Trans Football Advocate Breaks Barriers in the Philippines

Welcome! Let's dive right in and explore Héloïsé Haenel's inclusive soccer journey.

Embracing inclusivity on and off with soccer

For Héloïsé Haenel, stepping onto a soccer field always felt like finding a home. Growing up in various corners, including a bustling community in Manila, soccer became a haven where people from all walks thrived.

"My dad thought I could be a basketball star, but I was, well, not exactly towering," she laughs, recalling those days. "Soccer didn't care about height or size; it just welcomed everyone." This spirit inspired Haenel, a 26-year-old transgender woman, who went on and kicked off Babaelan FC, an inclusive club right in Manila.

Building a soccer community where everyone belongs

Fueled by her love and personal journey through soccer, Haenel brought Babaelan FC alive with inclusivity at its heart. Her mission? Make sure women and girls could play, feel appreciated, and know they fit.

Safe spaces in soccer: A new playbook

"Playing soccer should build you up, not tear you down," Haenel says. "I've seen women get treated terribly during games—things like coaches yelling inappropriately or crossing personal lines." Determined, she decided it was time soccer had a new rulebook. "If I'm gonna play, it's gonna be with respect and dignity at every pass," she insists. Babaelan FC stands as her vision in action, celebrated in national tournaments both at home and abroad.

Soccer: A personal journey and beyond

Soccer has been more than just a game; it's been Haenel's stage. "Back in school, I was this nerdy kid who didn't touch sports till I kicked a goal by chance. The cheers? Unforgettable!" she reflects with a smile. This lucky strike kicked off a soccer passion, taking her from local fields in Manila, through school leagues in America, and even college teams in Minnesota.

After a journey embracing her true self, Haenel discovered that watching her homeland's women shine in international arenas reignited her fire. "If these women can triumph on such grand stages, why can't I?" she muses, eyes gleaming.

Rising above setbacks and savoring victories

Joining Secret FC, she made an instant impact, earning her a spot in a select squad heading overseas. But her journey wasn't without hurdles. "The debate around trans athletes? It's a roadblock. Finding teams courageous enough remains a struggle," she shares openly. Yet, her impact as a coach remains undeniable. Her team, Babaelan FC, continues stacking up trophies and praise under her inclusive lead.

Pioneering change in women’s soccer

Haenel's journey has had its ups and downs, but each obstacle only strengthens her resolve. When an opposing team recently refused a match, it was clear: her mission wasn't only about soccer anymore. "Discrimination doesn't have a place on our field," Haenel states firmly. "Our team welcomes everyone. The pitch should feel like a second home."

The real payoff? Watching her players revel in victories, feeling seen, and secure. "Creating these spaces, where women thrive with respect, that's my true goal," Haenel concludes.

Héloïsé Haenel's story beautifully illustrates how sports can break barriers and build bridges. Are you ready join her in this inspiring journey?