-Indy-500.html  Croatian Al Miller on Indy 500 This photograph taken on Indiannapolis Motor Speedway in 1967 will  probably make every Croat's heart skip a beat, until they realize it can't be *that*. Well, can't it? This is car is Gerhardt-Ford entered by Walter 'Willy' Weir for Indy 500 in '67, sponsored by Cleaver-Brooks. The car was never a contender but Weir nevertheless invited Italian Grand Prix driver Lorenzo Bandini to drive it for him (as he explained it his reason was "These foreigners know how to drive these rear engine cars."). Unfortunately Bandini lost his life in Monaco Grand Prix six days before he was to qualify for the Indy race and his place was taken by Al Miller. He qualified 31st and last- his effort deprived Jim Hurtubise a place on the grid (that would have been the last appearance of a roadster at Indy 500). Nevertheless, he was in the good company in the last row on the grid- Austrian Jochen Rindt (Grand Prix World Champion in 1970) and Graham Hill (two times World Champion, in 1962 and 1968, winner of Le Mans in 1972 and Indy 500 in 1966) were there, with Sir Jackie Stewart (triple World Champion, in 1969, 1971 and 1973) only a row in front of them. Miller retired the car on 73rd lap of the race with an oil leak.Al Miller was born on 23 Nov 1921 in Detroit, Michigan, and died on 28 Jul 1978 in Mount Clemens, Michigan. His real name was Albert Krulock, although the family's old name was Krulac, before it was Americanized. He was definitely of Croatian origin (from the Spanico area), and that might explain the checkers of historic Croatian coat of arms on his car.The 'author' wishes to thank experts and enthusiasts at The Nostalgia Forum @ AtlasF1 Bulletin Board for supplying most of the information herein (I merely enqured them about this photo and instantly recieved most helpful information I presented here).http://www.indy500.com/photo/large.php?photo_id=13582&series_id=Array&o=hKindest regards,Tomislav PetricevicOvo je fotografija automobila Al Millera (pravim imenom Albert Krulock, sto je amerikanizirano iz Krulac), naseg porijekla koji je 1967 nastupio na 500 milja Indiannapolisa. Inace je taj auto trebao voziti (pretpostavljam da onda ne bi bio tako lijepo obojan) poznati talijanski vozac Lorenzo Bandini, koji je nazalost tragicno poginuo na Velikoj Nagradi Monaca nekoliko tjedana prije kvalifikacija za Indy.Naljljepsi pozdravi,Tomislav Petricevic http://www.indy500.com/photo/large.php?photo_id=13582&series_id=Array&o=h   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 15 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7761/1/E-Janica-Kostelic-of-Croatia-celebrates-historic-moment.html  Janica winning Super G, makes history Croatia's Janica Kostelic claimed her first World Cup super-G victory on Sunday to become the first woman with wins in six different disciplines on the skiing circuit.   Janica Kostelic of Croatia celebrates in the finish area after winning an Alpine Ski World Cup Women's super-g race, in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2006.(AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)   Janica Kostelic of Croatia competes in the women's Alpine Ski World Cup super-G race in Bad Kleinkirchheim January 15, 2006. Kostelic won the race in a time of one minute 9.41 seconds, ahead of Austria's team mates Michaela Dorfmeister and Alexandra Meissnitzer. REUTERS/Calle Toernstroem   Winner Janica Kostelic from Croatia, center, is flanked on the podium by the two second placed Austrians Michaela Dorfmeister, left, and Alexandra Meissnitzer, right, after the women's super-G skiing World Cup race in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria, on Sunday, Jan 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Gert Eggenberger)  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 15 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7760/1/E-Croatias-Janica-Kostelic-makes-history-with-World-Cup-super-G-win.html  Janica Kostelic makes history with World Cup super-G win  Kostelic bests Bent in women's downhill. Croatia's Janica Kostelic claimed her first World Cup super-G victory on Sunday to become the first woman with wins in six different disciplines on the skiing circuit. Kostelic conquered the course in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria, in one minute 9.41 seconds. She finished .10 seconds ahead of Austrians Michaela Dorfmeister and Alexandra Meissnitzer, this season's top two super-G racers who tied for second place. Allison Forsyth of Nanaimo, B.C., tied for 17th in a time of 1:10.46. Emily Brydon of Fernie, B.C., was 25th. Kostelic' previous best result in the super-G was in 2002 when she won Olympic silver and was second in Aspen. "It's funny. I feel like laughing, like crying – it was my goal," said Kostelic, one of the favourites for the upcoming Torino Games. "It's the dream of all skiers to win every discipline." It's been an amazing three-week period for the 24-year-old, who won three gold medals at both the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics and last year's world championships. Kostelic won her first World Cup downhill race on Saturday and her first giant slalom on the tour three weeks ago. She now has 24 World Cup victories, including wins in all five main disciplines: the giant slalom, downhill, slalom, super-G and combined. Only two other have accomplished that feat: Sweden's Pernilla Wiberg and Austria's Petra Kronberger.Unlike Wiberg and Kronberger, however, Kostelic also has a victory in the new super-combi race. She won the first-ever race in the new discipline last February in San Sicario, Italy. With her victory on Sunday, Kostelic tops this season's overall standings with 982 points. Dorfmeister is in second with 730. Sweden's Anja Paerson is third at 685. Despite her brilliant form as of late, Kostelic isn't taking gold-medal success in Turin for granted. "It's hard to say. I'm in good form now, but I want to concentrate on the World Cup," Kostelic said. "We'll see at the Olympics." http://www.cbc.ca/olympics/sports/alpineskiing/stories/index.shtml?/story/olympics/national/2006/01/15/Sports/superg_kostelic.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 15 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7765/1/E-Croatia-eyes-another-rising-soccer-star.html  Croatia eyes another rising soccer star14:09 2006-01-11Croatia's soccer federation has its eye on another Australian-born player of Croatian descent. Croatian soccer chief Vlatko Markovic is interested in 17-year-old Mathew Spiranovic for the World Cup-bound Croatian national squad, according to the leading sports daily Sportske Novosti. Spiranovic, who was recently accepted into Australian Institute of Sport development program, is described as a robust striker with exceptional dexterity on and off the ball. The interest in Spiranovic is expected to rekindle tensions between Croatia and Australia, who have been drawn together in Group F of this year's World Cup in Germany. Also in the group are Japan and five-time champion Brazil. Croatia and Australia have already clashed over loyalties. The Croatian team presently has three players - Joey Didulica, Anthony Seric and Joe Simunic - who opted to represent the country of their origin rather than the country of their birth. On the other hand, Australia has eight players of Croatian heritage in its squad, including captain Mark Viduka and midfielder Josip Skoko, who have had spells with Croatia's leading clubs. Australia, a multicultural haven for millions of immigrants, made it to the World Cup after a 32-year hiatus and is eager to stem the flow of its homegrown talent offshore, the AP reports. V.Y. http://newsfromrussia.com/sport/2006/01/11/71004.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 11 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7768/1/EH-Janica-Kostelic-leads-the-World-Cup-2005-2006.html JANICA KOSTELIĆ DRUGA U MARIBORU JANICA KOSTELIĆ LEADING THE WORLD CUP Unplanned day off gives Kostelic recovery time SUNDAY, JANUARY 8, 2006 MARIBOR, Slovenia Janica Kostelic got an extra day to nurse her swollen right hand before she resumed her quest to beat Sweden's Anja Paerson for the overall World Cup title. A giant slalom race in Maribor, Slovenia, had been canceled on Saturday because warm weather created dangerously soft conditions, but organizers were able to fix the course in time for a Sunday slalom. Paerson, the defending overall World Cup champion and a seven-time winner at Maribor, skied out in her first run on Sunday. That mistake could allow Kostelic to extend her lead at the top of the overall standings. After the first run, the Austrian Kathrin Zettel was leading. Zettel posted a time of 51.89 seconds, with her compatriot Marlies Schild half a second behind and Annemarie Gerg of Germany in third place. Zettel has emerged this season with some strong performances, including a second place in the slalom in Zagreb, Croatia, on Thursday and three other podium finishes. Kostelic injured her hand in that slalom on Thursday. "It's O.K., I can ski with this hand," Kostelic said Saturday. "My hand is pretty good - better than yesterday. I can hold the pole now." Her hand is still being rubbed with salves to reduce swelling after the injury in Zagreb. There, Kostelic thrilled her home crowd of 25,000 by finishing third despite losing her pole and glove at the start of her second run. She could barely move her fingers after slapping the gates with her bare hand all the way down. Kostelic is already looking ahead to the Winter Olympics, starting Feb. 10 in Turin, but the Croat was not predicting a repeat of the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, where she claimed three golds. "My goal this time is one gold medal," Kostelic said. Kostelic has 652 points in the overall standings, compared with Paerson's 585. The Swede won the season honors last year, edging her rival by three points. In the giant slalom standings, Paerson has a 285 to 270 lead over Kostelic with three races left before the Olympics. Rain over the past few days, along with rising temperatures, led to the softening of the snow on Saturday. Many racers agreed the conditions were too risky. More than 2,000 fans had turned out at the Pohorje course, hoping to see the local favorite, Tina Maze, repeat her victory from last season in the giant slalom. But most skiers approved of the decision not to run the race. One of the skiers supporting that decision was Lindsey Kildow, the American who leads the downhill standings. She posted a career-best ninth in the giant slalom last year in Maribor. "I was really looking forward to the race, because I know I can do well on this hill," Kildow said. "But I really wouldn't want to compromise my health by racing in conditions like today." Organizers said the giant slalom may be rescheduled at another World Cup event. Among other methods, in order to harden the snow for the race on Sunday the organizers watered the slope so it would freeze. Kostelic, meanwhile, was upbeat about her injury. "I think nothing's broken," she told state-run Croatian Radio. "It'll be O.K., I think." "If I won't be able to hold the pole, they should tie it to my hand," she jokingly added. She said, however, that the injury was "so painful I thought I wouldn't be able to do it." "But I had to do it this year because of the crowd," she added. Kostelic did not finish her home event last year after missing a gate. http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/01/08/sports/women.php 08.01.2006           Janica Kostelić osvojila je drugo mjesto na petom slalomu sezone Svjetskog kupa u Mariboru, čime je sačuvala svoje vodstvo u ukupnom poretku Svjetskog kupa i u slalomu.   Nakon Sljemena, Austrijanka Marlies Schild je slavila i u Mariboru s vremenom 1:48,34 minute, a Janica je na drugom mjestu zaostala 57 stotinki. Kostelić je i u petoj slalomskoj utrci sezone zaredom doÅ¡la do pobjedničkog postolja, a na stazi na Pohorju, koju prema vlastitom priznanju ne voli, u posljednje je tri nastupa svaki puta bila druga.   U prvoj vožnji Janica je bila osma, ali je zato imala najbolje vrijeme druge vožnje, dijelom i zbog tehnički vrlo zahtjevne staze koju je postavio njezin otac Ante Kostelić.   Nakon pet slalomskih utrka vode Kostelić i Schild s po 360 bodova, a u ukupnom poretku hrvatska Snježna kraljica uvjerljivo vodi sa 732 boda, odnosno 147 viÅ¡e od drugoplasirane Å veđanke Anje Paersson, koja je odustala u prvoj vožnji.   Nika Fleiss je sa zaostatkom od 2,59 sekundi osvojila 11. mjesto, Å¡to joj je najbolji rezultat u Mariboru, a Ana JeluÅ¡ić je bila 19. s 5,50 sekundi sporijim vremenom od Schild.   Treće mjesto u Mariboru osvojila je Å veđanka Therese Borssen, a Matea Ferk je u prvoj vožnji bila 56.   Rezultati:   1. Marlies Schild (Aut) 52,19 / 56,15 / 1:48,34   2. Janica Kostelić (Hrv) 53,05 / 55,86 / 1:48,91   3. Therese Borssen (Å ve) 52,89 / 56,14 / 1:49,03   4. Kristina Koznick (SAD) 52,91 / 56,61 / 1:49,52   5. Nicole Hosp (Aut) 52,74 / 56,92 / 1:49,66   6. Martina Ertl-Renz (Njem) 53,53 / 56,56 / 1:50,09   7. Laure Pequegnot (Fra) 53,40 / 56,81 / 1:50,21   8. Maria Pietilae-Holmner (Å ve) 53,80 / 56,72 / 1:50,52   9. Lindsey Kildow (SAD) 53,84 / 56,92 / 1:50,76   10. Michaela Kirchgasser (Aut) 54,41 / 56,38 / 1:50,79   11. Nika Fleiss (Hrv) 53,76 / 57,17 / 1:50,93   19. Ana JeluÅ¡ić (Hrv) 54,90 / 58,94 / 1:53,84   Ukupni poredak Svjetskog kupa nakon 15 utrka:   1. Janica Kostelić (HRV) 732   2. Anja Pärson (Å VE) 585   3. Michaela Dorfmeister (AUT) 510   . Marlies Schild (AUT) 510   5. Lindsey C. Kildow (SAD) 478   6. Kathrin Zettel (AUT) 470   7. Alexandra Meissnitzer (AUT) 427   8. Nicole Hosp (AUT) 382   9. Andrea Fischbacher (AUT) 273   10. Julia Mancuso (SAD) 259   33. NIKA FLEISS (HRV) 114   48. ANA JELUÅ IĆ (HRV) 58   Poredak u slalomu nakon pet utrka:   1. Janica Kostelić (HRV) 360   Marlies Schild (AUT) 360   3. Nicole Hosp (AUT) 247   4. Anja Pärson (Å VE) 245   5. Kathrin Zettel (AUT) 230   6. Kristina Koznick (SAD) 180   7. Laure Pequegnot (FRA) 155   8. Tanja Poutiainen (FIN) 149   9. Therese Borssen (Å VE) 138   10. Annemarie Gerg (NJEM) 119   13. Nika Fleiss (HRV) 89   22. Ana JeluÅ¡ić (HRV) 58   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 08 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7766/1/EH-IVAN-LJUBICIC-WINS-IN-CHENNAI.html  LJUBICIC WINS IN CHENNAI  Ivan Ljubicic claimed victory in Sunday's final at the Chennai Open. Ljubicic, the top seed from Croatia, proved too strong for Carlos Moya, the former world number one from Spain.Ljubicic was made to work for the first set, edging the third seed 8-6 in a tie-break.However, the second set was somewhat easier with Ljubicic taking it 6-2 to wrap up victory.Ljubicic comes into 2006 off his best ever year when he helped Croatia win the Davis Cup.   TENIS: IVAN LJUBICIC POBJEDNIK ATP TURNIRA U CHENNAIJU! 08.01.2006             Najbolji hrvatski tenisač Ivan Ljubičić osvojio je svoj četvrti ATP turnir u profesionalnoj karijeri. Nakon Lyona 2001. godine te Metza i Beča proÅ¡le godine, Ivan Ljubičić slavio je i na otvaranju ATP sezone u indijskome Chennaiju, u kojem je bio postavljen za prvog nositelja.   Za svoj četvrti naslov u karijeri Ljubičić je morao danas odigrati dva vrlo teÅ¡ka meča. Najprije je zavrÅ¡io jučer prekinuti polufinalni dvoboj protiv Belgijanca Kristofa Vliegena, u kojemu je slavio sa 6:3, 3:6 i 7:6 (6), a zatim je za nekoliko sati slijedio i težak finale protiv iskusnog Å panjolca Carlosa Moye.     