As the magic of the festive season approaches, Gintra players shared an active afternoon with girls from two Šiauliai children's day centres, Saulės vaikai and Tarp savų.
The visit formed part of Gintra and Gubernija's joint Galime daugiau initiative, aiming to reduce social exclusion, connect children with players, encourage mentoring and provide access to Gintra training for interested girls.
It began with cheerful introductions and a discussion about sporting routines and character development, followed by a team Christmas quiz.
Activities then moved to the gym. After a fun group warm-up, everyone tackled team challenges requiring precision and speed, specially prepared by the Lithuanian champions.
At the closing awards, players presented gifts from the club and Gubernija and wished the girls warm, memorable holidays.
"It's especially lovely to visit somewhere we're so warmly welcomed. The positive atmosphere lets us join in and forget worries. Our mission doesn't end here: we'll stay in touch, listen, advise and invite the girls into football," said captain and project ambassador Algimantė Mikutaitė.
"With Gubernija, we want to go beyond daily routines and do more than score a goal, win a game or a title. Every girl should have equal access to training, feel included and enjoy sport. These meetings strengthen relationships between organisations and allow us to share a mission despite different activities," said director Mantas Radavičius.
After meeting the players and learning about football, two girls expressed an interest in joining Gintra. They will be offered training free of membership fees.
"Alongside our own Savi už savus initiative, we're pleased Gubernija can support other meaningful local projects. We value contributing not just to culture and sporting victories, but helping children who especially need attention and encouragement. Joining forces with Gintra lets us give day-centre girls an opportunity to try football," said Gubernija production director Artūras Perednis.
