On August 23, children from the Kupyansk district actively participated in a bright sports festival — the "Open Football Festivals" event, which took place in a friendly and inspiring atmosphere at the SK "Nova Bavaria."

Photo by HOAF

The executive director of the oblast association, Olena Korobka, addressed the participants with welcoming words and presented balls and sweets from the head of the Kharkiv Oblast Football Association, Oleh Synyegubov. The festival became a true celebration of team spirit, friendship, and healthy living. Children had the opportunity to demonstrate their sports skills, participate in fun relay races, learn more about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, and develop emotional intelligence.

Photo by HOAF

The event brought joy to active rest for every participant. Great gratitude goes to all the organizers — the Ukrainian Football Association, coordinators Yevgen Stolitenko and Olena Krivenkova, as well as experienced volunteers for this wonderful opportunity to be part of such an important social project that unites children around sports, mutual respect, and peace.

Starting in September, the "Open Football Festivals" will continue to visit communities across Kharkiv Oblast.

Photo by HOAF

The "Open Football Festivals" project of the Ukrainian Football Association is:

• youth leadership in communities;
• psychosocial support for children of military servicemen, IDPs, and war-affected children;
• unity and friendship among IDP children and local children, social integration;
• inclusive environment where everyone participates, including children with special educational needs;
• knowledge of safety in wartime conditions;
• philosophy of mass football — joy from playing rather than results at any cost;
• cultivation of a healthy lifestyle;
• volunteer development;
• activation of local communities through cross-sector networks (youth leaders, teachers, coaches, psychologists, safety experts, parents, local authorities, patrons, etc.).