On October 11th, the Moldovan Football Federation (FMF) celebrated the International Day of the Girl as part of Cross Cultures’ Open Fun Football Schools (OFFS) project in Moldova. This initiative promotes gender equality and equal opportunities for girls in the Republic of Moldova. The first-ever “OFFS WU10” tournament was launched to mark the occasion, exclusively for young female players born between 2014 and 2016. The tournament took place at the National Training Center in Vadul lui Vodă, featuring eight teams: ȘSCP Telenești, FC Nistru-Ciobruciu, FC Legia, Slobodzia-Dușca Gymnasium, CS Real-Succes, CSF “Anenii Noi” 2020, Mănoilești Gymnasium, and CSFCJT Atletico.
Principles that Define OFFS WU10
The OFFS WU10 tournament is based on core principles that ensure a supportive and encouraging environment for young girls in football:
- Fun: The event is designed to attract girls to football, fostering a love for the game and encouraging them to stay involved.
- Free Play: Creativity and decision-making are prioritized, allowing the girls to explore the game in their own way.
- Football: A smaller game format provides a safe and educational setting where girls can develop their skills.
- Fair Play: Team spirit, respect, and honesty are key values taught through the sport.
- Involvement: Football is for everyone. All players, regardless of gender, should have the opportunity to enjoy the game.
A Day to Remember
Each participating team in the tournament received event-branded T-shirts and gifts from the FMF, Cross Cultures, and partner Apa OM, creating lasting memories for the young players. Additionally, the event promoted the development of young referees, offering them opportunities to grow through the OFFS Leadership Education program.
In September alone, the Open Fun Football Schools project welcomed over 1,200 girls aged 6 to 11 to various sporting activities. Many of these young athletes expressed their desire to join football clubs, and the project aims to create a platform that offers women and girls equal access to sports opportunities.
Honoring the Special Guests
The tournament welcomed distinguished guests, including Katarina Fried, the Ambassador of Sweden to the Republic of Moldova, and Tatiana Lungu, Program Coordinator at the Swedish Embassy in Chișinău. Their support underscores the importance of international cooperation in promoting gender equality through sports.
A Message of Hope and Inclusion
Svetlana Patraș, the project coordinator, highlighted the importance of this tournament: “The OFFS WU10 tournament has shown that we have many ‘stars’ who need support, the organization of tournaments, and competitions in a safe environment.” Natalia Ceban, Women’s Football Manager, added: “The tournament is a special resource designed to promote football among girls and to increase the number of female players in Moldova, providing them with a friendly and safe environment.”
A Legacy of Growth and Equality
Since its inception in 2006, the Open Fun Football Schools project has brought together over 100,000 children, 2,700 coaches, and 2,500 young volunteers from all regions of the country, including both sides of the Dniester River. The project has made significant contributions to societal development by promoting core values such as peace, social inclusion, and gender equality. In Moldova, the OFFS project is implemented by the Danish non-governmental organization Cross Cultures Project Association (CCPA) in partnership with the FMF. Since 2009, it has received support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), represented by the Swedish Embassy in Chișinău.
The success of this year’s OFFS WU10 tournament is a testament to the dedication and collaboration between international partners, local organizations, and communities. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future, where girls are empowered to take on new challenges, embrace their potential, and shine both on and off the field.