Representatives of the AKZ association joined the international project “Golftegration,” which is implemented with the support of the European Union.

The project brought together Ukrainian and Slovenian partners with a shared goal: to use adapted sports as a tool for rehabilitation, social inclusion, and support for veterans and families affected by the war.

As part of the program, the “Valkyrie” team represented Ukraine at an international adapted Pitch & Putt tournament held in Slovenia from October 7 to 10, 2026. The team consisted of women whose husbands had fallen in battle for Ukraine or are currently missing in action.

The Ukrainian delegation also included veterans of the Russo-Ukrainian War. They shared their personal stories with other participants, discussed the challenges of returning from the front, and outlined the current needs of Ukrainian veterans.

A highlight of the event was an international press conference featuring Roman Hrybov—author of the legendary statement regarding the Russian warship—and Lieutenant General Vladyslav Klochkov. Participants discussed the role of adapted Pitch & Putt in the physical and psychological rehabilitation of members of the armed forces.

Another significant component of the program was the training of coaches from various countries in rehabilitation work with persons with disabilities. AKZ representatives Rimma Štubler and Natalija Ignatova had the opportunity to learn from Mark Allen, a leading international expert and sports coach in this field.

The meeting at the Brdo pri Kranju state residence—attended by the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Slovenia, Petro Beshta, and the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia, Zoran Stevanović—reaffirmed that sport and entrepreneurship are vital tools for reintegration into a full life.

The “Golftegration” project, supported by the European Union, opens up new avenues for veterans and the families of defenders to recover, connect, and actively engage with society.

Sport is more than just physical activity; it is a path toward renewed strength, self-confidence, and the sense that the future once again belongs to us.

📩 For further information and registration:

📞 +386 70 466 567

✉️ drustvo.akz@gmail.com