Valeriy Mykolayovych Zykov, a distinguished karate coach, passed away at the age of 81, leaving behind an indelible mark on Ukrainian sports.

Valeriy dedicated many years to coaching and teaching in various sports institutions in Odessa. He led the city sports committee, served as the first deputy of the regional sports committee from 1992 to 1998, and from 1999 to 2005, he was the head of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports of the Odessa City Council.

Since 2005, he worked as a coach at the ‘Shchit’ sports club, and in 2023, he became the director of the Children and Youth Sports School No. 15.

Throughout his career, he trained numerous athletes who became masters of sports and international champions.

His students will always remember him as a kind, understanding, and professional mentor and friend.

The Odessa City Council and the local sports community extend their heartfelt condolences to Valeriy Mykolayovych's family during this difficult time.