Women’s football development in Papua New Guinea took another positive step forward through a recent This Is How We Football (TIHWF) workshop held in Port Moresby.
The workshop, supported through funding from UEFA, helps strengthen women and girls football development initiatives across the region. The session in Port Moresby focused on strengthening coaching knowledge, leadership, and player development while creating opportunities for coaches to share experiences and learn from one another.
“This workshop is highly valuable because it provides insights into topics that are not often discussed openly,” said Papua New Guinea women’s football legend and two-time South Pacific Games gold medallist, Catherine Horris.
“It creates an important learning space for coaches to go back and share with young girls that they have the power and confidence to stand up for themselves.”
Throughout the sessions, emphasis was placed on strengthening coaches’ understanding of the TIHWF programme objectives, building their confidence to deliver sessions that are safe, inclusive, and impactful.
Coaches also developed a deeper awareness of their role not only as football coaches, but also as role models and mentors for young girls in their communities.
A key outcome of the workshop was the strengthening of capacity for two TIHWF trainers in Papua New Guinea, who were empowered and supported to take greater ownership in delivering TIHWF coaches training and leading development within their respective contexts.
Social Responsibility Manager, Christine Wamala applauded the trainers for having the confidence to deliver as the program will roll out to 2 new region this year.
“Through engaging in the TIHWF program, girls and women are empowered to access and enjoy football at every level. Sport has the power to change lives,” said Wamala.
“It teaches women & girls teamwork, self-reliance, resilience, confidence, and develops leadership skills. By focusing on the creation of a safe and inclusive environment promotes safeguarding in sports and gender equality.”
Another major highlight was the open discussion around women’s menstrual health and the importance of educating young girls in a practical and supportive way.
Conversations focused on breaking cultural stigma and promoting informed choices, including the use of tampons as a safe and effective option for playing football, alongside good hygiene practices. This helped challenge cultural beliefs and norms while supporting confidence, comfort, and continued participation in sport.
Overall the workshop reinforced the importance of investing in coach development as a pathway to strengthen women’s football, ensuring more girls are supported, empowered, and retained in the game.