In celebration of Šibenik’s City Day and the feast of St. Michael, the city’s patron saint, a grand ceremony was held at the Republic of Croatia Square in the heart of Šibenik. During the event, awards and recognitions were presented to distinguished individuals by the City Council.
One of the most prestigious honours, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was bestowed upon Croatian national water polo coach Ivica Tucak.
“In my life, I’ve received many awards and recognitions, but an award from the city where I was born and raised holds a special significance,” said Tucak in his acceptance speech on behalf of all honourees.
Tucak has been the head coach of the Croatian water polo team since the fall of 2012. Under his leadership, the team has secured an impressive 17 medals. Among the most notable are two Olympic silver medals (Rio de Janeiro 2016 and Paris 2024), two World Championship gold medals (Budapest 2017 and Doha 2024), and a European Championship gold (Split 2022).
Prior to his work with the Croatian national team, he coached VK Sibenik (2006-2009), and then Jadran Herceg-Novi (2009-2012).