What is the Wildcats programme and how can your daughter get involved?

What is the Wildcats programme and how can your daughter get involved?

At Laceeze we believe wholeheartedly in the power of grassroots sport. We know that getting children active, confident and connected is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give them. That’s why we’re proud to support the Wildcats programme in partnership with Leicester & Rutland  FA. If you’re wondering what Wildcats is and how your daughter can join in this blog is for you.

What is the Wildcats programme?

The Wildcats programme is a non-competitive football initiative designed specifically for girls aged 5–11 who want to give football a go, make friends and have fun. According to The Football Association (The FA) it’s “non-competitive football for girls who want to give it a go for the very first time or want to play with other girls their own age.” 

Here are some of the key features:

• Fun and inclusive: The emphasis is on having a great time not on pressure or results. The site says “most importantly, Wildcats is all about having loads of fun and meeting new amazing friends.”
• Girls-only environment: It’s tailored for girls to feel comfortable, supported and confident in a group of their peers.
• Friendly coaching and volunteers: Wildcats sessions are delivered by FA-qualified coaches and volunteers who know how to create a welcoming environment for beginners.
• Low barrier to entry: Whether your daughter has never kicked a ball before or wants to play again after a break, Wildcats is designed for first-time or returning players.

In short, Wildcats isn’t about winning leagues or intense competition. It’s about connection, confidence, movement and fun. When sport is fun, children are more likely to stay active, build friendships and gain life skills.

Why we at Laceeze are behind Wildcats?

As a brand rooted in grassroots sport, Laceeze is passionate about community, access and empowerment. We know that for many young girls, stepping into sport can feel a little daunting, especially if there are fewer girls’ teams nearby or if equipment feels out of reach. Supporting Wildcats aligns perfectly with our values because:

• Community-first: Wildcats brings girls together in local sessions, building friendships, teamwork and social connection.
• Active girls stay engaged girls: Early positive experiences in sport help girls develop confidence, stay active and see themselves as athletes.
• Bringing resources to where it counts: Through our partnership with Leicester & Rutland FA, Laceeze is supplying products for goodie bags and tournaments at Wildcats events, helping remove barriers like “I don’t have the right gear” or “I feel I don’t belong.”
• Investment in the future: By supporting Wildcats, we’re helping nurture the next generation of female footballers, leaders and community builders.

How your daughter can join Wildcats

Getting involved in the Wildcats programme is straightforward and exciting. Here’s how you can help your daughter take the first step:

1. Find a session near you
   The Wildcats site features a “Find a session near you” tool where you can enter your postcode or area to locate local Wildcats groups. 
2. Check the age range and schedule
   Ensure the session is aimed at girls aged 5–11 (or sometimes up to 12 depending on the club). Many run once per week for 45–60 minutes. Check days and times that work for you.
3. Register and attend
   Most Wildcats programmes ask you to register your daughter online, complete any club information and show up with appropriate clothing such as football boots or trainers, shin guards and comfortable sportswear.
4. Support her attendance and mindset
   Encourage her to go along, try things out, make friends and focus on fun rather than performance. Reassure her that everyone is there to learn and enjoy.
5. Ask about tournaments and events
   Because Laceeze is supporting Wildcats through Leicester & Rutland FA, our products will feature in goodie bags and tournaments across events connected to the programme.

What benefits can your daughter get from Wildcats?

Participating in Wildcats offers a range of positive outcomes beyond just kicking a ball:

• Confidence and self-esteem: Being part of a girls-only football group lets your daughter try new things in a safe environment, build her skills and feel good about herself.
• Friendships and social skills: Wildcats sessions bring together girls of a similar age who are beginning their football journeys, which is great for making new friends.
• Physical wellbeing: Regular movement, coordination, agility and fun all help with general fitness, health and strong habits.
• Resilience and teamwork: Even non-competitive sport teaches valuable life skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving and resilience.
• Long-term engagement: An early positive experience in sport increases the chance your daughter will keep being active and try other physical activities later on.

Tips for parents and girls to get the most out of Wildcats

• Go with her the first few times (or arrive early) so she settles in smoothly.
• Pack the right gear: comfortable sportswear, boots or trainers, shin guards and a water bottle.
• Encourage effort not perfection: remind her that trying, having fun and improving little by little is what matters.
• Celebrate going: whether she scores, misses a pass or just shows up, celebrate the effort.
• Look out for Laceeze products at events: through our partnership with Leicester & Rutland FA, our products are included in goodie bags and tournaments to help support young players.
• Stay connected: chat with the coach after sessions, ask how she’s enjoying it and what she would like to try next. Many Wildcats clubs are open to feedback and keen to be welcoming.

Go on, give it a try!

If you’re looking for a welcoming, fun, girls-only football experience that emphasises enjoyment, movement and friendship, the Wildcats programme could be a great fit for your family. We’re delighted to support this initiative via our partnership with the Leicester & Rutland FA, supplying products and being part of an effort that champions grassroots sport and the community around it.

Laceeze is proud to support the Wildcats journey and the amazing young players taking part.