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 08 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7769/1/E-Stipe-Drews-Light-Heavyweight-European-Champion.html  Stipe Drews, 32, of CroatiaLight Heavyweight European Champion Stipe Drews, 32, of Croatia poses after his victory against Antonio Brancalion of Italy during their Light Heavyweight European Championship fight in Munich January 7, 2006. Drews won the fight by points. REUTERS/Michaela Rehle   Light Heavyweight Stipe Drews, 32, of Croatia celebrates his victory against Antonio Brancalion of Italy during their Light Heavyweight European Championship fight in Munich January 7, 2006. Drews won. Light Heavyweight Stipe Drews (L) 32, of Croatia and his competitor Antonio Brancalion, 29, of Italy pose during the official weigh-in in a Munich hotel January 6, 2006. Drews and Brancalion will fight for a Light Heavyweight European Championship title on Saturday in Munich. REUTERS/Michaela Rehle Email Photo Print Photo. Stipe Drews (L), 32, of Croatia lands a punch against Antonio Brancalion, 29, of Italy during their Light Heavyweight European Championship fight in Munich January 7, 2006. Drews won the fight by points. REUTERS/Michaela Rehle Reuters - Jan 07 2006   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 07 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7771/1/E-Oregon-States-Sasa-Cuic-15-from-Croatia-dunk-against-California.html  Oregon State's Sasa Cuic (15) from Croatia  Oregon State's Sasa Cuic (15) from Croatia, and teammate Marcel Jones react after Cuic's dunk against California late in the second half of an NCAA basketball game, Saturday, Jan. 7, 2006 in Berkeley, Calif. Oregon State won 72-64. (AP Photo/Dino Vournas)   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 06 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7772/1/E-Kostelic-Captivates-Croatia-With-a-Slalom-Run-for-the-Ages.html  Kostelic Captivates Croatia With a Slalom Run for the Ages By NATHANIEL VINTONPublished: January 6, 2006ZAGREB, Croatia, Jan. 5 - Janica Kostelic lost a ski pole while pushing out of the starting gate but still managed to finish third in a World Cup slalom race in her homeland on Thursday. Kostelic was the main draw for the 25,000 fans who braved the cold at Sljeme, a small ski area just north of Zagreb, the capital. Thousands more watched on a wall of televisions in the city's main square."Janica Kostelic is very important to us here," said Milan Bandic, the mayor of Zagreb, a city of about 800,000. "We are a small people, but we have a winner's mentality."Marlies Schild of Austria won the two-run race in 1 minute 53.63 seconds, with her countrywoman Kathrin Zettel 0.44 seconds behind. Kostelic finished 1.45 seconds off the pace and clutched her hand in pain after losing her pole at the top of the second run. "I wanted to quit because it was hurting so much," said Kostelic, who dragged her bare right hand in the snow on half the turns, and knocked the gates out of the way with it on the others. "But at the end of the flat part I realized I only had 20 more gates, and I thought it would be best to finish for my fans."Ski poles are essential to skiers for balance, but racers often ski without them as a training drill.The race was held on Kostelic's 24th birthday, at the slope where she learned to ski. The second run was held at night, under floodlights, to maximize the ratings of the live television broadcast.Kostelic became a national hero by winning four medals at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City: gold in combined, downhill and slalom, and silver in super-G. Croatia has passionately embraced the sport of Alpine ski racing ever since. Growing up, Kostelic and her brother, Ivica, were the ultimate outsiders, sleeping in their car at races to save money and being coached by their father, Ante. In Croatia, which has a population of 4.5 million, the Kostelic family story is sometimes called the miracle. On Thursday, athletes, coaches, journalists and ski technicians were transported to the mountain in a lengthy police convoy, which left a downtown hotel at 12:15 p.m. and arrived at the top of the mountain 40 minutes later. The athletes found thousands of fans lining the length of the race hill, clutching road flares that they did not light until Kostelic came down. With a budget of $3.59 million and the biggest purse of the season, the Zagreb race may be the most enthusiastically organized event of the women's World Cup. Last year the same mountain was the site of Croatia's first World Cup race. Kostelic's fans were disappointed when she failed to finish that event, but they showed more patience than they had in 2003, when they threw snowballs at Anja Paerson of Sweden while she descended the course.On Thursday, Kostelic lost her right pole at the starting gate, and the pole's retention strap pulled her mitten off with it. Fans groaned, then went wild when Kostelic registered faster times at each of the timing splits. "She is No. 1 in our eyes because of her will," said Goran Kratofil, who for 20 years has been the proprietor of the Golden Bear restaurant at the top of the Sljeme slope. "When she gets hurt, she wants to recover so badly, and she always does."The top Americans in the race were Kristina Koznick in seventh place and Resi Stiegler in 10th. They have probably clinched positions in the slalom for the Olympics in February in Turin, Italy, although the United States team will not be named until Jan. 25.http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/06/sports/othersports/06ski.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 05 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7770/1/E-Sljeme-Croatia-2006-World-Cup-at-night.html  Sljeme 2006 World Cup at night, Croatia                photo Igor Kralj  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 05 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7775/1/E-Janica-Kostelic-regained-the-World-Cup-overall-lead.html  Schild Wins Slalom, Kostelic Regains Lead Thursday, December 29, 2005Marlies Schild led a 1-2 Austrian finish in a slalom race, and Janica Kostelic was third Thursday to regain the World Cup overall lead.Schild covered the Schlossberg marathon course in a two-run time of 1 minute, 57.92 seconds, a whopping 1.02 seconds ahead of teammate Nicole Hosp. Kostelic was timed in 1:59.65."I was really surprised to win with such a large margin," Schild said after posting the fastest times in both runs and getting her fifth career World Cup victory. "I didn't feel so good on the course and it was tough work."American Kristina Koznick finished fourth in 1:59.81. Lindsey Kildow led the rest of the Americans with a finish of eighth. Sarah Schleper tied for 13th, Julia Mancuso was 15th, Lauren Ross 23rd and Resi Stiegler 26th.Triple Olympic champion Kostelic of Croatia, who said she woke up feeling weak and ill, took both the overall and slalom points leads from Anja Paerson of Sweden.Paerson, who won Wednesday's giant slalom, slid out on the fall-away in the opening leg. It was the first time in almost a year that she has failed to qualify for the second run of a World Cup slalom.Paerson also broke one of her best skis, with which she won the season's first two slalom races, in Aspen, Colo., and Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic.Kostelic leads the overall with 592 points. Paerson dropped to second with 540.Paerson, who defeated Kostelic for last season's overall title by three points, was not upset by her losses in the standings."My goal is the Olympics this year," she said. "I'm not chasing points for the World Cup title, so I am risking everything, trying to go for it all the time, to win races so I can do it in Turin."Kostelic also tops the slalom table with 220 points. Paerson is second with 200 and Schild third with 160.It was the first time Austrian women have taken the top two spots in a slalom on home snow and the team's third victory of the season."When you see the Austrians leading at home it kind of hurts," Paerson told The Associated Press. "I'm going to come back in Zagreb and push for it."The women next race Jan. 5 in Zagreb, Croatia.Austrian Kathrin Zettel was fifth.Defending slalom champion Tanja Poutiainen was sixth. The Finn, also the defending giant slalom champion, has struggled in both events this season, with no finishes better than sixth after she dominated the slalom and won the title last season by late January.Michaela Kirchgasser of Austria tore ligaments in her left ankle after crashing on the final pitch in the first run. The team said her ankle was already vulnerable after a training crash in New Zealand in August.http://www.baynews9.com/content/40/2005/12/29/136421.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7773/1/E-Prosinecki-aiming-to-save-Croatia-regional-Savski-Marof.html  Prosinecki: 'I have decided to try and help Savski Marof because it is a club that my late father loved'.  Croatia great returns - for loveFrom correspondents in Zagreb19dec05FORMER Croatia footballing great Robert Prosinecki has ended his two-year retirement to help save a team his late father loved from relegation. Prosinecki, 37 next month, is aiming to save Croatia regional side Savski Marof from relegation and does not want to be paid for it. 'I have decided to try and help Savski Marof because it is a club that my late father loved,' he said. 'It always gives me pleasure to play when my body allows me to,' added Prosinecki, who was a member of the Yugoslavia side that reached the second round of the 1990 World Cup finals and the Croatia team which finished third in 1998. Prosinecki retired in 2003 after a distinguished career which saw him number among his clubs Red Star Belgrade (with which he won the 1991 European Cup), Real Madrid and Barcelona. http://www.theadvertiser.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,17608940%255E23215,00.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7767/1/E-July-2006-in-Zadar-Croatian-World-Games.html  July 2006 in Zadar: Croatian World Games Are you a Croatian aficionado? Have you ever wanted to meet Croatians from all over the world at one place? Are you fond of sports enthusiasts?Spread the word - the first Croatian World Games are awaiting you from July 15 - July 22, 2006 in Zadar, Croatia!People from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Argentina, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland and other countries have started to apply and will be competing in 15 disciplines, such as Athletics, Swimming, Tennis, Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Soccer etc. Imagine the Olympics, but with only Croatians and people of Croatian descent competing...The goal of this event is to bring Croatians from Croatia and Croatians from the Diaspora closer to each other. Don't worry if you are not a pro in any of this disciplines - join the crowd and compete for your own fun and pleasure. If you feel you are a pro, go and prove it to the world - you might be discovered as a sports talent and accepted into one of the Croatian national teams!For only EUR 285.-- you get to lodge seven days with half-pension in a bungalow in the popular tourist district of Zaton, participate in the athletic part of the Games, enjoy free entrance at all Games sites and entertainment program, use the recreation facilities in the sports village, take advantage of the provided transportation within the sports village, as well as access the IT center unlimitedly.Visit www.zadar2006.com and find out more about this first global Croatian sports event.Sign up today and be part of this unique Croatian gathering. If you are tied up with other plans during Summer 2006, send this email to all your friends, relatives and acquaintances... give everybody you know a chance of participating in a truly energetic event!  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7774/1/H-Hrvatski-Sport-u-2005.html  SIJEČANJ Početak nove godine obilježio je Niko Kranjčar, koji je napustio Dinamo i na veliko razočaranje brojnih navijača Dinama, skrasio se u njegovu najvećem konkurentu - splitskom Hajduku. Ivan Ljubičić je najavio izvrsnu sezonu plasmanom u finale ATP turnira u Dohi, gdje ga je zaustavio Federer. Janica Kostelić je u borbi za Veliki kristalni globus osvojila druga mjesta na spustu u Cortini d'Ampezzo i slalomu u Mariboru, ali nije uspjela slaviti na prvome sljemenskom slalomu, gdje je najbolja bila Poutiainen. TENIS, ATP U DOHI:Roger Federer pobijedio Ivana Ljubičića u finaluOLIMPIJSKE IGRE GLUHIH:Zlato hrvatskih rukometaÅ¡a SKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:Janica 2. u spustu u Cortini d'Ampezzo,Ivica 2. u slalomu u Wengenu;Janica i Ivica na postolju u istome danuAUTOMOBILIZAM, DAKARSKI RELI:Peterhansel obranio naslov, Martinčević i Frčko 72.SKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:Poutiainen pobjednica prvoga sljemenskog slaloma; Fleiss 8., JeluÅ¡ić 9., Janica odustala u prvoj vožnjiNOGOMET:Niko Kranjčar potpisao za Hajduk!HOKEJ NA LEDU:MedveÅ¡čak zaustavljen u polufinalu InterligeSTOLNI TENIS, ITTF PRO TOUR:Samsonov pobjednik CROP-a, BoroÅ¡ ispala u polufinalupovratak na vrhVELJAČANakon vrlo dobrih nastupa u većem dijelu Svjetskoga prvenstva u Tunisu, hrvatski su rukometaÅ¡i doživjeli težak poraz u finalu od Å panjolske te tako nisu uspjeli obraniti naslov iz Portugala. Za veliko slavlje u Hrvatskoj pobrinula se Janica Kostelić, koja je osvojila tri zlata na Svjetskome prvenstvu u skijanju u Italiji, a vrlo dobrim nastupima u San Sicariju nastavila je i borbu za Veliki kristalni globus. Ivan Ljubičić nastavio je izvrsno igrati, ali je zaustavljen u finalima u Marseilleu, Rotterdamu i Dubaiju. RUKOMET, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO: Težak poraz u finalu od Å panjolskeKARATE, JUNIORSKO EP:Zlato, dva srebra i bronca za hrvatske reprezentativceSKIJANJE, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO: Tri zlata za Janicu KostelićTENIS, ATP:Ljubičić u finalu Marseillea,Rotterdama i Dubaija, a Ančić u finalu ScottsdaleaATLETIKA:Blanka VlaÅ¡ić operirala Å¡titnjačuKOÅ ARKA:Å ibenik Jolly JBS pobjednik Trocal lige, aZadar pobjednik Kupa KreÅ¡imira ĆosićaSKIJANJE, JUNIORSKO SP:Ana JeluÅ¡ić osvojila broncu u slalomuSKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:Janica Kostelić osvojila kombinaciju te drugo mjesto u spustu u San SicarijuGIMNASTIKA, SVJETSKI KUP:Seligman 3. na konju s hvataljkama u New Yorkupovratak na vrhOŽUJAKNakon izvrsnih nastupa na ATP turnirima, hrvatski su tenisači priredili najveće iznenađenje u 1. kolu Svjetske skupine Davis Cupa. Nakrilima Ivana Ljubičića Hrvatska je s 3:2 slavila u gostima kod SAD-a. Nažalost, Janica Kostelić nije uspjela osvojiti Veliki kristalni globus, koji joj je izmaknuo za samo devet stotinki. Dinamo je priredio neugodno iznenađenje svojim navijačima ne plasiravÅ¡i se u Ligu za prvaka Prve HNL Ožujsko, ali zato hrvatska nogometna reprezentacija nije razočarala u kvalifikacijama za SP. TENIS, DAVIS CUP:Hrvatska slavila u SAD-uSKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:Janica Kostelić druga u ukupnom poretku za Veliki kristalni globusSKIJANJE, OTVORENO PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE:Janica i Ivica Kostelić slavili u superveleslalomu islalomu, aJanica Kostelić i Natko Zrnčić Dim u veleslalomu NOGOMET, 1. HNL OŽUJSKO:Slaven Belupo izbacio Dinamo iz Lige za prvakaKOÅ ARKA:Gospić Industrogradnja osvojila Kup Ružice Meglaj RimacTAJLANDSKI BOKS, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Muslić osvojio broncuNOGOMET, KVALIFIKACIJE ZA SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvatska slavila protiv Islanda i MalteSTOLNI TENIS, EKIPNO EP: Hrvatska ženska reprezentacija obranila srebroKOÅ ARKA: Cibona zavrÅ¡ila natjecanje u Euroligi porazom u posljednjem kolupovratak na vrhTRAVANJU prvim zavrÅ¡nicama prvenstava i kupova uglavnom su potvrđene tradicionalne vrijednosti. Rukometni kup osvojio je Zagreb, Prvenstvo odbojkaÅ¡ice Mladosti, a rukometaÅ¡ice Lokomotive pobrinule su se za iznenađenje osvojivÅ¡i domaći kup. Stolnotenisačica Tamara BoroÅ¡ je u paru s Rumunjkom Steff osvojila europsko zlato, a tomu je dodala i broncu u pojedinačnoj konkurenciji. Europsku je broncu osvojio i Zoran Primorac. Pehistica je ponovno bila Janica Kostelić, kojoj je napuknuo miÅ¡ić. STOLNI TENIS, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO: Zlato BoroÅ¡ i Steff u paru, bronce BoroÅ¡ i Primorca u singluKOÅ ARKA, FIBA KUP:Croatia četvrta na napuljskom Final FouruSKIJANJE:Janici Kostelić napuknuo miÅ¡ićODBOJKA:Andrej Urnaut izbornik hrvatske muÅ¡ke reprezentacijeTAEKWONDO, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Sandra Å arić osvojila broncu HRVANJE, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Neven Žugaj osvojio brončanu medalju RUKOMET, KUP HRVATSKE: Zagrebu 12. naslov u Kupu;Lokomotiva osvojila Kup nakon 12 godinaTENIS, FED CUP:Tajland - Hrvatska 2:3 ODBOJKA, PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE: Varaždincima drugi naslov zaredom;MladostaÅ¡ice i treći put u finalu bolje od Azenepovratak na vrhSVIBANJHajduk je u Splitu obranio naslov prvaka države, no u finalu Kupa uspjeÅ¡niji su bili Riječani, kojima je to bio prvi trofej nakon 26 godina. RukometaÅ¡i Zagreba rutinski su osvojili 14. naslov, a porazom u finalu zavrÅ¡ili su pustolovinu u europskom Kupu kupova. Na korak do najviÅ¡eg postolja u Kupu kupova zaustavljena je i Podravka. Vaterpolisti Juga također su ponovili proÅ¡logodiÅ¡nji uspjeh, obranivÅ¡i naslov prvaka države, a Miroslav Blažević napokon je ostvario san - postao je trener Hajduka.RUKOMET, KUP KUPOVA:Zagreb i Podravka zaustavljeni u finaluNOGOMET, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO (U-17):Hrvatska četvrta u Europi, no bez SP-aKARATE, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Tri medalje za Hrvatsku, Naranđa na najviÅ¡em postoljuVATERPOLO: Jug CO obranio naslov prvaka države iosvojio četvrto mjesto u EuroligiTENIS, ZAGREB OPEN:Ljubičić bez izgubljena seta do naslovaNOGOMET:Hajduk obranio naslov, a Rijeka slavila u kupu i osvojila trofej nakon 26 godinaRUKOMET, PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE:Zagreb i 14. put zaredom prvak državeKOÅ ARKA, PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE: Croatia prvak NOGOMET:Miroslav Blažević novi trener HajdukaKAJAK NA DIVLJIM VODAMA, SVJETSKI KUP:Hohnjecu ukupno srebro, Gojiću broncapovratak na vrhLIPANJSjajan mjesec tenisača - prva ATP titula u karijeri Marija Ančića u Hertogenboschu i juniorski naslov u Roland Garrosu za Marina Čilića. Možda i najbolja igra nogometaÅ¡a Zlatka Kranjčara u kvalifikacijskom ciklusu u Sofiji donijela je pobjedu od 1:3 protiv Bugarske, a u prvim danima lipnja Podravka je nastavila uspjeÅ¡an niz iz svibnja osvajanjem prvenstva. Najveći uspjeh u povijesti hrvatske gimnastike ostvario je Osječanin Robert Seligman. Bronca mu je u Debrecenu izmaknula za 0,63 boda.RUKOMET, PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE: Podravka  osvojila 12. naslov prvakinjaBOKS:Stjepan Božić postao svjetski prvak,Stipe DrviÅ¡ WBO interkontinentalni prvak, a Biliću svjetski juniorski naslovKUGLANJE, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Zlato i tri bronce za Hrvatsku NOGOMET, KVALIFIKACIJE ZA SP: Sjajna igra i trijumf Hrvatske u SofijiGIMNASTIKA, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Seligman četvrtim mjestom ostvario najveći uspjeh hrvatske gimnastikeTENIS:Marinu Čiliću juniorski Roland Garros,Mario Ančić osvojio prvi ATP naslov u karijeri, aIvo Karlović poražen u finalu Queen's ClubaSKIJANJE:Janici operirano desno koljenoODBOJKA:Rade Malević ponovno izbornikATLETIKA: Blanka odgodila povratak na skakaliÅ¡taKOÅ ARKA, PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE:Nakon Kupa, Zadrani osvojili i prvenstvopovratak na vrhSRPANJNa Svjetskome prvenstvu u vodenim sportovima u Montrealu, Hrvatska je prvi put imala predstavnike u svim sportovima: plivanju, vaterpolu, skokovima u vodu te sinkroniziranom i daljinskom plivanju. Do medalje je doÅ¡ao samo sprinter Duje Draganja, koji je osvojio srebro na 50 m slobodno. Na Mediteranskim igrama u Almeriji Hrvatski su sportaÅ¡i osvojili 26 odličja - pet zlatnih, deset srebrnih i jedanaest brončanih odličja, a naÅ¡ najuspjeÅ¡niji sportaÅ¡ bio je kajakaÅ¡ Stjepan Janić, koji je osvojio dva zlatna odličja.MEDITERANSKE IGRE:Hrvatski sportaÅ¡i osvojili 26 medaljaVESLANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:SiniÅ¡a i NikÅ¡a Skelin pobjednici Svjetskoga kupaTENIS, FED CUP:Njemačka preko Hrvatske doÅ¡la do skupine 1NOGOMET, SUPERKUP:Hajduk obranio naslovATLETIKA, JUNIORSKO SP I EP:Rekord i srebro za Danijelu Grgić;Grgić i Vincek europski prvaci na 400 m,Koturu zlato na 400 prepone, a SrÅ¡i srebro u kladivuTENIS, DAVIS CUP:Hrvati u četvrtfinalu bolji od RumunjaKAJAK/KANU, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Stjepanu Janiću bronca na mirnim vodama;tri medalje za hrvatske divljevodaÅ¡e u spustuVODENI SPORTOVI, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Duje Draganja srebrni na 50 m slobodno, vaterpolisti korak do medaljepovratak na vrhKOLOVOZU kolovozu su nas tradicionalno razveselili naÅ¡i mladi jedriličari, koji su u samo tjedan dana osvojili četiri europska zlata, dva srebra i jednu broncu. Usto, naslov svjetskih juniorskih prvaka osvojili su Å ime Fantela i Igor Marenić u olimpijskoj klasi 470. Iako je bila riječ o prijateljskoj utakmici, dolazak brazilske nogometne reprezentacije na Poljud privukao je 30.000 gledatelja. Izabranici Zlatka Kranjčara izvukli su remi protiv peterostrukih svjetskih prvaka. Strijelci u Splitu bili su Niko Kranjčar i Ricardinho.   