The Coloured Pants Movement aims to reduce barriers related to menstruation impacting female participation in sport, through a shift away from traditional cricket whites.
A recent national study* found 76% of Australian girls want their sport uniform to make them feel ready to play, with two-thirds (64%) preferring dark coloured bottoms.
Through the Growing Cricket for Girls Fund, in partnership with CommBank and Cricket Australia, WA Cricket is providing clubs and associations across Western Australia with grants of up to $500 to fund coloured pants for players.
Western Australia has one of the nation’s healthiest participation rates for women and girls, with 119 junior girls' club-based teams across the State.
WA Cricket Foundation player ambassador Lisa Griffith said it was time to start normalising periods given it’s a regular thing half the population go through.
“When you’re trying to get your head in the game the last thing you need is to be worried about a potential leak, especially when you’re wearing white, she said.
“Last season, black pants were introduced to the WBBL and that’s something I’d love to see adopted permanently at all levels of the game.
“Too many girls stop playing sport as teenagers because they feel self-conscious or are embarrassed by their period. It’s time to remove that stigma.”
WA Cricket General Manager - Community Cricket Jo Davies said the pilot program aims to make a positive difference at a grassroots level.
“By starting conversations about menstruation, we begin to remove the taboo,” she said.
“We aim to do everything we can to assist players, administrators, and volunteers in supporting menstrual health to help build a connected club environment.
“All girls should have the chance to step up to the crease and get involved in one of Australia’s favourite sports.”
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS SUPPORTED BY THE COLOURED PANTS MOVEMENT
- Joondalup Kinross Junior Cricket Club
- Kingsley Woodvale Junior Cricket Club
- North Beach Carine Junior Cricket Club
- Quinns Rocks Junior Cricket Club
- Sorrento Duncraig Junior Cricket Club
- Wanneroo Junior Cricket Club
- Warwick Greenwood Junior Cricket Club
- Whitfords Junior Cricket Club
- Armadale Junior Cricket Club
- Ascot Junior Cricket Club
- Bateman Junior Cricket Club
- Kardinya Junior Cricket Club
- South Perth Junior Cricket Club
- Willetton Junior Cricket Club
- Geraldton Cricket Association
Clubs and associations interested in joining the Coloured Pants Movement can contact Tayla Tenaglia, WA Cricket Project Officer - Participation & Female Engagement via Tayla.Tenaglia@wacricket.com.au