AC Milan has made history by becoming the first major European football club to introduce a comprehensive maternity policy. This policy offers excellent support and protection for its female players and staff during pregnancy.
Here are the key benefits of this new policy:
Automatic Contract Renewal
If a female player becomes pregnant and her contract is due to expire during that season, AC Milan will automatically renew her contract for another year. The financial terms will remain the same as the original agreement. This ensures that players are not disadvantaged or left uncertain due to their pregnancy.
Childcare Assistance
The club will provide childcare services to help players balance their professional and personal responsibilities. This support makes it easier for them to focus on their sporting activities.
Travel Expenses Coverage
AC Milan will cover the travel expenses, including flights and accommodation, for the player’s child and one companion. This alleviates the financial burden and logistical challenges of maintaining a professional football career while caring for a child.
Beyond these benefits, the policy includes various other support measures to ensure the well-being and continued success of its female players and staff during and after pregnancy. This comprehensive approach ensures that female athletes receive the care and support they need.
Additional Details
Physical and Mental Health Support: The club will provide medical and psychological support to ensure the health and well-being of pregnant players and new mothers.
Flexible Training Schedules: Training schedules will be adjusted to accommodate the needs of pregnant players and new mothers, allowing them to maintain their fitness without compromising their health.
Post-Maternity Return Programs: The club will offer tailored programs to help players return to full fitness and competitive play after maternity leave.
Parental Leave for Staff: Female staff members will also benefit from generous parental leave policies, ensuring they can balance their work and family responsibilities.
Elisabet Spina, the head of women’s football at AC Milan, expressed the club’s excitement about this groundbreaking initiative. She stated, “We are now about to start a new season in which we will work to achieve important goals, both on and off the field: We are excited to approach it by introducing our innovative policy.”
This move by AC Milan sets a new standard for the treatment of female athletes in professional sports. It is hoped that other leading clubs will follow suit, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in football.
