The Czech Republic’s men’s national volleyball team has achieved the prestigious title of Sports Team of the Year for 2025 in their home country. This accolade was earned following a remarkable season that saw them capture a silver medal in the CEV European Golden League and, significantly, secure a historic fourth-place finish at the World Championship.
In the annual ‘Sportsman of the Year’ poll, the Sports Journalists’ Club selected the side coached by Jiří Novák, granting them the highest team honor. They surpassed other strong contenders, including the mixed biathlon relay team and the USK Prague basketball team.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
This award is a fitting culmination of an exceptional season for key players such as Adam Zajíček, Patrik Indra, and Lukáš Vašina. Head coach Jiří Novák, speaking at the ceremony in the Hilton Hotel, expressed profound gratitude:
I would like to thank my players, because this award is entirely their achievement. I am overjoyed that we brought happiness during the championship and encouraged fans to follow us on TV. I would like to emphasise that sport is not always about victories and losses; it’s also about creating memories. And I believe the memory of this wonderful evening will be truly unforgettable.
Jiří Novák, Head Coach
During the World Championship in the Philippines, the Czech squad delivered a thrilling run to reach the top four. Their journey included group stage victories over Serbia and China (following a loss to powerhouse Brazil). Novák’s team subsequently advanced by defeating Tunisia and Iran in the elimination rounds.
Although they fell to eventual silver medalists Bulgaria in the semi-finals, and then narrowly lost the bronze medal match against World No. 1 Poland, their fourth-place finish remained a historic national accomplishment. The team also secured a silver medal in the CEV European Golden League and successfully qualified for CEV EuroVolley 2026. They concluded the year ranked 18th in the FIVB World Ranking.
Setter Luboš Bartůněk shared the collective excitement:
This is incredible. Simply being nominated for Sportsman of the Year is huge, and winning the Team category is an even higher honor. We are thrilled that we succeeded, and we hope this isn`t the last time we stand here.
Luboš Bartůněk, Setter
