The Games of the Small Countries of Europe (IMZE) are important for athletes from small countries because they represent a rare and precious opportunity to feel the spirit and grandeur of an international multi-sport competition, said the President of the Montenegrin Olympic Committee (COK), Dušan Simonović.
Speaking about the upcoming Games in Andorra from May 26 to June 1, he emphasized that it is a platform where Montenegrin athletes can compete with pride, gain experience and showcase their talent at a high level, often as a step towards even bigger international stages.
Simonović said that Montenegro will be represented in Andorra by 66 athletes who will compete in ten different sports.
"These are athletics, basketball, judo, karate, swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, rugby sevens, shooting, table tennis and tennis. This diversity reflects the growing strength and breadth of our sports system, and we are particularly proud that many of these athletes will make their international debut in Andorra. For each of them, it will be a valuable experience, not only in a competitive, but also in a personal sense," said Simonović.
According to him, by participating in the Games in Andorra, Montenegro wants to promote the basic values that bind us together, such as respect, friendship, solidarity, support and cooperation.
"The upcoming Games are not just a fight for medals, they are an opportunity to build bridges between countries, celebrate diversity and empower athletes to represent their country with dignity and pride. For us, it is a celebration of shared spirit and mutual understanding between small countries," said Simonović.
Recalling the IMZE held in Montenegro in 2019, he pointed out that it is still the largest multi-sport competition ever organized in Montenegro and that their legacy is still alive today.
"That experience profoundly changed our approach. Through the successful organization of that event, we saw firsthand the power of sport, not only in a sporting sense, but also in a cultural and economic sense. We strengthened our capacities, deepened regional ties, and confirmed that sport can be a driver of development, identity, and international cooperation," said Simonović.
He stressed that he has no doubt that Andorra will be a great host.
"I hope that our athletes, like all other participants, will feel the warmth, hospitality and friendship that exists among the small countries of Europe. These Games offer a unique experience and have a special value. They remind us that greatness in sport is not measured by population size, but by spirit, unity and mutual respect," said Simonović.
He told Montenegrin athletes preparing for the Games in Andorra to be proud of every step they took to ensure their participation in the competition.
"Wearing the colors of Montenegro is not only an honor, but also a responsibility to compete with heart and honesty. Believe in yourself, cheer for each other, and enjoy every moment. These Games are a celebration of who you are, not only as athletes, but also as role models for generations to come," Simonović concluded.
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