Coach Hrvoje Horvat Jr. returns to Croatian handball with RK Zagreb

After three years leading Swiss club Kadetten Schaffhausen, Hrvoje Horvat Jr. is returning to Croatian handball to coach RK Zagreb. Horvat had a highly successful tenure in Switzerland, securing six out of a possible eight trophies, including two league championships, two national cups, and two super cups. This past season, he won the cup but narrowly missed the league title, with Kriens winning the final series 3-0.

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Yes, at the end I received the award for the best coach of the year. My competition was Andy Schmid.

Despite not winning the championship, Horvat was named Coach of the Year, an award he shared with Andy Schmid. He explained that his return to Zagreb was a long-discussed decision involving both his professional aspirations and family needs, as he wished to reunite with his family after a prolonged separation. He felt the timing was right, with a positive narrative developing at RK Zagreb.

Horvat expressed gratitude to Kadetten for their understanding, which facilitated his return. He admitted that while coaching in Switzerland, he didn't expect a direct call from Zagreb, but believes in the serendipity of life. The challenge of a new chapter with RK Zagreb excites him, and he anticipates significant work ahead.

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Yes, I talked to the club president for a long time. Everything was also connected with the family because I wanted to return to Zagreb. We were separated for too long.

He is familiar with the Croatian league, having previously coached Dubrava and Nexe. Horvat noted that the league has strengthened considerably since his last stint, with clubs like Sesvete, Gorica, and Poreč showing significant improvement. He emphasized the growing investment in sports in Croatia, which is yielding results, and stressed the importance of financial backing for handball's development. Horvat believes it's time for handball to receive more support in return for what it has given Croatia.

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Honestly, it was a huge challenge. A new page, a new story. I believe we can do good things. It won't be easy, that's clear.

For RK Zagreb, the goals are clear: domestic dominance and an improved performance in the Champions League. Horvat acknowledged that the competition format is changing and that the draw will play a role, but the team's focus is on maximizing their potential. The roster is now complete with the arrival of Mamić, and the team is ready to tackle the upcoming season.

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Yes, I know the league well. I would say that compared to the time I worked in Croatia, it has become much stronger.