Young Athlete Challenges Gender Norms in Croatian Sport
ČAKOVEC, Croatia – At the Romijada festival in Čakovec, 16-year-old Lana Pavić from Pribislavec is demonstrating that interest in sports and recreation exists within the Roma community – it simply needs encouragement. Her participation highlights a broader issue of female representation in sports, particularly within marginalized communities.
The Romijada 2026 – a Međimurje festival of sports and recreation for Roma people – took place on March 29th in the sports hall of the Gospodarska škola (Economic School) in Čakovec. Among the numerous competitors, Lana Pavić stood out not only for her athletic ability but also as one of the few girls participating. A second-year student at the Ekonomska i trgovačka škola (Economic and Trade School), Lana competed with her team in several disciplines, excelling in hanging bowling.
While Lana isn’t currently involved in organized sports, she’s no stranger to athletic competition. She previously trained in both volleyball and football. “Football appealed to me more, and I would like to continue playing that sport,” she stated.
Where are the Girls?
Lana’s presence at the Romijada sparked a crucial question: why were so few girls participating? The answer, she explained, is a disheartening one. “Girls generally don’t have an interest in sports, especially team sports, because they believe it’s something only for boys,” Lana said frankly.
Despite this perception, Lana sees football as something different – a game, a social activity, and an opportunity. She believes the situation can change. “It’s great to play football, and I hope that other girls will get involved in sports and recreation,” she added.
Data from Elvis Kralj, the deputy mayor representing the Roma national minority, reinforces this concern. Of the more than 1,000 Roma children enrolled in schools throughout Međimurje County, only 30 participate in sports after school. This isn’t merely a statistic. it represents a significant missed opportunity.
Events like the Romijada are therefore vital. It’s not just a competition, but an attempt to craft sports accessible to young people, particularly within the Roma community. Perhaps the interest isn’t gone, but simply hasn’t been awakened.
The lack of female participation extends beyond the Romijada, reflecting broader societal challenges. Encouraging girls to engage in sports requires addressing deeply ingrained stereotypes and creating supportive environments where they feel welcome and empowered. This represents particularly significant within communities where traditional gender roles may be more pronounced.
Lana’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with encouragement and opportunity, young women can overcome barriers and pursue their athletic passions. Her willingness to challenge norms and advocate for greater female participation in sports is a testament to her character and a call to action for communities to prioritize inclusivity in athletics.
The Međimurje region, located in northern Croatia, has been actively working to promote inclusivity and provide opportunities for its Roma population. The Romijada festival is a key component of these efforts, aiming to foster a sense of community and encourage participation in healthy activities. The event’s location in Čakovec, a city with a rich cultural heritage, further underscores the importance of integrating sports into the fabric of local life.
Looking ahead, organizers of the Romijada and other similar events will need to focus on strategies to attract more female participants. This could include targeted outreach programs, mentorship opportunities, and the creation of girls-only sports teams. Addressing the underlying societal factors that discourage girls from participating in sports is also crucial for long-term success.
Lana Pavić’s story is a reminder that sports have the power to break down barriers, promote social inclusion, and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Her dedication to football and her advocacy for greater female participation in sports are an inspiration to young people everywhere.
The next Romijada is scheduled for 2027, and organizers are already planning initiatives to increase female participation and further promote the benefits of sports within the Roma community.
