At Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs, a motivational meeting of first-year cadets with outstanding Ukrainian athletes – Paralympic champion Oksana Boturchuk and Paralympic Games medalist Anton Kol – took place.
The Vice-Rector of DSUIA, Colonel of Police Ihor Kovalyov, participated in the meeting.
The event began with the performance of the National Anthem of Ukraine. The Assistant to the Rector, Volodymyr Kovbasa, addressed all present and noted that today’s guests of the university – legendary athletes who glorify our state and make it clear: this land is created for strong people.
Oksana Boturchuk, Honored Master of Sports of Ukraine in athletics, Paralympic champion of 2008, four-time silver and bronze medalist of the Summer Paralympic Games of 2008, 2012, 2016, 2021, and 2024, European record holder in running, lecturer at the Department of Special Physical Training of DSUIA, inspired the cadets with an example of resilience. shared the story of her sports journey. She spoke about overcoming difficulties, motivation, and the importance of sports in her life.
Anton Kol – Ukrainian swimmer and architect, medalist of the Summer Paralympic Games, Master of Sports of Ukraine of International Class. Also a medalist of the Paralympic Games of 2016, 2020, and 2024, silver and bronze medalist of the 2013 World Championship and the 2014 European Championship, two-time silver medalist of the 2015 World Championship, three-time bronze medalist of the 2016 European Championship, Full Knight of the Ukrainian Order “For Courage”. Anton spoke about the challenges of preparing for competitions and combining sports with professional activity – his story significantly emphasized the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
Both athletes focused attention on the necessity of overcoming difficulties and a systematic path to the goal. In their opinion, this can lead to desired results.
The cadets actively engaged in the dialogue, asking questions about the choice of sport, the most valuable victories, overcoming difficulties, and patriotism.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of flowers, letters of gratitude to the athletes from the Rector of DSUIA, Colonel of Police Oleksandr Morgunov, and a group photo.
— 47