Friendly Sitting Volleyball Tournament Held at Lviv State University of Internal Affairs

Participants included military personnel undergoing physical and psychological rehabilitation at the «Halychyna» Center.

Among them was 41-year-old veteran Mykola Melnyk. From the early days of the full-scale Russian invasion, he joined the Territorial Defense Forces and participated in the evacuation of civilians from the occupied territories of Kyiv region. In the summer of 2022, he joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine and served in the Zaporizhzhia direction. During one of the combat missions, he sustained a severe injury as a result of an FPV drone strike.

Now, the veteran is undergoing a long and difficult rehabilitation. He is determined to keep fighting and living — both for himself and for his fallen comrades.

Before the war, Mykola had a rich sports background and actively competed in arm wrestling. Today, despite his injuries, he continues to train with the «Lviv Lions» sports club and recently received the title of Candidate for Master of Sports in arm wrestling.

At the Halychyna Rehabilitation Center, he learned about the sitting volleyball tournaments regularly held at Lviv State University of Internal Affairs.

«Engaging in sports, particularly volleyball, provides a therapeutic escape from the surrounding realities. Sports are beneficial for everyone, but after injuries they become essential. They help build endurance, and the rehabilitation center encourages us to stay active», said Mykola Melnyk.

The event was also attended by the Rector's Assistant and war veteran Bohdan Bilinskii, as well as volunteers from the charity foundation «With an Angel on the Shoulder». One of the volunteers, Khrystyna Yusiv, has long supported wounded soldiers.

«Since the beginning of the full-scale war, we've shifted our focus — from helping children with cancer to supporting the military. We aim to involve them in various activities to facilitate social reintegration, which is a key aspect of rehabilitation. Today's sitting volleyball session is important not only for the enjoyment it brings, but also because many soldiers are learning to feel and control their bodies in new ways», noted the volunteer.

The match lasted nearly two hours. Each successful round was met with applause, and participants exchanged emotions and supported one another.

Such activities are vital for rebuilding strength, restoring confidence, and inspiring resilience. Despite the trauma, loss, and long path of recovery, these soldiers continue to live, support each other, and inspire hope. The Lviv State University of Internal Affairs remains committed to helping Ukraine's defenders by actively promoting veteran sports initiatives.