In Memory of Valeriy Zykov: A Leader and Coach
At the age of 81, the heart of Valeriy Mykolayovych Zykov, a renowned karate coach and the first head of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports of the Odessa City Council, has stopped beating.
His career was deeply intertwined with sports and physical culture. For many years, he dedicated himself to coaching and teaching at various sports institutions in Odessa. He led the city sports committee and served as the first deputy of the regional sports committee from 1992 to 1998. From 1999 to 2005, he headed the Department of Physical Culture and Sports of the Executive Committee of the Odessa City Council.
Since 2005, he worked as a coach and instructor at the sports club 'Shield,' and from 2023, he served as the director of the Comprehensive Children's and Youth Sports School No. 15.
Throughout his coaching career, Valeriy Mykolayovych trained dozens of sports masters, including international class athletes.
His students will always remember him as a kind, compassionate, professional, and reliable friend and mentor.
The Odessa City Council, its Executive Committee, and the sports community express their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Valeriy Mykolayovych in this time of loss.