Some teams are created for results, others for reasons that go beyond sports.
Mila Zelenika’s team was not created by chance, nor from mere sporting ambition. It arose out of the need to preserve it a memory of a man gone too soonbut he left behind a deep mark, on and off the field.
The team is named for a reason: in honor Dear Zelenikaa former athlete from Široki Brijeg, who left a particularly strong impression in indoor soccer, but even more so in the hearts of his friends and teammates.
A name that has become a symbol
After his untimely death on April 28, 2022, not long after, an idea was born that eventually grew into something much bigger than the team itself. His many teammates, also friends, they decided to continue playing for Mila. Thus, in 2022, a team was created that has carried his name and story ever since, and that sees every appearance on the field as an act of respect for that community.
Mile Zelenika in 2021 in the jersey of MNK Herzegovina
It is clear from the very beginning that this is not about symbolism without content. Mila Zelenika’s team very quickly started recording notable performances and top results at some of the strongest tournaments in the region. They played with heart, with a clear motive and identity, leaving a mark not only with the results, but also with the way they represented the name they carry.
A special chapter in that story was written in 2025, when played at the iconic Match Box in Zagrebone of the strongest and most prestigious indoor soccer tournaments. Passing even three rounds on such a stage is a confirmation of quality, character and continuity.
The story of Mila Zelenika’s team does not stop only on the field. The next big step is the 1st Mila Zelenika Memorial Tournamentwhich also got its official date. Opening of the tournament it was scheduled on Mila Zelenika’s birthdaya date that carries special weight and symbolism for everyone involved. The tournament will be held from May 24 to June 4, 2026.
This is not just a sporting event. This is it the continuation of a story that started too soon, but is still being lived – on the field, through matches and jerseys bearing the name of Mile Zelenika.
(www.jabuka.tv │KA │ Photo: Box of Matches)
