Oleksandr Hryshchuk, a military veteran and specialist of the Sports Team of the Department of Social and Humanitarian Work, together with Margarita Chobotko, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Special Physical Training, participated in the final module of the nationwide “Sports Ambassadors 3.0” programme aimed at promoting adaptive sports and supporting veterans through physical activity.
The programme brought together military veterans, specialists in physical education and rehabilitation, as well as representatives of public institutions. Its primary objective is to prepare community leaders who will promote adaptive sports, contribute to the physical and psychological recovery of veterans, and implement social initiatives within their local communities.
Throughout the programme, participants explored modern approaches to the development of adaptive sports, studied project management, communication and public speaking skills, cooperation with public authorities, and resource mobilization for community initiatives. A separate training module focused on designing participants’ own projects aimed at expanding veterans’ sports opportunities and supporting the reintegration of service members into community life.
During the practical sessions, participants trained in a variety of adaptive sports under the guidance of experienced coaches and veterans who have competed in the Invictus Games. They became familiar with the organization and methodology of wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, sitting volleyball, boccia, archery and indoor rowing on a Concept2 ergometer.
The programme concluded with a closing ceremony, during which Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Leonid Tymchenko addressed the participants. He emphasized that supporting the veteran community, advancing adaptive sports and implementing initiatives of this kind are essential components of Ukraine’s state veteran policy. He also noted that the newly trained Sports Ambassadors are expected to become catalysts for positive change within their communities.
The participation of DSUIA representatives in the programme will contribute to introducing modern approaches to adaptive sports at the University, strengthening support for veterans and promoting physical activity as an effective tool for rehabilitation, social reintegration and recovery.
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