Not «Obolon» and not «Ingulets»: The Rising Star of Ukrainian Football
Ukraine may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about football, but it has a rich history in the sport. From legendary players like Andriy Shevchenko to successful clubs like Dynamo Kyiv, Ukrainian football has always been a force to be reckoned with. However, there is a new team on the rise that is capturing the attention of football fans across the country: «Kolos» Kovalivka.
Located in the small village of Kovalivka in the Kyiv region, «Kolos» Kovalivka may not have the same name recognition as other Ukrainian clubs, but they are quickly making a name for themselves on the field. Founded in 2016, the team has already achieved impressive success, earning promotion to the Ukrainian Premier League in just four years.
But what makes «Kolos» Kovalivka stand out from other Ukrainian clubs? For starters, their unique approach to building a team. Unlike many other clubs that rely on big-name players and expensive transfers, «Kolos» focuses on developing young, local talent. This not only helps to build a strong team for the present, but also ensures a bright future for the club.
One such example is 21-year-old midfielder Oleksandr Noyok, who has been with the club since its inception. Noyok’s talent and dedication have caught the eye of many, including the national team coach Andriy Shevchenko, who has called him up for national team duty. This is just one of many success stories for «Kolos» Kovalivka, as the club’s youth academy continues to produce promising players.
In addition to their focus on youth development, «Kolos» also prides itself on its strong community ties. The club is deeply rooted in the village of Kovalivka, and the team’s success has brought a sense of pride and unity to the community. The players are not just seen as athletes, but as representatives of their village and its values. This strong sense of community has helped to create a supportive and positive environment for the team to thrive in.
But it’s not just their approach to building a team that sets «Kolos» Kovalivka apart. The club is also known for its attractive style of play, with a focus on possession and attacking football. This has earned them the nickname «Ukrainian Barcelona» among fans and media. Led by head coach Oleksandr Shovkovskyi, a former Dynamo Kyiv and national team goalkeeper, the team plays with a fluidity and creativity that is a joy to watch.
Despite being a relatively young club, «Kolos» Kovalivka has already made a name for themselves in the Ukrainian Premier League. In their first season in the top division, they finished in a respectable 7th place, ahead of more established clubs like «Obolon» Kyiv and «Ingulets» Petrovo-Dolynske. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and determination of the team, as well as the support of their passionate fans.
Speaking of fans, «Kolos» Kovalivka has a growing fan base that is quickly becoming one of the most vocal and dedicated in the country. Despite being a small village with a population of just over 3,000, Kovalivka is known for its lively and colorful matchday atmosphere. The fans’ unwavering support has been a crucial factor in the team’s success, and their chants and songs can be heard echoing throughout the stadium.
As «Kolos» Kovalivka continues to make a name for themselves in Ukrainian football, they are also making a positive impact off the field. The club is involved in various charitable initiatives, including providing support for children with disabilities and organizing football camps for underprivileged youth. This commitment to giving back to the community further solidifies the club’s positive image.
In a league dominated by big-name clubs and star players, «Kolos» Kovalivka is a refreshing and inspiring underdog. Their success is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of community. As they continue to grow and make their mark in Ukrainian football, one thing is for sure: «Kolos»
