The UEFA PLAYMAKERS project is successfully being implemented in the village of Panka on Bukovina by the Ukrainian Football Association and the Chernivtsi Oblast Football Association. The sessions take place at the local NVK under the guidance of coaches Natalia Alexyuk and Illia Pobizhan.

"The UEFA PLAYMAKERS program is an exceptional opportunity for children to develop their football skills in an interactive and fun atmosphere. We have seen our students grow not only as athletes but also as individuals. They made new friends, learned how to work as a team, and developed confidence in themselves. We are proud to be part of this program and see the joy and benefits that our children receive from these sessions. UEFA PLAYMAKERS is truly an excellent project for young football players," — noted Natalia Alexyuk.

Photos by AFCO

And here is what the parents of one of the participants said: "We are extremely satisfied with the UEFA PLAYMAKERS program. Our child loved the sessions, and we noticed significant progress in their sports skills. Coaches Natalia and Illia were attentive and kind, creating a supportive atmosphere. We are from Eastern Ukraine who had to move, and our child entered a new group. And thanks to this program, she found new friends and learned how to work as part of a team. We are impressed with the organization and variety of activities. UEFA PLAYMAKERS is an excellent opportunity for children's development both physically and socially. We will definitely participate further!"

Photos by AFCO

Objectives of the UEFA PLAYMAKERS program, implemented by the Ukrainian Football Association:

• to introduce girls to football by creating an environment where fun, friends, and football are at the center;
• to implement a new individual coaching approach that uses imagination (inspired by Disney stories and characters) as a tool for training and learning football skills;
• to refine girls' life skills, basic movement skills, and teach the basics of football to foster lifelong interest in the sport.