UEFA and Disney launch Play Games to inspire the next generation of Women’s Champions League stars 

Play Games builds on the success of UEFA Playmakers, which has already introduced more than 168,000 girls aged five to 8 to football through the magic of Disney storytelling.

Play Games offers open, story-driven resources that help girls aged 5–12 progress from Playmakers sessions into clubs, easing the pathway from a girl’s first football experience all the way to the top.

“Play Games is another important step in giving girls across Europe the chance to fall in love with football and stay in the game," says Nadine Kessler, UEFA director of women’s football.

"With Playmakers, we introduced thousands of young girls to football in a way that felt joyful, safe and imaginative. Play Games now builds on that foundation by helping them take their next steps on the pitch: learning to play together, gaining confidence and discovering the excitement of team football. This is how we grow the women’s game sustainably: by creating pathways that welcome every girl, from their first touch to potentially lifting the Women’s Champions League one day."

Nicole Morse, Vice President Brand & Franchise Marketing, Disney EMEA, adds: "“When children see themselves in stories, they feel empowered to try something new. That spark can last a lifetime.

"Extending our collaboration with UEFA to include the next age group allows us to bring the magic of Disney storytelling to even more girls across Europe, and we’re proud that together, we are inspiring the next generation of players through creativity, confidence and play.”

Inspired by Disney every step of the way

Designed as a bridge between Playmakers sessions and team-based football, Play Games equips coaches with open, accessible online resources that help girls develop their skills through fun, story-driven challenges inspired by beloved Disney narratives. Modules guide players through attacking and defending in 1v1, 2v2, 3v3 and 4v4 formats, with one simple aim: to turn early enthusiasm into long-term participation, nurturing confidence, creativity and game understanding.

Play Games is a key component of Unstoppable, our women’s football strategy, and reinforces our commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive pipeline of future players and fans.

As girls develop a love for the game, they can also watch the UEFA Women’s Champions League on Disney+, following the heroes who inspire them and seeing the very pinnacle of the pathway they are stepping onto.

Keeping the spark alive

Play Games resources are freely available on UEFA.com, with new tools added regularly to keep coaches and players inspired. By offering these materials openly, we aim to support coaches, clubs, schools and community groups in sustaining the spark first ignited through Playmakers and helping girls continue their football journey with confidence.