Melbourne City captain Rebekah Stott has been named among 13 footballers from across the globe selected to take part in FIFA’s prestigious Player Impact Programme, recognising the power of players to create meaningful change beyond the pitch.
The City skipper joins an impressive group of international stars, including reigning Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, Canadian captain Jessie Fleming and England international Michelle Agyemang, as part of the programme’s second-ever cohort.
Launched in 2025, the FIFA Player Impact Programme empowers footballers to use their voice, platform and influence to drive positive social change, providing the skills, resources and guidance to turn their ideas into meaningful initiatives.
For Stott, the opportunity represents another chapter in her inspiring journey, having already made a lasting impact on communities through her advocacy and charitable work.
Making a difference beyond football
One of the most decorated players in City’s history, Stott’s influence extends well beyond her achievements on the pitch.
Following her diagnosis with Stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma in February 2021, the New Zealand international used her experience to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.
Throughout her treatment and recovery, Stott established beat it. by Stotty, an initiative dedicated to sharing her journey, connecting with fellow cancer patients and providing support to those navigating their own diagnoses.
As part of the initiative, she created special ‘beat it.’ bags, which were distributed to young cancer patients through Canteen Australia, offering comfort and support during an incredibly difficult time.
Stott also raised an incredible $39,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World’s Greatest Shave, while documenting her personal experience to help educate and inspire others.
Her efforts were recognised in 2022 when she was awarded the Professional Footballers Australia’s Community Medal, celebrating her outstanding contribution to the community and commitment to creating positive social impact.
More than football
Now, Stott will have the opportunity to build on that work alongside some of the world’s most recognisable footballers.
The nine-month FIFA Player Impact Programme brings together 13 players, supporting them in developing their own social impact projects and creating lasting change in communities around the world.
The group began its journey in Boston in June, where participants took part in a three-day Impact Accelerator Workshop, sharing personal experiences and exploring how their influence as professional athletes can be used to support causes close to their hearts.
With guidance from FIFA and experts in sport for social impact, the players will continue developing their initiatives before coming together in London and virtually in December to present their projects.
The programme focuses on a range of important causes, including education, mental health and equitable access to sport.
For Stott, who has already demonstrated the profound impact footballers can have away from the game, the opportunity provides another platform to continue making a difference.
A leader on and off the pitch, City’s captain continues to show that some of football’s greatest contributions extend far beyond the final whistle.
