Every Stain Should Be Part of the Game:
When an athlete plays through injury, their bloodstain can be seen as a badge of honour. Yet when it is period blood, many young people still experience embarrassment, anxiety and stigma. Through our ongoing Every Stain Should Be Part of the Game initiative, Dirt Is Good is committed to helping normalise conversations around periods and encouraging greater confidence in sport. This film follows the inspiring journey of a young person navigating the challenges that period stigma can create in sport. Featuring Arsenal Women players alongside football legend Ian Wright, the film highlights how education, open conversations and practical solutions can help young people feel supported, included and empowered to continue participating in sport.
Why This Matters:
Research has shown that concerns around periods and potential leaks can impact participation and confidence in sport among young people. By normalising conversations around periods and removing barriers, we can help ensure that everyone feels able to stay in the game, regardless of the challenges they may face.
The film reinforces an important message at the heart of the Dirt Is Good campaign: Blood is blood. Blood is part of the game. Every stain should be part of the game.
Game On Series:
The Game On film was produced for Dirt Is Good by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions as part of the Game On Series.
The film showcases how sport can strengthen communities, widen participation and promote greater inclusion for everyone. Through honest conversations and real-life experiences, the film demonstrates that breaking down stigma starts with understanding, empathy and support.
Our Partnership with Arsenal:
Together with Arsenal and Arsenal in the Community, Dirt Is Good continues to support initiatives that help create more inclusive sporting environments for young people. Through education programmes, community workshops and awareness campaigns, we are helping coaches, parents, teachers and teammates better understand the challenges associated with periods and support young people with confidence and empathy.
Watch the Film: Watch the full film above to see how education, open dialogue and practical support can help tackle stigma and keep more young people participating in sport. This film was produced for Dirt Is Good by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions.
Explore the full Game On series from 14 July at www.laureus.com/sport-for-good/game-on
