A Ukrainian boxing coach who fled the war with his pregnant wife and three children has rebuilt his life in Sheffield — not just as a survivor, but as a coach, mentor, and now business partner in his own boxing academy.
Oleksandr Pohodin was once a lawyer and head of the Youth and Sport Department in his region of Ukraine. When the war broke out, he made the difficult decision to leave Ukraine and resettle abroad.
He arrived in the UK on 16 June 2022 under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.“It was the most difficult challenge of my life, every war is bad,” he said. “I left everything — part of my family, my future, my dreams, my country.”
During his first year in the UK, he was hosted by sponsor Eva Walterman, living in her home for free while settling into a new life. Support also came from Sheffield City Boxing Club coach Brendan Warburton, who helped him earn Level one and two coaching qualifications.
The Ukrainian community in Sheffield also played a role in helping his family settle. His wife and child attend Saturday meetings at a local Ukrainian centre, which helped them feel less isolated.
“They gave me space, education, and trust,” said Pohodin. “Now I have my own academy with two partners. It’s something I never imagined when I first arrived.”
Pohodin still worries about his two daughters who remain in Ukraine, along with his elderly father and other relatives. But he tries not to dwell on the war.
“You must focus on your children, your work, your health,” he said. “If you keep thinking only about the war, you will have problems with your psychology.”
Boxing gives him a structure in his life and stay connected to his students and work. Through it, he carries a sense of responsibility.“Even if I feel sad inside, I don’t want my team or my students to feel it.”
Pohodin feels deeply grateful to Sheffield and the people who welcomed him. “My only feedback is: thank you,” he said. “My child is happy here. That means everything to me.”