The Team

Behind every great team is a crew of warriors who don’t just talk about the grind — they live it, breathe it, and build it.

The Sarajevo Spartans are led by a group of individuals who have turned passion into a mission, and that mission into a legacy.

Coaching and Leadership:

Matthew Carver – Head Coach

A former U.S. college football player and the tactical heart of the Spartans, Coach Carver has been leading our team for over 14 years. He’s the guy who believes in every player — sometimes before they even believe in themselves.

Rahman El Sayed – Coach & Defensive Coordinator

With 14 years of playing experience across Southern and Central Europe, Coach Rahman brings a defensive mind sharper than any sword. He doesn’t just build defenses — he builds walls that don’t break.

Eldar Balta – Team President & Youth Coach

The steady hand steering the ship. Eldar is the bridge between generations, helping us grow not just a team, but a future full of young, fearless Spartans.

Senior Players and Captains:

Eldar Hamzagić – Team Founder & Captain

The original spark. Without Eldar, there would be no Spartans — just a dream waiting for someone crazy enough to chase it.

Jasmin Salihović – Quarterback, Wide Receiver & Captain

Playmaker, leader, and the engine on the field. Whether he’s throwing touchdowns or catching them, Jasmin is pure Spartan spirit in motion.

Tony Gotovac – All-Around Player & Captain

Offense? Defense? Special teams? Tony does it all — and makes it look easy. The Swiss Army knife every real team needs.

Adi Salčin – Lineman & Captain

The immovable object. Adi isn’t just any lineman — he’s the lineman you want when the game is on the line and you need a wall in front of you.

Pillars of the Spartan Brotherhood:

Alongside these leaders, the team is powered by the relentless energy and heart of players like Amar Brkan, Amel Šukić, Denis Krama, and the unstoppable Oputar brothers.

For more than a decade, this brotherhood has carried the torch for American football in Sarajevo and Bosnia — fighting battles on the field, and building dreams off it.

Together, they aren't just playing the game — they're changing it.