With the Support of Vinnytsia City Council, Young Female Basketball Players Took Part in an International Tournament in the Twin City of Bursa

For the young athletes from Vinnytsia, this was their first competition at this level, yet the girls demonstrated confident play and a strong team spirit. At the end of the tournament, the Vinnytsia team took an honourable fourth place.

Team coach Serhii Kozanchuk noted that taking part in such sporting contests had been an extremely important experience for his players.

'This was the first international competition of this calibre for our girls. We saw their character, dedication and desire to fight until the final minutes of every match. For our basketball players, this is not only a sporting experience, but also an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of an international tournament, to learn responsibility and to gain confidence in their own abilities. I am proud of our team and of how well they represented Vinnytsia and Ukraine,' says Serhii Kozanchuk.

Inna Zahrai, chief specialist of the Committee on Physical Culture and Sport at Vinnytsia City Council, explained that the trip took place at the invitation of the Mayor of Bursa.

'This is the second year running that Vinnytsia has been invited to take part in such international sporting events in Bursa. Last year, our city was represented by a women’s volleyball team. The Ukrainian delegation was given a very warm and sincere welcome. It was particularly pleasing to see the support of the Ukrainian diaspora living in Turkey – people came to the matches, cheered on our athletes and supported them throughout the tournament,' noted Inna Zahrai.

She also emphasised that such international meetings are important not only for the sporting development of young people. 'Tournaments like these provide athletes with invaluable experience, both professionally and in terms of communication. It is an opportunity to meet and interact with peers from other countries, establish international ties and, through sport, foster friendship between cities and nations,' added Inna Zahrai.

Serhii Kozanchuk thanked Vinnytsia City Council for supporting young athletes and providing the opportunity to take part in international competitions.

'We are grateful to the city authorities for supporting children’s sport and providing talented young people with the chance to develop, gain new experiences and represent our community on the international stage. Such trips motivate children to work even harder and open up new prospects for them,' emphasised the coach.