In Ternopil, at the local educational and rehabilitation center, a cycle of classes within the social project "Inclusive Football Sections" by the Ukrainian Football Association and the Football Association of Ternopil region was successfully completed.

The initiative was implemented by project coach Natalia Baranyuk and coordinator from AFT Vasyl Zatorskyi.

Photo AFT

"Boys and girls with special educational needs participated in the trainings with great pleasure. During these sessions, children trained together, learned basic football techniques, and worked as a team. Thanks to the training, they developed teamwork skills, improved emotional stability and self-confidence. They also learned how to support each other during minor setbacks. Football helped the children bond.

Photo AFT

On behalf of our community, I would like to thank the Ukrainian Football Association for the opportunity to include and psychologically support children in such a necessary project, especially during wartime. Also, special thanks for providing essential football equipment," — noted Natalia Baranyuk.

Photo AFT

Main goals of the project: UAF:

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

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

— to provide access to inclusive sports training;

— to unlock the potential of children;

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

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

— to activate local communities through intersectoral networks (teachers, coaches, psychologists, parents, youth leaders, local authorities, patrons, etc.).

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

Photo AFT