Inclusive sports — it's not just about physical activity but also about equal opportunities, mutual support and development. This is precisely the goal behind a series of sessions implemented at the Kropyvnytskyi Educational-Rehabilitation Center by the Ukrainian Football Association and the Kirovohrad Oblast Football Association project "Inclusive Football Sections," led by trainer Bogdan Gorelenco.

The main idea was to create a safe, accessible, and motivating space where every child — regardless of age, gender or physical abilities — can develop, play, and feel like part of a team.

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According to Bogdan Gorelenco, "The goals and tasks of the section were to promote socialization among children with disabilities through participation in team play; development of physical skills and coordination; support for emotional well-being and strengthening psychological health; formation of gender equality culture in sports; motivating children to engage regularly in physical activity."

Each session included exercises involving ball handling, passing, stopping the ball with both feet, paired movements with a partner, as well as team mini-games. Children worked in balanced teams that allowed each one to feel like an important part of the collective.

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The lessons concluded with a summary discussion — in a friendly atmosphere, children shared their impressions, discussed challenges and achievements.

Children with various developmental disorders participated in the project: MMD (minimal brain dysfunction); ORA (orthopedic problems); hearing and vision impairments; ASD (autism spectrum disorder).

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After the completion of the sessions, a survey was conducted among parents. All of them noted positive changes in their children's state: improvement in psychoemotional status; increased physical activity; growing self-confidence; desire for further football training.

Many children became more open in communication, active at home and interested in sports development.

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Inclusive football sections — this is a step towards equality, support and unlocking children's potential. Because every child has the right to play, dream, and win!

Main goals of the UAF project "Inclusive Football Sections":

— improve psychoemotional and physical state of children with disabilities and special educational needs through their involvement in sports activities of the project and socialization;

— change Ukrainian society's attitude towards people with disabilities and children with special educational needs;

— provide access to inclusive sports training;

— unlock children's potential;

— unite children and adults regardless of physical or mental development characteristics;

— motivate all children, regardless of abilities, gender, social issues in mass football;

— activate local communities through intersectoral networks (teachers, coaches, psychologists, parents, youth leaders, local authorities, sponsors and so on).

Thanks to the UAF, sections are provided with children's football kits, balls, and necessary sports equipment.