- by croatiaweek
- October 1, 2025
-
in
Sport
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
Last week marked the completion of a three-day shoot for one of the most popular calendars – the annual release by the Croatian Water Polo Federation (HVS).
The new edition, set to be published at the end of November, will carry a special story dedicated to Croatia’s cultural heritage and forgotten traditions.
Under the creative direction of renowned photographer Šime Eškinja, the shoot took place in the picturesque coastal village of Sveti Filip i Jakov, near Zadar.
The charming Dalmatian setting provided the perfect backdrop for striking images blending heritage with sport.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
Local residents and members of the village’s cultural association also took part, adding an authentic touch to the project.
This year’s theme shines a spotlight on Croatia’s rich cultural heritage, with the aim of preserving national identity through the prism of sport – particularly water polo, a discipline deeply rooted in coastal communities across the country.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
“This visual project uniquely captures the beauty and values of Croatia while telling a proud story of centuries-old heritage and sporting tradition. Water polo has long been part of life in many Croatian coastal towns, and so it was fitting to choose one such community as the stage for this year’s calendar.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
We are grateful to the people of Sveti Filip i Jakov and its cultural association for warmly welcoming our players and guiding them through local traditions, helping us tell a story of the timeless bond between Croatian sport and culture,” said Ivana Janković, Head of Marketing and Public Relations at HVS.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
In addition to photography, video footage was also produced to highlight the synergy between sport and cultural heritage.
“This year the players were not only models but also had acting roles, which they handled brilliantly. We filmed video content alongside the photographs to bring even more depth to this exciting story about Croatian tradition and sport.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
Since word got out that the calendar is in the making, my phone hasn’t stopped ringing – everyone wants to reserve a copy,” said photographer and producer Šime Eškinja.
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
(Photo: Šime Eškinja)
