The Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar continues its support of young Ukrainian tennis players
Thanks to agreements between the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the Ukrainian Tennis Federation, this year, around 100 Ukrainians will have the opportunity to enjoy a unique experience in Manacor to help them continue their sports training while the difficult situation in their country endures.
So far, a total of 24 players have visited the facilities in Manacor to enjoy 1-2 weeks of all-inclusive accommodation, tennis coaching, and fitness training alongside the young tennis players who train throughout the year at the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar.
The players are selected in collaboration with Evgeny Zukin, Vice President and Executive Director of the Ukrainian Tennis Federation and with the direct involvement of the various departments of the Academy, logistically coordinated by Natalia Mordasova, a Ukrainian coach at the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar.
“The situation in my country for the last year is extremely complicated. While normal life becomes very difficult, the life of a tennis player is practically impossible. From the start of the war, the Academy has been very involved and has given work to coaches since April last year, and has invited many players individually. Now, with this project, we have managed to professionalise this aid and to allow many players to finally have something positive in their lives. In Ukraine it is so difficult to find places to train and for them this is a unique time of their lives. I’m in direct contact with the families and they’re all so grateful for this opportunity. Personally, I’m very thankful to the academy for everything it is doing for Ukraine at this time”, explained Natalia Mordasova, who has worked at the Academy since February 2017.
Toni Nadal, Director of Tennis at the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar had the following to say: “We know how difficult this time is for the children that are passing through our facilities and that these weeks at the Academy will not change their lives, but we are happy to see them and their families excited. They have told us that this experience is helping them disconnect from the tragic situation in their country and at least to be able to enjoy an experience that will be unforgettable for them. Hopefully, with the help of the Ukrainian Federation and the ITF, we can continue to do our bit to help in such a difficult and painful situation”.
