Marin from HASK Rowing Club – Rower, Student, and a Young Man Shaping His Club from Within

Some people find competition in sport. Others find community. And then there are those who discover a space for personal growth — both on the water and within the club’s leadership. One of them is Marin, a 20-year-old mathematics student and long-time member of the rowing section at HAŠK Mladost. Although balancing university and sports has become challenging, Marin has found a new way to stay involved in rowing, from a perspective that is transforming both him and the club.

Marin, can you briefly introduce yourself?

Hi! I’m Marin, I’m 20 years old and I study mathematics. I’ve been rowing for seven years and I really love the sports. Even though university has become quite demanding and it’s hard to manage everything, I still train six times a week, although not at the level I might wish for.

What made you decide to get involved in the club’s management?

When I realised I couldn’t attend training as often as before, I started looking for a way to remain part of the club. A year ago, I was elected to the club’s board, and since then I’ve been actively involved in its daily operations. It has become a very important part of my life.

What has this experience given you?

Much more than I expected. I’ve developed communication, organisational, and leadership skills that I couldn’t have gained just through training. Everything I’ve learned through this engagement will definitely help me in the future — both in sports and beyond.

What does sport, and rowing in particular, mean to you?

Sport fulfills me. Rowing has brought me many friends, people I spend time with every day and share experiences with. It makes me a more complete person. Training and being part of a team mean a lot to me — it’s part of my identity.

What have you learned through the STAY! project?

STAY! gave me the space to grow beyond just the competitive role. I realised how much you can learn through working within the club, not just on the water. This experience has given me greater confidence and a sense that I can contribute to the club on many different levels.

Do you see sport as part of your future?

Absolutely. I believe sport significantly improves the quality of life. I hope rowing remains my main sport and that I stay active — whether as an athlete or as someone supporting the club from within.

Marin’s story shows how important it is to give young people the opportunity to grow in sport — beyond just competing. Through the STAY! project, he has had the chance to develop as a leader, a community member, and as someone who sees sport not just as an activity, but as part of a lifelong journey.