A football festival-tournament was held for large families in the Nizhny Novgorod Region.

      02 September 2025 14:22

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      Sport — In the Gorodetsky District of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, a football festival-tournament (0+) was held for children from social institutions as well as foster and large families. The event, aimed at supporting children in special life situations, was organized by the football club Volna and the Korablyov Fund with the support of the regional Ministry of Social Policy and the project office of the Strategy for the Development of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast.

      "It is very important to create an environment where every child, regardless of life circumstances, has the opportunity to realize their potential. The new project is a good example of successful public–private partnership, where business acts not merely as a sponsor but as a true partner in children's social sport. I am confident that this tournament will become a tradition and its reach will expand," emphasized Igor Sedykh, Minister of Social Policy of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast.

      The tournament was held free of charge; 45 children took part. Over two days they participated not only in football matches but also in master classes from FC Volna players, open trainings with professional coaches, and entertainment activities. The goal of the project is not to determine winners, but to spark the children’s interest in continuing to play football.

      According to the organizers, the project is unique in that it brought together representatives of the business community and government agencies at the intersection of social policy and sport.

      "For our club, this festival is not a one-off event but part of a larger philosophy. We believe that football is a powerful tool for social change. And the children who came to us often remain 'out of the game' when it comes to football. That is both unfair and wrong. Our task is to correct this situation. Especially since among these kids there may be real football diamonds," said Denis Korablyov, president of FC Volna and founder of the Korablyov Fund.

      The opening of the festival was attended by Irina Zinovyeva, director of the regional Talent Development Center Vega. She noted that many children from social categories would like to connect their lives with football.

      "When we talk about a sporting or football future for children, we somehow always mean a playing career. But around football there are so many wonderful and promising professions — coaches, medical staff, scouts, managers. The uniqueness of this festival is precisely that the kids, being in a real football environment, not only run with the ball but also interact closely with coaches and professional players. As a result, the children take a broader view of sport and see new opportunities for their development," said Irina Zinovyeva.

      The festival concluded with an awards ceremony. All participants received commemorative medals, diplomas, and gifts.

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