Football

FIFA Implements New Maternity and Parental Leave Policies for Players and CoachesIn a significant move to support the well-being of players and coaches, FIFA has introduced new protocols that provide a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave for players and eight weeks for coaches who adopt a child under two years old. Additionally, non-biological parents of newborns are entitled to a minimum of eight weeks of paid leave.These measures extend the maternity leave previously granted to players in 2020, now including coaches, non-biological mothers, and adoptive parents. The protocols take effect on June 1 and were approved by the FIFA Council last month."I think it's a big statement," said former U.S. coach Jill Ellis. "These are big steps and big strides to really normalize the life that we go through as women ... that's what we want to provide now at every level, the club level, the national team level — the opportunity for pro players to have the chance to be mums."Ellis led FIFA's technical study group for the Women's World Cup last year in Australia and New Zealand.The regulations also grant clubs greater flexibility to add players outside of the transfer window when players take maternity or parental leave or return from it. They also allow players to take paid time off from matches or training due to menstrual health.FIFA is encouraging member associations to create family-friendly environments for players with children. "In a FIFA Women's World Cup, (a player) can potentially be away from her family for five or six weeks ... and that can have a big toll on the player, mentally, but also on the child," said Sarai Bareman, FIFA's chief women's soccer officer. "So, encouraging the member associations to make provision or to allow for those mothers and parents to have the children with them during the camp, during the tournament, is a really important step which will support not only female players but all players in our sport.”

Indian goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu has made history by becoming the first footballer from the country to play professionally in Australia. Signed by Adelaide-based Metro United, Panthoi is eager to prove her worth and gain valuable experience in the South Australian Women's National Premier League.Panthoi's journey to Australia began with a trial attended by head coaches from prominent teams. Her impressive performance caught the attention of Adelaide United FC, who recommended her to Metro United WFC. This significant move not only boosts her confidence but also provides a platform for her to excel and gain global exposure.The 28-year-old goalkeeper, mentored by legendary Bala Devi, is known for her grit and determination. Despite suffering two severe shin injuries within a year, Panthoi fought back with unwavering resolve. A one-month stint in Spain last year further enhanced her skills and confidence.Metro United head coach Paul Morris has high expectations for Panthoi, who will serve as the team's first-choice goalkeeper. She will train with the first team and share her experience and knowledge with a young reserve goalkeeper. Morris believes that Panthoi's presence will benefit both the team and the club.Panthoi's move to Australia coincides with the country's remarkable rise in women's football. Australia hosted the Women's World Cup in 2023 and advanced to the semifinals. The national team's matches have seen record-breaking attendance, reflecting the growing popularity and support for the sport.Bala Devi, who has known Panthoi for over a decade, sees this move as a stepping stone for Indian women footballers. She believes that Panthoi's success will inspire other young girls to pursue their dreams in the sport.Panthoi's journey is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and the growing opportunities for women's football in India and abroad. Her stint in Australia promises to be a transformative experience, both for her and for the sport in her home country.