As part of the Basketball-KTN Erasmus+ project, YSSUKRAINE successfully kicked off its first two training activities, combining basketball skill development, youth empowerment, and European values through sport.
On April 24, 2025, the first Basketball-KTN iteration took place in Chernivtsi, bringing together 46 young athletes from the “Stars of Bukovina” basketball club. The session focused on core basketball skills—dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive tactics—along with teamwork, communication, and leadership-building activities. Supported by professional coaches and local volunteers, the event offered a balanced and fun learning experience on and off the court.
A few days later, on May 4, 2025, the second iteration was held in Ternopil, welcoming 45 young athletes for a full day of practice, fun games, and a unique motivational session by professional basketball player Nikita Bukholdin. Dr. Natalia Osip, candidate of pedagogical sciences and assistant professor at the Department of Physical Education and Rehabilitation, demonstrated modern training relay methods, blending sports education and creativity. Students from the Faculty of Physical Education of Ternopil National Pedagogical University also participated as volunteers, ensuring the smooth organization of activities and supporting the athletes throughout the day.
Watch the iteration videos:
With a strong emphasis on youth engagement, teamwork, and skill-building, these Basketball-KTN iterations mark a powerful start for YSSUKRAINE in the project. The sessions not only enhanced participants’ athletic abilities but also fostered confidence, discipline, and community spirit.
The next iterations will further explore emotional resilience, mental health in sport, and inclusive team dynamics – reinforcing the project’s mission to empower youth through the combined strength of basketball and education.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Basketball-KTN community as we continue building bridges across Europe through sport!