Ukraine’s determined men’s team and Slovenia’s resilient women’s team have earned their titles as the Comeback Kings and Queens of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. With both teams overcoming significant challenges to secure their places, they are now ready to command the global spotlight as they pursue their podium dreams from August 29 to September 7 at the North Paris Arena.
Ukraine’s Road to Redemption
Ukraine return to the Paralympic stage with a mission of claiming their first men’s sitting volleyball medal. Competing in their third Paralympic Games, Ukraine last appeared at Rio 2016, where they finished fifth. Now, with a powerful squad led by the dynamic duo of Denys Bytchenko and Roman Pryshchepa, Ukraine are poised to make a statement in Paris.
Bytchenko and Pryshchepa were instrumental in Ukraine’s victory at the 2024 WPV Sitting Volleyball Final Paralympics Qualifier, where they secured their ticket to Paris by defeating the United States 3-0 in a thrilling final at the Dali International Olympic Sports Centre.
After a narrow loss to the USA in the preliminary rounds, Ukraine’s resolve never wavered. Their resilience was on full display in the second set of the final, where they overcame a late deficit to win 32-30, showcasing their ability to thrive under pressure.
With a legacy of strong performances in European competitions, Ukraine are driven to turn that success into global recognition. Their journey to Paris 2024 is a chance to build on their past achievements and compete at the highest level.
Slovenia’s Historic Comeback
Slovenia’s women’s team are no strangers to the Paralympic Games, having competed in the first three editions since sitting volleyball was introduced in Athens 2004. However, after missing out on Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, Slovenia are back with renewed vigour, aiming for their first-ever Paralympic medal.
In the first two editions of the Paralympic sitting volleyball competition, Slovenia came close to the podium, playing in the bronze medal matches but narrowly missing out on a medal. This time, they are more determined than ever to turn those near misses into a historic podium finish.
Led by captain Lena Gabršček, Slovenia secured their place in Paris with a dramatic tie-break victory over Iran in the final of the 2024 WPV Sitting Volleyball Final Paralympics Qualifier in Dali. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Slovenia taking an early lead before Iran stormed back to force a fifth set. In the end, it was Slovenia’s determination and teamwork that propelled them to victory, securing their return to the Paralympic stage.
For Slovenia, Paris 2024 marks a pivotal moment in their journey. After years of hard work and perseverance, they are prepared to demonstrate their capabilities. With a team that balances experience and youthful vigour, Slovenia are resolute in their pursuit of success and are determined to contend for a place on the podium.
