Picigin tournament

A new era of picigin in Medulin

Picigin on the sands of Bijeca Beach has a long history, and our team has been part of that story since the very beginning. For years, we participated as players and enthusiasts in tournaments held here, but with the founding of the UPSKKM Galeb association in 2024, we decided to take responsibility and raise the organization to a new level.

Today, the Picigin Tournament is our largest and most important annual event. We are proud to bring together the “old” legends of picigin who have been coming to Bijeca for years, as well as new, young teams who are just learning the charms of this coastal tradition. Our goal is clear: to preserve the spirit of picigin and ensure it is played in our shallows for generations to come.

From rocks to the perfect court

Although Medulin is not naturally rich in vast sandy shallows, we don’t let that stop us. Every year, in cooperation with the municipality of Medulin and MedEko Service, we organize the replenishment of sand at the location of the future court.

Before the tournament itself, our volunteers thoroughly clean the area of rocks to ensure the safety of the contestants. That effort pays off the moment the first team runs into the sea and starts the game on a perfectly prepared surface.

All-day spectacle: sports, music, and fun

The tournament takes place throughout the day, and we have provided everything the contestants need for a top-tier experience:

• Player’s package: Every registered contestant receives an official tournament t-shirt, a warm meal, and drinks.
• Atmosphere: A DJ is in charge of the rhythm in the shallows and good energy throughout the day.
• Evening finale: After the official part and the award ceremony for the most successful teams, we move to the front of Havana Beach Bar. There, we officially close the tournament with a big live concert and a party that lasts late into the night.

Gratitude to our partners

Realizing such a large event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. A big thank you to everyone, small and large, who recognized the importance of this project. Special thanks to:

• Municipality of Medulin and the Medulin Tourist Board for institutional support.
• MedulinFM for being our voice on the airwaves.
• Havana Beach Bar for the provided space and logistics for the evening program.

In addition to our official partners, the heart of this tournament is our volunteers. We are immensely grateful for the effort they put in, not just on the day of the tournament, but for days prior; from physically cleaning the beach, sourcing food, drinks, and shirts, to the logistical setup of the entire infrastructure. Without your hands, Bijeca would not shine like this!

An invitation to everyone: young and old!

Picigin at Bijeca is an event for absolutely everyone. It doesn’t matter if you know how to “throw” the ball perfectly or if you’re just a beginner, we’re looking for enthusiasm, not professionalism! We invite all people of good will, locals and tourists alike, from all regions, to sign up and participate.

And for those who prefer to stay dry, come support us, have a cold drink by the sea, and stay with us for the evening concert. See you in the shallows!