Andrii Slastin

Hello, my name is Andrii Slastin. I am a Ukrainian Junior National team member.

My Story

I came to the United States from Ukraine during one of the most difficult and uncertain times of my life. When the full-scale war began, I spent the first two months in Poland with my family, trying to stay safe while adapting to the sudden and harsh new reality. After Ukrainian forces successfully liberated the Kyiv region, I was able to return home for a short period.

Life in Kyiv was still far from normal. Air raid sirens, blackouts, and constant uncertainty were part of daily life, but it was still home. During this time, I received an invitation to attend a fencing camp in the United States. As a professional fencer with more than twelve years of experience, I recognized it as a valuable opportunity to continue training and competing at a high level. The chance to focus on my sport again gave me hope and motivation amidst the chaos. Traveling to the U.S. for that camp became a turning point in my life.

While at the camp, I met Coach Alex Kushkov and his family, who showed me extraordinary kindness and support. They not only welcomed me into their lives but also offered me something life-changing: the opportunity to study in the United States, continue my education, and keep training in the sport I love.

Thanks to Coach Kushkov and his family, I have found stability and purpose during a time of global conflict and personal uncertainty. I am deeply grateful to them for believing in me, opening their hearts and home, and giving me the chance to build a brighter future—both in the classroom and on the fencing strip.