MILO has partnered with New Zealand Football to help more girls aged 5-12 experience the beautiful game for the first time.

MILO will become the official naming partner of New Zealand Football’s Fantails programme, one of the legacy initiatives from the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. 

The programme, now to be known as MILO Fantails, is designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment for girls to experience the game through sessions focused on helping players make friends, have fun, improve their skills and be active through football. 

MILO Fantails sessions will take place at hubs across Aotearoa New Zealand with 43 already established, predicted to grow to 56 by the end of 2024. 

Over 2,500 girls aged 5-12 have participated to date with 62% of players new to football. 

The 2024 season, the first full community football and futsal season following the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, is predicted to be the biggest year on record for registered players. 

James Wear, GM Brand and Partnerships at New Zealand Football, said:

“We know the impact of the FIFA Women’s World Cup has been massive on the game in Aotearoa New Zealand with more Kiwis wanting to be involved in football than ever. 

“MILO Fantails sessions are a brilliant way for girls to experience the game for the first time and have already reached thousands of players across the country. 

“MILO’s support will allow the programme to reach even wider audiences, giving more girls aged 5-12 the chance to play in a fun, safe and welcoming environment.”

Fern Castellanos, Marketing Director at Nestlé New Zealand, said:

"We believe that sport is an excellent teacher for young players, and our partnership with New Zealand Football represents our commitment to fostering healthy and active lifestyles from a young age and fuelling the next generation in more ways than one." 

Article added: Thursday 15 February 2024