One club has set the standard in Lithuanian women's football for years: multiple national champions and Champions League participants Gintra.
President Gintaras Radavičius reflected on the club's long journey and growing professionalism since its foundation.
"Twenty-five years ago, hockey players began playing football. Some were still in our squad for our first Champions League appearance in 2004. Everything has changed greatly since then. We're following a professional path, and most players are professionals.
Our aim is a pyramid with teams at every age level. Finance is perhaps our biggest challenge. Šiauliai badly needs an indoor football arena because winter makes things difficult.
We can't afford players earning tens of thousands monthly. We also need local talent, which is difficult to develop. We're proud of several players in European clubs, but there are very few," he said.
Director Mantas Radavičius described the club's academy and its growing number of girls.
"We established it three years ago. Life moves forward, and Lithuanian and European licensing requires youth teams. Perhaps we started late, but better late than never. We're pleased we began, and numbers increase each year.
Women's football is popular across Europe and worldwide. Countries invest in it, and major men's clubs establish women's teams," he said.
Long-serving player Algimantė Mikutaitė also highlighted recent growth.
"I joined in 2013 from the small town of Plungė and learned Gintra were multiple champions. That alone felt like a new chapter. Coaches, players and the whole game have changed enormously since then. Its development feels extraordinary.
Technical and athletic standards have risen, affecting players' quality. Perhaps men's and women's football will soon be comparable. You simply watch and enjoy being able to witness it," said the Gintra and Lithuania player.