We had the opportunity to talk to our student Nikola Sharanovic, a successful player of KK FMP Meridian. He was very willing to reveal to us what the life of a professional athlete looks like and to share with us part of his experience.

1. How long have you been playing basketball and how did you fall in love with this sport?
I have been playing basketball for eleven years and I fell in love with it because I went to trainings with my friends.
2. Did you have a sports role model?
I had many sports role models, like Allen Iverson and Dennis Rodman – Iliked the way they played.
3. What does your day look like? Do you have free time and how do you spend it?
My day starts at 8 in the morning, when I wake up for the morning training, which lasts two, two and a half hours, but I always stay a little longer and shoot until another team enters the gym. After training, I stretch, take a shower and go to school to consult with teachers. Then I go to the hotel for lunch. After that, I mostly spend my time studying and resting. The afternoon training starts at 5:30 pm and lasts for an hour and a half. I get home around 9pm, leave my things and go out somewhere with my girlfriend. I’m home by 11pm and by 11:30 pm I’m already in bed.
4. How do you maintain focus when things are not going according to the plan on the field?
I do not allow myself to lose focus and concentration in those moments, but I try to turn all the nervousness and negative energy into something positive and help the team the best I can.
5. What are the qualities are important for a successful athlete?
The most important qualities are: persistence, perseverance, courage, dedication, self-confidence, the desire to give your maximum at all times, both in the game and in training.
6. Do you have any advice for our students?
If they want to be successful athletes, they must understand that without a lot of work, effort, dedication and faith in themselves, they cannot succeed.