Occupation: Coach

Country of Birth: Ukraine (Uman)

Current: Maple Grove, MN

“For me, Ukraine is not just a country, but the very heart of my childhood, the place where I took my first steps, learned to speak, and heard the voice of my grandmother’s song for the first time.”

Igor was born in Uman, Ukraine, a homeland he calls his “fairytale country,” rich in traditions, bright holidays, and wonderful people. Surrounded by family, friends, and teachers, it is where he learned to walk, talk, and discover life’s first joys.

For over 30 years, Igor devoted himself to karate. He founded Spartak in 1995, a sports club where he taught kyokushin karate. By 2002, he founded and became President of the Cherkasy Regional Federation of Kyokushin Karate. From 2020 to 2024, he taught physical education and labor training at Rodnyky Lyceum named after T.G. Shevchenko. When the war began, he volunteered and delivered vehicles and humanitarian aid to the frontlines of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

After two years of war, Igor decided to move his family abroad to the US. He had to leave his home, parents, friends, and career to protect his wife and children. Despite the difficulties, Igor found the strength to adapt. He continues his professional karate sports activities and cooperates with the American National Karate organization. He also managed to take part in an international karate tournament in America, where he took 5th place among sports veterans.

Igor also remains connected to his Ukrainian roots, volunteering at the Ukrainian Center and supporting events that raise funds for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He believes that the moment will come when peace will reign in Ukraine and the dream of the great Kobzar will come true.