On September 27 and 28, the Fifth International Wheelchair Basketball Tournament “Sofia-Balkan” was held in the sports complex in Gorni Malina, organized by the Sofia-Balkan BKHIC. For two days, the hall was filled with emotions, dynamics and sportsmanship – numerous single combats, intercepted balls, fast counterattacks and contested fights under the basket. In the final standings, our boys deservedly won third place.
In their first match, Sofia-Balkan achieved a convincing victory against the Greek team Panserraikos. In the second match, they lost by only 12 points to the strong Turkish team Tuzla Bel. The decisive match for third place started evenly – basket for basket – but with will, perseverance and excellent play, our heroes prevailed by a difference of 20 points.
The youngest participant in the tournament – barely eight-year-old Emo, who with his dedication and energy contributed to the victory alongside the starters, also brought a special flavor.
The event was not only a sports celebration, but also an occasion for valuable meetings and conversations. Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan President Ivaylo Vassilev and Past President Krasimir Veselinov had the opportunity to meet and talk with both the players and coaches of the teams, as well as Tsena Konstantinova and her daughter Valeria. Tsena is the wife of the late Past President of the club Svetlyo Syarov – the man during whose time the basketball team was created, which he devotedly managed for years.
In the spirit of Rotarianism, Ivaylo Vassilev introduced Valeria to the activities and opportunities of the youth organization, inviting her to join the meetings of Rotaract Sofia-Balkan and possibly become a future member.
Warm congratulations also to our volleyball national team, who won the silver medals at the World Championship, something unattainable for 55 years!
The fifth international wheelchair basketball tournament “Sofia-Balkan” and the finals of the World Volleyball Championship once again proved the power of sport as a bridge between people, bringing joy, friendship and inspiration to all who share the values of Rotary.