JEDRENJE:Fantela i Marenić svjetski juniorski prvaci;četiri europska naslova za naÅ¡e mlade jedriličareNOGOMET, PRETKOLA LIGE PRVAKA I KUPA UEFA-e:Debrecen deklasirao Hajduk;ispali i Inter i Rijeka VESLANJE, JUNIORSKO SP:Srebro za Jurinu i Holija u dvojcu na parićeRUKOMET, MLAĐE JUNIORSKO SP:'Mali pakleni' osvojili brončanu medaljuSAMOSTREL, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO (FIELD):Četiri zlata i bronca za hrvatsku reprezentacijuNOGOMET, PRIJATELJSKA UTAKMICA:Remi Hrvatske i Brazila na PoljuduSPORT INVALIDA:Četiri medalje za Iveković i Vuković na Europskom atletskom prvenstvu za osobe s invaliditetomVATERPOLO, JUNIORSKO EP:Hrvatska obranila europsko srebroPLIVANJE:RogoÅ¡ić uspjeÅ¡no otplivao maraton od Savudrije do Prevlakepovratak na vrhRUJANS mnogo nade očekivali smo Europsko koÅ¡arkaÅ¡ko prvenstvo u Srbiji i Crnoj Gori. Nažalost, Neven Spahija i naÅ¡i reprezentativci osvojili su tek sedmo mjesto i ostali bez plasmana na Svjetsko prvenstvo, Å¡to je uoči europske smotre izgledalo kao ostvariv cilj. Za bolje vijesti u hrvatskom sportu pobrinuli su se naÅ¡i teniski reprezentativci, koji su se pobjedom nad Rusijom plasirali u finale Davis Cupa. Nakon Europskog prvenstva u Zagrebu i PuliBarbara Ružić se oprostila od aktivnog bavljenja sportom.NOGOMET, KVALIFIKACIJE ZA SP:TeÅ¡ki kiks Hrvatske na MaltiBOĆANJE, JUNIORSKO SP: S pet medalja hrvatski boćari najuspjeÅ¡nijiJEDRENJE, JUNIORSKO SP U FINNU:Kljaković-GaÅ¡pić svjetski juniorski prvakSTRELIČARSTVO, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Zorman druga u juniorskoj konkurencijiNOGOMET:Ćiro ponovno otiÅ¡ao iz hrvatskog nogometa; Gudelj novi trener HajdukaKOÅ ARKA, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvatska bez polufinala i Svjetskoga prvenstvaODBOJKA, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvatice osme, oproÅ¡taj Barbare Ružić od aktivnog igranjaRUKOMET, EP GLUHIH:Hrvatska europski prvakTENIS, WTA U CALCUTTI:Poraz Karoline Å prem u finaluTENIS, DAVIS CUP:Hrvatski tenisači preko Rusa do finalapovratak na vrhLISTOPADHrvatska nogometna reprezentacija u listopadu je potvrdila plasman na Svjetsko nogometno prvenstvo 2006. Ivan Ljubičić je ponovno bio uspjeÅ¡an te je osvojio ATP naslove u Metzu i u Beču, a na Mastersu u Madridu za dlaku je bolji bio Nadal. Alen GuÅ¡tin okitio se zlatom na SP-u u boćanju, juniorska vaterpolska reprezentacija osvojila je svjetsko srebro, a hrvatski taekwondoaÅ¡i osvojili su tri medalje na EP-u u Rigi. Janica Kostelić sezonu je otvorila drugim, a Nika Fleiss 15. mjestom u veleslalomu u Soeldenu.NOGOMET, KVALIFIKACIJE ZA SP:Hrvatska potvrdila plasman u Njemačku TENIS:Ivan Ljubičić osvojio ATP naslove u Metzu iu Beču,poražen u finalu Mastersa u Madridu TENIS, ATP U TOKIJU:Mario Ančić poražen u finalu BOĆANJE, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Alen GuÅ¡tin opet svjetski prvak VATERPOLO, JUNIORSKO SP:Hrvatska viceprvak svijetaTAEKWONDO, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Zlato i dvije bronce Hrvatskoj  STRELJAÅ TVO OSOBA S INVALIDITETOM, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvatskoj zlato i srebroSKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP:Janica Kostelić sezonu otvorila drugim, a Nika Fleiss 15. mjestom;Zagreb dobio organizaciju muÅ¡kog slaloma u veljači 2008.RIBOLOV, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvati svjetski prvaci u lovu na Å¡araneGIMNASTIKA, SVJETSKI KUP:Erceg druga u Mariborupovratak na vrhSTUDENIU studenom smo dobili svjetskog doprvaka u boksu - Marija Å ivoliju. Najbolji hrvatski sportaÅ¡ u ovoj godini, Ivan Ljubičić, nije uspio osvojiti prvi naslov na turniru iz Masters serije u Parizu, ali je izborio zavrÅ¡ni Masters Cup u Å angaju. Sjajnu sezonu Ljubo i Mario Ančić zavrÅ¡ili su na najboljim pozicijama u karijeri. Na dvoranskom EP-u u samostrelu field Hrvati su osvojile čak osam medalja. Od nogometnih vijesti izdvajamo prolaz u uži krug hrvatsko-mađarske kandidature za domaćina Europskoga prvenstva 2012. godine.BOKS, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Mario Å ivolija svjetski doprvakTENIS:Ljubičić poražen na Mastersu u Parizu,bez polufinala na zavrÅ¡nom Masters Cupu u Å angajuTENIS, ATP LJESTVICE:Ljubičić i Ančić na najboljim pozicijama u karijeriSAMOSTREL, DVORANSKO EP (FIELD):Hrvatima osam medalja.NOGOMET:U-21 reprezentacija bez zavrÅ¡nice EP-a,Portugal u pripremnoj utakmici bolji od KockastihKARATE, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO: Juniori i kadeti osvojilipojedinačne iekipne medaljePLIVANJE:Duje Draganja će plivati za KatarKOÅ ARKA:Hrvatska bez pozivnice za SP;teÅ¡ka ozljeda Mateja Mamića NOGOMET:Hrvatska i Mađarska kandidatura za EURO 2012. proÅ¡la u uži krug,Beckenbauer posjetio HrvatskuTENIS: Zagreb dobio dvoranski ATP turnirpovratak na vrhPROSINACKrunu na uspjeÅ¡nu sezonu hrvatski tenisači stavili su osvajanjem Davis Cupa u Bratislavi, nakon Å¡to su u finalu Mario Ančić i Ivan Ljubičić svladali Slovačku s 3:2, za jedan od najvećih uspjeha hrvatskog sporta u povijesti! Hrvatski su nogometaÅ¡i saznali prve suparnike na SP-u u Njemačkoj. Natjecanje će otvoriti dvobojem s Brazilcima 13. lipnja. Pet dana poslije odmjerit će snage s Japanom, a u posljednjoj utakmici skupine F 9. srpnja igraju s Australijom. Janica Kostelić i ove sezone nas oduÅ¡evljava, godinu je zavrÅ¡ila na prvome mjestu u ukupnom poretku Svjetskog kupa. TENIS, DAVIS CUP:Hrvatska osvojila naslov pobjednikaBOKS:Stjepan Božić obranio naslov svjetskog prvakaPLIVANJE, EUROPSKO PRVENSTVO (MALI BAZENI):Bronca Gordana Kožulja na 200 m leđnoRUKOMET, LIGA PRVAKA:Flensburg izbacio Zagreb u osmini finalaKOÅ ARKA:Izbornik Spahija potvrdio ostavkuNOGOMET, SVJETSKO PRVENSTVO:Hrvatska s Brazilom, Japanom i Australijom u skupini FSKIJANJE, SVJETSKI KUP: Janica prva i druga u ČeÅ¡koj; Janica druga, Ana 10. u slalomu u Aspenu; Janica peta u spustu; Janica preuzela vodstvo u Svjetskom kupu i slalomuNOGOMET, DVORANSKO PRVENSTVO HRVATSKE:Zagreb prvi dvoranski prvakODBOJKA, KUP HRVATSKE: Mladost i Rijeka KWSO osvajači KupaVATERPOLO, KUP HRVATSKE: Mladost u finalu bolja od JugaJanica Kostelić, Ivan Ljubičić, tenisači i stolnotenisačice sportaÅ¡i godine u izboru SN-aOlimpijsko zlato rukometaÅ¡a naj-događaj u samostalnoj Hrvatskoj povratak na vrh  http://sport.hrt.hr/htvsport/godisnja/2005/index.asp  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 01 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7780/1/E-Andrew-Bogut--Toni-Kukoc-last-second-win.html  Two Croatians in ActionAndrew Bogut hitting a winning short shot with seven tenths of a second left in overtime ! Pass by Toni Kukoc !  Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut from Australia (R) is hugged by guard Mo Williams (L) after hitting a short shot with seven tenths of a second left in overtime to defeat the San Antonio Spurs at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, December 20, 2005. Toni Kukoc from Croatia threw an in bounds pass to Bogut for the winning basket in the 109-107 final. REUTERS/Allen Fredrickson   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 22 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7779/1/E-Kostelic-Wins-World-Cup-Giant-Slalom.html  Kostelic Wins World Cup Giant Slalom 12.21.2005, 10:44 AM Janica Kostelic of Croatia rallied on the second run Wednesday and got the first World Cup giant slalom victory of her career.  Kostelic, third after opening leg, covered the Cerna course in a combined time of 2 minutes, 21.30 seconds to win the first World Cup alpine race held in the Czech Republic. She performed a particularly skillful cartwheel in ski boots in the finish area after she saw the last skier come down, then clambered over the barrier to kiss her father and coach. "I guess this is proof I can win GS," Kostelic said. "It's a special feeling because when you wait for something so long it makes you so happy, but there is no time to celebrate because there's another race tomorrow." Kathrin Zettel of Austria was second in 2:21.38, followed by teammate Marlies Schild in 2:21.40. Kostelic leads the giant slalom standings with 230 points, 40 more than Zettel. Kostelic also is third in the overall standings. Michaela Dorfmeister of Austria leads with 502 points, 80 more than teammate Alexandra Meissnitzer. Kostelic is another 10 points back. Kostelic won three gold medals at the Salt Lake City Olympics and has two overall World Cup titles. She also took the world championship in the downhill, slalom and combined last winter in Bormio, Italy. It was the 22nd World Cup victory for Kostelic, a multi-medal favorite heading into the Turin Olympics. The top American was Julia Mancuso, who finished 14th, 1:19 off the pace. Mancuso, the world championship bronze medalist in the slalom last winter, crashed in the finish area after the first leg but was unhurt. Teammate Kristina Koznick, fourth following the opening leg, dropped to 16th after making a mistake on the second run. It was the first victory of the season for Kostelic, who had surgery on her right knee in June. It was the most recent operation in a career disrupted by injury and illness. Kostelic finished runner-up in the season-opening giant slalom in Soelden, Austria, and fourth in Aspen, Colo. She also was second in the slalom in Aspen.After undergoing three knee operations and having her thyroid removed, she missed the entire 2003-04 season only to come back last season and win three world titles. Nicole Hosp of Austria was the fastest in the first leg but slipped to fourth after the second run. http://www.forbes.com/home/feeds/ap/2005/12/21/ap2407509.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 22 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7776/1/E-Vote-for-Janica-Kostelic.html  Vote for Janica Kostelichttp://www.eurosport.com/ In the lower bottom right corner, find a voting square. Till January 1st 2006.JANICA KOSTELIC VODI U EUROSPORTOVOJ ANKETI ZA SPORTSKU OSOBU GODINE U izboru za sportasa godine na internetskim stanicama satelitske postaje Eurosporta uvjerljivo vodi Janica Kostelic sa cak 75 posto glasova, a do sada je stiglo vise od 25000 glasova. Koliko Janica znaci u svijetu sporta, govori i podatak da su iza nje po broju glasova najbolji nogometas danasnjice Ronaldinho, motociklist Valentino Rossi i tenisac Roger Federer. Zelite li i sami dati glas za Janicu, napravite to do 1. sijecnja, do kada traje glasovanje.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 22 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7778/1/E-Mario-Preskar-Wins-by-a-TKO-in-Berlin.html  MARIO PRESKAR TKO WIN AGAIN  Moving up fast along Heavyweight Boxing ladder 21-year-old undefeated Croatian Heavyweight Mario Preskar won again Saturday, December 17 in Berlin's Max Schmeling Halle. Czech Ervin Slonka was the victim. Preskar who came in at 219 lbs overwhelmed his more experienced opponent (23 fights, Preskar's 10th fight) in barrage of assault that began in the first round. Throwing combinations from the start Preskar was looking for an opening. Slonka, who was afraid to exchange and therefore be exposed to an early knockout stayed in a locked stance throughout the match and absorbed tremendous punishment. 'At the start of the 6th round my trainer told me to go and finish him. Before that he was closed up. I felt super throughout the match. I was working fast and had excellent tempo. In the 6th round I came in with everything and he went down' The referee started counting. After another series of punches the second countdown did not go to ten as referee mercifully stopped the fight. TKO win Mario Preskar who improves his record to 9-0-1. The fight was televised by Croatian TV (HTV) and is a first in a series of fights that will feature Mario Preskar. Television deal signed by HTV and DKP (Don King Productions) is an indication that Preskar's career is about to take off. 'We are going to take of couple of weeks off said Preskar's manager/trainer Leonard Pijetraj. Mario has been training very hard the whole year. It was a good finish, 3 knockouts in the last 2 months.' Zeljko Preskar, Mario's father said friends and neighbors were calling all night and offering congratulations. In the feature fight undefeated Nicolay Valuev became the tallest and heaviest world champion in boxing history by winning the WBA heavyweight title over John Ruiz. The seven-foot tall, 324 lbs. Valuev (44-0, 31 KOs) who goes by the nickname 'Beast from the East' or simply 'Beast' was able to use his huge reach advantage to become the first Russian Heavyweight Champion.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 18 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7777/1/E-The-Ultimate-Triumph-CROATIANS-WIN-DAVIS-CUP.html  The Ultimate TriumphBY JEFFREY LESSERCroatians and croatophiles alike, the time to celebrate is now. On December 4th, 2005 in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, the greatest team achievement in Croatian history took place. Under the leadership of Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic, the Croatian men’s tennis team won what is by far the most important team event in all of tennis, the Davis Cup.The Croatians won the year-long four-round event after beginning their conquest in February, defeating the United States’ dream team that featured Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi, and the Bryan Brothers, who had never lost even a set in doubles in five previous Davis Cup appearances. Ancic and Ljubicic then took their two man wrecking crew back home to Croatia, where they faced Romania, defeating the overmatched Andrei Pavel and Victor Hanescu by a 4-1 margin. Then the Croatians, on the strength of Ivan Ljubicic’s five set win over Mikhail Youzhny on the first day and a Ljubicic-Ancic doubles victory on the second, defeated Russia in the semifinals. This set them up for their showdown against the Slovaks.The first Davis Cup final ever to feature two unseeded teams did not disappoint. In the first match, Ivan Ljubicic, who had been on fire in the latter half of the year, shooting up in the world rankings to an all-time high of number nine in the world, faced 308th-ranked Karol Kucera, who filled in for an ailing Karol Beck. The match was as lopsided as the rankings would suggest, as Ljubicic simply overpowered the hapless Slovak, 6-3 6-4 6-3. Although the Croatian section had much to cheer for in an otherwise-partisan arena, only one point was secured for the Croatians. Team victory required three points, not just one. What was perhaps most amazing about this victory was that it was Ivan Ljubicic’s tenth Davis Cup match win. After the match, he had a record of 7-0 in singles and 3-0 in doubles for the year in Davis Cup competition. Every one of his wins took place when the outcome of the tie was still undecided— before Croatia secured three match wins. Nobody in the history of the event has ever secured so meaningful many wins in one year. In the second match of the day, the solid Slovak number one, Dominik Hrbaty, defeated Mario Ancic in four long sets. After day one of the final, it was Croatia, 1; Slovak Republic, 1. Because the first day left the teams knotted up at one, the doubles became more important than ever. The winner would have to win only one of the two singles matches on Sunday to secure its respective nation’s first ever Davis Cup title. Ancic and Ljubicic, despite a shaky start, overcame their Slovak foes, Hrbaty and Michal Mertinak, in the first set in a tight tiebreak. The next set, and the match, fell to the Croatians, sending the fans and players into frenzy. After a 7-6(5) 6-3 7-6(5) victory, Croatia was up 2-1 in the finals. One more win would not only secure Ivan Ljubicic a perfect year in Davis Cup, but also possession of the Davis Cup.Croatian fans could sense victory as soon as it was announced that Ivan Ljubicic would be facing Dominik Hrbaty in the first match on Sunday. Ljubicic had a 5-0 career record against Hrbaty and, more importantly, an undefeated record in Davis Cup to date. After easily notching the first set, an ailing Ljubicic shockingly dropped the next two to the Slovak, who was clearly rising to the occasion, playing one of the best matches of his career. Still, Ljubicic, who had vomited in between sets and called the decision on whether or not he would play “one of the toughest decisions of my career,” found a way to win the fourth set. In a match of indescribable intensity and fan passion with so much at stake, Ljubicic finally folded to the home fans’ pressure in the tenth game of the fifth set, serving at 4-5. Hrbaty had won the match, 4-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 6-4, and not only prevented Croatian triumph but had stopped the previously unstoppable Ljubicic, handing Ljubicic his first Davis Cup defeat of the year.Hrbaty’s victory guaranteed that the winner of the fifth match would take home the Cup. The fate of the Davis Cup rested on the broad shoulders of 21-year-old Mario Ancic, who was to face Michal Mertinak, thrown into the singles equation in place of the ineffective Karol Kucera. Mertinak, more known for his doubles play than his singles and ranked only 162 in the world, started off well against the 22nd-ranked Ancic, forcing a tiebreak against the 6’5’’ Croat. Ancic, the heavy favorite in the match, easily won the tiebreak, giving Croatia a one set edge in the decisive battle. The second set was much easier for Mario, who brought Croatia painfully close to the coveted Cup. After an early break in the third set, Ancic lost his serve for the first time in the match to even up the third set, giving Slovak fans hope once again. However, Mertinak lost his serve at 4-4 in the third set, allowing Mario to serve for the match and the Davis Cup. Ancic came through. The Croatians had won the ultimate prize of team tennis, the Davis Cup! The celebration was only fitting. Ljubicic jumped into the arms of Ancic on the court, and both jumped up and down in each other’s arms. Watching the Tennis Channel, which provided live coverage of the events, and in the comforts of my own home, I followed suit. When I saw how happy Ljubicic was (he called himself “the happiest loser in the world”), I cried. Croatia won the Davis Cup!Partying will ensue all over Croatia. Tennis fans will not underestimate the prestige of the Davis Cup, and neither should you. Give Ancic and Ljubicic praise where it is due— which, right now, is everywhere.For at least 2005, Croatian tennis is the best in the world.