Mornar has appointed Hrvoje Koljanin as its new head coach, bringing in one of the most respected Croatian coaches of his generation as the club looks to reset ahead of the new season.
Koljanin returns to Croatian club water polo following his most recent role with Olympiacos, where he led the team during the 2023 campaign. His departure from the Greek side was agreed mutually, with the club acknowledging his professionalism and contribution during a demanding period both domestically and in Europe.
The Croatian coach’s CV is both varied and high-level. He was part of the Olympiacos staff during their historic 2018 Champions League triumph, working as assistant to Theodoros Vlachos. That experience at the very top of European water polo has shaped much of his coaching philosophy.
Koljanin has also held head coaching roles, including a stint with NC Vouliagmeni, and has long been involved in player development. He spent several years as head coach of Croatia’s U18 national team, helping to guide and produce emerging talent in one of the sport’s strongest pipelines.
At club level in Croatia, he previously worked as assistant coach at VK Jug Dubrovnik under Vjekoslav Kobešćak, further strengthening his experience within elite environments.
Now, he takes over at Mornar Split, a club aiming to re-establish itself as a competitive force in the domestic league and the regional scene. His blend of elite European experience and proven track record in youth development makes him a strategic appointment for a side looking to build both immediately and sustainably.
Koljanin’s arrival signals ambition from Mornar — and for the coach himself, an opportunity to translate years of experience at top clubs into a long-term project back on home soil.
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