The phrase Bulgarian, heroes! accompanies every sporting event that Bulgaria takes part in, and is well known to every proud Bulgarian.

However, few know that this exclamation stems from the culture of 'Hero' gymnastic societies - youth organisations imbued with Bulgarian national ideals that played an important role in the patriotic upbringing of several generations of young Bulgarians.
The first 'Hero' gymnastic society was founded in Sofia on August 25, 1895 by Todor Yonchev. Swiss gymnastics coaches Louis Ayer, Daniel Blanchou, Alois Bunter and Sh. Shampo were invited to contribute to it by the Minister of Education Georgy Zhivkov.
Over the following three years, more than 20 organisatons were established. Members came from all parts of society - students and young people, intelligentsia and peasants. However, in the early years, women were not allowed.
The Union of Bulgarian Gymnastic Societies 'Hero' was established at the First Congress of Societies in 1898, the beginning of the sports movement in Bulgaria. This public organisation deals with the patriotic upbringing of young people with the motto: 'Hard and strong – altogether for the Motherland'.