Today, Manchester FA is supporting World Menopause Day. Female health has been a top priority across the women’s recreational game and the Manchester FA Menopause Project, fully funded by Nike, is testament to this.

In July 2023, The Well HQ delivered a 3-hour workshop to launch the project, covering topics including Menopause, Pelvic Floor Health and Breast Support. Following the launch participants have attended weekly walking football sessions, initially provided free of charge.

The project engaged local partners including Age UK Trafford, Trafford Leisure who are proudly continuing the work of the project, and local grassroots club AFC Urmston Meadowside.

Women’s Recreational Football Officer, Nicole Flynn, said “The work we are doing in this area is very important. We’ve seen the power of football in opening up discussions, alleviating menopausal symptoms and empowering women to be physically active”.

Thanks to Nike funding, Manchester FA have been able to provide participants on the programme a complimentary Nike Sports Bra. After celebrating their 1-year anniversary of the programme, participants also received a Nike Football Shirt which will enable them to now compete in the local walking football league as a unified team.

The Menopause Project has been successfully shortlisted within the Women & Girls category at the County FA Recognition Awards 2024. The awards take place at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Thursday 7^th November, stay tuned on our socials to find out the result!

If you’re interested in learning more about the project, S5 EP8 of England Football’s In The Box tells the story, step inside the session here