In February 2025, the Ukrainian national team will participate in the Invictus Games — the international Games for the Wounded, taking place this year in Vancouver and Whistler, Canada. The competitions will run from February 8 to 16, bringing together teams from countries around the world.

Why It Matters The Invictus Games are designed for active servicemembers and veterans who have suffered injuries or illnesses during service. They are not just sporting events, but a path to physical recovery, psychological rehabilitation, and social reintegration. Through adaptive sports, participants regain mobility, acquire new skills, and reconnect with their changed bodies.

Ukraine has been participating in the Invictus Games since 2018. Since 2019, the selection and preparation of the Ukrainian team have been supported by Povernys Zhyvym Foundation, and since 2024, this work has been coordinated by CBA Initiatives Center. The veteran department’s specialists support participants at every stage: from selection and training to competing at the Games.

"Adaptive sports are my way to live fully. If I don’t stay physically active, I’ll be confined to bed. But I want to help my country, not just myself," says Taras Kovalik, Head of the Veteran Department at CBA Initiatives Center.

He adds: "The Invictus Games show that even with a changed body, you can lead a quality life where sports are not only a necessity but also a source of joy."

For CBA Initiatives Center, supporting the Invictus Games is not only about helping veterans — it’s also a key step toward scaling adaptive sports across Ukraine.