UKRAINE: RUGBY HAS HAD A HUGE IMPACT ON MY LIFE, FROM CHANGING MY CHARACTER TO THE VALUES I NOW BELIEVE IN, ALL THANKS TO RUGBY.

1. When did the women’s rugby movement start in your country and what is its history? How is rugby structured in your country?

Women’s rugby in Ukraine was born in 2007. Our story began in a very lively way and continues to showcase our spirit and character even on the international stage. We have achieved many recognitions in the Olympic sport (rugby sevens), of which we are very proud. Our athletes have been awarded in many tournaments, showing a good level of preparation. We have a domestic championship that covers different age categories, useful for proper development and effective selection, but our strategy also includes the development of traditional rugby and the right first steps toward achieving results.

The system is based on the Ukrainian Championship and the National Cup, held annually. There are 7 teams in the Super League. In the youth championship, the following categories are played: U-12, U-14, U-16, and U-18, with an average of about 5 teams in each category. This year we also introduced a new format, rugby-10, for U-15 juniors: these are the first steps in preparing them for traditional rugby (15s). Next year, we plan to organize friendly women’s rugby XV matches.

2. Do you think playing rugby has a social impact for women in your country?

Yes, the game has a strong impact on our players: you can clearly see how they gain new confidence, find new friendships, and experience an atmosphere of support, which is especially important in this difficult moment.

3. In your opinion, what can rugby offer to women in your country?

Rugby in my country can give women a sense of protection, confidence, and support — elements that are greatly needed today. They become stronger and braver: some of them are defending us in the armed forces, which makes us very proud. A sport that positively transforms new generations should occupy an important place in our country’s sporting structure.

1. When did you start playing rugby and how did you discover it?

I started playing rugby in 2009. At the first training session, the coach, a former national team player, began to talk about this sport. That sparked my interest, and I began studying the game in detail, although at the time there was very little information available.

2. What has rugby taught you that has impacted your daily life? Can you give an example of when a rugby mindset was useful?

Rugby has had a huge impact on my life, from changing my character to the values I now believe in — all thanks to rugby. Passion and love for this game for life. Rugby is in my DNA. A rugby mindset helps me face life with confidence: from university graduation, to work, to building a family. My approach to life (respect, mutual support, teamwork, honesty, love) are all slogans that guide my life.

3. Can you give me three words that connect rugby with freedom?

Honesty, mutual support, battle.

4. What does living in a land of freedom mean to you?

Doing your work and your actions without restrictions, breathing and speaking openly without fear.

5. What object represents you and why? What is an aphorism that guides your life?

The collective action and friendship in our game give great strength and confidence — they are like wings that in the future will become your second family.
“Dreams remain dreams if you don’t go after them: as long as you haven’t lost heart, any other fall can be overcome.”