Bartosz Kurek has been a central figure throughout much of contemporary Polish volleyball history. His journey includes the disappointment of being absent from their 2014 World Championship victory on home turf, to then spearheading their triumphant defense of the title just four years later. Now, at 36, Kurek continues to be a pivotal force for the national squad, leading Poland`s illustrious generation as captain into the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025.
Kurek delivered one of the most remarkable individual performances of the 2018 tournament. He guided Poland to consecutive world championships, securing the top scorer title with 171 points and earning the Most Valuable Player award as his nation successfully retained their title in Turin. Four years hence, playing on Polish ground, he once more proved indispensable, steering the team to a silver medal and being acknowledged as the best opposite spiker of the event.
Demonstrating his enduring skill, the veteran Kurek again performed brilliantly in 2025, contributing 15 points during Poland`s 3-1 (25-18, 23-25, 25-20, 25-14) victory against Canada in the Round of 16. This match took place before an audience of over 5,000 spectators at the Mall of Asia Arena. Kamil Semeniuk topped the scoring with 18 points, complemented by Wilfredo Leon`s 14, showcasing Poland`s well-rounded offensive power that propelled them into the quarterfinals.
Following the match, Kurek frankly discussed the considerable challenges of maintaining an elite performance level over such an extended period. Reflecting on his current contribution, he stated:
“It`s demanding; it`s exhausting to match the pace of the younger players. It’s certainly not an easy task. But what I bring to the team is this experience, this calm in the difficult moments. I hope I`m providing valuable assistance.”
Kurek has readily accepted the role of bridging the generational divide within the team. He smilingly confessed that the age gap separating him from the squad`s youngest members occasionally feels immense. He remarked:
“This group is a joy to be around. The age difference between myself and the youngest guy is so huge that sometimes I don’t understand the language they’re using. However, they are exceptionally intelligent individuals. We are fortunate to have incredible outside hitters—Wilfredo, Kamil, Arthur—who can come in at any time and decisively influence a match. I believe we possess a fully formed team, yet our collective performance still has room for improvement.”
His captaincy is characterized by this blend of wit and wisdom. No longer primarily the team`s singular match-winner, he now serves as the steadying presence that keeps the squad composed during intense games. While Fornal provides the humor and other players step up as secondary leaders, Kurek`s voice remains the central pillar. His steadfast presence empowers younger talents such as Semeniuk and Jakub Kochanowski to excel, confident in their captain`s consistent guidance.
To maintain his career as the sport evolved, Kurek has had to continually adapt and redefine his approach. He explained:
“It’s crucial to adjust to the accelerated pace of the game. You also need to conform to the new rules, which I believe are beneficial. Most importantly, however, you must prioritize your health. Maintaining peak physical condition is paramount. Once those are in place, then you simply strive to keep pace with the younger generation.”
This unwavering dedication has enabled him to extend his professional career significantly longer than many of his contemporaries. Although he was absent when Poland claimed victory on home soil in 2014, by 2018 he had emerged as the emblematic figure of their world title defense. In 2022, he helped transform the team`s initial disappointment into a sense of pride as Poland secured a silver medal in Gliwice. Now, in his role as captain for 2025, he stands as both a testament to past achievements and the guiding force for future endeavors.
Regardless of whether Poland achieves another podium finish this year, Kurek`s remarkable legacy is already firmly established. His career serves as a compelling narrative of perseverance, continuous adaptation, and exemplary leadership. From his world-conquering performance in 2018 to his current role as captain steering a new generation, he consistently embodies the vibrant spirit of Polish volleyball.
Finley Blackwood 
Oliver Wrenwick