The UEFA-backed initiative and with the support of the Ukrainian Football Association and the Dnipro Region Football Association took place at Magdalynivsky Lyceum during the European Sports Week, marking the official launch of the social project "Open Football Festivals."

This initiative has already received high praise not only at the regional level but also nationally and internationally, as its main goal is to give every child the opportunity to feel a part of the sports family, make new friends, and believe in their own strength.

Photo by AFD

The festival became a true celebration for the young residents of the community. Dozens of boys and girls, for whom football is not just a game but a means of development, self-expression, and psychological support during difficult wartime times, participated in it. The uniqueness of the project lies in its combination of ball training with educational elements: children learn about safety rules, how to respond correctly to dangerous situations, and understand risks that they may encounter in everyday life.

Photo by AFD

At the beginning of the event, participants and guests honored fallen heroes with a moment of silence, after which the National Anthem of Ukraine was sung. This moment reminded everyone present that sports and educating the next generation go hand in hand with gratitude to those who defend our future.

A special highlight of the festival was the performance by the choreographic group "Veselka," which presented guests with a bright dance number. Such cultural highlights made the atmosphere even more festive, emphasizing that football can be part of a large communal space where there is room for sports and creativity as well as mutual support.

Photo by AFD

Thanks to the Ukrainian Football Association and partners who provided sports equipment for children, young football players were not only able to enjoy the joy of play but also received quality conditions for training, which will ensure their further development.

Such festivals have particular significance for communities. They form a sense of teamwork in children, teach them to work together, overcome challenges and strive for victory. And most importantly - they bridge the gap to the future where sports become a path to healthy and active living.

Photo by AFD

Together we are stronger! And it is precisely through such projects that we raise a generation with love for football and pride in Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Football Association's "Open Football Festivals" project is:

• youth leadership in communities;
• psychosocial support for children of military service members, IDPs, and war-affected children;
• unity and friendship among IDP children and local children, social integration;
• an inclusive environment where everyone participates, including children with special educational needs;
• knowledge of safety in wartime conditions;
• the philosophy of mass football - joy from the game instead of any price for results;
• 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.).