Today, September 10, at the office of the All-Russian Sports Federation of Sports of the Deaf, OSFSG President Dmitry Rebrov met with veterans of deaf sports. The event was attended by 12 veterans: Svetlana Slepneva, Faina Sementsova, Georgy Semenov, Tatiana Gagarina, Vadim Bokarev, Tatiana Volgina, Dmitry Grigoriev, Galina Solovyova, Olga Dula, Boris Kroshkin, Tatiana Butorina, and Olga Makhnenko.

The meeting was held in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The veterans shared stories, asked the Federation President questions, and enjoyed tea together — time passed unnoticed. Dmitry Rebrov presented each guest with a book about the history of deaf sports, along with gifts at the end of the meeting. He also awarded Letters of Thanks to two anniversary celebrants: Vadim Bokarev, who turned 75 last year, and Tatiana Butorina, who recently turned 65, in recognition of their contributions to deaf sports.

Several guests shared their impressions of the event:

Olga Makhnenko:

"Special thanks to the head of the OSFSG for the warm welcome and the unexpected gift — the book on the history of deaf sports. The meeting felt almost like a family gathering. We discussed various issues, including volunteer work with veterans and promoting a healthy lifestyle after a sports career."

Tatiana Butorina:

"It’s wonderful that the OSFSG, under Dmitry Rebrov’s leadership, has not forgotten us, the Deaflympic veterans. We had productive discussions, and I am truly touched by the gifts and the thank-you letter. I feel so much joy! I wish Dmitry Rebrov every success in the future."

Boris Kroshkin:

"The meeting between the Association of Veterans of Deaf Sports (AVDS) and the OSFSG leadership was held in a friendly and warm atmosphere over tea. AVDS veterans received gifts and the first volume of a book on the history of Russian deaf sports. Dmitry Rebrov spoke about the prospects for developing deaf sports amid challenging international conditions. We also discussed joint projects and future cooperation between OSFSG and AVDS."

Georgy Semenov:

"Thank you to the OSFSG for the warm welcome, especially during these not-so-easy times in Russia. I’m very glad we found mutual understanding, and I learned many interesting things today. Let’s continue our friendship!"

Galina Solovyova:

"The meeting at the OSFSG was certainly worthwhile. I had the chance to get to know Federation President Dmitry Rebrov better and converse with fellow Deaflympic veterans. The tea party was lovely, and the book was a special surprise. We discussed current issues and future plans — I am very satisfied!"

Text: Olga Troinikova

Photo: Sofia Rumyantseva

Translation: Daria Kudelina