***  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 06 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7782/1/E-Croatias-Davis-Cup-hero-Ljubicic-wins-first-match-Shanghai.html  Croatia's Davis Cup hero Ljubicic wins first match ShanghaiThe eight singles players pose for photos at the opening ceremony of the Shanghai Tennis Masters Cup held at the Qi Zhong stadium in Shanghai, China, Saturday, Nov. 12, 2005. The round robin competition featuring some of the world's top players with a prize money of US$4.45 million begins tomorrow. Players from right United State's Andre Agassi, Argentine's Guillermo Coria, Russia's Nikolay Davydenko, Switzerland's Roger Federer, Argentine's Gaston Gaudio, Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic, Spain's Rafael Nadal, Argentine's David Nalbandian. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)  Op-edLet's learn from Chinese, how image and branding of the country and its CULTURE is important. This photo says it all.NB Croatia's Davis Cup hero Ljubicic saw his fine run of form continue as he beat Coria.The 1.93-meter Ljubicic, who was one of the last to qualify for the tournament, used his height advantage to punch his way to an emphatic victory. He recorded six aces to the Argentine's one and frequently left his opponent standing as he executed lightning-quick volleys and smashes.'My game had to be really physical in the sense of hitting hard. He (Coria) is fast, but he is not faster than the ball,' said Ljubicic. 'I think I played a great match...everything went my way, especially in the first set.' In a late-season run of form, the Croatian number one reached the finals in four of his last five tournaments, taking victory in Metz and Vienna and ensuring his qualification for Shanghai. Next up for him, however, is the daunting prospect of Federer. 'I don't think it's going to be the key match of the group, so I can relax,' the Croatian said. Ljubicic has met and lost to Federer in three 2005 finals, each time on a hard surface. 'I don't think it's an advantage for me that I've played so many matches against him because he's going to be really careful how he faces this match. He knows that I can give him some trouble,' he said. SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Roger Federer made hard work of the start of his Masters Cup defense on Sunday before recovering to squeeze past Argentine David Nalbandian 6-3, 2-6, 6-4. The runaway world number one is chasing a third consecutive finale title -- a feat last achieved by Ivan Lendl in 1985-87. In Sunday's second Red Group match, Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic beat another Argentine, Guillermo Coria, 6-2, 6-3. Monday's Gold Group matches will pit Andre Agassi against Nikolay Davydenko and Rafael Nadal against Gaston Gaudio. Federer was playing his first match since being sidelined by an ankle injury after winning his 11th title of the season on  October 2 and appeared rusty at stages. He made an unusually high number of unforced errors against last-minute qualifier Nalbandian and found himself 3-1down in the final set after a break of serve. However a crunch backhand volley gave the Swiss a chance to claw his way back in the fifth game of the set at the state-of-the-art Qizhong Stadium and he never looked back.'Thank God I got out of that one,' the Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion said. 'I was mentally ready for a two-sets defeat...(but) I took the opportunity he gave me and I'm very happy right now.' Nalbandian -- who now leads Federer 5-4 in matches played having won the pair's first five meetings -- was less thrilledwith his performance. 'I feel I didn't prepare a hundred percent for this Masters. I was already on holiday when I received a last-minute call to come here,' he said. 'GREAT PLAYER''He (Federer) is a great, great player with a lot of confidence. When I took the break (in the third set) I knew it was a very important game and I tried to stay focused but it wasn't enough.'http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20051113/sp_nm/atp_masters_dc_2   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 13 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7781/1/E-Makybe-Diva-Historic-hat-trick-the-stuff-of-legends.html  Historic hat-trick the stuff of legendsHands up if you backed the winner: jockey Glenn Boss salutes the jubilant crowd as Makybe Diva returns to the Melbourne Cup winners' enclosure for the third straight year. Picture: Paul Trezise Ron Reed02nov05DIVA fever started early at Flemington yesterday – and will be a long time finishing.Melbourne Cup Picture Galleries: Trainer Lee Freedman summed it up perfectly as he emerged from the bar in which he had watched his amazing mare Makybe Diva win her third Melbourne Cup, a feat never achieved in the 144 years that Australia's most famous race has been generating folklore and legends. "Go and find the smallest child on this course and you'll have the only person who'll live long enough to see this again," he said, fighting to control his emotions.A few days earlier, he had expressed the same sentiment slightly differently: "If the fairytale comes true and she runs and wins, we'll never see the like again." Well, it did come true – and he's right. We won't.We certainly won't see Makybe Diva again, with Freedman and owner Tony Santic deciding before the trophy presentation that the horse had done more than enough and would not be asked to race again.The day will never be forgotten by the 106,479 who packed the nation's premier racecourse to witness an animal achieving the sort of immortality few humans manage.For them and for the millions more who were transfixed by TV sets, it was as if they had been transported by time machine back to 1930 when the incomparable Phar Lap won the Cup on the way to dominating the Spring Racing Carnival like no other horse has done, including mighty Makybe.Since the Diva won last month's Cox Plate, the race the purists rank above the Cup as a true test of a racehorse's greatness, arguments have raged non-stop about whether she is entitled to stand alongside Big Red as the best we've seen.Freedman has been among those who regard such a debate as essentially futile because so much has changed, but even he said yesterday: "I don't want to put down Phar Lap, but I haven't seen him win three Melbourne Cups." Indeed, Phar Lap won only one – and only four others managed two.That daunting spot of history combined with various other reasons to convince many that the task would be beyond Makybe Diva, although the skeptics were like everyone else – they dearly wanted to see her win, and were willing her to do so.That's why she was always the hot favourite, even when Freedman and Santic were threatening not to run her if they felt the task and the track would be too hard.Even long before the race she was the centre of amazing scenes – at first, without even being there.More than three hours before the race, a Freedman stable strapper led a horse into the holding stall No 75, with her name over the door. Instantly, almost 200 people materialised and, standing eight deep, began snapping away with cameras and mobile phones.The startled strapper suddenly realised what was happening and told them they had the wrong horse and Makybe hadn't arrived yet. It made little difference. They kept taking photographs of each other standing in front of the empty box.And when the Diva did turn up, accompanied by three security guards, it was elbow room only in the sweaty heat for well over two hours until Freedman arrived to dress her for her big date.The race itself was almost an anti-climax in the competitive sense, so early did jockey Glen Boss have the horse in a perfect position and so authoritatively did she complete the job.It was the easiest of her three wins and the fast-talking Sydney hoop, who has partnered her in them all, said: "I have never enjoyed a race so much."That probably applied to the entire awestruck crowd, who stood to salute as the Diva passed the post and stayed on their feet until the ceremonial aftermath was complete.If there has been a more uplifting "great moment in sport" in recent Australian memory, then it can only have been at precisely the same place and time three years ago when Damien Oliver won on Media Puzzle, saluting his dead brother as he did so.Freedman mused that perhaps the monumental Olympic performances of swimmer Kieren Perkins and runner Cathy Freeman might be up there, and suggested his own sporting hero, boxer Muhammad Ali, could enter into such a debate."But they weren't asked to carry 58kg of dead weight," he noted dryly.Of one thing, though, he was certain – after the Cox Plate, Makybe Diva was the best horse he'd trained and now she was the best he'd seen.If there was a soul on the racecourse prepared to disagree with that, he or she went unheard above the applause for a horse who will be talked about reverently for another 75 years – at least. http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5478,17109703%5E2862,00.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 11 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0700 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7783/1/E-Mario-Preskar-Wins-by-a-TKO.html  DON KING: 'MARIO PRESKAR IS A WHITE MIKE TYSON !'  After almost 1 year, (50 weeks to be exact) 21 year-old Croatian heavyweight boxer undefeated Mario Preskar 7-0-1 (218 lbs.) won in Dusseldorf, Germany on Saturday, October 15, 2005. Working very fast, Preskar exposed much heavier opponent Vlado Szabo (242 lbs) in 2 quick rounds scoring a TKO win. Szabo could not answer the bell at the start of third round after being knocked down by a vicious uppercut at the end of the round two. 'I started working my jab, and was breaking down his guard. Then I went head, body, head and I was really opening him up. It was just a matter of time,' said jubilant Preskar. 'I waited a really long time for this match, but after a tremendous training camp I’m much stronger, as fast and more explosive. I want to fight anybody that my manager schedules.' Leonard Pijetraj who is a former world-class competitor and Preskar’s manager/trainer urged Preskar’s promoter Don King to visit Croatia at the invitation of President Stjepan Mesic and Zagreb Mayor Milan Bandic. King promoted over 500 world championship fights so far. Nearly 100 boxers have earned $1 million or more in Don King Productions promoted fights so far.'Croatians are beautiful people, who have alone won their independence," said King. American promoter is convinced that Mario Preskar has tremendous potential and that one day he will be a World Heavyweight Champion. The real reason for King’s visit to Croatia is to promote Preskar’s matches and to negotiate a TV contract. Don King set all kinds of viewing records with TV, pay-per-view TV and close circuit TV. Public wants raw puncher, aggressive fighting style and that is just what Preskar has. During his 15 months over 2 years in the United States Preskar sparred with some of the biggest names in Heavyweight division and according to his trainer Pijetraj won over 90% of rounds. Don King people closely watched many of those sparring sessions. They know what they have in Preskar. With the right TV contract that is already agreed to in principle we are going to see a lot more of Mario Preskar. His next fight is scheduled for November 26, 2005 in Leverkusen, Germany.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 28 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7790/1/E-Ivan-Ljubicic-did-it-again.html  Ivan Ljubicic did it again! REPEATING THE FEATBy Jeff Lesser Ivan Ljubicic did it again! For the second week in a row, Croat Ivan Ljubicic won a high-level ATP tournament. After not having won a tournament in four years, Ivan has put together an amazing streak, winning 13 straight matches (As of the time I write this article, he has just won the first round of the Madrid Tennis Masters). Prior to these two weeks of fabulous play, Ivan has appeared in four finals this year, only to lose in each and every one. This includes three losses to dominant world #1 Roger Federer and one to hard-hitting Swede Joachim Johansson. Now, however, Ljubicic has reversed the curse. He is in the midst what is by far his best season ever. Despite still not having reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam, the Bosnian born 26-year-old has reached the finals of six tournaments, winning two of them. Going into the Tennis Masters Madrid, he is clearly the hottest player. It would not be a surprise for him to do extremely well, with a relatively easy draw and without Roger Federer in the tournament.Ljubicic has had more success than just making it to the finals of six events, which would surely qualify a tremedous season for almost every tour player. Besides for this, he has almost single-handedly vaulted Croatia into the Davis Cup finals, to be held December 2-4. He was responsible for all three victories [two singles, one doubles victory (with partner Mario Ancic)] in Croatia's first round shocking upset over the United States, who had assembled what was potentially the best Davis Cup team to ever play. This feat, alone, was unheard of, as the United States media made a tremendous deal of one man single-handedly defeating ANY team, let alone the United States. In the next two rounds, Croatia played Romania and Russia. Against both, Ljubicic repeated the amazing feat he first unleashed on the United States, winning all three matches. This has truly been a great year.Ivan Ljubicic has also reached a career-high ranking of #12, matching what he obtained in the beginning of the season with another hot streak of tennis. It has now become clear that Ivan Ljubicic has the talent and the opportunity to crack the top ten. Add to all this his six finals appearances, two straight tournament victories, 13 straight match wins, and his instrumental role in putting Croatia in the Davis Cup final for the first time in the nation's young history, and Ivan Ljubicic is quickly rising as one of the best players on the men's tennis tour.