Nic Arena and Goran Duspara are all smiles at Kurrawa Beach. Photo: Grace Gibson
Monday 5 November
By Grace Gibson
When best friends Nic Arena, 57, and Goran Duspara, 59, aren’t drinking a cold beer together they’re winning gold medals in beach volleyball at the Pan Pacific Masters Games on the Gold Coast.
This is the fourth time the duo from Melbourne has competed in these games, having taken home gold at the past three editions.
And they could very well be adding another to their glittering collection after their 16-14 opening match victory at Kurrawa Beach on Monday.
The pair explained that the secret to their success is having a strong bond inside and outside of the blue line.
“It’s really important to have a good relationship with your partner because it’s very hard to play well if you don’t get along,” Nic said.
“We’re great mates, we even hug each other on the court!”
“The whole game is about reading your partner so it helps if you spend a lot of time together,” Goran added.
The gold medallists always find themselves back at these games because of the great atmosphere and the chance to catch up with their friends from around the country.
Nic and Goran in action on the court at Kurrawa. Photo: Grace Gibson
“I play a lot of sports but this one is the best because it’s so social and the beach community is awesome.
“We love to beat each other on the court, but as soon as we come off, we go out dancing with our friends.”
