Episode 8: Country Spotlight: Croatia, Slovakia, Hungary & Slovenia

ABOUT THIS EPISODE //

From the Adriatic coast to Central Europe’s hidden gems – Pickleball is thriving across a region bursting with energy, community, and creativity!
In this eighth episode of Pickleball Passport – powered by RAQT.com, we hand the mic to four inspiring voices who are shaping the game in Croatia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia.

How do you start a pickleball scene from scratch? What makes night sessions on the Croatian coast so special? And how are new players turning passion into national movements across Central Europe?

In this episode, we cover:

• How Croatia built Europe’s largest pickleball club – from 20 players to 1,500 members
• Why Slovakia’s all-female leadership is redefining community & creativity (with a side of wine!)
• How Hungary’s federation and tournaments are paving the way for pros – including the Santa Claus Cup
• How two sisters are building Slovenia’s pickleball future – courts, clinics & community vibes near Lake Bled
• A shared vision: grassroots passion fueling Europe’s next pickleball wave

Special thanks to our local voices:

• Natko Petresic (Croatia) – Instagram: @natko.petrisic / Club: pickleball-002.hr/split
• Viktoria Kanichova (Slovakia) – Instagram: @viki_kanich / Web: slovakpickleball.com
• Bálint Gergő Bakó (Hungary) – Instagram: @bakobalint_pb / @pickleball.hungary
• Thea & Sandra (Slovenia) – Instagram: @tspickleball / Web: tspickleball.si

GET IN TOUCH //
Feedback? Ideas? Want to get in touch or send some cabin crew love? Email us at: podcast@raqt.com