Empowering Girls Through Sports: The Transformative Partnership of GOALS and the Football Federation of Armenia

In a remarkable collaboration aimed at empowering girls through sports, GOALS and the Football Federation of Armenia (FFA) have joined forces to create a lasting impact. Our partnership has grown stronger over the years as we recognized the importance of promoting girls' participation in sports from grassroots levels. Together, we have organized tournaments and events that celebrate the spirit of competition while emphasizing the significance of education and holistic development.

This powerful alliance between GOALS, a leading educational foundation, and the FFA, the governing body for football in Armenia, has sparked a wave of positive change for girls across the country. What started as a shared vision to organize tournaments has evolved into a comprehensive strategy to empower girls through sports. By combining our expertise and resources, we have been able to unlock a world of opportunities for young girls, allowing them to thrive both on and off the field.

One of the most significant milestones of our partnership was the co-hosting of the 2023 U-15, U-12 National Tournament. This groundbreaking event brought together over 1400 talented young girls from various regions of Armenia, showcasing their strength, determination, and incredible skills. The tournament was a celebration of the progress we have made in promoting gender equality in sports, and a testament to the remarkable potential of these young athletes.

With the FFA overseeing the sporting aspects of the tournament, including logistics and technical coordination, we were able to concentrate on developing educational programs and nurturing social-emotional growth among the participants. By providing workshops, mentorship opportunities, and access to educational resources, we aimed to empower these young girls with the knowledge and skills necessary for their personal and academic success.

The atmosphere during the National Tournament Finals was electric, as 15 teams, including regional winners and four regional finalists, competed for glory. The dedication, sportsmanship, and passion displayed by these young athletes were truly inspiring. From the exhilarating matches on the field to the camaraderie and friendship forged off the field, the tournament was a testament to the transformative power of sports in shaping the lives of these girls.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participating teams, whose hard work and determination shone brightly throughout the tournament. Their commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, demonstrated their remarkable potential and resilience. We are immensely grateful to our partners, including the FFA, local organizations, volunteers, and sponsors, who played an integral role in making this event a resounding success.

As we reflect on the achievements of this partnership, we recognize that this is just the beginning. We anticipate that in the years to come, our collaboration will bring even more holistic programs and opportunities for girls across Armenia. By continuing to foster gender equality in sports and empowering young girls through education, mentorship, and access to resources, we are shaping a future where all girls have the chance to thrive, succeed, and unlock their full potential.

This partnership between GOALS and the FFA signifies our shared belief in the transformative power of sports for girls. By providing equal opportunities and fostering educational and personal growth, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, we are committed to nurturing and empowering the next generation of female athletes, creating a world where all girls have the chance to thrive, succeed, and unlock their full potential.

Teny Avakian