In September in Zhytomyr region, a new stage of the social project "Inclusive Football Sections" was launched. This project is implemented by the initiative of the Ukrainian Football Association within the Open Fun Football Schools program - OFFS Ukraine/"Open Football Festivals", with the support of the Zhytomyr Oblast Football Association and the Berdychiv Inclusive Resource Center.

Photo by ZOAF

The goal of the project is to provide children with disabilities and special educational needs an opportunity to engage in sports, develop their physical abilities, improve social skills, and feel the joy of team play.

Classes take place at the Berdychiv Educational-Rehabilitation Center of the Zhytomyr Oblast Council - a modern and safe space where all conditions for comfortable training and development of children have been created.

Photo by ZOAF

Football here is not just a game. It's a path to mutual understanding, team support, discipline, and joy of movement.

Classes are conducted by certified coach Tetiana Zhinevych from the IRRC together with volunteer teacher Snejana from NRC. Thanks to their care and professionalism, children have the opportunity to learn new things, develop, and feel like part of a big football family.

Photo by ZOAF

Participants in the sections not only train but also learn to interact, support each other and believe in their own strength. We wish young athletes enjoyment from playing, bright emotions, and new victories on the football field and beyond!

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

• Improve the psycho-emotional and physical state of children with disabilities and special educational needs through their involvement in physical 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;
• Unleash children's potential;
• Bring together children and adults, regardless of physical or mental development characteristics;
• Motivate all children in mass football, regardless of abilities, gender, social issues;
• Activate local communities through intersectoral networks (teachers, coaches, psychologists, parents, youth leaders, local authorities, patrons, etc.).

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