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 19 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7789/1/E-Ivanisevic-the-joker-still-has-some-aces-left.html  Ivanisevic the joker still has some aces left By Mark Hodgkinson (Filed: 20/10/2005)There were several occasions during our conversation when it sounded as though Goran Ivanisevic had just been watching old tapes of Teletubbies, the children's television programme with all the gibberish and silliness that provided him with inspiration during the 2001 Wimbledon fortnight. Here was Ivanisevic in cheerful, surreal, and ever so slightly demented mood.And which Goran was this talking anyway? How were the Split personalities in that eccentric head of his, Good Goran, Bad Goran and Emergency Goran? "The three Gorans still exist, for sure they still exist," he said. "They are best friends and they are worst enemies. It depends on the day. They are not like before - it is slightly more relaxed. They have all achieved what they wanted to achieve. But they still have their misunderstandings, and they have to negotiate which way it will be like in my head that day. They still have their fights."Ivanisevic was as sharp, wickedly funny, self-deprecating, and honest as you would have expected, but it was just that he was a little more outlandish and enthusiastic than normal. It could well have been Teletubbies-driven, but perhaps not. Retirement has certainly not blunted and dulled the Croatian. In fact, it has almost certainly had quite the opposite effect, with Ivanisevic explaining how he is planning to come out of retirement as a fully-fit and well-primed fourth member of his country's Davis Cup team for the final in December.It all sounds rather improbable, this notion that Ivanisevic may play an active role in the final against Slovakia in Bratislava. The 34-year-old said that he could feature in the doubles rubber and, if the tie is already decided, in one of the dead singles rubbers. "If you had put some money at the start of the season on Croatia and Slovakia being in the Davis Cup final, and also that I would be in the team for the final, I think that you would be a very rich man, that you would have made millions. The odds were huge," said Ivanisevic, who returned to proper training a fortnight ago.But then again, Ivanisevic has always had a great talent for achieving the silly and improbable. When he won Wimbledon in 2001 he did so as a wild card with a dodgy shoulder, a triple-figure ranking and the knowledge that most observers had predicted at the start of the tournament that he would do well to even reach the second week of the grasscourt grand slam.Ivanisevic thought that he had ended his career at the highest level when he was defeated in the third round of last year's Wimbledon and then cavorted around the lawns in his red-and-white checked Croatian football shirt. It was the "crazy exit" he had promised.And even before that goodbye in south-west London, he had been struggling around the world with a series of ailments, not least the recurring shoulder injury that had hampered his ability to hit that gargantuan left-handed service action of his. The last time he played at anything near full capacity was probably Wimbledon four years ago. And even then he had that damned shoulder to deal with.And yet Ivanisevic still believes that he could be a force in a Croatian team including Ivan Ljubicic, Mario Ancic (otherwise known as "Baby Goran") and Ivo Karlovic. Ivanisevic feels he deserves a chance to play with the younger men."The Davis Cup final is the only thing that could have brought me out of retirement. I have always had a dream that I would be in the Davis Cup final and help win it for Croatia. That would be a big, big thing for me, a real dream for me. I know that I am still good enough to play doubles in a Davis Cup final," he said."I helped in the semi-final against Russia. To be honest, I can't say what exactly my role was. I had a lot of roles. I was the assistant coach, the ball boy, the sparring partner, the guy for the atmosphere, the cheerleader. I don't know, there were too many roles for me, and hopefully in the final I will have another role as the fourth guy in the team. I am good for the team. It can get a bit serious without me, and I help to keep it fun. But it makes me really nervous now just thinking about getting the chance to play in a Davis Cup final."Ivanisevic is not exactly in the best shape of his life. He confessed that he spent much of the summer lounging and luxuriating on his boat, and may well have been on his way to developing a half-decent beer belly. "Yes, I was drinking beer on the boat, eating lots, and doing a bit of fishing and taking a little swim every now and then. I wasn't doing anything. So I think I started to get a bit fat. I put my body into a bad shape. I was on my boat for two months and I didn't even touch my racquet, I didn't even make two steps," he said."I want to be fit and ready to play, and then who knows. I don't want to go there just to sit there and be the fourth guy with a stomach. I need to know in my mind that I'm there if they need me," said Ivanisevic. He has kept his racquet skills ticking over by playing on the Champions (seniors) tour against John McEnroe and the other old swingers.It was a shock to his boat-softened body when he started out on the physical regime that will hopefully have him slimmed and ready for Bratislava. "The first time I went running and went to the gym, I couldn't get off the bed again for about three days. Oh my God, I was so sore and all the muscles in my body were aching. I'm still pretty slow and the body is a little stiff and it is still the same old story with my shoulder," Ivanisevic said.Ivanisevic provided some exceptional plot-lines on the way to his Wimbledon triumph. As well as the reliance on Teletubbies, he ate the same meal at the same table of the same restaurant for a fortnight. It was remarkable that not just his suspect shoulder, but also his digestive system, held up for the tournament, culminating in that glorious third Monday when he defeated Australian Pat Rafter. On his return to his home town of Split, Ivanisevic did a striptease in front of his delirious public."Whatever happens in the Davis Cup final, Wimbledon will still be the most beautiful moment in my career. By far," he said. "Every time I think about Wimbledon I think about the way I won, how I won, why I won, and I still don't know how or why, but who cares? I won." If Ivanisevic had lost that Wimbledon final, he said that his life would be very different now. He would not be comfortable with his career or whether he had made the most of his talents. "I think if I had lost that match, my fourth final, I would have had to move to the North Pole, or maybe I would have killed myself by hanging myself off some bridge. So I don't like to think about it too much and what would have happened if I had lost. Sometimes I start to think about it and then almost straight away I have to stop," he said.There have been dark whispers and rumours circulating in Croatia since the summer that Ivanisevic was on the verge of bankruptcy, that he had lost most of his money on bad investments in the construction industry. Not so, said Ivanisevic, who strongly denied that he has been forced to play on the seniors tour to avoid destitution. He did admit, however, that he lost a substantial amount of money on some of his investments.Away from tennis, there is plenty in Ivanisevic's life. He has been appointed the vice-president of Croatia's Olympic association, wants to know more about business, and has a two-year-old daughter, Amber-Maria, who he calls his "little vampire" on account of the fact that she often wakes him up five to six times a night. "I have to be a good father to my daughter. That takes a lot of time and energy. She needs a lot of attention," Ivanisevic said.Ivanisevic appreciates his life membership of the All England Club, a purple-and-green tie that allows him to return there and "drink tea" whenever he pleases. "It is really nice that the people in England still remember what I did at Wimbledon. I think I had a special relationship with English crowds even before I won. And England enjoyed the way I won Wimbledon, that I showed that I was a bit temperamental. I think that English people liked that because people in England are temperamental too," he said.And just to seal his Anglophile tendencies, Ivanisevic revealed that he now supports an English football team, West Bromwich Albion. He was introduced to Albion by an English PR on the seniors tour, and now even has a replica shirt with his name on the back."They are not doing that well, but that is okay. You have to support a team when they don't do well. It's easy to support Chelsea, with a guy who puts in a lot of money and if he sees a player he wants to buy, he buys, even if he doesn't need him. It doesn't matter to me if they are in the Premiership or not. I am the same for life, I don't change my team," said Ivanisevic.Ivanisevic recalled last year's struggle against relegation with affection. "Last year was very dramatic," he said. "My life is very dramatic so I must support a dramatic football team as well. I can't be normal, nothing is normal with me. But it's good that way. Not being normal means that you have so much more fun in life."www.telegraph.co.uk/hodgkinsonhttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2005/10/20/sthodg20.xml&sSheet=/sport/2005/10/20/ixtenn.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 19 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7788/1/E-Ivo-Karlovic-from-Croatia-beats-Andy-Roddick-from-USA.html  Ivo Karlovic from Croatia beats Andy Roddick from USAAssociated PressOct. 19 MADRID, Spain â€" Andy Roddick blew a match point and lost 3-6, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (3) to Ivo Karlovic on Wednesday in the second round of the Madrid Masters in a contest between big servers. Roddick, seeded second, was playing his first match since losing in the first round of the U.S. Open. 'For two sets, I don't think I could have played better,' Roddick said. 'It was the highest quality match we've played.' He had an easy first set and held match point at 6-5 in the second-set tiebreaker against the 6-foot-10 Croat, the ATP Tour's tallest player. Karlovic won the tiebreak 9-7 on his second set point when Roddick's return went wide. Both players had chances to break in the deciding set, but they served to another tiebreaker before Karlovic took a 3-1 lead. 'You're going to have two or three points per tiebreaker that's either going to go your way or it's not,' Roddick said. 'It didn't go my way tonight. In the second tiebreaker, I don't think I played a bad point.' Earlier, Rafael Nadal beat Victor Hanescu of Romania 7-6 (5), 6-3 in the second round, the top-seeded Spaniard's first match before a home crowd since his French Open victory. Nadal has not trained for three weeks because of knee tendinitis. He received a first-round bye along with the 15 other seeded players in the ATP Masters Series event. 'The match was not easy,' he said. 'I was a bit nervous, a bit slow.' Nadal trailed 3-1 in the first set and 3-0 in the tiebreaker before rallying. In the second set, Nadal broke to lead 4-3 and broke again to win. Other winners were third-seeded Nikolay Davydenko of Russia, fourth-seeded Guillermo Coria of Argentina, sixth-seeded Mariano Puerta of Argentina and eighth-seeded Ivan Ljubicic of Croatia. Seventh-seeded Gaston Gaudio lost to Jose Acasuso 7-6 (4), 6-2 in the second round in an all-Argentine match. Gaudio dropped his fifth straight match, hurting his chances of qualifying for the Tennis Masters Cup next month in Shanghai, China. Four already have secured berths: Nadal, Roddick, Roger Federer and Marat Safin. Davydenko beat Slovakia's Karol Beck 6-4, 6-1, and Coria defeated Belgian qualifier Christophe Rochus 6-3, 6-4 to improve his chances of making the season finale. 'It was an ugly match, boring for spectators,' Coria said. 'But the important thing was to win.' Rochus' younger brother, Olivier, knocked out 12th-seeded Mario Ancic of Croatia 1-6, 6-4, 7-6 (5); Puerta edged Max Mirnyi of Belarus 7-6 (5), 7-6 (5); and Ljubicic defeated Alberto Martin of Spain 6-3, 7-6 (7). Also, ninth-seeded Thomas Johansson of Sweden beat Argentina's Juan Ignacio Chela 7-6 (2), 6-3; 10th-seeded Radek Stepanek of the Czech Republic rallied past Britain's Tim Henman 6-4, 1-6, 6-3; and 14th-seeded Dominik Hrbaty of Slovakia eliminated Germany's Tommy Haas 6-4, 6-2. http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/ESPNSports/story?id=1231085  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 19 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7787/1/E-Ivo-Karlovic-from-Croatia-beats-Greg-Rusedski-from-Britain.html  Ivo Karlovic from Croatia beats Greg Rusedski from BritainRusedski crashes out of Madrid Masters 18 Oct 2005 Greg Rusedski has crashed out of the Madrid Masters at the first-round stage at the hands of 6ft 10in Croatian Ivo Karlovic. The British number two made the best possible start against Karlovic, taking the first set 7-5 on a tie-break. But the tallest man on the ATP Tour fought back to claim a 6-7 7-6 7-6 victory and book his place in the second round. http://www.channel4.com/news/content/news-storypage.jsp?id=870141  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 18 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7786/1/E-Oba-su-pala-Ivan-Ljubicic-osvaja-dva-ATP-turnira-za-redom.html  TENIS: LJUBICIC OSVOJIO ATP TURNIR U BECU 16.10.2005 Najbolji hrvatski tenisac Ivan Ljubicic nastavlja pobjednicki niz. Nakon sto je prosloga tjedna osvojio ATP turnir u francuskome Metzu, Ljubicic je pokorio i vrlo jaki turnir u Becu. U finalu 565.000 eura vrijednoga turnira u glavnome gradu Austrije Ljubicic je sa 6:2 , 6:4 i 7:6 (5) slavio protiv bivsega najboljeg svjetskog tenisaca, spanjolca Juana Carlosa Ferrera.Ljubicic je do treceg turnira u karijeri, te drugog ove sezone u sest finala, dosao nakon dva sata i 30 minuta igre. Bila je to ujedno i 12. pobjeda Ljubicica u nizu, koji je posljednji put izgubio u trecem kolu Grand Slam turnira US Opena od Francuza Richarda Gasqueta, nakon cega su uslijedile dvije pobjede u polufinalu Davis Cupa protiv Rusije, pet pobjeda u Metzu prosloga tjedna, te pet pobjeda u Becu.Dobar pocetak LjubicicaLjubicic je izvrsno otvorio dvoboj s Ferrerom te je vec u cetvrtom gemu uspio iskoristiti drugu break-loptu za vodstvo od 3:1. Vec u sljedecem gemu Ferrero je imao priliku uzvratiti Ljubicicu, ali se hrvatski tenisac uspio spasiti. Pri rezultatu 5:2 Ljubicic je jos jedanput osvojio spanjolcev servis te dobio prvi set sa 6:2.Vec u prvome gemu drugoga seta Ferrero je imao priliku oduzeti Ljubicicev servis, ali se hrvatski tenisac jos jedanput izvukao. U nastavku drugoga seta oba su tenisaca cvrsto drzala svoje servise sve do rezultata 5:4 za Ljubicica, kada je Ljubo jos jedanput oduzeo servis Ferreru i poveo s 2:0 u setovima.Treci set odlucen u tie-breakuU trecem setu Ljubicic je bio opasniji, iako se cinilo da sve teze prati naporni finalni dvoboj. Kod rezultata 4:4 Ferrero je imao break-loptu, ali je Ljubicic osvojio vrlo tezak poen od cak 36 izmjena udaraca. U sljedecem gemu Ljubicic je imao mec loptu, ali ju nije uspio iskoristiti te se morao igrati tie-break.Odlucujuci gem spanjolac je otvorio dvostrukom servis pogreskom te je tu prednost Ljubicic uspjesno zadrzao do kraja za konacnih 6:2, 6:4 i 7:6 (5).Druga pobjeda u sest finalaU prijasnjih pet finala ove sezone samo je jedanput pobijedio (Metz), dok je u preostala cetiri zavrsna nastupa (Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai, Marseille) izgubio, no na tri od ta cetiri turnira protivnik mu je bio najbolji svjetski tenisac svijeta, svicarac Roger Federer.Bio je ovo cetvrti susret Ljubicica i Ferrera i omjer je 3:1 u korist nasega igraca. Jedini poraz protiv spanjolskoga tenisaca dozivio je prije dvije godine u polufinalu turnira u tajlandskom Bangkoku.Svi finali Ivana Ljubicica:ATP LYON (2001.) - El Aynaoui - 6:3, 6:2ATP Doha (2004.) - Escude - 3:6, 6:7 (4)ATP Doha (2005.) - Federer - 3:6, 1:6ATP Marseille (2005.) - J.Johansson - 5:7, 4:6ATP Rotterdam (2005.) - Federer - 7:5, 5:7, 6:7 (5)ATP Dubai (2005.) - Federer - 1:6, 7:6 (6), 3:6ATP METZ (2005.) - Monfils - 7:6, 6:0ATP BEc (2005.) - Ferrero - 6:2, 6:4, 7:6 (5)Hina/HRTweb sport (vh)  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 16 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7784/1/E-Zadar-2006-Invitation-to-all-Croatian-athletes-around-the-world.html  Vamos svi together nach Zadar! Invitation to all Croatian athletes around the world!Applications for the Croatian World Games in Zadar 2006 under way. Visit our website for further info and on-line applications:www.zadar2006.comJoin this unique sports and entertainment event and meet Croatians from more than 20 countries.Disciplines at the Games:athletics / badminton / boccia / judo / karate / basketball / basketball hoops / soccer / futsal (indoor soccer) / beach soccer / soccer - seniors / volleyball / beach volleyball / swimming / handball / table tennis / taekwondo / tennis So far we have received applications from following countries:Argentina / Australia / Austria / Belgium / Chile / Demnark / England / France / Italy / Canada / Macedonia / Norway / Germany / Peru / USA / Slovenia / Sweden / Switzerland / Uruguay / VenezuelaHrvatske svjetske igre (Croatian World Games)Put Bokanjca 18, 23000 Zadar, CroatiaOffice hours: mon - fri 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. (CET) sat 10.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.Tel: 00385 23 220 649Fax: 00385 23 220 691Email: info@zadar2006.com   Vamos svi together nach Zadar!  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 15 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7785/1/H-Gustin-svjetski-prvak-bronca-za-Papka-i-Gulju-u-Bocanju.html  Gustin svjetski prvak, bronca za Papka i Gulju Bocanje, Svjetsko prvenstvoTorino (26. rujna - 1. listopada 2005.) 1. listopada 2005. - Hrvatska bocarska reprezentacija osvojila je tri medalje na Svjetskome prvenstvu u talijanskome Torinu. Zlatnu medalju osvojio je Alen Gustin u blizanju i izbijanju u krug, a broncom su se okitili Ante Papak u brzinskom izbijanju te Sandro Gulja u preciznom izbijanju.Gustin je do svjetskog naslova dosao nakon sto je u finalu pobijedio predstavnika Srbije i Crne Gore Đurovica s 26:21.Finalni je dvoboj u pocetku bio dosta izjednacen, no pred kraj je do izrazaja doslo iskustvo nasega Gustina gdje se vidjelo da je izvrsno pripremljen za ovu svjetsku smotru. Uostalom, zasluzio je to jer je bio uvjerljivo najbolji cijelo natjecanje, rekao je trener Slaven Parlov.Gustin je u istoj disciplini prije dvije godine na proslom Svjetskom prvenstvu odrzanom u Nici osvojio broncanu medalju. Papak je u dvoboju za trece mjesto u brzinskom izbijanju s 37:32 svladao Tunizanina Klaija, a Gulja je u finalu preciznog izbijanja osvojio 20 bodova, jedan manje od Slovenca Sofronievskog i Dodiga iz Bosne i Hercegovine.Nazalost, bez medalje su ostali Papak i Josko Mardesic, koji su u stafeti izgubili u borbi za broncu. U dvoboju za trece mjesto izgubili su od Slovenaca causevica i Novaka s 43:49.http://sport.hrt.hr/htvsport/izdvojeno/05/bocanje.