A tournament in Zakarpattia has become more than just a sports event — it turned into a powerful demonstration of unity, respect, and veteran support.
Yesterday, at the “Harmoniya” complex in Uzhhorod district, an open championship of Zakarpattia region and the city of Uzhhorod in the martial art “Combat Self-Defense ISO” (enhanced contact) took place. The event was dedicated to the bright memory of Yuriy Vasylyzhenko, an officer of the Special Police Battalion (Rifle Battalion) of the National Police in Zakarpattia region, who was killed on November 10, 2025, while performing a combat mission in Donetsk region.
Before the start of the competition, athletes, veterans, police officers, and guests honored the Hero with a moment of silence.
200 Participants and 14 Clubs — “Combat Self-Defense ISO” United Generations
Nearly 200 fighters from 14 sports clubs took part in the tournament — children, teenagers, adult athletes, and veterans who use Combat Self-Defense ISO as part of their rehabilitation, physical recovery, and return to active life.
The event was initiated by Vladyslav Hornod, Assistant to the Head of the Zakarpattia Regional Police for Veteran Affairs and an active member of the veteran community.
“Heroes live as long as we continue their mission”
According to Vladyslav Hornod, the championship carries an important and symbolic purpose:
“We hold these competitions so that young people can see an example of true courage and honor. Heroes live as long as we remember them — and today every strike, every victory in this ring is dedicated to one of them, Yuriy Vasylyzhenko,” he emphasized.
A Championship That Heals Hearts
The tournament concluded with the awarding of winners, but the greatest achievement was the unity — of athletes, police officers, veterans, children, and everyone who came to honor the fallen Hero.
More and more veterans are joining the training and rehabilitation system of Combat Self-Defense ISO, finding in this martial art a path to recovery, support, and brotherhood.
This championship proved that the fight continues not only on the battlefield — it lives on in the hearts of those who remember, support, and continue the mission of Ukraine’s Heroes.
