According to Coach María del Carmen Francisco Martínez—who is part of Proyecto Cantera, a non-profit organization that helps disadvantaged girls through soccer—sport is key to girls achieving their goals. "Never doubt that the field is the space where you belong, and that we, as women, can stand out in any sport. Through sports, you can meet a lot of people who can become your friends and mentors. You can learn how to communicate, solve conflicts, be disciplined, work harder and go further, coexist, be a leader, and much more." Communities like Proyecto Cantera are ones that we support as best as we can to ensure that the next generation of girls get everything they need to succeed on and off the field.

Soccer is for everyone. Nike is supporting multiple initiatives in Europe that uplift girls' lives through the beautiful game. From giving refugees a communal space, to helping marginalized and vulnerable kids, to providing much-needed education to girls who are in need of it, we're making sure that we're there for communities who are making a difference where it counts.

We partner with projects across the whole world, helping girls to get into the game and elevating their playtime. Whether it's providing opportunities for self-expression by combining soccer with poetry, ensuring access to sport, or celebrating women in the Muslim community who play, there are some fantastic initiatives across the continent. And, with soccer's ever-expanding popularity in that part of the world, we will continue to support these groups as they work toward their goal of making girls feel safe, seen, and equal.

Want to do your part? Join us and help shape the future of soccer.