About Serhii Koniushok: Ukrainian strongman, world champion, president of the Strongman Federation of Ukraine.
This weekend, Bukovel will host the finals of the Strong Spirit’s Games, and we had the chance to talk with Serhii Koniushok about the event, its mission, and what’s new this year.
Hello, Serhii! How did the idea come about to hold the National Selection for international veteran competitions at Bukovel?
Hello! Let me give you a bit of background. In 2024, the Strongman Federation of Ukraine received an invitation from Bukovel to collaborate. The resort offered a platform to launch meaningful projects supporting the reintegration and social rehabilitation of veterans. Since 2022, the Federation has been actively involved in sports rehabilitation for war veterans, so hosting the 2024 season finals at Bukovel on September 14-15 was a natural fit. The event quickly became a highlight of the season, and last year’s selection went flawlessly!
How does Bukovel support the event?
Throughout the year, the Federation organizes ranking tournaments for veterans across Ukraine. Starting in 2024, our partnership with Bukovel has flourished, offering an exceptional venue and European-level service for the participants. For many veteran athletes, it was their first visit to Bukovel, and the experience of competing in such a well-equipped resort left a lasting impression. Bukovel also supported the Federation in organizing international competitions in Madrid in 2024 and continues to be the general partner for the 2025 season.
What’s new for this year’s finals at Bukovel?
This year, the Federation is expanding the concept of the National Selection by introducing a Veteran Job Fair alongside the competitions. This initiative invites companies with veteran employment programs to connect with those veterans. It’s a significant step for both sustainable development and veteran reintegration, offering real job opportunities.
Tell us more about the Veteran Job Fair. Why is it important?
We’re gathering a pool of about 200 proactive veterans who qualified for the National Selection at Bukovel. Partner companies with veteran-friendly hiring policies will have the chance to offer positions to these participants. This initiative strengthens the veteran community, encourages social projects, and already attracts interest from major companies. The hope is that this fair will eventually grow into a standalone project, rooted in sports-based rehabilitation. Indeed, the power of spirit knows no limits!
Strong Spirit’s Games 2025
On September 5-7, as part of the Veteran Support program, Bukovel will host the Strong Spirit’s Games – the national selection for international veteran competitions.
Disciplines include:
- Bench press;
- Concept-2 rowing;
- Air bike exercises;
- Kettlebell snatch and press.
Here, every participant will showcase that true strength lies in endurance, resilience, and character.
Location: Near the Ferris Wheel
Supported by the Ukrainian Ministry for Veterans, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ukrainian Ground Forces, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ivano-Frankivsk Regional State Administration, and the Strongman Federation of Ukraine.
General Partner: BUKOVEL