Nearly 60% of athletes on Ukraine’s national Deaflympic team began their journey with the youth Spartakiad “Believe in Yourself.” This program has become a launchpad for future champions, reports Humanitarian Media Hub.
“We have ensured a systematic approach to sports for people with disabilities. Undoubtedly, we have a strong team with tremendous experience, knowledge, and the ability to work within this system,” said Valeriy Sushkevych, President of the National Committee of Sports for Persons with Disabilities of Ukraine, in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine, commenting on the success of the national Deaflympic team.
At the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo, Ukraine won 100 medals, including 32 gold. This is the country’s second-best result in history, following a record 138 medals in 2021. Despite the war and constant threats, Ukraine’s Deaflympic team brings together athletes from 22 regions. Even those who evacuated to the USA and Australia remain part of the team.
Deaflympians are athletes who compete in the Deaflympic Games—international competitions for people with hearing impairments. These games are held under the auspices of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) and are the equivalent of the Olympic Games for athletes with hearing loss.
The Spartakiad “Believe in Yourself,” launched in the 1990s, has become a starting point for thousands of children with disabilities. Its mission is to promote physical culture, develop inclusive sports, and support young people striving for success.
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