July 2, 2026
Karol Polák Cup: Fair Play at the Heart of a Unique Football Tournament
The tournament, organised by the Wise Dog Civic Association in cooperation with the Slovak Football Association and the Centre for Labour, Social Affairs and Family, has become one of the most anticipated annual events for children living in residential care. Beyond the football matches, participants enjoyed a rich accompanying programme, creating lasting memories and new friendships.
The football stadium in Spišská Nová Ves (SVK) hosted the final stage of the Slovak Championship of Football Teams from Centres for Children and Families (residential child-care institutions) – the Karol Polák Cup. The 22nd edition of this unique competition once again brought together young players from children’s centres across Slovakia, combining competitive football with friendship, respect and the values of fair play.
The soul of the project, Ľubomír Dranga, highlighted the importance of teamwork and the commitment of everyone involved.
“Preparing regional teams for this tournament requires a great deal of effort. Directors, educators and coaches dedicate countless hours to making it happen, and they deserve enormous appreciation. We are also grateful to all our partners and supporters who understand that encouraging children to play sport and promoting healthy lifestyles is one of the best investments we can make in their future. It is demanding work, but seeing the children’s enthusiasm and smiles makes every effort worthwhile.”
Dranga also shared a touching story that perfectly reflects the unique atmosphere of the Karol Polák Cup. Six years ago, a young female referee named Janka officiated at the tournament for the first time. Photos from the event shared on social media caught the attention of a young man, who contacted her. Their story developed into a relationship, and this August they will get married. It is another example of how the tournament creates memories and life-changing moments far beyond the football pitch.
One of the highlights of this year’s event was the Fair Play Award, presented by the Fair Play Club of the Slovak Olympic and Sports Committee. The award recognised Marek Jedinák, the long-serving coach of the Prešov Region team, for his many years of dedicated work with children and for promoting the values of respect, integrity and sportsmanship.
Receiving the award, Jedinák stressed that the honour belonged not only to him but to everyone who contributes to the tournament.
“This Fair Play Award is not just mine. It belongs to all the coaches, educators, organisers and everyone who creates this wonderful event year after year. Together we give these children opportunities, motivation and unforgettable experiences.”
The Fair Play Award was presented by Ján Jacoš from the Fair Play Club of the Slovak Olympic and Sports Committee. Awards were also presented by the Mayor of Spišská Nová Ves, Pavol Bečarik, and former Czechoslovak and Slovak international footballer Dušan Tittel.
While the football provided excitement throughout the tournament, the strongest message once again was that fair play, mutual respect and equal opportunities are the true victories of the Karol Polák Cup.
