Success of inclusive football sections in Rivne

24.02.2023 09:30

Photo of UAF press service

In Rivne, on the basis of the 27th school, inclusive football classes have been held for several months within the framework of the relevant program of the Ukrainian Football Association.

About 20 children are engaged in the section. Among them there are both boys and girls. It is important that the group is quite friendly, both the smallest and the oldest feel comfortable in it, and they even help the smaller ones to better adapt and perform various exercises.

Photo of UAF press service

One of the students is sixth grader Sofiyka Sukach. Before that, the girl was not very interested in sports in general and football in particular. She reluctantly attended physical education classes. But our coaches and volunteers managed to get her interested in sports and believe in herself. Now she leads an active lifestyle and loves football immensely. Bere is taught in open football inclusive events, attends classes in the section and looks forward to the next training sessions.

"It is good that such progress was achieved precisely with the help of inclusive football classes. Sofiyka gained confidence, resilience and improved physical form. And this is just the beginning! We are sure that thanks to such projects, our children will have a bright and victorious future!" Taras Kiryanchuk, coordinator of the Rivne Regional Football Association, said.

Photo of UAF press service

"My name is Darina," says another student. - I am 15 years old. I have been hearing impaired since early childhood. I study in the 9th grade of the Rivne Lyceum. I have many extracurricular activities. In the first semester of study, I was invited to participate in the project "Inclusive sections of football". And I gladly agreed, because I like different sports games. For me, sport is recreation, a place where you can "escape" from everyday life. In these lessons, we run, play games, joke, and spend time with benefit and pleasure. Every time I look forward to the next lesson, because football has become a part of my life. I sincerely thank everyone who promotes the development of sports and helps in such a difficult military time."

Oleksiy Khakhlyov, head of the Rivne Regional Football Association, notes: "Inclusive football classes in the Rivne region will continue in the future. We conducted only the first series of classes and will definitely continue in the same way. It is extremely important for us to see the success and progress of our pupils, to rejoice together at their new achievements, to share happiness and help in difficult moments, to always be there and work for the result, because together we are strength!"

Photo of UAF press service

With this project, within the framework of the UEFA Mass Football Charter, the Ukrainian Football Association aims to:

— to improve the psycho-emotional and physical condition of children through their involvement in physical activities and socialization;

— to change the attitude of Ukrainian society towards people with disabilities;

— provide access to inclusive sports activities;

— to reveal children's potential;

— to unite children and adults, regardless of the peculiarities of physical and mental development.

Inclusive football sections, to which children with special educational needs love to enroll, are opening in 21 communities in Ukraine. Thanks to the UAF, the sections are equipped with football uniforms for children, balls and the necessary sports equipment.