The classes took place in Romaniv, at the local gymnasium № 1 (trainer — Galyna Krotkevych, who completed special training on a seminar of the Ukrainian Football Federation before starting the project).

The trainer noted: “In inclusive football sections, children reveal themselves in new ways, discover leadership qualities, solidarity, and a desire to participate and win regardless of their specific educational needs. They learn to support and cheer for each other, empathize and appreciate one another. I would like to thank the project organizers for the new knowledge, practice, and the opportunity to experience being a coach as well as having good sports equipment. Also, a big thank you to the regional coordinator of the project from the Zhytomyr Oblast Football Association Ruslan Mayevskyi for his support and guidance throughout the entire training cycle.”

According to the words of the regional coordinator himself, “during this period, children with special educational needs not only mastered the basic elements of football but also learned how to communicate, cooperate, and negotiate, as football is not just about sports, good results, and discipline; it’s also about a good mood, fun, new friends, active rest, and being part of a team.”

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

— improve the psychoemotional and physical state of children through their involvement in physical activities and socialization;

— change society’s attitude towards people with disabilities in Ukraine;

— provide access to inclusive sports classes;

— reveal children's potential;

— unite children and adults, regardless of physical and mental development characteristics.

Inclusive football sections, to which children with special educational needs can enroll, have been opened in 21 communities across Ukraine. Thanks to the Ukrainian Football Association, these sections are equipped with children's football uniforms, balls, and necessary sports equipment.