For many young girls in the Pacific, the challenges of participating in sport extend far beyond the football field. A lack of access to affordable menstrual products and limited education around menstrual health remain major barriers, often preventing girls from fully engaging in physical activity.

Last year, participants in the This Is How We Football voiced these concerns, sharing how their periods often undermined their confidence and ability to play. In response, Samoa Football partnered with Brown Girl Woke, a local organisation advocating for women’s empowerment, to provide reusable menstrual pads and body safety education.

“Through this partnership, we’re making sure young girls not only have access to sport, but also to reusable menstrual pads and body safety education because confidence starts both on and off the field,” said Pele Taei, Samoa Football’s Social Responsibility and Just Play Manager, who leads the initiative.

The programme, which provides safe, accessible football experiences for 13 to 18-year-old girls, reflects a shared commitment to supporting girls not only as athletes, but as young women in their communities. By equipping them with practical resources and knowledge, the partnership is helping to break down stigma and create an environment where girls feel safe, supported, and empowered.

“We believe this is just the beginning. If we keep pushing forward and advocating for girls, we know it will lead to real, lasting impact,” Taei added.

Beyond menstrual health, Oceania Football Confederation’s Education and High Performance has launched a new female athlete wellbeing initiative. As part of this, wellbeing packs including menstruation products, hygiene products and other essential resources were provided to teams at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 to better support female players. Players at this competition will also receive free sports bras at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers at the end of this year and next year. 

In addition, OFC’s Just Play and This Is How We Football programmes also promote wider health and wellbeing through their Health, WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), and Gender Equality curriculum. This encourages young women to adopt healthy lifestyles, with a focus on nutrition, physical activity, and mental wellbeing.

“We want girls to understand the importance of a healthy body and healthy mind, making good food choices, staying active, and contributing positively to their families, schools, and communities,” Taei said.

The partnership with Brown Girl Woke marks a powerful step toward breaking down participation barriers for women and girls in football, helping them build a life-long connection with the game. Samoa Football is empowering young women to thrive in sport and beyond, while contributing to a healthier, more inclusive region.