FC Uzhhorod Unveils New Professional Soccer Team Website

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the new FC Uzhhorod Professional Soccer Team website! This digital platform marks a significant milestone in our journey, showcasing our story of resilience, community, and unwavering faith. We invite you to explore our new site, learn more about our mission, and discover how you can partner with us to make a lasting impact.

1. Our Journey: Rising Above Challenges
2. Leadership and Vision: Guided by Faith
3. Our Mission: Developing Leaders and Strengthening Community
4. Meet the Team: The Heartbeat of FC Uzhhorod
5. Partner With Us: Be a Part of Our Story

Our Journey: Rising Above Challenges

At FC Uzhhorod (FCU), we are more than just a soccer team. As a Tier 2 professional team in the Ukrainian Professional Soccer League, our story is deeply intertwined with the events of the ongoing conflict in our nation. When war broke out, it brought unprecedented challenges but also unexpected opportunities.

Several of our team members were granted short-term visas to the United States, where they participated in tournaments in Minnesota and experienced life with loving host families in the Minneapolis area. These experiences not only honed their skills on the field but also strengthened their resolve and unity as a team.

Upon returning to Ukraine, we underwent a significant transformation. Merging with another organization, we became the FC Uzhhorod you see today—a for-profit subsidiary of the not-for-profit organization, Family of Christ International (FCI). Based in Uzhhorod, Ukraine, and legally domiciled in Minnesota, we stand as a beacon of hope and progress in challenging times.

Leadership and Vision: Guided by Faith

Under the guidance of Rudy Balazhynets, our president, former head coach, and pastor, FCU has taken a distinctive approach to soccer. With over 30 years of experience as a player and coach, Rudy's passion for youth development—especially helping orphans and homeless boys—has been the driving force behind our early successes, including a championship in the 1st league of Ukraine just before the war.

Rudy believes in the transformative power of the "beautiful game." For him, soccer is more than a sport; it's a tool that helps young players develop hope, trust, and joy in their daily interactions. Through disciplined training and teamwork, our players learn vital life skills that contribute to their overall development, both on and off the field.

Our Mission: Developing Leaders and Strengthening Community

Developing Future Leaders

Our primary aim is to build a future generation of leaders. We nurture strong moral character and integrity among our young players, rooted in Christian values, right on the soccer field. Our program focuses not only on enhancing their athletic skills but also on fostering personal growth and spiritual awareness.

Player Development

The academy at FCU is dedicated to nurturing individuals both on and off the field. We serve as a launchpad for player development, preparing our athletes for potential transfers to leagues in Ukraine and internationally. Our swift advancement to Tier 2 of the Ukrainian Professional Soccer League in August 2024 is a testament to the talent and determination within our ranks.

Strengthening Community

In Uzhhorod, soccer is more than a sport—it's a community event that brings people together. By supporting and building this community, FCU strengthens the bonds among citizens, enhancing engagement and mutual support through a shared love for the game. Together, we strive to inspire hope, foster relationships, and bring joy to everyday life.

Meet the Team: The Heartbeat of FC Uzhhorod

Our dynamic roster of dedicated players and coaches is the heartbeat of our academy. Supported by a committed team that includes administrators, medical staff, and support personnel, our players are well-equipped for success both on and off the field. This robust support system ensures they are poised to perform their best in every match, setting new standards for soccer academies throughout the nation.

Partner With Us: Be a Part of Our Story

We believe in the power of collaboration and are excited to offer partnership opportunities to individuals and organizations who share our vision. By partnering with FC Uzhhorod, you become an integral part of a mission that goes beyond soccer.

Your support helps us:

• Provide Essential Resources: Cover costs for training equipment, travel expenses for tournaments, and scholarship programs for talented players in need.
• Expand Our Impact: Enhance our community outreach programs, benefiting not just our players but the broader community in Uzhhorod.
• Build a Brighter Future: Invest in facilities and programs that foster personal and professional growth among young athletes.

How to Become a Sponsor

Your organization can benefit from brand visibility through our events, promotional materials, and strong community presence. Whether you're looking to give back to the community, strengthen your corporate social responsibility, or simply love soccer, there's a valuable role for you to play as our partner. Click below to see how you can become a partner or donate directly to the mission today. 

About Family of Christ International

From focusing attention on ongoing humanitarian needs, to coordinating volunteers and planning mission trips, to raising financial support, the purpose of Family of Christ International is to deliver help, hope and healing in the name of Jesus Christ to people and places in crisis. Whether you contribute online, donate stock or mail a check, every gift makes an impact. Learn more about ways to get involved and donate to support.