Teacher, scientist, practitioner – Valeriy P. Ivashchenko

The article is dedicated to the 80^th anniversary of Valery P. Ivashchenko, a labor veteran, honored figure in the field of physical education and sports, an experienced teacher, scientist, practitioner, associate professor of the department of physical education. His career is traced from a person passionate about sports to the head of a teaching staff. The important role of V.P. Ivashchenko’s scientific activities for the development of the department, his participation in all-Russian and international conferences, writing articles, developing educational programs and manuals are emphasized. The stages of the biography are presented: studying at the Leningrad Institute of Physical Culture named after P.F. Lesgaft, coaching, refereeing, postgraduate studies, defending a candidate’s thesis, teaching at the Institute of Physical Culture, heading the department of physical education at the St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University. The article briefly highlights the main points of the methodological, practical and pedagogical activities of V.P. Ivashchenko, namely, conducting educational classes, opening sports sections, preparing university teams for participation in competitions at various levels. The authors of the article mentioned Valery Pavlovich’s well-deserved awards for many years of conscientious work in the field of physical culture and sports, as well as the conferment of honorary titles. His high level of professionalism, creative attitude to work, desire for an active lifestyle and remarkable human qualities were noted. Biographical information in the article is presented by V.P. Ivashchenko.