Episode 147
Srdačan pozdrav poštovani studenti!
We’re taking a trip to the barbershop this week, so why not learn the Croatian words for our visit?
We’ve got some difficult pronunciations on the way, so let’s get geared up for the challenge!
Lesson
salon - frizerski salon
barbershop - frizerski salon za muškarci (not common - brijačnica)
hair stylist - frizer/frizerka
hair scissors - škare za šišanje
hair clippers - mašinica za šišanje
bald - ćelav
hairspray - Lak za kosu.
gel. - Gel za kosu.
Super Slatko Report
In this edition of the Super Slatko Report, DJ Moe is going tell us about a sport that we never knew Croatians enjoyed playing. You guessed it! Rugby! Who’s playing and where? Tune in to find out!
How did Rugby make its way to Croatia?
Rugby first arrived in Croatia in the early 20th century, introduced by students and expatriates who had spent time in countries where the sport was more established. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s and 60s, during the Yugoslav era, that organized rugby clubs really began to take shape. Since then, it has remained a niche but passionate part of the sporting landscape, kept alive by dedicated fans and players.
Despite not being a national obsession, rugby has managed to plant its flag in various parts of the country. The strongest rugby hubs can be found in cities like Zagreb, Split, and Sinj, with smaller clubs popping up in other regions as well.
Some clubs I found are:
HARK Mladost (Zagreb)
RK Knin (Knin)
Pula
Invictus Dubrovnik
Lokomotiva (Zagreb)
And others…
The sport is primarily centered around university teams and amateur clubs, many of which double as social hubs where post-match beers can be as important as the game itself. While rugby pitches aren’t exactly dotting the Croatian coastline, those who play are fiercely committed—often using not so great facilities and limited funding to keep the sport alive.
Rugby in Croatia is still growing. The sport operates mostly on an amateur and semi-professional level, with the Croatian Rugby Championship serving as the top domestic competition. This league, while competitive, doesn’t quite have the glitz and glamour of major European rugby circuits.
Is there a women’s side? Yes, Women’s rugby is developing and has also gained momentum, with growing participation and increased support in recent years.
My big question going into this topic was, does Croatia have a national Rugby team? The answer is yes! Croatia does indeed have a national rugby team. The team competes in European Rugby Championship divisions, often facing off against similarly built teams from across the continent. While they haven’t quite reached the Rugby World Cup stage, they have had their moments, including respectable performances against regional rivals. The Croatian national team may not be lifting major international trophies yet, but they embody the country’s underdog spirit, taking on more established teams with a mix of skill and grit.
Although Rugby is still developing in Croatia there is a youth development movement growing as well. Youth programs are slowly expanding, and the sport is gaining more visibility, thanks in part to global rugby events sparking local interest. Clubs continue to nurture new talent, and while rugby may never reach football-level country wide attraction, Rugby holds a special place among those who appreciate a game that values physicality, strategy, and an occasional missing tooth.
Though Rugby may never overtake football in the hearts of most Croatians, it has carved out its own unique corner of the sports scene. It’s a game for those who love a challenge and don’t mind a few bruises. I think it would be pretty fun to check out a game one day and I hope you feel the same way. A little more attention could go a long way for this emerging sport in Croatia.
That’s it for the super Slatko report.
