Accompanied by distinguished members of Croatian football family and other sports organizations, as well as the representatives of Croatian president's office, City of Zagreb, County of Grad Zagreb and the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports, Zagreb mayor Milan Bandić and HNS president Davor Šuker opened the "Be Proud" Multimedia Information Center. The visitors will have an easily accessible, interactive opportunity to learn about the rich history of Croatian football.
The attractive location in the immediate vicinity of the main square, at 2 Petrinjska Street, offers Croatian football a place to celebrate major successes and worthy individuals.
foto: Drago Sopta/HNS
"As the capital of all Croatians, Zagreb has hosted a number of Croatia's matches. Together we have rejoiced in victories and lamented defeats. Therefore, this Multimedia Information Center is another victory of Croatian football and Croatian Football Federation in the cooperation with the City of Zagreb. This project confirms that cooperation, and we shall continue along the same path", said mayor Bandić.
"We often emphasize our motto Be Proud, and this Center shows what we can be proud of. This is a recognition to many who have contributed to Croatian football, and the opportunity for younger generations to learn, and to develop a desire to become a part of it. Croatian football deserves a place in the very center of Zagreb, and this Center will help to promote Croatian football both home and abroad", said HNS president Šuker.
foto: Drago Sopta/HNS
Among the attendants were also former coaches, players, presidents and general secretaries, as well HNS employees.
The Center is structured as a football stadium, with locker rooms including screens, illustrations and artifacts from Croatian football history, and lockers with reminders of Croatia's appearances at major tournaments. Together, they form a photograph of bronze celebrations from 1998 World Cup.
foto: Drago Sopta/HNS
Moving forward, visitors enter the tunnel to reach the field and explore the Wall of Fame, the greatest names in Croatian football history. Through interactive screens, they can explore even deeper, and selected the best goals, matches, and players. Moreover, at their disposal are the videos of significant matches, goals, then trophies and awards, with futsal and women's football also being represented.
The entire material is available in Croatian and English, and the admission is free of charge.
