KYIV, Ukraine – “Everyone, do an exercise called butterfly. Who will fly faster? Wave your wings!” football coach Serhiy called out to a group of 12 adolescent girls.
The girls are participating in a football class that is part of the “Come on, Let’s Play” project for girls with intellectual disabilities. But the programme is not only intended to expose the girls to exercise, teamwork and recreation; it is also an opportunity to learn social skills and, crucially, to help the girls communicate openly about their needs.