March 8–9, the city of Kremenchuk hosted the third Development Cup — a tournament for young football players organized by the Ukrainian Football Association to improve their skills, develop teamwork, and promote children's football.

Six teams from Poltava Oblast participated in the competition, one of which was girls' team «Girnyk-Sport» — it became the winner of the «Gold» group. The second place went to DYSK «Kremenchuk», and third place was taken by FC «Oleksandria».

Photo by Andriy Yushchak

In the «Silver» group, the team of SA «Jaguar» triumphed, second place went to «Girnyk-Sport», and third place was taken by Svitlodoksk KDYSS-1.

The matches were played in a 5x5 format (four field players and a goalkeeper) on a pitch measuring 40x20 meters with goalposts of 3x2 meters.

Photo by Andriy Yushchak

“The Development Cup is more than just a tournament. It's an opportunity for young football players to test themselves, gain invaluable experience and improve their skills in conditions of equal opportunities for all. We create such conditions where every child gets the same playing time on the field, regardless of preparation level. In addition, an important element of the competition is playing different positions, which helps children better understand football, develop versatility and reveal their strongest sides. 

Photo by Andriy Yushchak

The Ukrainian Football Association aims not only to organize tournaments but also to shape the right approach to developing children's football. That is why such competitions are another important step towards quality preparation of future professionals.

Photo by Andriy Yushchak

We pay special attention to communication and interaction with coaches, as they play a key role in shaping young athletes. During the tournament, we share a unified development strategy that helps create the best conditions for every football player's growth», — noted the head of the children's and youth football department at UAF, Bohdan Hordynsky.