The swimming competition “Indestructible Cup of the Ministry of Internal Affairs” was held in Kyiv, the participants of which were veterans and servicemen of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine who were injured while defending the state. Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs was represented at the sports event by an employee of the ERI No. 4 Serhii Vasyliev, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian War and a participant in hostilities.
Serhii performed in category 4 at a distance of 50 meters freestyle. Despite the limited time for preparation, he showed a decent result, demonstrating endurance and athletic perseverance. This time he did not manage to take a prize place, but the performance became an important experience for him and another step forward.
“These were my first competitions of this level, so the main thing was to test my strength and take a step forward. Of course, swimming without a lower limb is much more difficult, you need to work more on technique and endurance. But I am not going to give up - I will continue training and move towards new results,” said Serhii Vasyliev.
After the performance, the veteran was awarded by the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko, who thanked him for his service, participation in competitions and indomitable spirit.
In February 2022, Serhii volunteered to defend Ukraine. While performing combat missions in the east of the country, he was seriously injured, as a result of which he lost his lower limb. After treatment and long-term rehabilitation, he returned to active life and currently works at Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs, engaged in social and humanitarian work with cadets.
Sport became an important part of his recovery and a new stage of self-realization. Serhii continues to participate in sports events, demonstrating an example of resilience, discipline and daily work on himself.
The university staff is proud of Serhii Vasyliev and wishes him new sporting achievements, good health and victories in the future.
