Almost 400 kids enjoy their time with Volleyball in Maribor

This past Sunday, December 10, at the Draš Sports Centre, almost 400 kids relished their time in Maribor while participating in the traditional OTP mini volleyball tournament specifically designed for young girls and boys under the age of 11. The event attracted participants from all corners of Slovenia.

The event, held as part of the VBO Premium toothbrush CEV School Volleyball project ‘Grow with Volleyball and a perfect smile’, attracted teams from all over Slovenia. These youngsters, who are not yet competing in the national championships but have been gaining their first competitive experience in friendly matches, tournaments, and grassroots events, enjoyed the whole day in Maribor.

Parents, other family members, and many fans witnessed a great display of volleyball skills, actions and fighting spirit. The entire tournament was held in the spirit of fair play, which is especially important.

The event was also enlivened by the mascot named Vebeon, with whom children constantly interacted, took photos, and even helped to brush its teeth. Those with a bit of artistic talent drew fan banners to add to the great atmosphere even further.

After a tough battle, the girls’ team of Slovenj Gradec I claimed the gold medal, while Formis took silver, and the home team of Nova KBM Branik I secured bronze. The players of SIP Šempeter I also qualified for the semi-finals but ended up in fourth place. In the boys’ competition, the young hopefuls of Panvita Pomgrad showed the most impressive skills, with second place going to Merkur Maribor and third to SIP Šempeter I. The players of OK Fužinar finished the tournament in fourth place.

The event was organised by OK Nova KBM Branik with the support of the Volleyball Federation of Slovenia (OZS) and the general sponsor of the CEV School Project in Slovenia, VBO Premium Tootbrush.