Stefan Reshko
Ukraine- Early Life and Career
- Resistance to Military Service and Rise to Prominence
- International Recognition
- Post-Football Career
- Current Roles and Honors
- Personal Life
Early Life and Career
Viktor Matvienko, a legendary Soviet and Ukrainian footballer, was born into a family where sports and art intertwined. While studying at a vocational school, he discovered his passion for football. After graduating, Matvienko worked as a cabinetmaker at a furniture factory. In 1965, he made his professional debut for Verkhovyna Uzhhorod.
Resistance to Military Service and Rise to Prominence
Unwilling to serve in the army, Matvienko moved to Lokomotiv Vinnytsia in 1966. From 1968 to 1970, he played for Chornomorets Odessa, where he twice earned recognition as one of the best footballers in Soviet Ukraine.
International Recognition
Matvienko's skills caught the attention of the Soviet Olympic team, and he made his debut in 1969. In 1970, he joined Dynamo Kyiv, where he played until his retirement. Between 1971 and 1976, he represented the USSR at both the Olympic and national team levels.
Post-Football Career
After retiring from football in 1979, Matvienko graduated from the Higher School of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He held various positions within the Ministry, eventually rising to the rank of Police Colonel.
Current Roles and Honors
Today, Matvienko serves as head of a department and associate professor at the National Academy of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. He is also chairman of the Committee for the Organization of Competitions and Fair Play, as well as the Control and Disciplinary Committee of the Football Federation of Ukraine. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Order of Merit, 3rd degree, for the 110th anniversary of Ukrainian football.
Personal Life
Matvienko is a devout Baptist. His first wife passed away from stomach cancer in 1988. Five years later, he remarried and had three children with his second wife, Larisa. He has a total of seven grandchildren. In 2015, Matvienko was bestowed with the Order of Merit, 2nd degree.
