At the recently held 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, the Croatian handball team achieved exceptional success, winning the gold medal. Among the Olympic winners were two from Kaštela – brothers Mateo and Ilija Perak, long-time members of the team and holders of numerous international medals.
On the occasion of winning the gold, a reception was held at the city administration, attended by, in addition to the Olympians, the president of the County Sports Association of the Deaf, Marjan Turković, the secretary of the Association, Miro Opačak, and communications mediator Ana Tomić. The athletes were received by Deputy Mayor Antonio Budimir and Head of the Association, Antonia Kljaić.
Ilija Perak spoke about his impressions from Tokyo, emphasizing that the Germans were considered favorites before the tournament, but the Croatian national team once again showed its strength.
"Of course, the Croatian heart, the team, the togetherness – we showed that we are actually the favorites. Thank God, we managed to defend the gold. This is the first time we have managed to do that and we know that it is always harder to defend than to attack the gold," said Ilija.
He also highlighted the impressive array of medals the national team has won over the past years: four European golds, three world golds, three Olympic golds and one Olympic bronze from 2017. The last Olympic Games, before Tokyo, were held in 2022 in Brazil, where Croatia also came out on top.
He cited the strongest competitors as the national teams of Serbia, Germany and France, which have been investing more and more in deaf handball in recent years. Despite this, Croatia maintains a continuity of top results.
"We are one family, one klapa that maintains that continuity. I hope it will last for a long time, with good health and sporting luck," said Ilija, adding that the national team's next major competition awaits in 2027 at the World Championship, the location of which has not yet been determined.
Deputy Mayor Antonio Budimir emphasized how proud he is of the athletes who have successfully represented Kaštela and Croatia for years.
"This is one of the most special receptions. The Perak brothers have been achieving exceptional sporting results in handball for many years. They recently returned from the Deaflympics with gold, confirming their continued success at world and European competitions," said Budimir.
He added that the athletes come from small backgrounds, but with big hearts.
"That doesn't stop us from achieving exceptional results. The Croatian moment, that special energy in key moments, is often decisive. We hope that it will continue to bring us successes, both in sports and in life."
The reception for the Perak brothers ended in a festive and emotional atmosphere, with thanks to the athletes for promoting the city and the country and wishes for new successes in the years to come.
Photo: PR
