Why Providing Menstrual Products On-Site Is Essential for Modern Sporting Clubs

Sporting clubs play a vital role in shaping community culture, yet many still overlook a simple barrier that prevents thousands of women and girls from participating fully: access to menstrual products. Reports from various health and sports organisations consistently show that girls frequently skip training sessions, game days, and even leave sport altogether because they’re caught unprepared and their club doesn’t offer basic menstrual supplies. What may seem like a small oversight can have long-lasting effects on participation, confidence, and club loyalty.

By providing menstrual products on-site, clubs send a powerful message: everyone is welcome here. This practical step helps eliminate one of the most common and preventable reasons young women miss out on sport. Instead of facing embarrassment or feeling forced to go home, players can stay active, remain part of their team, and continue participating in the sport they love. For many girls—especially younger athletes still learning to navigate menstrual health—this support can be the difference between staying in the game or dropping out entirely.

The benefits extend beyond participation. Clubs that provide menstrual products establish themselves as safe, supportive, and forward-thinking environments. This builds trust with parents, strengthens community reputation, and encourages more women and girls to join. When families see a club genuinely prioritising inclusion and wellbeing, they are far more likely to sign up, renew memberships, and stay involved long-term.

From a club-management perspective, the impact is equally meaningful. Increased membership means more revenue, stronger competition structures, and a deeper pool of volunteers and talent. It also aligns clubs with modern standards of gender equity and community responsibility—an increasingly important factor when applying for grants, forging partnerships, or securing council support.

Reduces barriers to participation: Providing menstrual products prevents girls and women from missing training or games due to being unprepared.

Creates a safe and supportive environment: Clubs that offer these products signal inclusivity and care, building trust with players and parents.

Boosts membership and retention: Being seen as a welcoming, female-friendly club encourages more women and girls to join and stay involved.

Strengthens club reputation: Demonstrates commitment to community wellbeing and gender equity, which supports grant applications and partnerships.

Delivers big impact for a small investment: A simple, low-cost initiative that drives meaningful social and sporting benefits for the entire club.

Providing menstrual products is a small investment with immense social and sporting returns. It removes barriers, boosts participation, strengthens club culture, and shows women and girls that they belong—not just on the sidelines, but at the heart of the game. By taking this simple step, sporting clubs can help ensure no player ever misses out on sport for a preventable reason again.