Anamarija Knezević, Podhum, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Kantarevac
Author: Anamarija Knezević
Despite living in the nearby community of Podhum, I find myself spending the majority of my leisure time at Kantarevac sports center. I reside on Franjevačka Street, which is great for both young children as well as the elderly. It is a secure and comforting neighborhood that provides amenities tailored to these groups, including a children’s park with various playground equipment and a promenade specifically designed for the elderly.
My initial visit to Kantarevac was accompanied by my mom and aunt, who fondly reminisced about their own childhood experiences there, particularly their playing handball. As they shared stories of social gatherings, lively parties, and enduring friendships that have withstood the test of time, I found myself inspired to try my hand at a sport as well.
There was a “Mala škola sporta” (Little School of Sports) where children had the opportunity to explore various sports activities and discover their passion. I personally chose football. Despite my young age of only 14, I have vivid memories of Kantarevac before its renovation—a place that seemed only slightly better than when it was first constructed. Regrettably, the sports center received little investment over the years, despite being the birthplace of many exceptional athletes. The changing rooms were old, dreary, and simply inadequate. The field was uneven, and the stands were worn-out.
Nevertheless, these shortcomings did not deter us from participating in a wide range of sports activities, including football, handball, basketball, and even majorettes. We all recognized that there was room for improvement and a desire for a more appealing environment. However, given the circumstances, we made the most of what we had. The turning point arrived with the renovation of Kantarevac. A new grassy field, modern changing rooms, and refreshing showers—everything suddenly sparkled with new life.
Kantarevac has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now maintained as a well-equipped sports center, thanks to the excellent efforts of those responsible for its upkeep. Not only do they ensure the facilities are in top condition, but they also take care of the planted greenery, adding to the overall appeal of the place. This revitalized sports center has fueled my passion for sports even further. In addition to promoting a healthy body and fostering play, Kantarevac provides a unique opportunity for me to forge new friendships with students from various schools across different parts of the city, as well as from other towns and cities throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Visiting other places through sports events is not solely about playing and competing; it feels like embarking on exciting excursions. While we may be fierce rivals during tournaments, defending our colors on the field, the competition fosters a sense of camaraderie off the field. We explore the host cities, visit landmarks, and build lasting friendships that extend beyond the realm of sports.
At Kantarevac, I find solace and a sense of security. It is a place where tension melts away, allowing me to fully enjoy myself. In fact, it feels like a second home to me. When I close my eyes, I can envision a comforting atmosphere, absent of any stress, and it fills me with joy. The sound of applause, ovations, and cheers from parents, friends, and supporters resonates in my ears. Engaging in sports at Kantarevac is truly remarkable. I know the purpose behind my training, and I believe that my efforts will be recognized, not just through an article on some website, but through genuine praise and recognition from experts.
That’s precisely why I dedicate myself to training and why I visit Kantarevac even outside the official season. Through this story, I aim to illustrate that Kantarevac is much more than a venue for concerts and Christmas tournaments. It serves as a gathering place for young people from all corners of the city, fostering connections and camaraderie among the youth of our community, just as it has always been.