Ackerley met with key figures involved in the Playmakers project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with women's football experts, including Ivana Vlaić (senior associate for women's football development at FFBiH), Bojan Aćimović (football development associate at FFBiH), Mirjana Mucović (Playmakers project coordinator for the Trebinje region), Jelena Milović (BiH WU-19 national team and ŽFK Leotar's head coach), and Anja Stević (assistant coach for the WU-17 national team).
Discussions centered around the role of media in promoting women's football, the project's impact on football development in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the progress of girls after participating in the program. According to Ivana Vlaić, Ackerley’s visit aimed to strengthen relationships with people involved, provide support for girls' development, ensure program quality, exchange best practices with other countries, and offer mentorship.
Vlaić highlighted the significance of Playmakers in expanding women's football in Bosnia and Herzegovina: "UEFA Playmakers is an incredibly important project because it gives young girls the opportunity to experience football through play and fun. Our goal isn’t just to increase the number of girls playing football but also to provide them with a safe, supportive environment where they can develop their skills and passion for the sport. This program helps break stereotypes and proves that football isn't just a men's game but it belongs to anyone who loves it."
During the visit, Playmakers training sessions took place at elementary school fields in Trebinje, attended by 32 girls. Ackerley got to see firsthand how Playmakers methodology introduces football through play and Disney movie storylines, guided by teachers. This cycle focuses on the story of the animated film Moana.
Playmakers is designed for girls aged 5 to 8, including those who have never played football or participated in sports. It not only develops football skills but also encourages decision-making, creativity, and teamwork through play.
"Every smile, every new friendship, and every girl who learns something new is a success for us. We're thrilled that, despite all barriers and stereotypes, the number of girls in the project grows each year. The support of parents and the local community is especially important in this process," said Mirjana Mucović.
A major step for the future of women's football in Trebinje is the announced partnership between Playmakers and ŽFK Leotar. Bojan Aćimović confirmed that starting this spring, ŽFK Leotar’s coaches will actively participate in the Playmakers program, further strengthening the development path for girls after they complete the program.














