A memorial service marking the passing of Emir Balić – a legendary diver and honorary president of the “Mostari” Diving Club – was held on Monday at the Mostar National Theatre.
Family members, numerous friends, fellow divers, sports officials, representatives of various institutions, and fellow citizens paid their final respects to a man whose life and work left an indelible mark on the city on the Neretva River.
Đani Rahimić, President of the Mostar City Council, stated that Balić would be remembered as a unique legend who, during his lifetime, did more for Mostar than most other people.
“He was celebrated in songs and featured in numerous music videos and documentaries. This is an immeasurable loss for Mostar; I am not sure we will see a legend like him again anytime soon—and while we do have many young divers, what Balić achieved throughout his career was truly impressive,” Rahimić said.
Mustafa Hadžajlić, President of the “Mostari” Diving Club, recalled how Balić had personally invited him to serve as the club’s secretary twenty years ago—an offer he considered a great honor.
“It was deeply saddening for me to hear the news of my longtime friend’s passing; we worked together for over twenty years and went through so much side by side. He is no longer with us, but we will continue to follow the path he paved,” Hadžajlić said.
Former Mostar Mayor Safet Oručević emphasized that Balić was a symbol of both Mostar and the Old Bridge.
“Throughout that time, he worked alongside us to build peace and coexistence, to fight for the city’s reconstruction, and to champion everything that makes Mostar beautiful – from the diving tradition to the Velež sports club and beyond.”
“He is unforgettable, and we should all be proud of him,” said Oručević.
The commemoration was jointly organized by the “Mostari” Diving Club, the Center for Peace and Multi-Ethnic Cooperation, and the President of the Mostar City Council, Đani Rahimić.
As the organizers noted on this occasion, it was an opportunity to reflect on the indelible mark Emir Balić left behind, having made a profound impact on the sporting and cultural heritage of Mostar.
