Surrey FA announces groundbreaking new partnership with Thorpe Park and Hey Girls

Game Ready. Period is an initiative ensuring that girls and women across grassroots football in Surrey never have to miss out on sport due to lack of access to menstrual products.

As part of the partnership, Surrey FA will distribute free period products provided by Hey Girls in custom boot bags via Kitlocker.

This forward-thinking initiative would not have been possible without the vision and sponsorship of Thorpe Park, who continue to be champions of grassroots football across the county.

Helen Ogle, Surrey FA senior football development officer for the female pathway, said: “This is a dream partnership.

“Two brilliant organisations coming together to make sure girls and women do not need to miss out on physical activity and sports due to a lack of access to menstrual products.

“We are now Game Ready. Period.

Kirk Ritchie, head of marketing and partnerships at Surrey FA, added: “As a coach of a mixed team I wasn’t aware of the bigger issues around period products not being available.

“From the first meeting with Jemma at Hey Girls my eyes were opened, and we are so lucky to have Thorpe Park understand the journey and show full support for the Game Ready. Period initiative.”

Hey Girls contracts and partnerships manager Jemma Atkinson said: “At Hey Girls, our mission is to eradicate period poverty and to normalise conversations around periods.

“Working alongside Surrey FA and Thorpe Park on the Game Ready. Period initiative is a huge step forward in breaking down barriers that stop girls and women from fully participating in sport.

“By ensuring free access to sustainable period products, we’re helping to create an environment where players can focus on the game and not their period.

“It’s been a privilege to collaborate with Helen, Kirk, Andrew at Surrey FA team to make this vision a reality”

Neil Poulter, VP of Thorpe Park added: “At Thorpe Park, we're all about creating unforgettable experiences - whether that's the thrill of a rollercoaster or the joy of playing on the football pitch.

“That’s why we’re incredibly proud to support the Game Ready. Period initiative.

“We strongly believe that no one should have to miss out because they don't have access to period products and that’s exactly what this partnership aims to change.

“It’s all about removing barriers, championing inclusion, and making sure every girl feels confident to show up, play hard, and enjoy the ride."

Game Ready. Period will hopefully help by providing free products and menstrual education which can break this barrier and boost participation.