The Chernihiv Oblast Football Association joined the project and organized activities at school № 35 with the efforts of well-known teacher and coach Tetiana Djuman and coordinator Anatoliy Svystun from COFA.

Photo by COFA

"During the activities, children learn the basics of football and gain experience working in a team. Special attention is given to individual approach for each child,— Tetiana Djuman explains.— This year we completed the first cycle of activities. Throughout all sessions, we tried to motivate the children and bring them together. Each child received their own small set of football skills. The kids communicated and found new friends."

This project, on one hand, contributes to strengthening the health of children, while on the other—gives them the opportunity to believe in their own strength.

Photo by COFA

"The football section brings great joy to our children,— shares impressions the mother of young participant Artem.— And thanks to such an organized team, they don't feel like outsiders. It's hard to work with these kids, but with such a coach, they will be unbeatable. And this gives them motivation to be better. Artem always comes back from training in a good mood. Thank you for your quality work and for working with our children."

Photo by COFA

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 the physical activities of the project and socialization;

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

— to provide access to inclusive sports activities;

— to reveal the potential of children;

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

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

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

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