Vladimir “Braco” Janković, one of Croatia’s most influential volleyball figures, has died at the age of 84 on September 25, 2025.
Born in Vukovar in 1941, Janković represented Yugoslavia 135 times, winning the 1967 Mediterranean Games gold medal and competing at several World and European Championships.
After retiring as a player, he built an extraordinary coaching career, guiding Mladost Zagreb, Modena, Padova, and Hot Volleys Wien, and leading Modena to a European Champions Cup triumph. He also coached the national teams of Yugoslavia, Croatia, and Slovenia.
A respected professor of kinesiology and author, Janković educated generations of coaches and players. His lifelong contribution to sport was honored with the nation’s highest awards, including the Franjo Bučar Award and the Order of Danica Hrvatska.
Janković leaves behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and passion for volleyball that will not be forgotten.
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