Aracaju Launches 'ELAS no Futebol' Program as Corinthians Women Intensify Training

Brazil advances women's football through social inclusion programs in Aracaju and intensive training for Corinthians women ahead of a key match.

    Key details

  • • Aracaju's 'ELAS no Futebol' program launched with 150 sports kits distributed to girls aged 7-16, focusing on social inclusion and education.
  • • The program includes girls with disabilities and combats gender prejudice, with an initial investment of R$ 100,000.
  • • Corinthians women's team, the Brabas, conducted intense training on March 4 preparing for a match against Palmeiras on March 13.
  • • The 'Arena Delas' field in Aracaju, renovated in October 2025, is dedicated exclusively to women's football activities.

Brazil is witnessing a renewed focus on women's football with both grassroots and professional initiatives gaining momentum. In Aracaju, the city government alongside the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS) have launched the 'ELAS no Futebol' program aimed at promoting women's football and fostering social inclusion among girls aged 7 to 16, including those with disabilities. The initiative began with the distribution of 150 sports kits, including soccer shoes, shin guards, and shirts, at Parque da Sementeira where activities will be conducted. The program, backed by an initial investment of R$ 100,000, emphasizes education, sports participation, and gender equality while addressing social risks and school dropout rates. Aquiles Silveira, the Secretary of Youth and Sports of Aracaju, stated the program's goals are to nurture human development and increase educational inclusion. Mayor Emília Corrêa underscored the effort as a necessary correction to historic neglect of women's sports in the region.

Meanwhile, the Corinthians women’s team, known as the Brabas, are intensifying preparations ahead of a crucial match against Palmeiras on March 13 at Arena Barueri. On March 4, the Brabas had a rigorous training session focused on offensive and defensive transitions, led by coach Emily Lima. The team will continue training with three more sessions before the match, taking a break on March 8. These professional efforts highlight Brazil's commitment to enhancing competitive preparation in women's football.

The 'ELAS no Futebol' program also integrates educational institutions with free registrations ongoing, aiming to engage mainly girls around age 10. The recently renovated 'Arena Delas' stadium is designated exclusively for women’s football, supporting the program’s activities. A celebratory match is planned between program participants and the DelRey women’s team following the kit delivery. This coordinated focus—from community-level development to elite competition readiness—illustrates Brazil's comprehensive approach to elevating women’s football nationwide.

This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.

Source comparison

The key details of this story are consistent across the source articles