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 14 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7792/1/E-Croatians-donate-blood-to-see-key-soccer-game.html  Croatians donate blood to see key soccer game Monday, October 10, 2005 Croatian soccer fans rushed to donate blood this week in exchange for tickets for the national team’s decisive World Cup qualifying game against Sweden, the Vecernji List daily reported Friday. The game’s organizers set aside 300 tickets for the occasion but the number of volunteer blood donors in Zagreb was several times higher. Students cut classes and employees used their lunch breaks to queue in the hospital, the daily said. “I have always been afraid of syringes, but for Croatia I found the courage,” student Ivica Brnadic told the daily. reutershttp://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=story_10-10-2005_pg9_13   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 10 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7791/1/E-ISU-junior-Grand-Prix-figure-skating-competition-in-Zagreb.html  Mikhailova and Sergeev win ice dancing title in junior Grand PrixSunday, October 09, 2005ZAGREB, Croatia (CP) - Russians Natalia Mikhailova and Arkadi Sergeev won the ice dancing title at the ISU junior Grand Prix figure skating competition Sunday and the Canadian team of Sabryna Rettino and Michael Whitehead finished eighth.Mikhailova and Sergeev posted a winning score of 160.33. Americans Trina Pratt and Todd Giles were second with 155.64 and Russians Kristina Gorshkova and Vitali Butikov with 146.58. Rettino of St-Basile-le-Grand, Que., and Whitehead, from Holland Landing, Ont., compiled a score of 118.41. Bridget Namiotka and John Coughlin of the U.S. took the pairs title and teammates Julia Vlassov and Drew Meekins were third. The Russian pair of Ksenia Krasilnokova and Konstantin Bezmaternikh was second. There was no Canadian team entered in pairs. © The Canadian Press 2005http://www.canada.com/sports/skating/story.html?id=25e3b7ba-c5ea-41d2-8e8a-8609a65c5212  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 10 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7794/1/E-Ancic-almost-there-to-win-Japan-Open-title.html  Moodie upsets Ancic to win Japan Open titleSunday, 09 October , 2005, 14:50 Tokyo: Underdog Wesley Moodie stormed back from the brink of defeat to beat Mario Ancic of Croatia for his first career title at the Japan Open tennis tournament on Sunday. The unseeded South African, who saved four match points to win the semifinals on Saturday, staved off another two in the second-set tie-breaker before scoring a stunning 1-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-4 victory. "It feels great to win my first title, especially being match points down in the semis and the finals. I was fortunate to come back and playing well. It's an amazing feeling," said Moodie. The women's singles final was won by Nicole Vaidisova of the Czech Republic after Tatiana Golovin of France abandoned it due to a left foot injury at 7-6 (7/4), 3-2 and 30-15. http://sify.com/sports/tennis/fullstory.php?id=13959762  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 09 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7793/1/E-Croatia-beats-Sweden-to-secure-a-berth-in-2006-FIFA-World-Cup.html  Croatia beats Sweden to secure a berth in 2006 FIFA World Cup Croatia beat Sweden 1-0 on Saturday evening with the help of a penalty, to secure a berth in the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals, said reports from the Croatian capital of Zagreb. The decisive moments for Croatia came in the 56th minute when Sweden captain Olof Mellberg handled in the area and Darijo Srna of Croatia kept his cool from the spot to decide a tightly contested match. Croatia moved above Sweden atop Group 8 with 23 points and are sure to either top the group or finish as one of Europe's two best-placed runners-up. Eight group winners advance to the World Cup finals as well as the two best runners-up. The other runners-up playoff for another three places. The win on Saturday evening sees Croatia continue their record of qualifying for all three World Cups they have entered since its independence in 1991. Sweden, who were without Juventus star Zlatan Ibrahimovic because of a knee injury, can still secure a place in the World Cup finals with a home victory over Iceland in the final qualifying match on Wednesday, when Croatia face Hungary in Budapest. Source: Xinhua http://english.people.com.cn/200510/09/eng20051009_213438.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 09 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7796/1/H-Veljko-Rogosic-Croatian-symbol-of-endurance-made-history.html   www.veljkorogosic.org Veljko Rogosic was named International Long Distance Swimming Federation World Champion four times between 1971 and 1974. In 1992 this outstanding sportsman entered the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, Florida, USA. He was participant of the Homeland War during Greater-Serbian aggression on Croatia. Recipient of the Medal of Homeland War from president Franjo Tudjman. His motto and message to young people is WITH SPORT AGAINST DRUGS Rogosic swam La Manche (45 km) in 2004 at the age of 63! For this he needed 11 hours and 27 minutes. His name was written in the 'Gold book of La Manche' as the first Croatian and the oldest man to do so. In the summer 2005 he swam almost 1,000 km along Croatian coast (from Savudrija to Rt Ostro in Konavle) in less than two months, at the age of 64! Also, this is the ultra-marathon swimming world record (880 km in 222 hours, in 57 etapes in less than 58 days). CROATIAOverview of History, Culture, and Sciencemain menu letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 01 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7795/1/E-LJUBO-THE-SAINT.html  LJUBO THE SAINT CROATIA IN DAVIS CUP FINAL - an inspiration to CROATIAN JUNIORS  By Katarina TepeshNew York, September 26, 2005 – Ivan Ljubicic, ranked 15 best tennis player in the world, has taken Croatia to the Davis Cup final almost single-handedly. “I do realize that winning nine points out of nine is fantastic. I just want to bring Davis Cup to Croatia. We’ve got one more match to go against Slovakia in December and I hope we won’t stop here because the road has been very long and very rough,” said Ljubicic.His five-set victory over Andy Roddick in California during March gave Croatia a 3-1 lead in that tie, while against Romania he came to the rescue by beating Victor Hanescu after Ancic had been beaten in five-sets by Andrei Pavel. This weekend, Ljubicic beat powerful Russian team of Mikhail Youzhny to level the tie at 1-1 on Friday after Davydenko had earlier beaten Ancic, then teamed up with Ancic on Saturday to beat Dmitry Tursunov and Igor Andreev. Ljubicic is the biggest news in Croatia right now. He knocked off from front pages Prime Minister Ivo Sanader, President of Croatia Mesic and Croatian Foreign Affairs and European Integration Minister Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic, who is visiting Washington. Croatians have been celebrating since Sunday. As soon as Ljubicic won, the 5,000 people in the sports hall in Split, burst out screaming, “Ljubo, Ljubo.” and singing “Veceras je Nasa Festa” and “Necemo Doma do Zore.” Speakers blasted, “We are the Champions.” Imagine what an inspiration reaching the first Davis Cup Final will be for the Croatian Juniors recently playing at the US Open 2005. One of the boys below will one day took over to carry on historic event. Which one will it be?The high hopes are on MARIN CILIC, who was born on 9/28/1988 in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ranked No. 2 among Juniors, Cilic at age 16, provides high quality tennis, already attracting hundreds of spectators. In Boys’ Singles Cilic convincingly defeated McClune in First Round with easy 6-2, 6-2; Spencer in Second Round with 7-6, 6-4 and Kirillov 7-6, 6-4 in Third Round; Cilic lost in Quarterfinals to No. 7 Chardy, in two out of three sets 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. Cilic did less well in Boy’s Doubles partnering with Tristan Farron. They lost in the Second Round, with Cilic having great difficulty keeping the focus on doubles play. He behaved as if he was forced to play doubles. Day before, in preparation for the US Open 2005, Cilic was seen practicing with his mentor and idol, Ivan Ljubicic. ANTONIO VEIC was born 2/18/1988. He reached Second Round in Singles and First Round in Doubles. Feisty Veic competes with his heart and soul. Since playing last year at the US Open Juniors, 17-year-old Veic suffered an accident during a soccer game. He broke his left leg in two places. LUKA BELIC was born 10/14/1988. A latecomer to US Open 2005, who at age 16 did not submit any personal info or a photo, Luka is coached by former tennis player and FED CUP Croatian coach Goran Prpic. In Boys’ Singles, Luka managed to reach the Second Round, while in Boys’ Doubles Luka partnered with Antonio Veic and lost in First Round. NIKOLA MEKTIC lost in the First Round in Boys’ Singles, but played exceptionally well in Boys’ Doubles with his partner, 17-year-old Ivan Sergeyev from Ukraine. The two managed to reach the Quarterfinals. PETAR JELENIC, was born 6/13/1987 and is ranked No. 11 among Juniors. He lost in the First Round in Boys’ Singles to Vitulli 6-4, 1-6, 6-1, due to anger and bad temper. Grabbing his private parts and shouting obscenities is not the way to play gentlemen’s tennis. 18-year-old Jelenic displayed total disrespect towards tennis officials as well as making hateful remarks towards his white opponent from Kenya, who had an enthusiastic support from a large group of mostly black boys and girls. The status in Croatia for Junior Girls’ tennis players is pretty good. But that is on paper only! In reality, the training and financial support is at its worst for girls. No Croatian Junior girls participated at the US Open 2005. Favoritism, politics and who is your daddy still plays a large part in Croatian tennis. For example, Ivan Ljubicic and Marin Cilic, both born in Bosnia & Herzegovina requested and received tremendous financial support as well as training. Even Mario Ancic, whose father owns a chain of supermarkets, received all out support. Whereas, Zagreb born Ivo Karlovic, Karolina Sprem from Varazdin and Ivana Lisjak from Cakovec, have not received any financial support from the Croatian tennis association or Croatian government. Their tennis career is financed privately, mostly from their families. Case in point is MARINA ERAKOVIC who was born on 3/6/1988 in Split, Croatia. When Marina was four years old, her family, father Mladen and mother Ljiljana, moved to New Zealand. Marina, now 17 years old, lives in Auckland and represents New Zealand. She has one sister Djurdjica Julia. Marina plays right-handed with double handed backhand. She began playing tennis at age 6 and is coached by Chris Lewis. Marina’s ambition in tennis is to be No. 1. She adores tennis player Monica Seles and her hobbies include reading and soccer. At the US Open 2005, Marina was ranked No. 6 in Girls’ Singles. She successfully competed and won in Quarterfinals. During Semifinals against Victoria Azarenka ranked No.1, Marina was forced to retire due to an injury. She also played Girls’ Doubles with Victoria. They won until Semifinals, when medical assistance was called and the game stopped.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 01 Oct 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7798/1/E-Brazil-draw-with-Croatia-in-Split-Croatia-2005.html  Brazil draw with Croatia in friendlySPLIT, Croatia, Aug 17 (Reuters) - Croatia held Brazil to a 1-1 draw on Wednesday in a friendly dominated by the world champions. The home side's early hard work paid off in the 32nd minute when CSKA Moscow forward Ivica Olic hit the post and Niko Kranjcar slotted in the rebound. Brazil hit back 10 minutes later when Ricardinho sent an 18-metre free kick into the top right-hand corner of the net. The South Americans went close to taking the lead in the 69th minute when Adriano struck the post. Adriano also went wide with a header, as did Ronaldo with a shot from the edge of the box. Both countries fielded their strongest possible teams as they warmed up for World Cup qualifiers in September. Brazil were only without Ronaldinho and Roque Junior, who are suspended for the tie with Chile on September 4. "It was evident that my players are not yet in their best condition. They are still lacking regular competitive rhythm. Taking all that into consideration, I think that a draw was a fair outcome," Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira told reporters. Croatia, who missed injured Rangers striker Dado Prso, top European Zone Group Eight with 16 points. They are one point ahead of Sweden and six ahead of Hungary. Croatia go to Iceland for their next qualifier on September 3 before meeting Malta four days later. Croatia coach Zlatko Kranjcar said: "We showed that we can compete with the best players in the world. "My team fulfilled the tasks I gave them and I'm convinced we can look forward to our coming World Cup qualifiers with optimism."  Brazil have not lost to a European team since they were beaten 2-1 by Portugal in March 2003. http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2005-08/18/content_470163.htm   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sat, 20 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7799/1/E-Branco-Panic-playing-for-Sabah-Malaysia.html  Branco Panic of Croatia playing for Sabah Tough time ahead: Jose 14 August, 2005 Kota Kinabalu: Sabah are expecting a tough match with Selangor PKNS team at the Stadium Larkin, Johor, despite the latter occupying the last spot in Malaysia Cup Group A table. Coach Jose Garrido said midfielder Rosdin Wasli is still injured while defender Ronny Harun is in Kuala Lumpur training with the national Under-23 football team. The latest records showed that the Rhinos are third in the table while Terengganu, on top with three points and Perlis, second, also with three points. "It'll be a tough match considering we've never met PKNS previously," he said on Saturday. Although the Portuguese coach did not elaborate, his words clearly reflected the situation Sabah are facing. Beaten by Perlis 1-2 earlier this month, the Rhinos has been struggling to make good its pledge to win at least one trophy this season. It lost its chances in the FA Cup and was demoted from the Super League to the Premier League. Nevertheless, Sabah FA (Safa) President, Datuk Anifah Aman, believes that his players hold the key to the match outcome. "I was informed by the coach (Garrido) that the players did really well during training. "Hence, they should apply the form they displayed during training throughout the 90 minutes game on Sunday because at the end of the day, it is the players who decided the outcome of the match," he said. He said playing an away or home match does not make any difference because the Rhinos had proven they are not invincible even when playing on home ground. "What's more important is that the players produce their best while they are in the field," he stressed. Meanwhile, Anifah expressed hope that the import players adapt to the environment in Sabah fast so that they could help the Rhinos do well in the tournament. The import players are Brazilians Julio Cesar Rodrigues and Ivan Martin, Nigerian Udensi Christopher Ikechukwu and Branco Panic of Croatia. Garrido said apart from Rosdin and Ronny, the rest of the players could be fielded in the Sabah-Selangor PKNS match. Probable line-up:Shamsul Sabtu, Md Reithudin Embran, Madzalan Emoi, Branco Panic, Mafry Ballang, Mohd Arsyah Mohd Ayob, Henry Soimpon, Joey Ryan Gundok, Zainizam Marjan, Julio Cesar Rodrigues and Udensi Christopher Ikechukwu DAILY EXPRESS NEWS http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=36439  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 15 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7797/1/E-Ivo-Karlovic---the-Croatian-Giant.html  Ivo Karlovic - the Croatian Giant  Trying to Catch a Breakby Jeffrey LesserNEW YORKSix-foot-ten Ivo Karlovic is the tallest man ever to be ranked among the top hundred tennis professionals. Equipped with a serve Andy Roddick calls “the biggest weapon in tennis,” Ivo should without a doubt have a big leg up on the rest of the men’s field. However, the Croat giant has reached a career-high ranking of only 51 and has since nestled into a ranking of around 80 (82 as of August 8, 2005). While his Croatian compatriots, Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic, have flourished and come into their own as tennis players, 26-year-old Karlovic has failed to do so. As the 2005 hard court season progresses, Ivo will have to reverse his mindset and habits in order to turn around his game, and consequently, his ranking.While playing at the Legg Mason Classic in Washington, D.C. last week, Ivo was very impressive in defeating hard-servers Kenneth Carlsen, Max Mirnyi, and Greg Rusedski (both Mirnyi and Rusedski were seeded in the tournament). Reaching the quarterfinals of a non-grass court event for the first time in his life was an enormous achievement for Karlovic, who was playing extremely well and was considered a legitimate threat to defeat top seeded Andy Roddick. The first set of the match went wonderfully for Ivo, who beat the American in a thrilling tiebreak that ended 9-7 in favor of the man from Zagreb. In the second set the two stayed on serve until 5-5, when Roddick broke Karlovic and served out the set successfully. The third and decisive set was 4-4 and at 15-15 on Ivo’s serve. Ivo responded to the pressure-filled situation with two double faults and lost the game, allowing Roddick to serve out the set and the match. Just like that, Ivo Karlovic blew his chance to not only reach the semifinals of the Legg Mason Classic, but also to defeat a top ten player not named Lleyton Hewitt for the first time in his life.