Solutions from Ukraine: Shakhtar’s ‘Stalevi’ FC unites injured military personnel to prove resilience in sport and life

The "Movement for the Future" project, in collaboration with the Shakhtar "Stalevi" football club, demonstrates that sports can be inclusive for everyone. The team comprises military personnel who reclaim active lives through sports after undergoing amputations. They train rigorously, compete with determination, and inspire others not to lose hope.

Rurbyka reports this with reference to the project organizers.

What is the problem?

As a result of the war, over 300,000 Ukrainians have been designated as having disabilities. For many, resuming an active lifestyle appears daunting. However, physical activity is crucial in the rehabilitation process. Regular exercise can accelerate recovery by 30%, alleviate chronic pain, and help manage anxiety and stress.

Despite these benefits, access to sports infrastructure for people with disabilities in Ukraine remains limited. Many individuals face a lack of support, motivation, and suitable training conditions. Inclusive sports advancement is vital for veterans and military personnel and society as a whole, as it fosters a culture of equal opportunities and transforms perceptions of individuals with disabilities.

What is the solution?

To help veterans return to active life, the Traumeel S Gel brand initiated the "Movement for the Future" campaign and became a Shakhtar's "Stalevi" football club partner.

This team brings together military personnel who have experienced amputations or severe injuries, yet remain undeterred. They persist in playing sports professionally, demonstrating that even after severe injuries, it's possible to return to the game—both on the field and in life.

"Those who have sacrificed the most for us deserve support and the chance to live a full life. Many are hesitant to resume activity after an injury. Still, the stories of our athletes illustrate that movement is key to physical and psychological recovery," notes Yevhen Filonov, Head of Marketing at Heel.

The Shakhtar's "Stalevi" team demonstrates that life continues after serious injuries—it may change, the opportunity to move forward remains. Their accomplishments are a testament to their resilience:

• 12 sparring matches with professional teams
• 104 training sessions
• debut at the inaugural Ukrainian amputee football tournament, "League of the Strong".

"The support from those who believe in us empowers us to fight not only on the field but also in life. Each member of our team understands the experience of loss and starting anew. It is not easy, but we regain our strength and unity when we step onto the field. The key is to remember that you are not alone—and never to give up," Bohdan Molochko, the team's goalkeeper, says.

Why is it essential to support inclusive sports?

The development of inclusive sports is not only about physical activity, but also about social change. Supporting teams like Shakhtar's "Stalevi" helps break down barriers, creates a culture of equality, and proves there are opportunities for everyone, regardless of physical limitations. The Traumeel S Gel brand supports those who do not stop facing difficulties and find the strength to move forward.

For reference:

At the 2025 Invictus Games, held in the Canadian cities of Vancouver and Whistler, the Ukrainian national team won 30 medals, the second-best result in the country's history.

Every medal won by Team Ukraine at the Invictus Games 2025 tells a story of resilience. Ukrainian soldiers Artur Mylin and Valerii Odainyk survived clinical death and lost limbs but refused to give up. Sports became a vital part of their recovery, and now they're determined to share this experience with others. Read more in Rubryka's article: "Invictus Games 2025: How Ukrainian veterans overcome themselves and inspire others."