Varna, June 10, 2025 – In the heart of Varna, a unique Sports Festival for people with disabilities was held, bringing together numerous participants, volunteers, and visitors in the spirit of inclusion, sports, and international cooperation. The event, titled “Shtak Tuk-Tam! Adapt Yourself!”, took place from 11 AM to 8 PM and transformed the space in front of the Festival and Congress Center into a vibrant and accessible sports zone.

The festival is part of a larger inclusive initiative organized by the non-governmental organization Association FOR YOU, aimed at promoting accessibility and active participation of people with disabilities in sports and social activities. Special contributions to the festival were made by volunteers from Serbia, France, the Netherlands, Myanmar, Ukraine, Turkey, Egypt and Morocco. who had participated in preparations, workshops, and training for working with people with disabilities in the previous weeks.

Sports for All

Throughout the nine-hour program, all interested individuals—regardless of age or physical abilities—had the opportunity to try various sports adapted for people with disabilities. Some of the activities offered were:

• Wheelchair basketball
• Showdown – a version of table tennis for visually impaired people
• Wheelchair tennis and table tennis
• Canadian wrestling
• Table Soccer
• Chess and backgammon

The sports were organized at several stations, each staffed with instructors and volunteers who assisted participants in getting involved and learning the rules. Many passersby who happened to be near the festival eagerly joined the activities, and the atmosphere was filled with smiles, cheering, and a friendly spirit.

Additionally, participants had the chance to use Virtual Reality (VR) to experience a virtual reality simulation. The VR allowed them to step into the shoes of people with disabilities and view the world from their perspective.

More Than Just Games

Although the main focus of the festival was sport, the event carried a much deeper message. The goal of the festival was to promote equal opportunities, raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and build a more inclusive society through shared activities.

Volunteers Who Change the World

International volunteers (from the European Solidarity Corps) played a particularly important role, having undergone specialized training as part of the “Shtak Tuk-Tam!” project. During the festival, they provided assistance, translation, and moral support to all participants. Their presence enriched the event with additional intercultural dimensions.

Together Towards Inclusion

The association FOR YOU plans to continue such initiatives and expand the model of inclusive sports to other cities.

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