“With (Ivo’s) serve, I am surprised he doesn’t win more,” remarked Cliff Drysdale, who along with Roddick’s former coach Brad Gilbert, commentated the Karlovic-Roddick showdown. Drysdale, unfortunately, has no reason to be surprised. The reason Ivo does not win more often is because of his dreadful return game. As Gilbert noted, Ivo has the worst break percentage of any player in the ATP top 100. That is, he breaks his opponents’ serve at the worst frequency out of any of the top hundred professionals (just six percent of the time, to be exact). In order to win a set, Ivo probably has to force a tiebreak. To do that, with his six percent break rate, he has to hold his own serve every time. That transforms his serve, “the biggest weapon in tennis,” into a shot that only keeps him in the match. When he enters tiebreaks, Karlovic, despite owning a better serve than his opponent, wins only fifty percent of the time. This can be attributed to his penchant for committing costly errors. Karlovic is not an extremely steady player, and if his opponent can return his serve back to the other side of the court, there is a decent probability that Ivo will miss the put-away or lose the point one way or the other. Considering Ivo has great difficulty winning a point on his opponent’s serve, one Karlovic mistake can give his opponent the set in tiebreak.The only things that stand between Ivo Karlovic and tremendous success is his erraticism and his return game. His inclination to make an error can be easily diminished and made insignificant by his tremendous serve. Simply raising the rate at which he earns a break of serve from six to twelve will increase the number of matches he wins by a remarkable amount. If he can continue holding serve the way he has in the past, and his return game slightly improves, Karlovic will become not only a dangerous player, but perhaps a truly great one.“He needs to improve his return game just a little, and then he can be a top 25 player,” stated Gilbert during Ivo’s duel with Roddick. To go from 82nd in the world to 25th, all Ivo needs to do is learn to return serve. It sounds easy enough, but only time will tell. Stay tuned for the rest of the summer to the Ivo Show, which culminates at the 2005 US Open. In Flushing Meadows, he will certainly be a threat to win a round or two, but if he can break serve there, who knows? Maybe six-foot-ten Ivo Karlovic can be the tallest man to win the US Open.JEFFREY LESSER lives in West Orange, New Jersey, where he is a 16-year-old high school senior. A "straight A" student, Jeffrey is the editorials editor of his school newspaper, the Pioneer, and frequently contributes editorials, mainly about politics. Jeff is the captain of the boys' tennis team at West Orange High School. He hopes to attend Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he wants to major in sports medicine and become a licensed physician. His mother said that Jeff is such a big fan of Croatian tennis, he might as well just move to Croatia altogether.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 15 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7802/1/E-Bucks-sign-Kukoc-to-1-year-deal.html  Bucks sign Kukoc to 1-year dealBY CHARLES F. GARDNERPosted on Fri, Aug. 05, 2005 Milwaukee Journal SentinelMILWAUKEE - (KRT) - Toni Kukoc will indeed be back with the Milwaukee Bucks next season.The 6-foot-11 forward will begin his fourth season with the Bucks next fall, after being signed to a one-year deal on Friday. The 36-year-old free agent had attracted interest from other National Basketball Association teams, including the Chicago Bulls and league champion San Antonio Spurs."I think it's great for our team moving into next season," Bucks general manager Larry Harris said. "He has tremendous basketball knowledge. "He likes Milwaukee and he likes the fans. This is really where he wants to be."The signing of Kukoc to a contract worth nearly $2 million makes it highly unlikely that the Bucks will match the Atlanta Hawks' four-year, $16 million offer sheet to restricted free agent Zaza Pachulia.The Hawks signed the 6-11 Pachulia on Wednesday. The Bucks have seven days to match the offer or lose the 21-year-old to Atlanta. It is expected that the Bucks will sign free-agent forward Bobby Simmons on Monday and guard Michael Redd and center Dan Gadzuric later in the week. Simmons, named the NBA's most improved player last season with the Los Angeles Clippers, has agreed to a five-year, $47 million deal. Redd has agreed to a six-year contract worth more than $90 million and Gadzuric has agreed to a six-year, $36 million deal.Since joining the Bucks for the 2002-03 season, Kukoc has averaged 8.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 189 regular-season games. n"He's thrilled," said Kukoc's Chicago-based agent, Herb Rudoy. "He had the opportunity to go to five or six teams. From the beginning, he told me to get it done with Milwaukee."Earlier this summer, Rudoy expressed doubts that Kukoc would be able to return to the Bucks because of their off-season spending on other free agents. But Rudoy continued to have a dialogue with Harris, and it eventually led Kukoc back to Milwaukee. "I think he loves the reception he gets from the fans," Rudoy said. "That was a big part of his decision to stay there. And he feels he could be a great mentor to some of their young kids."Toni is a basketball genius; he really understands the game." Kukoc, who lives with his family in Highland Park, Ill., has worked closely with the other Bucks big men, including Gadzuric and Pachulia. Now he will have an opportunity to work with the top pick in the June NBA draft, 7-1 Andrew Bogut.Kukoc is a native of Split, Croatia, and the 20-year-old Bogut is a native of Australia and of Croatian descent."Andrew has a high respect for him," Harris said. "Certainly Toni will be a great learning tool and a great person he can lean on. I know Andrew will be a sponge, and Toni has always been great with our big guys."His wealth of knowledge about basketball is important for the young team we have."Kukoc was limited to 53 games last season by a hip injury, and he averaged a career-low 5.6 points in 20.7 minutes per game. But when he was healthy, the Bucks' bench was more productive and the team was more successful.It is expected that Kukoc will play at both forward spots. He will be used with Joe Smith and Simmons at the power forward spot, and will mix in with Simmons and Desmond Mason at small forward."He'll be a forward," Harris said. "It's all about matchups, and he will do whatever it takes to get himself on the floor. He just wants to win." Rudoy said Kukoc was excited about the Bucks' off-season moves, adding Simmons, retaining Gadzuric and Redd and drafting Bogut. "He likes playing with Redd," Rudoy said. "He thinks Redd is terrific."Kukoc was a second-round draft choice of the Bulls in 1990 and played on three NBA championship teams in Chicago (in 1996, '97 and '98). Before coming to the NBA, Kukoc played in the former Yugoslavia and Italy, winning three European championships and three European player-of-the-year awards.Rudoy declined to speculate on whether the upcoming season, Kukoc's 13th in the NBA, would be his last."He's going to take it one year at a time," Rudoy said. "He decided he just wants to see how the year goes. He didn't want anybody to be tied into that (a longer contract)."© 2005, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.Visit JSOnline, the Journal Sentinel's World Wide Web site, at http://www.jsonline.comDistributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/12316309.htm  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 07 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7800/1/E-Andrew-Bogut-Two-Radio-Interviews-on-WISN.html  Andrew BogutCroatian Pride Click here for Andrew Bogot Interview 6/08/05 -NBA Draft Pick Andrew BogutClick here for Andrew Bogot Interview 2  6/30/05 - #1 NBA Draft Pick Andrew BogutOp-edWe are grateful to Steve “The Homer” True , WISN, Tomislav Kuzmanovic (who brought this to you) and Andrew Bogut, our Croatian pride. Email Homer at thehomer@inet-pc.com  and shower him with good wishes and thank him personaly for the radio interviews. He is becoming an honorary Croatian.Nenad BachSteve “The Homer” True Steve “The Homer” True is the host of “The World’s Greatest Sports Talk Show”, heard from 6pm-8:00pm weeknights on News/Talk 1130 WISN. He is called “The Homer” because he roots for the home team. However, just because he roots for the home team does not mean that he supports all decisions made by local teams. Thus, the First Rule of Homerism is- “I am a Homer, but I am not an idiot”.Homer is a legend in his own mind, having made radio stops in Alliance, Nebraska; Appleton, Wisconsin; and Madison, Wisconsin; before arriving at News/Talk 1130 WISN in November of 1989.The Homer played tennis at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. By his own admission, he is the worst athlete to ever be a Badger letter winner. Source: http://www.newstalk1130.com/homer_bio.html   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 07 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7801/1/E-Rusedski-falls-to-Karlovic.html  Rusedski falls to KarlovicFrom correspondents in Washington05aug05BRITAIN'S Greg Rusedski was eliminated from the ATP Washington Classic today, falling to Croatia's Ivo Karlovic 7-6 6-2 in a third-round match at the US Open tune-up. Karlovic fired 14 aces, twice as many as Rusedski, and advanced to a quarter-final tomorrow against the winner of a later match between American top seed Andy Roddick and Argentina's Juan Ignacio Chela. Rusedski, 31, won last month at Newport and reached the Indianapolis semi-finals but the 37th-ranked Briton suffered his first career loss in three meetings with 75th-rated Karlovic in falling to 20-14 on the season. Karlovic saved two break points in the first and third games of the match and battled Rusedski into a tiebreaker with neither losing serve. Rusedski sent a forehand long and netted a forehand to drop the tiebreaker, then surrendered a break to open the second set. Karlovic saved a break point with a service winner in the sixth game and Rusedski double faulted away another break. Karlovic held at love and ended it with an ace after 77 minutes. http://www.thecouriermail.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,16159282%255E23216,00.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 05 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7803/1/E-Croatias-Duje-Draganja-2nd-fastest-in-the-world.html  Croatia's Duje Draganja took the silverat world swimming championshipPosted on Sun, Jul. 31, 2005 Crocker beats Phelps at world swimming championshipsAmerican breaks own world recordBy PAUL NEWBERRYTHE ASSOCIATED PRESSMONTREAL - Ian Crocker put the Athens Olympics behind him - and Michael Phelps, too.Crocker broke his own world record in the 100-meter butterfly Saturday and turned a much-anticipated rematch with Phelps into a rout.The two Americans were virtually even off the blocks, but Crocker already had a sizable lead when their heads emerged from the water. He was about a half-body length ahead at the turn, and didn't have to worry about Phelps making one his patented charges in the final 50 meters.With arms pumping furiously, Crocker stretched out his advantage all the way to the wall. He touched in 50.40 seconds - easily eclipsing the mark of 50.76 that he set in beating Phelps at last year's U.S. Olympic trials.But Phelps won the race that really mattered, overtaking Crocker at the Athens Olympics.That didn't sit well with Crocker, who was determined to regain the upper hand in his trademark event, even though it meant beating the world's best swimmer."It was definitely my goal to break the record," he said. "I didn't know it would be by that much. When you're racing against Phelps, you always have to assume it's going to take a world record to win. My time definitely surprised me."Crocker didn't have to worry about Phelps, who took the silver but wasn't even close to the winner at 51.65. Ukraine's Andriy Serdinov claimed the bronze."I haven't trained much fly this year," Phelps said. "But I don't want to use that as an excuse. That was a horrible swim for me."While Phelps has won four golds medals and, now, a silver at the world championships, he's not happy with his performance. He failed to qualify for the final of the 400 freestyle and was a disappointing seventh in the 100 free.Two of his four golds have come on relay teams, and Grant Hackett is likely to win the most individual medals on the men's side. The Australian star already has two golds and a silver, and he's an overwhelming favorite in today's 1,500 free."Every thing that has happened this week is a wake-up call," Phelps said. "It's all going to be used for motivation. I don't want to be in a position where I'm disappointed and upset with a race. I want to be happy with the way I'm swimming. This year, hopefully, there will be big improvements."Crocker wants to become the first swimmer to break the 50-second barrier in the 100 fly. He is only looking forward - not back to Athens."The Olympics didn't end quite the way I wanted them to," Crocker said. "I didn't happen to be the best on that day."It was another big night for the Africans, an emerging force at these championships.South Africa's Roland Schoeman captured his second gold by winning the 50 free in 21.69. That was just five-hundredths of a second off Alexander Popov's world record, but did beat Popov's meet record from 2003.Croatia's Duje Draganja took the silver and Poland's Bartosz Kizierowski the bronze.Zimbabwe's Kirsty Coventry completed a sweep of the 100-200 backstroke, winning the longer event in 2:08.52. She also has a silver from the 200 individual medley, making her one of the biggest female stars of the meet.Margaret Hoelzer of the United States claimed silver, Japan's Reiko Nakamura the bronze.Australia's Danni Miatke won the 50 butterfly, a non-Olympic event. The silver and bronze went to a pair of Swedish swimmers, Anna-Karin Kammerling and Therese Alshammar.http://www.sunherald.com/mld/sunherald/sports/12267260.htm  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 03 Aug 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7808/1/E-A-new-Croatian-soccer-team-CSC-Oakville-Hrvat.html  A new Croatian soccer team, C.S.C. Oakville Hrvat is online atwww.oakvillehrvat.com CroNetwork: The Croatian-American Organization for Young Professionals.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7807/1/E-Second-annual-Velika-Gospa-golf-outing-in-Chicago.html  Second annual Velika Gospa golf outing in ChicagoOn Saturday, August 13th around noon, St. Jerome is holding its second annual Velika Gospa golf outing. This year it will be held at Highland Woods Golf Course in Hoffman Estates. 100% of the proceeds benefits children's orphanages in Croatia. We are asking for donations or your participation in 18 holes of golf. Cost for 18 holes of golf: $125.00Includes: Golf shirt, sleeve of golf balls, club rag, and huge pig and lamb roast after the event. If you have a business that you would like to promote, we are offering sponsor banners for $150.00. They will be placed on one of the 18 holes with your company logo etc. Currently we have over 50 golfers and 30 company or personal sponsors. It is for a great cause and we are asking for everyone's help. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Marko Karacic at 773-716-7400. Or mail your check made payable to "St. Jerome Church" and send it to: Marko Karacic6186 N. KeatingChicago, IL. 60646RE: St. Jerome Golf OutingThank you once again and I hope we can raise enough money to make all the children smile for at least one day knowing that someone was thinking of them.Marko KaracicCroNetwork: The Croatian-American Organization for Young Professionals.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7806/1/E-Davis-Cup-Semis--Russia-vs-Croatia.html  Davis Cup Semis- Russia vs Croatiaby: Filip MalaricIn the first round of this year’s Davis Cup, Ljubicic and Ancic overcame a strong U.S. team in the U.S., including Agassi, Roddick, and the Bryan brothers, three matches to two. Again in the quarterfinals in Split, Ljubicic and Ancic led their Croatian Davis Cup team to victory against Romania. They will now meet Russia in semis who defeated France in their quarterfinal round. The same stadium in Split will be used for the semis.Our team will be the same with Ljubicic, Ancic, Karlovic, and Tuksar. Ljubicic and Ancic will most likely play doubles. They are a great team and they communicate and work together well. They will probably be playing singles as well and their huge serves will get another boost on the fast surface. Karlovic and Tuksar are kept as reserves if one of the main players are unable to play. Surprisingly, Nikola Pilic, our Davis Cup coach, has never beaten Russia while coaching.The Russians have an extremely strong team in Safin, Davydenko, Andreev, and Youzhny. Marat Safin who is currently no. 5 in the world has still not confirmed if he will play. No. 7 in the world, Nikolay Davydenko, has been having the best year of his career. He doesn’t have a huge weapon but is a very consistent all-around player who can cause us trouble. Mikhail Youzhny and Igor Andreev will most likely play doubles but, against France, they seemed rusty and did not communicate well.The semis against Russia will definitely be challenging. If our doubles team can secure their win, we will have a great advantage. This is the first time Croatia has advanced to the semis.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7805/1/E-Phoenix-1st-Annual-Croatian-Small-Goals-Tournament.html  Phoenix 1st Annual Croatian 'Small Goals Tournament' October 22nd, 2005Hosted by Mladi Hrvati Phoenix & NK Croatia Arizona6 vs 6$1000 Cash Prizefor winning team-12 player maximum per team-$500 entry fee per team (includes admission to banquet that night for eachplayer)Games will run all day Saturday October 22nd w/ banquet that night(All teams must submit a registration form with payment no later than Sept1st. 2005)For more info/ registration forms contact:Pepo Alaupovic CroatiaArizona@Hotmail.com Katarina Zovko Katarina022@aol.com Teams from AZ, Chicago, San Pedro, Los Angeles, Nor Cal & other parts of theUS are expected !!CroNetwork: The Croatian-American Organization for Young Professionals.