For many players, including former boxer Konstantyn Moskal, life after injury has been a struggle. But it’s not just about physical rehabilitation – football offers a sense of community and emotional gain. In a world where war can leave even the most resilient individuals broken, the League of the Mighty is a shining example of the power of football to bring people together and inspire hope.
In a world where war can leave even the most resilient individuals broken, a group of Ukrainian amputees has found a new sense of purpose in football. The ‘League of the Mighty‘, a competition created by the Ukrainian FA for its amputees, is not just about winning matches – it’s about emotional gain and helping veterans rediscover their will to live.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has resulted in a significant number of amputations among civilians and soldiers.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 30,000 people have been injured, with many requiring prosthetic limbs.
Organizations such as the Red Cross and non-profit groups are providing assistance, including prosthetic care, rehabilitation services, and psychological support.
The Ukrainian government has also established programs to help amputees reintegrate into society.
The league, which now boasts 170 teams representing 15% of Europe’s total amputee footballers, was born out of necessity. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine had only 10 registered amputee footballers. Today, teams from across the country are competing in a bid to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
For many players, including former boxer ‘Konstantyn Moskal‘, life after injury has been a struggle. Moskal’s journey began when he stepped on a landmine shortly after leaving the army and was forced to undergo two operations that couldn’t save his lower left leg. But it’s not just about physical rehabilitation – football offers a sense of community and emotional gain.
Konstantyn Moskal is a Ukrainian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder.
Born on May 3, 1995, in Lviv, Ukraine, he has represented the Ukraine national team in several international matches.
Moskal began his youth career at Karpaty Lviv and later played for clubs like Karpaty Kamianka and Rukh Lviv.
He is known for his skills on the field and has participated in various tournaments.
‘I don’t think he would feel the same comfort anywhere else that he does among this group,’ says Ihor Lytvynko, coach of FK Khrestonostsi. ‘This is all about a community: guys with similar issues who come together and support each other.’
The league has attracted players from all walks of life – including ‘David‘, a Colombian soldier who lost a leg during the war in Ukraine, and Andriy Mandryk, a former goalkeeper who was injured near the front lines. For these individuals, football is more than just a game – it’s a way to connect with others, find purpose, and rediscover their identity.
As the players take to the pitch, it’s clear that this is not just about physical activity – it’s about mental strength, emotional resilience, and the human spirit. Despite the challenges they face, including residual limb pain and prosthetic discomfort, these men are determined to make a difference.
‘It’s about life movement,’ says Andriy Herasymchuk, a player for Shakhtar Stalevi. ‘You need to move in order to stay alive.’
Andriy Herasymchuk is a Ukrainian politician and diplomat.
Born on July 18, 1985, in Kyiv, Ukraine.
He served as the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine from March to November 2021.
Prior to this role, he was the Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine and the Minister of Youth and Sports.
Herasymchuk has been a member of the Ukrainian parliament since 2014 and is known for his advocacy on European integration and youth policies.
The League of the Mighty is more than just a sporting initiative – it’s a beacon of hope for a country struggling to rebuild. As the players stand on the winners’ podium, holding their medals and grinning from ear to ear, it’s clear that this is just the beginning.
‘I need to recuperate and then we’ll see what’s next,’ says Konstantyn Moskal afterwards. ‘It makes sense to feel happy, alive and celebrate moments like this. But at the same time, we must remember that we’re able to do it because of the guys who are out there, fighting for us.’
In a world where war can leave even the most resilient individuals broken, the League of the Mighty is a shining example of the power of football to bring people together and inspire hope.