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7804/1/H-Veljko-Rogosic-u-Novalji.html  Veljko Rogosic u Novalji   www.veljkorogosic.org    Veljko u Novalji ! - [Dudići (O. Pag) - Novalja (O. Pag)] Uz glasni i srdačni doček, Novalja je dočekala legendu plivanja. Iako po jugu i relativno valovitom moru, Veljko je od Dudića do Novalje doplivao u 14:15 (tocno u minutu prema izracunima pilota Fedje), Å¡to znači da je plivao preko 6 sati. Udaljenost: cca 15,5 km. Na obali mnoÅ¡tvo ljudi, predstavnici Novalje i Turističke zajednice Novalja, posjetitelji i mjeÅ¡tani.Dozet se opasno priprema za finale, pa tako je i danas pratio Veljka zadnjih 600 tinjak metara :)Sutra je na redu relativno kratka dionica od Novalje do Å imuna, ali prema prognozama po dosta loÅ¡em vremenu. Tip of the day: Veljko u pol puta stane i kaže pilotu: "Već su me dva pilota napustila, a ti imaÅ¡ žuti karton" i ode dalje :) No comment.7/18/2005Rano jutros Veljko krenuo iz Dudića prema Novalji - [Dudići (O. Pag) - Novalja (O. Pag)] Po relativno loÅ¡em vremenu za plivanje, a to znači jugozapadni vjetar sa morem 2 do 3, Veljko je u 8 i 15 započeo etapu do Novalje. Očekuje se da će po ovakvim vremenskim uvjetima Veljko plivati do Novalje viÅ¡e od 5 sati, pa bi u cilju trebao biti između 13 i 14 sati. Duljina ove dionice prema proračunima iznosi 19.200 m.7/18/2005  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 21 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7811/1/H-HRVATSKE-SVJETSKE-IGRE---ZADAR-2006.html  HRVATSKE SVJETSKE IGRE - ZADAR 2006KONFERENCIJA ZA TISAKTURISTIČKO NASELJE ZATON - 13.07.20051. Hrvatske svjetske igre projekt su Hrvatskog svjetskog kongresa (HSK), krovne iseljeničke udruge sa sjediÅ¡tem u Å vicarskoj i 30 predstavniÅ¡tva diljem svijeta. Hrvatski svjetski kongres osnovan je 1993 godine i uživa članstvo nevladine udruge pri UN-u sa konzultativnim statusom u ECOSOC-u.2. U jesen 2002. godine rođena je ideja o održavanju Hrvatskih svjetskih igara pod radnim nazivom "Crolimpijada". Projekt prvi put predstavljen IzvrÅ¡nom odboru HSK-a na sastanku u Zagrebu u ožujku 2003 godine i proslijeđen na detaljnu izradu. Sljedeće godine u srpnju na sastanku Glavnog odbora HSK-a u Sarajevu donesena je konačna odluka o održavanju Hrvatskih svjetskih igara u Zadru 2006..3. Prethodno konačnoj odluci članovi IzvrÅ¡nog odbora HSK-a posjetili su razne institucije u RH - Vladu RH, Grad Zadar, Županiju zadarsku, Hrvatsku maticu iseljenika, Nadbiskupiju zadarsku i Hrvatski olimpijski odbor - i dobili pozitivne signale u smislu potpore i pokroviteljstva. 4. Hrvatske svjetske igre prvo su globalno sportsko natjecanje u Hrvata. Domaća selekcija sportaÅ¡a natjecati će se protiv selekcija država hrvatske dijaspore i selekcije Hrvata iz Bosne i Hercegovine. Svi sudionici Igara moraju biti hrvatskih korijena i mogu jedino nastupiti za delegaciju zemlje u kojoj borave barem zadnje tri godine.5. Ciljevi HSI-a: Približavanje domovinske i iseljene Hrvatske, promocija grada i županije domaćina, promocija hrvatskog turizma, približavanje hrvatskih sportskih talenata domovini.6. Hrvatske svjetske igre biti će održane u Gradu Zadru i na području Zadarske županije. Igre će trajati od 15.07.2006 do 21.07.2006 i biti će svečano otvorene mimohodom delegacija u centru Zadra. Svi sudionici Igara biti će smjeÅ¡tenu u TN Zaton koje će biti sportsko selo za vrijeme Igara.7. Discipline na Igrama: Atletika, badminton, boćanje, judo, karate, koÅ¡arka, koÅ¡arka-hakl, nogomet, nogomet na pijesku, mali nogomet, nogomet veterana, odbojka, odbojka na pijesku, plivanje, rukomet, stolni tenis, taekwondo, tenis8. Dob sudionika: od 16 do 40 godina, za boćanje i maraton (atletika) nema starosnog ograničenja. Veteranski nogomet od 36 godina bez gornjeg ograničenja.9. Pored sportaÅ¡a mogu se prijaviti i treneri, suci, predstavnici i volonteri za aktivne uloge na Igrama. Å esta kategorija je pasivna, ali možda za neke najatraktivnija - "prijatelji Igara". Predviđeno za osobe koji za vrijeme Igara žele biti sa ostalim u sportskom selu ali bez obaveza prema programu. 10. DosadaÅ¡nji tijek prijava: do danaÅ¡njeg dana stigle su oko 430 prijava iz 21zemlje. Prijave uglavnom iz manje organiziranih sredina i dobrim dijelom u pojedinačnim disciplinama. Očekivanja su bila takva da će ekipni sportovi iz organiziranih hrvatskih zajednica prednjačiti. Iako iznenađujuća - vrlo pozitivna situacija!11. Novosti za drugi prijavni rok - pored Interneta prijave moguće također putem telefona ili faksa. Ured HSI-a u Zadru otvara 15.8.2005. Promjena nekih ograničenja u svezi starosne dob sudionika, ali najveća novost je kategorija "prijatelji Igara" koja omogućuje baÅ¡ svakome da bude sudionik Igara (sudjeluju u mimohodu). Nogomet veterana uvrÅ¡ten u službeni dio programa (od 36 godina).12. Delegacije Hrvatske i BIH - Detaljne informacije u rujnu / listopadu 2005. Razmatramo mogućnost održavanja kvalifikacijskih turnira u suradnji sa sportskim savezima. 13. Cijena sudjelovanja - 285 EUR za sve aktivne kategorije / 450 EUR za prijatelje Igara, volonteri ako su smjeÅ¡teni u naselju također 285 EUR, ako u samostalnom aranžmanu besplatno. U cijeni uključeno je sudjelovanje na sportskom dijelu Igara, na otvaranju i zatvaranju Igara, smjeÅ¡taj u TN Zaton polu-pansion u bungalowu, jedan obrok na sportskim terenima, ulaz na sva natjecanja, ulaz na kompletni zabavni program, oprema prema potrebi (osim tenisica i oprema za borilačke sportove), transport unutar prijevoznog sistema Igara, koriÅ¡tenje IT centra i doživotno članstvo HSI-a. Jure Strikawww.zadar2006.com Kontakt Tel: 091 / 768 3316  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 18 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7810/1/E-Ivan-Ljubicic-celebrates-victory---Croatia-into-semifinals.html  Ivan Ljubicic celebrates victory - Croatia into semifinals Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic celebrates victory in the doubles with Mario Ancic during a Davis Cup world group quarter-final tennis match against Romania's Andrei Pavel and Gabriel Trifu at Split, Croatia, July 16, 2005. Ljubicic and Ancic defeated Pavel and Trifu 5-7 6-4 6-7 6-4 6 6-4. REUTERS/Matko Biljak Ivan i MarioCroatia's Ivan Ljubicic (R) and his partner Mario Ancic react during their Davis Cup world group quarterfinal doubles against Romania's Ander Pavel and Gabriel Trifu at Split, Croatia July 16, 2005. REUTERS/Matko Biljak   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 18 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7809/1/E-Ljubicic-steers-Croatia-into-Davis-Cup-semis.html  Ljubicic steers Croatia into Davis Cup semisCroatia:Romania 4-1Sun Jul 17, 2005 7:05 PM BSTPrinter Friendly | Email Article | RSS LONDON, July 17 (Reuters) - Croatia reached the Davis Cup semi-finals for the first time on Sunday after Ivan Ljubicic beat Romania's Andrei Pavel in the first reverse singles in Split.Ljubicic, who fired down 21 aces, brushed aside Pavel 6-3 6-4 6-3 to hand Croatia an unassailable 3-1 lead.Croatia, who defeated the United States in the opening round, now take on 2002 champions Russia in September."This was one of my best feelings on a tennis court," said Ljubicic. "The spectators were great, I had goose bumps for the whole of the third set."A break in the sixth game was enough for Ljubicic to secure the opening set. Pavel broke early in the second but the Croat reeled off five consecutive games to take command of the match."I was mad at myself losing the serve in the second set," said Ljubicic. "It was all me, and my mistakes, but once I got back on track I knew I had to win this match in three sets."Mario Ancic completed a 4-1 victory with a 7-6 7-6 win over Victor Hanescu in the dead rubber. http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=tennisNews&storyID=URI:urn:newsml:reuters.com:20050717:MTFH50492_2005-07-17_18-05-17_L17701772:1   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 18 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7814/1/E-Croatias-Ukic-to-join-Raptors-on-October-1st.html  Croatia's Ukic to join Raptors   Sports Friday, July 15, 2005 Time is GMT + 8 hoursPosted: 15-Jul-2005 20:51 hrs Croatia's international point guard Roko Leni Ukic is to join the National Basketball Assocation's Toronto Raptors for the next three seasons. Croatia's international point guard Roko Leni Ukic is to join the National Basketball Assocation's Toronto Raptors for the next three seasons, head of his Split CO club told AFP. ."I am not familiar with the details of his contract, but I know that everything has been arranged. It is certain," Dino Radja said Friday..The amount of the transfer is three million dollars, according to the local Sportske Novosti daily. ."Toronto was always my wish," the 21-year-old Ukic told the daily.."I will appear in Toronto on October 1," Ukic said adding that he would first play for Croatia at the European basketball championship in September in Serbia. â€" AFP http://www.todayonline.com/articles/61674.asp  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 15 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7813/1/E-Free-Admission-to-Tennis.html  Free Admission to TennisBy Katarina TepeshFree admission to US Open Qualifying Tournament starting Tuesday, August 23 â€" Friday, August 26, 2005. Gates open at 10:00 am at the USTA National Tennis Center. Come see tomorrow’s Croatian tennis stars today at one of the largest tennis tournaments in the United States. Admission to all US Open qualifying matches is FREE! Also Free admission Open Practice Day on Sunday, August 28, 2005; Gates open at 11:00 am. Come see your favorite Croatian tennis star up close and personal as they practice for the 2005 US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS.Support Croatian tennis stars IVAN LJUBICIC, MARIO ANCIC, IVO KARLOVIC, KAROLINA SPREM, JELENA KOSTANIC, SANDRA MAMIC, SILVIJA TALAJA, ROKO KARANUSIC, SASA TUKSAR, ZELJKO KRAJAN, MAJA PALAVERSIC COOPERSMITH, LOVRO ZOVKO and others. Competing among Juniors will be MARIN CILIC, SANJA ANCIC, PETAR JELINIC, IVANA ABRAMOVIC, JOSKO TOPIC, NIKA OZEGOVIC and others. Playing at US OPEN, Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York from August 29 â€" September 12, 2005. Prize money is rising from last year and the Men’s and Women’s singles champions will each get a record $1.1 million.To purchase tickets for 2005 US OPEN, go to TicketMaster.com or call TicketMaster at 1-866-OPEN-TIX Tickets are available for groups of 25 or more. One Free Ticket for every 25 tickets purchased per session. Call 718-760-6200 menu option #1. The US Open is the highest annually attended sporting event in the world with more than 625,000 fans. More than 86 million viewers watched the US Open on CBS and USA Network, and international broadcasts reached 199 countries. For more info see www.usopen.org  Transportation: Subway at Grand Central Station/Times Square take Flushing bound IRT number 7 train to Willets Point-Shea Stadium stop. ***  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 14 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7815/1/E-Veljko-Rogosic---Amazing-Test-of-Human-Endurance.html  Veljko Rogosic - Amazing Test of Human Endurance Veljko Rogosic (64), four time International Long Distance Swimming Federation World Champion, is on his way to win another world’s best. This outstanding sportsman entered the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 1998. Rogosic swam La Manche (38 km) in 2004 at the age of 63, to be the oldest ever and the only Croatian to do so!Rogosic is taking on another professional and personal challenge this summer. A young 64-year-old Croatian legend is swimming a marathon down the entire Adriatic coast, from Savudria in North to Prevlaka in the South - 1,000 km (622 miles) - in less than 60 days!For more information, map and a daily journal of his amazing adventure, as well as a large photo gallery, please visit: www.veljkorogosic.org .Please do contact me for any further information, pictures, clips or anything else you may need.Warm regards from sunny and hot Croatia!Marina StanojevicPress/ MarketingTeam Veljko Rogosicpress@veljkorogosic.org +385 91 552 4022  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 12 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7812/1/E-Mario-Carevic-training-with-VFB-Stuttgart.html  Mario Carevic training with VFB StuttgartFormer Hajduk Split midfielder Mario Carevic (Mario Carević) who spent the last season playing in Saudi Arabia could continue his career in Germany if he fulfills the expectation of VFB Stuttgart coach Giovanni Trapattoni. The 23 year old has left Croatia and Hajduk last summer after playing 102 league game in First Division plus scoring 7 goals, and from then on we lost his trace in Saudi Arabia and Al-Ittihad, a club that just bought Jared Borgetti the best player of Mexico at Confederations Cup in Germany.Now Carevic appears to be back from Middle East and is accordingly to German media reported to be seen at the training session with VFB Stuttgart. Will he stay or not will probably depend of the Giovanni Trapattoni impressions of the Croat.  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 12 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7819/1/E-Croatia-defeating-Russia-12-7-in-New-York.html  In the group B semifinal today in New York:Croatia defeating Russia 12-7Canadian Water PoloCanada loses 14-8 to Spain in World League men’s water polo semifinal tournamentJuly 6, 2005TORONTO.- A rebuilding Canadian men’s team got caught in an scoring festival with Spain on Wednesday and lost 14-8 in the opening game of the A group World League men’s water polo semifinal tournament being held this week at the University of Toronto.The Canadians who were 0-6 in the round robin portion of the tournament which took place last month in Europe were led by Kevin Mitchell of Vancouver with three goals, Thomas Marks of Vancouver with two while Kevin Graham of Regina, Noah Miller of Regina and Jean Sayegh of Montreal notched one apiece. The score was 9-4 Spain at the half. “This was by far our worst game we’ve played so far in the World League,â€? said Canada’s head coach Dragan Jovanovich of Calgary. “The mistakes we made tonight were incredible. This was the first time we were playing at home and we looked paralysed out there. The only positive is we only lost by six goals. We hadn’t played in 10 days and I think we lost our rhythm. We need to get back to our defensive ethic and ball control.â€?Guillermo Molina led Spain with four goals while Felipe Perrone, Kiko Perrone, Jose Rodriguez and Xavi Valles added two each with singles to R. Diaz and Ivan Perez.In Wednesday’s other game here Greece defeated Serbia and Montenegro, the Olympic silver medallists 8-7. Greece led 5-4 at the half. It was Serbia and Montenegro’s first lost of the tournament. Scoring for Greece were Antonis Vlontakis, Stefanos Santa and G Nioskas with two goals each and Argyrios Theodoropoulos and Theodoros Chatzitheodorou with one each. Aleksandar Sapic, the league’s top scorer, scored four times for Serbia Montenegro with singles to Danilo Ikodinovic, Vladimir Vujasinovic and B. Zlokovic.On Thursday, Canada has the bye with Serbia Montenegro facing Germany at 7 p.m. and Spain vs Greece at 8:30 p.m. Canada’s next game is Friday against Serbia Montenegro, the Olympic silver medallists in Athens.The group B semifinal also started today in New York with Croatia defeating Russia 12-7 and Italy edging the U.S., 6-4. The top-three teams from the two groups advance to the World League final next month in Belgrade. More than $430,000 (U.S.) is up for cash prizes in the tournament.More information at: www.waterpolo.ca and www.fina.org Source: http://www.sportsfeatures.com  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Sun, 10 Jul 2005 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/7817/1/E-Croatia-sniper-Marasovic-overpowers-City-in-13-minutes.html  Marasovic, Croatia sniper, overpowers CityMarasovic scored all three Toronto Croatia goals Croatia 3, City 1 By KATHY RUMLESKI -- London Free PressIn the battle between the top two teams in the Canadian Professional Soccer League, Toronto Croatia emphatically made its case that it is now supreme. Croatia scored three goals in 13 minutes, all by Leo Marasovic, to defeat London City 3-1 last night at Cove Road field. Marasovic, with his speed and height, was able to cruise through City's defence and shoot bullets at goalkeeper Ibrahim Hadzic. Croatia, last year's league champions, improved to 4-1-1 atop the Eastern Conference while City fell to 5-3 but still remains tops in the West. City manager Harry Gauss was frustrated that his team didn't stick to basic plays. "We're meat and potatoes -- we're not filet mignon." London got on the board first in the 27th minute on a goal by Jeff Johnson, playing in his first game for City this year. He last played for City two years ago. Croatia tied the game just over a minute into the second half. Marasovic dribbled past two defenders and sent the ball over the head of Hadzic.Marasovic then popped in two more goals in the 56th and 60th minutes. Two minutes later and Hadzic had to knock out two more shots. "(Hadzic) still did a good job," said Gauss. One of Hadzic's best saves came in the 12th minute when he came out of the net to steal the ball from Croatia's Leo Laurito. Hadzic had to guard the net after starting goalie Haidar Al-Shaibani learned this week he'll be out for six weeks. Al-Shaibani suffered a torn hamstring while playing as a full- back in last Friday's game. Another London player was injured last night. City defender Shawn Ord was knocked to the ground late in the game when Croatia's Tom Granic hit Ord in the face with his shoulder. Ord had to be helped off the field. City's Erik Elmauer received a red card at the end of the game when he booted the ball at referee Justin Tasev, a f